NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 12

Acts of the Apostles 12:1-25

12:1 As is customary for the apostles, their beliefs and their teachings angered those in leadership positions. Before Jesus brought God's philosophy to the world, oppression was rampant and the oppressed found their situation inescapable. The apostles were changing that: through God, they were offering freedom and courage and self value. The arrogance of those in leadership positions caused them to fight, kill, harass and deceive in order to stay powerful.

12:2 To exercise his authority and instill fear, Herod kills an innocent man: James, an apostle. We must not pass over this verse without acknowledging that sometimes, defending what we are passionate about can be dangerous (to our bodies, not to our spirits which live forever with God). We must remember that James and his fellow apostles were willing and even proud to die for God's cause. When you're so passionate about the well-being of others, the defense of your beliefs can draw passion out of your opposition. Do not be afraid to promote justice and truth, James was not afraid and therefore he did not die, he returned with God. James' work on earth enabled him to live spiritually. To live without ceasing. 

12:3 Herod, a mere man, needed a crowd to support his authority, even (maybe especially) a corrupt crowd. Therefore when Herod realized he could gather support from the Jews (meaning: people of Judea at the contemporary time of this account), he was quick to sustain in and sought after Peter. Peter, who we know was prominently known as an apostle filled with God's divine spirit and ability.

12:4 Herod had Peter arrested. We can imagine that Herod was feeling pretty mighty at this point, having arrested a prominent apostle of God. Little does Herod yet realize, his authority and planning is ineffectual compared to God's.

12:5 The two of the most effective tools God's children have are God's compassion for our well-being, and God's receptive ear to our prayers. Upon arrest, God immediately received a surplus of prayers passionately requesting Peter's well-being and freedom. A third effective tool is that God guides and protects His most dutifully conscientious children. We know from our studies that Peter perfectly fits that description (in fact, Peter made the mold).

12:6-7 Peter is held captive for a few days but the night before Peter is brought out to be condemned (inevitably harmed and killed) God's participation becomes apparent. God actively participates in our lives, even though we do not always remember or acknowledge that. Peter could have lost hope; he had been captive for several days and he was on the eve of his last day alive on earth. Instead, Peter was patient and trusted in our God, who Peter devoted his life to. The outcome? In God's precise time, the events of Peter's release are orchestrated by angels sent by God.

I also find it interesting to note that Peter was sleeping. Peter was in prison, bound by chains and his death was imminent... yet he slept. Peter was so at ease despite the circumstances because the circumstances were irrelevant to him. Peter trusted and knew God so well that he feared nothing and nobody. Peter knew that God was invested, in control and knew that even if it were the time of his death, he would be fine. Peter believed that his enemies had no control or power over him or anything else.

12:8 The angel comes with God's plan for Peter; it's quite simply really: get dressed and lets walk out of here. God's plan is always simple and effective.

12:9 Having just woken in the presence of an angel, and being familiar with visions from God, Peter is not yet certain that he is actually being released.

12:10 The angel led Peter out of the prison (with the ease no person would be able to leave with), past the guards and out of the gates into the freedom of the city. Mission completed, the angel departs back to God (likely to begin another of God's missions to rescue, guide, or support another of God's children). Workers of God are prompt, effective and precise; there is much to be done and therefore they do not delay. Yet recognize that this is a situation with anxiety or haste. God had willed Peter's freedom and therefore freedom was accomplished: straightforward, no barriers.

12:11 It became apparent to Peter was he was indeed freed by God through an angel. It's easy to understand how dreamlike it would be in the midst of God's spiritual intervention. Peter had been delivered from his enemies, from their corrupt authority and from their lust for his death.

12:12 Peter returns to remain with the other apostles and workers of God. Unsurprisingly, they were in the midst of prayer. It is our most effective way to ensure the well-being of those we care about.

12:13-14 Rhoda realizes Peter is freed and in her pure excitement, she returns into the house to tell everyone (rather than to Peter himself). It's a cute, passionate moment for it reveals to us how invested in prayer and compassion they were. Rhoda means Rose.

12:15-16 Inside the house, the apostles continue to disagree as to whether it is actually Peter at the door or Peter spiritually manifested after death on earth. Meanwhile actual Peter continues to knock at the door. I love pointed out God's sense of humor. We certainly are His children and we certainly do behave as children (sometimes it is endearing and sometimes it is frustrating). He loves us for who we are and undoubtedly chuckles at our quirks. 

12:17 Peter recognizes that this testimony of his freedom will heal and inspire many and therefore he is excited to spread the news of God's compassion and protection for them all.

12:18-19 There was commotion in the prison and among Herod and his soldiers and guards. Herod was so naively confident in his own power that the news of Peter's escape angered and embarrassed him. In effort to express his anger and to punish those who he determined had failed him, he calls for the death of his guards. Something to remember about this action: the guards are humans themselves and therefore they have their opportunity meet with God upon death. If they are innocent and kind, they live even after death on earth. If they are evil or corrupt, they cease existing. Either way, Herod has not determined their fate. Our own actions determine our own outcomes. Our own decisions have either consequences or rewards. 

12:20-22 Recognizing an opportunity to be worshiped (allowing food into a region) Herod takes it. But remember what Jesus taught us about people who claim to be royal or divine: Matthew 23:1-12. They are corrupt. Children of God, people who are humble in honesty and kindness do not ever exalt themselves. (There is a lot of this that happens around us in our world today, be vigilant.)

12:23 The point in this verse is that Herod dies. Our God does not die and therefore it becomes obvious to his supporters that he was merely a man, corrupt and vulnerable to mortality. It's a lesson for us: be humble.

The particular description of Herod's death makes me think of an infectious illness, rather than a grim spontaneous occurrence.

12:24 What is important is that the word of God grows and multiplies, because God's word is generous and loving, guiding and protecting and the more able it is the grow and spread, the more the increase in the number of people able to hear and absorb it.

12:25 Barnabas, Saul and John fulfill their ministries in one place and then with passion and determination move toward another. Their focus is inspiring: the organization, the fearlessness, the faith and humility.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 11

The Acts of the Apostles 11:1-30

11:1-2 Before we begin these verses, we need to acknowledge the sometimes-unfortunate nature of humans. Humans can be hypocritical, arrogant, contradictory and judgmental. If this comes as a surprise to you, welcome to your first nano-seconds on Earth!

These were not bad people, necessarily, but they were flawed. Which of us doesn't fit into that category? The helpful news is, God is generous in remaining with us and providing endless instruction on how we can improve ourselves. Although these had accepted God and believed in His compassionate message, they did not yet apply it: compassion, comprehensively to their lives. They needed to be pulled out of their prejudgment in order to realize that all humans belonged to and deserved God, regardless of their cultural characteristics. 

It's stunning how relevant this lesson still is, has probably increased in relevance, if anything. In this now globalized-world, cultures interact on every level, every day. It's crucial now more than ever that we accept and understand each other as the equals we are. There is a reason why "different" and "wrong" are two different words; they do not mean the same thing. Yet so many associate difference of thought and action as inherently wrong. 

Humanity is a family, a family full of individuals who take their own individual paths toward the same destination. Diversity is unique and inspiring, allows for and contributes to the evolution of combined-thought and idea.

Peter receives criticism for associating with a certain group; do not let arrogance or close-mindedness disallow you from fully interpreting and expressing the impartial compassion that God gives.

11:3 Peter explains to them from the beginning, thereby highlighting the importance of communication. In any confrontation, your best weapon is the ability to dismantle the tension with logic, rather than react to the tension with frustration or anger.

11:4-10 Peter recounts the entire vision to them; he gives them all of the information he was given in order that they might learn the same lesson, in the same manner he was taught. God's method of teaching is effective, we can use it and apply it to our lives and our situations.

Recall that Peter was taught that what and who ever God welcomes as good and worthy is good and worthy. Gently but firmly, God explains (in metaphor) to Peter (and us) that we do not have the right or the authority to debase any group of people.

11:11-14 Continuing in delivering the complete story, Peter informs them of how he and Cornelius were led to meet each other. Peter was led into Cornelius' region; God wanted him to give and spread His message to everyone and it was time that Peter reached out of his comfort zone in order to do so. For a full study, refer to the previous study: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 10.

11:15-17 Indeed God does give His whole self to all of His children. It is His right and His authority to determine that all people are equally deserving of all of His gifts. Although our worldview includes much diversity of culture, God's universal, spiritual view sees beyond that superficiality. We are much more than out exteriors and our souls are siblings.

11:18 Though they had previously responded negatively, this crowd received redemption when they expanded the bounds of their compassion. We are all flawed, but when are presented with truth and justice, we must allow it to penetrate and disintegrate the falsity and injustice we previously fostered.

11:19-20 We get an update on the disciples who dispersed after Stephen's earthly death, The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 7. They are also beginning to branch out into different regions. 

11:21 The hand of the Lord, the guidance of our God, is always with those who are journeying toward a compassionate destination for a compassionate purpose. Without prejudice, these apostles were teaching, guiding, healing, comforting all people. They journeyed toward unfamiliar places and made strangers into family. God ensures that journeys such as these are successful.

11:22-24 With purpose of heart... continue with the Lord. Well, if that is not concise and motivational life advice, I do not know what is. The apostles continued to be inspired by God, by the work they were doing and also by the compassionate work their fellow human-beings were doing. Draw your strength and purpose from God and supplement it with the kindness and generosity of others. Realize the great fortune of sharing a planet which houses some really incredible souls.

Purpose of Heart: be purposeful. You are an instrument, a vessel through which so much good can come into the world.

11:25-26 As the philosophy of God extended and was absorbed more and more broadly, it established itself as "Christianity" among humanity. Since, the word is an umbrella, under which exists endless different variations and interpretations. It's essential that we remember this philosophy of God not by the word or by historically-altered or modern interpretations but by it's core message, taught by Jesus: compassion, justice, truth, forgiveness, patience, acceptance, duty to our fellow humans to be kind.

Because I study the Bible, I am readily thought of as a Christian. Yet with that word come many connotations which do not apply to me. I rarely use the word for this reason. I am a spiritual pantheist, believing that our God supersedes the characteristics humans have ascribed to our divine creator. Moreover, many misinterpretations and also purposefully altered interpretations have dirtied the name and I shutter at the thought of being grouped with them. The reason why I, somewhat, digress is because it is so important that we keep the original message which is untainted by the passage of time, motive or prejudice.

11:27-28 God showed Agabus of a great famine. Amos 8:11 teaches us that famine in scripture is a metaphor not for a lack of food, but a lack of God's word in the world among humanity.

11:29-30 Informed of the need, the apostles assemble and distribute themselves throughout the world in order to feed, sustain and nourish people with God's perfect sustenance of our souls. According to our own abilities, we must disseminate and feed the world with what we have to give.

Such a powerfully beautiful verse: the apostles mobilize, a spiritual army of God. Put your armor on, stand at attention, we are in the midst of a battle: the defense of maintaining compassion in the world.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 10

The Acts of the Apostles 10:1-48

10:1-2 We are introduced to Cornelius who is a devout man, a kind and generous man. Cornelius' entire house is filled with faithful, compassionate people; he communicates with God regularly and because he has much, he gives much to those in need.

What does it mean to "have much?" Well, there are more ways to contribute to someone's well-being than just money. Being generous with people means to give them something you have, and we each have many and unique things to give: our patience, our friendship, our forgiveness, our kindness, our support, our example, our time, our effort, our smile, our experience, our knowledge, our empathy, our acknowledgement, our concern, our prayers, our thoughts... there is an endless supply inside of you.

We all "have much" of different things. Even when we are unable to provide or support someone monetarily, our spirits have so much to give to others. God has given much to all of us, and endless capacity for love and compassion and He expects us to express that love and compassion. Recall Luke 12:48 "...For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more." This verse applies physically, emotionally and spiritually. We are meant to give; we are vessels through which compassionate flows and so much compassion is needed by humanity and the earth.

10:3 It's 3:00 in the afternoon and Cornelius has a vision of an angel of God calling his attention. God still works with and through us, His children. He now reaches us in more subtle ways but He can only reach out to you if you recognize Him and if you are informed of His mission. Cornelius knows Him well and is informed of God's compassionate purpose for humanity, that qualifies Cornelius to participate in it.

10:4 Cornelius observed the angel and was amazed. Whenever anyone encounters or is approached by the spirit of God or His angels, they are stunned. They are stunned because we become so accustomed to our life here on earth that we forget or cannot visualize that life extends beyond what we are used to. Cornelius' reaction expresses to us how extraordinary the spiritual is. 

The angel informs Cornelius that his prayers and his compassionate nature has not only been reviewed by God, but has also moved God to entrust Cornelius with a mission.

10:5 The angel gives Cornelius the details of the mission: send for Simon Peter (who we are familiar with). I think it's especially kind and generous of God to work with and through us, His children. Rather than loom over everything and everyone with disinterested authority, God entrusts us to accomplish beautiful things with our own minds and hands. He entrusts us to deliver and delight in bringing comfort to others.

10:6 God is precise; the angel delivers a detailed message to Cornelius. Observe how informed God is, He knows where everyone is, when they are there... why they are there, who they are with... He's focused and He's alert in your life and He wants you to join Him. Be focused, be alert, be informed.

10:7-8 As he was led to do, Cornelius does. Cornelius sends a trusted man to call for Simon Peter. Realize that only God's faithful children are contributing to this mission. God knows that He can trust them; He does not delegate outside of the family.

10:9 Meanwhile, Peter is on his way to pray. Remember that Peter has been traveling and preaching and remember also that Peter is devout, has been personally taught by Jesus Himself. Peter is in constant communication with God who has given Peter so much in order that Peter be able to give back so much. Peter is as devoted as he always has been, perhaps more each day and has never let the gifts God has given him make him arrogant or forget where they came from.

10:10 Without yet realizing, Peter begins a lesson given by God specifically to him. Suddenly he's extremely hungry but before he could eat, he fell into a vision.

10:11 Immediately it's apparent that it is God who has something to say to Peter. A message sent directly from heaven (for lack of a better, more spiritually-descriptive word).

10:12 Inside the object Peter is observing in the vision are animals, insects and birds.

10:13 Still within the vision, Peter is give metaphorical instruction to feed himself with the animals in the object (remember that he had suddenly become ravenously hungry). 

10:14 Peter refuses his refusal refers to a health law in Leviticus 11:4. Peter believes the animals are unclean and that he therefore should not associate with them. When Peter uses this word "common" he means something that is profane or unclean.

10:15 Here is the lesson (which fill be further explained in following verses: What God has cleansed you must not call common (or unclean). God has a message for Peter and it begins deep in metaphor.

10:16 When Jesus (and God) explains something to Peter, they express it, reiterate it three times. Remember in John 21, Peter needs the reiteration to understand the depth of the message. The reiteration emphasizes how passionate God is about the message and how imperative it is that Peter understands and absorbs it (in order to do the work perfectly).

10:17-18 Peter has not yet interpreted the message and therefore we will wait until Peter figures it out to examine it. The men sent by Cornelius who was sent by God reach Peter.

10:19 Deep in contemplation, God nudges Peter to answer the door, that he is being sought after by three men.

10:20 Peter must employ his trust in God (we must always employ our trust in God). God encourages Peter to accept the lesson God is about to deliver Him. We can deduce that God knows Peter will have a somewhat difficult time accepting what God has to teach him by his reaction to the vision and also by God's continual prodding.

10:21-22 The men deliver the message perfectly and fully inform Peter of the situation. Peter knows that he can trust their message because God foretold him of it.

10:23 Peter agrees to travel with them, invites them to rest for the night (to ensure a safe and efficient journey), and in the morning, they begin the journey back to Cornelius.

10:24 Anticipating Peter, a bold and prominent man of God, Cornelius plans to receive him well. Cornelius, his family and his acquaintances (all faithful children of God) are thrilled to have Peter with them; they've heard of all the preaching and healing and leading he has done and they respect him very much.

10:25 Peter's humility: When Cornelius and Peter meet, Cornelius' reaction is to worship Peter. Remember that God has filled Peter with amazing gifts of healing and therefore, people frequently bow to him, believing Peter himself to be a divine being. Peter quickly corrects this misunderstanding.

10:26 "I am also a man." I am also a human. Peter's humility and recognition of God is especially apparent. None of his gifts have gone to his head. Peter knows that without God, nothing he has accomplished would have been possible. Peter does not revere God our of fear but out of love and awe. Peter is especially aware of the brilliant ways his life changed since Jesus entered it and he will never forget.

Similar scenarios have occurred where, when encountered by angels or devout children of God, people (and disciples) have reacted by worshiping them. Children of God are always quick to correct them; they are humble and quite aware of Who all life and miracle comes from (they know without a doubt it isn't from themselves).

10:27 Peter begins to join and converse with the whole assembly of them... an assembly of people we learn in the next verse, Peter would not have been keen to associate with without God's correction. 

10:28 We've spoken of this before (and recently with our study of Saul): God chooses people are lost or confused and He works with them to align them with truth and compassion. He heals the sick. Peter has bias against these people and he required teaching and prodding from God to get over his intolerant judgement of these, clearly, good people.

In the vision of the animals, God metaphorically taught Peter that whatever and whomever God has created and loved is worthy of receiving His love and compassion and the attention of His disciples. If God says something or somebody is worthy, then that something and somebody is worthy.

10:29 God taught Peter that he must not object to associating with all of his children and Peter learned and absorbed the instruction.  Peter welcomed these people as worthy equals. Similarly we must accept all people as equals, regardless of how different in culture they are from us. God's heart is open to all people and our hearts but be open, too.

10:30-33 Cornelius explains to Peter his side of the vision and instruction from God. He explains to Peter that now that they are together as God requested, their joint-instruction would come from God.

10:34-35 Here is a lesson that is much needed in the world and has always been needed in among humanity. It is the truth and we must perceive this truth: God shows no partiality. Whoever loves Him (remember the translation of the word "fear" is "phobos" meaning reverence) and loves others and works for their well-being is accepted by God (and therefore is worthy of our acceptance).

10:36 Peter begins to speak with the people of this place and therefore God's message reaches a new region of the world. God continues to burst through barriers (in this case, Peter's intolerance) in order to reach as many children as He can.

10:23-41 Peter begins his personal testimony of being a student of Jesus and witnessing His life and earthly death, as well as His return to the earth in spirit.

10:42 Peter explains that it has become his purpose to speak of the things he witnessed and was taught.

10:43 Disciples of God, children of God, fellow-workers of God are meant, it is their (our) purpose, to teach to all people that God loves all people without partiality. Whoever listens and absorbs God's philosophy is welcome to all of His guidance and love. He helps us to disentangle ourselves from our mistakes, adversity, fears and tribulations.

We so often hear of "our sins" but our only sin is this: selfishness. God forgives us for living selfishly and He teaches us how to live compassionately for others. He does not condemn us for our mistakes, He leads us out of them. He forgives us for being neglectful or unkind to others and He leads us to be and do better. He gives us purpose and it fills us like a brilliant light and nourishment.

10:44-45 To emphasize the truth of Peter's testimony, God fills everyone with His love and comfort. It's an indescribable feeling and maybe, prayerfully, you've felt it before. It is a strong, tangible sense that you are deeply loved and protected. It is a strong, tangible sense that your path is directed and promised to be filled with freedom and purpose and abundant joy. God's spiritual presence enhances our perception and allows us to see, interpret and trust the meaningful purpose of our lives as well as God's gratitude toward us for accepting and performing it.

The most important lesson of the particular chapter: God's spirit is proffered to all people.

10:46 Peter's testimony is strong. It's been effective in all other regions and this is no exception. Never doubt that your experiences, your thoughts, your compassion is able to inspire people. Like Peter, God will bestow gifts on you that you will be able to reach many. When you're ready to work (promote, defend and create compassion among humanity) God equips you with the tools to do so, effectively and efficiently.

10:47-48 Here is a reiteration of God message: it is nobody's right to forbid another person from something. God gives equally and abundantly to all people without partiality. Although different in culture, these people are just as worthy of God's love and His message. They are just as worthy of purposes and gifts from Him. Therefore, all who listened, absorbed and believed were worthy of being baptized, welcomed into the family.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 9

The Acts of the Apostles 9:1-43

9:1-2 Saul is a determined man. Skilled, passionate, and focused -- the problem is that he is skilled, passionate and focused on killing the apostles and their students.

9:3 Saul was so effectively persecuting the apostles that Jesus intervened. Remember that these times were the birth of Christianity, now a solid and worldwide faith, was only then a little flicker. If it had been extinguished so early, billions of people to be born would miss their opportunity to hear the message. Jesus intervened at this crucial moment in history -- now that Christianity is an established faith and available throughout the world, God's interventions are offered to those who have studied and worked to know Him.

9:4 Jesus asks Saul this question: What is your purpose and motivation for what you are doing? God's philosophy is to always inject logic into the situation. It's a good question to frequently ask ourselves in order to ensure that we are intentionally walking a path we are proud of and happy to tread. 

The presence of God (and Jesus) is amazing, overwhelming even for the human on earth and really the only response we are able to muster is to fall to our knees in awe and wonder.

9:5 Even though Saul does not at first know who, specifically is speaking to him, he immediately recognizes the voice as a divine spirit. When God's spirit (or Jesus') is shown to us, there's no question of their authenticity or their prominence. The creator of everything appears and effects us as such.

Kick against the pricks: are you familiar with a "pricker bush?" The mention of these "goads" explains to Saul that his way of life is unproductive. There is no benefit (for anyone) to what he is doing. The entanglement, the chaos... there is no gain, Saul remains stuck. The friction between himself and the apostles disallows either to succeed. God always injects logic in our lives when we listen. Be productive... be on the winning side.

9:6 Saul, though violent, is a brave and tough leader -- yet is reduced to pure astonishment and trembling at the appearance of Jesus. Here is Saul's choice: Jesus offers Saul a path and a purpose, he gives Saul the first direction and promises to lead him if he chooses to follow.

Working and being with God is always our choice. Saul requests from Jesus a mission and Jesus offers one -- without exception, whoever we are and whatever we have done, if we ask God for guidance, it is available to us. Remember these verses: Mark:2:17 and Luke 5:31 where Jesus teaches us that His purpose is to reach the people who most need it. Saul is a sick man -- sick with corruption, violence and hatred and it is God's pleasure to lead people out of those illnesses. Remember also: Luke 15:11-32, The Parable of the Lost Son. While God promises everything He has to His faithful children, He's overjoyed when someone who was previously lost discovered their true home (with Him) and changed and working to be home, with Him.

9:7 I cannot help but point out God's sense of humor: there they stood, proud, arrogant, bold, rough and tough men reduced to shivering, terrified little sticks. Though they had not seen Jesus, they heard the divine voice (and therefore witnessed a complete contradiction to the laws of nature they had understood).

9:8 Symbolically, Saul lost his sight. A promoter of evil and violence, he was not able "to see" in the deeper, spiritual sense. Saul was therefore unable to understand and perceive the compassionate spirit and philosophy of God. He was blinded by anger and violence. To teach this message, Saul actually loses his sight.

Recall that God's children walk not by sight but by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7), meaning that, our path and our vision is ensuring, promoting and defending the compassionate nature of God. Without that specific purpose, a person is blind.

9:9 Saul was in a state of transition, a cleansing. The symbolism of Saul fasting represents that refrained from participating in his usual antics, from deriving from violence and hatred. Saul was clearing his physical but also spiritual system out. This allowed Saul some time for clarity of thought and perspective -- he's between ways of life during these three days: his former violence life vs. the one being offered by God.

God's process of reestablishing us, stronger and wiser, more compassionate and peaceful than we were before, is to encourage us to remove ourselves from our present, broken situation. We need to be able to perceive, to think deeper and more complexly than we had been before. In order to do that, we really must view ourselves from another perspective, abstaining from the things, people, actions and ideas that define us. We need to look at ourselves and evaluate -- free from the environment which corrupted us. This was Saul's period of self-review, it would result in him needing to make a choice -- return to who he was or to change.

9:10 Similarly to how Philip was led to the man in the chariot in the previous chapter, God orchestrates for one of His children, one of Jesus' apostles to find Saul. 

The moment God requests his help, Ananias is there and ready, offering himself to God's mission. These is a beautiful trait God's fellow-workers have because as we all know as humans, when we need help... we need it as fast as we can get it. Be someone God can count on to rescue and lead His children who are sick or lost or hurt, there is no more rewarding or fulfilling purpose to have.

9:11 God directs Ananias to the street named "Straight" which actually translates to from "Euthus" meaning straight forward, upright, true, sincere. It's fitting (and symbolic) that Ananias would be led here as his mission was to provide a straightforward path toward truth to Saul.

It is imperative that we give our attention to the end of this verse: Saul is praying. Saul is sincerely reaching out to God and God is alert and prepared to answer him, without hesitation. Your prayers are received with the same speed, passion and efficiency -- be perceptive in order to receive your answer.

9:12 Ananais receives a vision from God; the metaphorical vision represents this: Ananais specifically reaching Saul, and with his hand (the tool with and through which we express and perform our thoughts and beliefs) reaches out to Saul with God's philosophy. Upon receiving, absorbing and accepting, Saul receives his sight, physically and spiritually.

God has a detailed plan for you also, if you want it. He has a willing angel, apostle, a kind spirit at the ready to reach you and deliver the vision God has for you -- but it's a mutual effort, you must work with God to heal yourself.

9:13-14 Ananias communicates with God that Saul is a bad, feared man -- widely known as a deadly enemy of God's children. Moreover, Ananias is aware of Saul's permission from the high priest (leader in the region) to arrest any apostle he encounters.

9:15 God ensures Ananias that His plan for Saul is not only necessary but also good for the world. God explains to Ananias that Saul is a chosen vessel through which God's philosophy will reach many, many people. Saul is a brave, passionate and working spirit -- God is well aware that Saul is lost and on a crooked path, but God also knows that it is within Saul to change and to be good. God gives Saul the opportunity to better himself and he trusts (knows) that Saul will not only welcome the opportunity but will also fulfill his purpose on earth brilliantly and full of brazen faith.

And what a testimony for the world to see! A violent man changed in his ways. A persecutor of Christians become a Christian himself. Your life is a testimony, what are you speaking out to the world? Saul's life makes people consider their own actions: Saul changed his lifestyle, exhibiting to a multitude of people that he tried to live against God and decided it was not the better, smarter or more rewarding option. Saul's life exhibiting to powerful love and guidance of God.

9:16 Something that subsequently occurs when we awaken to our actions is that we have to face the repercussions and sometimes the shame and disappointment in ourselves. But we grow from those moments of humility. Saul, upon entirely absorbing promoting God's word received God's complete forgiveness and love, but Saul will struggle at first as he realizes the harm he has caused. These are growing pains.

9:17 Ananias fulfills the vision and mission God gave to him. Ananias reaches Saul and works with him by offering the word of God, the wisdom of the holy spirit and therefore his spiritual sight (along with his actual sight).

9:18 This verse explains to us that Saul received perception, the ability to distinguish wisdom from folly. Through Ananias, God helped Saul to understand the senselessness of his previous way of life. Saul looked with wisdom and logic rather than hatred or bias and determined (evaluated, calculated) that God's purpose for him was the right choice.

Saul's authentic, genuine change of heart, change of mind, transition from evil to good enabled him to be baptized, recognized and welcomed as another of God's hard-working children. Remember that Saul, in the midst of living violently was confronted with the powerful, amazing presence of God and Jesus -- it tore him out of his twisted reality and forced him to look at life from a difference perspective. The truth changed him. He created compassionate within himself when he realized that compassion was the force of God, the creator of all things.

9:19 Now, having abstained from food (his metaphorical fast, the period of his self-review) Saul is able to eat, symbolizing that he is reaching to begin again, this time deriving strength and purpose from God rather than from evil (which he had abstained from during his self-review). Saul begin to nourish his body, mind and soul with God's wisdom and purpose. He was strengthened -- in mind, body and soul. Allow yourself to be strengthened by God. Saul spends some time with the disciples, he has been inducted and needs to understand how their mission operates (how they distribute the teachings among them, the humility with which they teach, etc.)

9:20 Saul is immediately ready to preach about Jesus, who Saul had personally interacted with. Saul could personally attest to the guidance and healing offered by God. It changed his life, magnificently and he, this time, directed his courage, passion and focus to upholding that which God had given him.

9:21-22 Saul's testimony indeed shakes the region. It's so wonderful to consider the impact our lives can have on the world. Who we are and what we do matters. Who and what we are reverberates around the world in more ways than we can conceive of. Our lives impact so many others; what we choose to promote and do for others all added together makes up our world. In your own life, your individual actions influence and either brighter or darken those around you. With purpose and good-intention, influence and brighten the environment of the people around you.

9:23 Saul is doing such a beautiful and passionate job of spreading God's words that his former friends plot to have him killed. There is another lesson here: do you want to participate with a group of people who only care about you under certain conditions? God loves all of His children, and even when we greatly disappoint and sadden Him, He offers His love and guidance to us; He always works to save our lives. Saul's former crowd wants to end his life. Saul, the individual is not important to them -- he only mattered to them when they gained something for them. Even when Saul was violently against them, the apostles never wanted to kill him. In fact, Stephen asked God to forgive Saul and his friends for killing him: Acts of the Apostles 7:60.

9:24-25 Saul's new (and natural) family works to save and ensure his life against enemies.

9:26 The disciples in Jerusalem had no yet heard of Saul's transition and they were worried when he appeared before them; they expected him to arrest or evil kill them.

9:27-30 Another disciple, Barnabas, familiar with Saul's change of spirit and heart informs the other disciples of Saul's bold and compassionate preaching and they gladly welcome him. In fact, Saul's preaching has been so effective, they have to continue to move him and hide him from his enemies. It's essential that he retain his life because his specific and passionate testimony is reaching so many. They protect him as a sibling because we are all of the same family, we are siblings.

9:31 Christianity (not yet named as such) began the thrive throughout region after region. It's such a compassionate and healing message that it resonates with people; we quickly and deeply welcome it into our lives. So many were walking in reverence* and of God and were comforted by His philosophy and His spirit with them in the world.

*This word "fear" or "phobos" (quite ironically) translates with two meanings: fear and also reverence. This double-meaning translation is especially fitting because we can either choose to love or fear God -- there is no in-between. Either we are on His side or we are on the losing side.

9:32-35 This man, Aeneas* is healed after years of being paralyzed. This is a metaphorical lesson because so many of us live our lives "frozen" or "stuck" and we only truly begin to move throughout our lives with spiritual purpose when we welcome God inside of ourselves to heal and lead us.

*Aeneas means "laudable" and indeed those who are healed by God are deserving -- they have committed their lives to compassion and therefore they receive His love and are worthy of it because they promote it, encourage it, create it in the places and people who need it.

9:36-41 This disciple, Tabitha, was beloved for her effective, passionate work of healing and guiding, comforting and supporting God's children. Her work was so necessary and so good that when she died (earthly death), her fellow disciples reached out to Peter to heal her. (Remember that God had given Peter the full power and ability of His spirit to do such things). Peter, through God, returns Tabitha to the earth (from the spirit) to continue her work on earth for humanity.

God will ensure that we are where we need to be, when we need to be there in order to do the most good. Simultaneously, He reminds us that we, His children are victims of nobody and vulnerable to no thing. We continue to rise against tribulations and ailments -- He is the commanding force of life.

9:42-43 The fact and truth that God had healed Tabitha, through Peter, served as another powerful testimony of God's ability and love. In more ways than we realize, how we endure the bumps in our road inspires other people to seek the same divine being who protects and guides us over those bumps.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 8

The Acts of the Apostles 8:1-40

8:1 This ring-leader, Saul gave his crowd permission to kill Stephen. With ease, comfort and acceptance, Stephen transitioned from earth to spirit. His death caused quite a commotion and people scrambled -- except for the apostles who were unshaken. When we stand with and for God, nothing can weaken our stability. The apostles continue on to teach and spread God's message around the world, undeterred by the possibility (and even likelihood) of their own condemnation and death.

8:2 Stephen's earthly death was respected with a burial by a few kindhearted souls. They lamented because they would miss him and they would miss teaching beside him and enjoying his faithful, courageous company -- yet they knew that Stephen was more than okay and was with God, very much alive in the spirit.

8:3 This is the second mention of Saul, who we will very soon witness become a prominent apostle. Currently, and in the previous chapter, it's difficult to believe that or conceive of how that might happen. The Saul we are introduced here is a violent man who effectively does everything he can to thwart the apostles.

8:4 It's extraordinary that the apostles kept moving and kept spreading God's philosophy as they did. We read of these events as if they were a story but these brave humans actually lived and persevered against these very real threats and enemies. Their devotion to compassion is made magnificently apparent by their actions. Their lives are our instruction, their spirits remain in these pages urging us to derive this same strength, courage, and comfort from the same God who gave it to them. No matter who we are, we each have in our lives an (or many) opportunity to promote and defend goodness against evil -- on small scales and large ones. The apostles show us that we are able, just as they were when we stand with God, just as they did. 

8:5-8 God, through all of the apostles, and in this verse through Philip heals and supports so many. Often we see these words: unclean spirits, but we can understand this term to symbolize various illnesses. So early in time, people barely understood illness and ailment and often attributed them to superstitious ideas. This was the birth of Christianity in the world -- pure Christianity and came into the world with a bold expression of healing of all kinds.

One of the most precious gifts God gives us is the healing of our own minds and thoughts. We are constantly conditioned and influenced or even manipulated by our surroundings that we lose ourselves or never even discover our purposes. When we welcome God into our lives, He heals us from inside out, a balm to every ailing crevice. He doesn't just entire and sweep the floors -- He cleans the ovens, dusts the picture frames, washes the sheets, arranges the silverware... it's a complete job. It's a process He begins, endures and finishes with us: establishing self-worth, awakening to purpose, and while absorbing His compassion we are overwhelmed with His love and gratitude and it flows outward from us onto others. It's amazing and I've said this before, I would not speak of this if it were not a personal experience.

8:9-11 Before Philip had emerged into their region with Jesus' message, people were astonished by this man Simon. Using his wit and cleverness, Simon was able to dupe people into amazement and because people could not figure out how he performed his tricks, he was highly regarded.

8:12-13 Yet when Philip came, people abandoned their amazement of Simon's tricks -- even Simon was intrigued (more to follow on Simon shortly). Philip came with the real deal, with an honest, tangible message. The healing and wisdom Philip brought helped them to discern the difference between tricks and true acts of God. This message the apostles brought was bold and clear, full of wisdom and truth so therefore it deeply resonated with people. Remember that everything Philip did and was capable of was given by God. Those miracles came through Philip and into the world. Similarly we aspire to be instruments of God's goodness.

God wants us to be able to distinguish tricks from truth -- to distinguish things that look good in appearance but are fake and corrupt inside. There are a lot of "tricks" in the world, people, products and organizations which preach or proclaim to be something they are not. By being aware, perceptive and responsible (and attentive) in your own mind, you will never be tricked. Another message here: when met with pure compassion, people absorb it and readily abandon the lame imitations.

There are a lot of people in the world and many of them have a lot of things they would like for you to believe... be able to develop your own beliefs. This Bible is not a book of rules -- it's a friend, it is the breadcrumbs we can choose to follow toward home if we want to. Follow this friend if it aligns with your beliefs and whatever does not, chuck it out! You were given the gift of perception and intuition, you can feel it when something's not right.

Our God is loving, logical and compassionate, always remember that truth. If you find hypocrisy in this book, likely it was added by man and not God.

8:14-17 The apostles were in their own process of fulfilling their purposes. I must reiterate that it is a process because true belief does not come from saying you believe. These apostles had been chosen and recognized by Jesus as faithful and good men. As they worked with God, it became apparent to Him also that these men were devoted to delivering compassion to humanity. Together, the apostles prayed to God: they laid their souls bare to Him and when we looked at them with His evaluating eye, He saw their goodness and blessed them. You also receive His spirit: John 14:26. A baptism is your statement to the world, your public admission of believe but your actions, the way you live your life is the baptism by God... the true baptism.

8:18-19 Completely misinterpreting the situation, Simon offers to pay for these gifts. Simon has been put out of business by Christianity -- people are no longer paying to see his false tricks. Simon wants to purchase God's gifts... in order to sell them to others for profit. Simon does not understand.

Love cannot be bought. Moreover, God's gifts are given to those who will use them well -- freely. humbly, and selflessly for the well-being of others. There is no way to trick or bribe God -- a cruel or greedy soul gets nothing and no matter how desperate or crafty they are -- they never will.

8:20 Peter is insulted by the idea -- and rightfully so. Simon the trickster wishes to exploit people for profit -- he completely disregards God's message. Peter explains something to Simon that humanity has needed to hear for a long time -- your money will perish with you. Money is nothing to God. Money is less than nothing to God. Money has been the detriment of humanity, the root of every evil and deception.

8:21 Simon's heart is not aligned with God's compassionate philosophy and therefore God and God's gifts are not attainable to him.

8:22-23 It's tough love from Peter but it is exactly what Simon needs to hear -- he's not a nice person, he's greedy and he tricks people into given him their money. He's greedy. This Simon is symbolic of many people alive in the world today -- they'll do anything to protect or procure money. God has no use for people who have no use for people. If someone chooses money as their God... they will inevitably find that money has no acknowledgement or care for them. It cannot heal them or guide them or comfort them. Peter warns Simon: Wake up, you're not on a good path -- is tainted by greed and unkindness.

8:24 Simon asks the apostles to pray for him... but our redemption, the love we can receive from God cannot be purchased by money and nor can it be purchased by another person on our behalf. Our compassionate actions earn us His attention, love and guidance. It's lovely and so kind for people to pray for us, and for us to pray for others... but our prayers are meant to guide them to their own path of work and growth (not to put them in the passenger seat as we drive down ours).

8:25 Focused and determined as their beloved Teacher, Jesus, the apostles continue to move throughout and spread God's philosophy. Through them, so much wisdom flowed from God -- certainly they were fellow workers with God, 1 Corinthians 3:9.

8:26 God guides and sometimes He guides through the angels, His messengers to direct us toward specific places and people. God's guidance is usually very subtlety given (though boldly implied) but for Philip in this verse there was a very specific man God wanted him to reach out to.

8:27-29 "So he arose and went..." Without hesitation. God's children, those who work with Him to accomplish great, compassionate things on the earth are passionate and prompt. Philip finds this specific man and continues to be guided by the spirit sent by God.

8:30 Philip finds the man reading The Book of Isaiah the prophet. Now here is a very important distinction: reading the bible vs. understanding the bible. God ensures that any souls seeking Him with passion will find Him, Jeremiah 29:13 and Matthew 7:7, specifically.

8:31 The man needs help and requests a teacher. Now understand something -- this man wanted to understand. He was working and studying and trying to understand -- God helps such students.

So many in the world use the bible and other religious texts incorrectly or for their own gain. God knows that the was to identify a devoted student is to observe if they look deeply in the text without personal motive or if they use it to control/condemn others.

God's devoted students simply want to understand. He makes that happen. He works in ways unseen and often unknown by us but He is working for us and to reach us. He orchestrates so much in our lives to ensure that we are where we need to be -- but first we must seek Him, we must know Him to truly give Him permission to enter and intervene in our lives.

8:32-33 This man is reading Isaiah 53:7-8, which references (and foretold) of Jesus' unjustified death.

8:34 This man is curious; he digs for meaning and understanding, he happily and hungrily welcomes Philip as a teacher.

8:35 Philip continued to fulfill his purpose; though he often taught to crowds, God wants you to understand that He even and always reaches the isolated, individual student as well. You, specifically are so important to Him; you mean everything to Him and He will expertly arrange and construct the bridge that leads you to Him if you request it, if you hope for it and love Him.

8:36-37 Philip explains that baptism means nothing if a person does not truly believe. We've spoken of this before and we must always remember that baptism is a symbol, a beautiful symbol but just a symbol. To be truly baptized, a person must believe in their heart and actions. Their faith must flow through everything they do and say.

8:38 This man loved God -- and of course this was so made so apparent by his devotion to wanting to understand. In his heart he had already joined and followed and loved God and therefore he was quite eligible to be baptized.

8:39 Having fulfilled this particular quest, reaching this particular student and child of God, Philip was redirected to continue along his path and purpose of reaching so many more. There's no delay or hesitation... God wants to reach so many that His fellow-workers must always be ready and willing to continue working. The man continued on rejoicing -- because that is what God's children do -- we cannot help but rejoice because of His love and guidance -- it is so prominent in our lives.

8:40 Philip kept teaching along the way to everywhere he went! As we discussed earlier in this study, God is precise and complete. He misses and skips nothing, no one. His love, protection, guidance and wisdom is abundantly available (at the ready! at any time) to whoever beckons Him with their whole heart.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 7

The Acts of the Apostles 7:1-60

In the previous chapter, Stephen was accused of contradicting the law of Moses (written of in the 5 first books of the Old Testament). In this chapter, Stephen will explain why the accusation is unfounded. 

7:1 The high priest is referring to Acts 6:14 of the previous chapter in which Stephan's false witnesses accused him of making the statement that Jesus would "destroy" and "change the customs" of Moses.

Moses was a faithful man of our God and Jesus did not change or alter but enhance the compassionate and instructive message God (through Moses) brought to the world preceding Jesus' presence here.

7:2 Stephan begins the account of the truth, written of in Genesis 12:1. It is the account of Abraham become a faithful child of God and blessed because of it.

7:3 Abraham trusted God to lead him (and generations of descendants) out of tribulation; by faith he walked rather than sight, 2 Corinthians 5:7.

7:4-5 God's divine intervention in Abraham's life was only made possible by Abraham's trust in God. God led Abraham on a journey from nothing to everything. This promise was made to Abraham but also to the lineage of faithful children who would come from Abraham (yes, extending to us and into today's world).

7:6-7 God's omniscience allowed him to inform Abraham of the journey his descendants would take. Moreover, God promised to be with them and also to be against their adversaries.

7:8 God gave Abraham the health law of circumcision, because heath standards at the time were a lot different from now -- and a healthy lineage required the custom. Through Abraham came Isaac, Jacob and through Jacob the 12 tribes which have branched out (and further subdivided) into the world as tribes, regions, nations, cultures and peoples. And truly this earth was given to us. 

7:9 Stephen's account continues into Genesis 37, in which Joseph was sold by his brothers out of their jealously. 

7:10 Yet God promised (and continues to uphold His promised) to always protect and guide His children. Joseph, like his ancestor Abraham, was faithful and a good, compassionate person -- God always delivers such people out of adversity.

7:11 Joseph's wisdom (given by God as protection) allowed and arranged for him to become beloved in Egypt (where he originally entered as a slave). 

7:12-14 Joseph's return to his family was a shock to those who betrayed him -- they expected him to fail but no faithful child of God ever does. Why? Because faith is the permission we give God to intervene in our lives -- and God's intervention is perfect. 

7:15-16 The lesson here is that God's family are always together -- no matter how craftily or manipulatively people plan and plot against them, God's plan comes into fruition, succeeds and gathers His children together.

7:17 Stephen's address moves forward into the account of Moses' birth, Exodus 2. As we (and likely the high priest) can deduce, Stephen is well-versed in the Old Testament despite accusations to the contrary. Stephan knows the Old Testament (history) so well because He was taught it, believes it and works everyday to enhance that message with what Jesus added to it.

7:18-21 We are going to begin to sense a theme (if we haven't already) where God's faithful children (and prophets specifically) are frequently faced with much adversity (right from birth). They always rise out of it. 

7:22-29 Moses was raised with the Egyptians but realized as an adult that the peoples he was originally born to were enslaved. These verses referenced are from Exodus 2:14-15. Moses notices that the slaves were fighting each other rather than their common enemy -- but rather than absorb his advice, the people turn on Moses and he flees.

Side note: Rest assured, we will eventually study the Old Testament in detail!

7:30-32 God introduced Himself to Moses (quite fantastically) and identified Himself as the God of Moses' ancestors. (Any faithful person is an ancestor -- but Moses' lineage is of Abraham).

7:33-36 God appoints Moses as the human through which He would bring justice into the world. (And quite funnily, Moses was at first terrified at the prospect of having such responsibility) but he was successful, of course.

7:37 Jesus Himself is specifically foretold here by Moses. The Prophet, Jesus, coming to earth in the flesh.

7:36-43 These verses reference one of the very many times when people diverged from God and went their own way, worshiping false gods and, power, and money.

7:44-50 It is being explained that God does not require or reside in anything made by human ingenuity, no matter how impressive. The creator of all things, even the universe(s) wants for us to understand that we can only house our faith, love and trust in Him in our hearts and spirits. We cannot worship a thing or idea -- we cannot ascribe godliness or holiness to an object or person. 

7:51-53 Throughout history prophets have been trampled down. Stephen calls them to be logical and to accurate assess their history and their actions. Remember our study in Luke 20:9-19, the Parable of the Wicked Vine-dressers -- in which God explains that He has sent prophet after prophet to earth to bring peace but each has been treated cruelly and brutally and has been killed despite their service to humanity.

7:54 We exit Stephen's explanation and journey through history (theirs and ours). We return to the reaction of the high priest and his officials and they are perturbed. They cannot logically argue against Stephen's truthful account of their own history and their own religion that they claim* to follow. They are speechless due to their hypocrisy.

7:55-56 Yet Stephen was filled with God's love and wisdom and God was (is) so proud of Stephen for delivering this much needed, truthful message to his adversaries. Stephen's faith and bravery in faith was brilliantly recognized and loved by God. Together, Jesus and God reaffirmed Stephen and stood beside Him in spirit and heart.

This same message has needed to be delivered to corrupt rulers throughout history (today's time not excluded) and God prepares His children for that abundantly Matthew 24, Mark 13, Luke 21, Revelation and elsewhere in the Bible. The world needs and has always needed God's children to bring truth and compassion to humanity's adversaries -- be brave, be faithful, God is with you as you deliver and live His message. I speak specifically of Mark 13:9 when certain of God's children will be called to deliver (in the same manner) the same message as Stephen in this chapter.

7:57-58 As enemies frequently neglect to do, Stephen's adversaries refuse to accept his truth as well as refuse to find compassion in their hearts and they attack him. There are people desperate and greedy enough to tear down the kind to retain their wealth and power.

7:59 Stephen was about to leave the earth -- which is never a death for God's children. He was about to join God in heaven, and having fulfilled a beautiful purpose on earth, he certainly deserved to. Delivering the message to humanity, Stephen was not scared. In facing his adversaries, Stephen was not scared. Facing death on earth, Stephen was not scared. Throughout his life and purpose Stephen remained faithful and determined, compassionate and humble. Throughout the process of his departure from earth, Stephen called to His father, our father to be received by Him through the path Jesus constructed.

7:60 Stephen's compassion and humility is so pure and abundant -- even as they reject, harm and kill him, Stephen asks God to forgive them. Stephen has compassion and forgiveness for their cruelty and their ignorance, for their enslavement to greed and cruelty.

Stephen fell asleep, he transitioned into the spirit. He joined God. God's children do not die.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 6

The Acts of the Apostles 6:1-15

6:1 The number of the disciples was increasing: 120 to 3,000 to 5,000 and on. God's philosophy of life was inspiring people and they were absorbing it.

6:2 In a crowd of mixed languages, the disciples needed to appoint a person to specifically teach to the Hellenists. The disciples were given the ability to understand and speak the language of their audience but their audience was linguistically split -- and therefore they needed to attend to both individually.

Hellenist - Hebrew person who speaks in the Greek language, and studies in the Greek manuscript.

Hebrew - Hebrew person who speaks  in the Aramaic language and studies in the Hebrew manuscript.

6:3 They sought to appoint seven faithful people to the task of teaching specifically to the Hellenists.

6:4 Rather than further divide the teaching and be a little deficient in number to serve the multitude, they added teachers.

6:5 Added were: Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas. They were very careful and particular in choosing teachers -- a teach needs to be rock-solid in faith and compassion and wisdom.

6:6-7 United as apostles, they continued to spread and trust God's philosophy of life and love.

6:8-9 Stephen's brilliance of faith quickly distinguished him and it drew the attention of enemies.

6:10 As happens when corruption challenges the wisdom and truth of God -- Stephen's adversaries were not able to dispute his logic against their false claims (we have repeatedly seen this, first through Jesus against His adversaries and then through various disciples against their adversaries).

6:11-12 They conspired and deceptively worked to build a  (lying)-crowd against Stephen which led to his capture. 

6:13-14 This raucous, obnoxious, evil and deceptive crowd grows increasingly rowdy and determined to condemn innocent Stephen to false claims against him. Yet as they increase in their ridiculous fervor...

6:15 ... Stephen is revealed to them as an angel of God. Not a human at all but an angel here on earth promoting the word of God to humanity. Quietly, humbly joining the mission, purpose and work of the apostles and God's children. With complete humility, this angel worked as a fellow with humanity.

Beautiful. 

And again -- God's sense of humor: No matter how bold or clever our adversaries think they are -- they lose and are weak. They arrested an angel of God: can you imagine the desperation of that kind of "oops" moment? This ridiculous crowd thought that their horrid-fervor could mute, block, hinder, condemn and even kill Stephen -- but God's children are protected. 

Right among the apostles were angels working alongside them. It's no different for you -- there are angels working alongside us. Angels of God are placed throughout the earth to defend, inspire and promote Gods' children -- if our enemies were indeed as clever as they think they are, they would never go against us, we the children of God defended by angels and by His love. The protection is offered to you: God will enter (and protect) your life upon receiving your trust and your permission: John 14:16.

This account of Stephen is instructive: No member of God's family is without humility, purpose, compassion or work ethic. Collectively, God's family joins in the effort of bringing justice and compassion to the world. Jesus taught us this and Stephen reiterates the message.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 5

The Acts of the Apostles 5:1-42

5:1 Ananias and Sapphira had made their own decision to sell their land and to donate the entirety of the proceeds to the disciples' mission.

5:2 However, once receiving the payment for their land, they broke their promise. They pretended they received half of what they actually got for the land. They donated half and kept half for themselves -- which would have been generous had they not been deceptive and broken their promise.

5:3 We learn here that Ananias promised God in prayer to donate what he had earned from selling his land -- promised and lied. The way in which "Satan filled" his heart was this: Ananias let the qualities Satan represents enter his heart, mind and therefore decision making.

You do not have to make any promises to God, or anyone -- but if and when you do, it's imperative that you keep your word. You want to be as trustworthy as you hope others are to you. 

5:4 Peter reminds Ananias that the land belonged entirely to him (Ananias) and he did not have to sell it or share it at all. It was his own idea to do so. The lesson in these verses is to be honest and to stay focused and determined on delivering promises you make to God and humanity (family, friends, quintessences, etc.)

5:5-6 Ananias dies. A shocking turn of events but not a punishment. The accounts within these versus in the Bible were specifically chosen for their instructive nature. Ananias' death is symbolic, but it's not a punishment -- we know from former studies that God is quite forgiving and patient as we learn lessons from mistakes and poor decisions. So, to focus on the symbolism: Ananias death mirrors the death of our character when we succumb to greed and deceit. We lose our humanity -- we die, spiritually and the only part of us that is truly alive is our spirit.

Ananias' death came as a fearful shock to those around him (and maybe even to us) but the lesson (again, lesson not punishment) was made apparent for both audiences (us and them).

5:7-10 Sapphira also lies out of greed. Without partiality, a greedy soul cannot live. By "live" I mean eternally; a soul cannot thrive with God if it is corrupt -- the formula just does not compute. There is too much friction, too much contradiction.  Ananias and Sapphira's deaths exemplify to us that greed, even conspired greed cannot succeed. 

5:11 Vibrancy, happiness, wisdom and love (the qualities of life) depend on our humility, honesty and compassion. Without them, we have nothing. Witnesses of these events were scared, likely plagued by their own misconduct, but there is no need to fear when you're a kind, honest person -- you will succeed with God.

The lesson is to not try to take advantage of people and stand by your word -- stand by promises made to God and to people. God does not punish with death -- rather our decisions have natural repercussions. Deceit as an element dissolves in God's spiritual home -- God does not dismiss people from heaven -- a square just cannot squeeze through a triangle. Don't be a square in a triangular tunnel -- you'll never make it through! 

5:12 United within God's compassionate philosophy, the disciples brought love, wisdom, guidance and healing to multitudes of people. 

5:13-14 As much as people were in awe and gratitude toward what God was doing through the disciples -- they fully recognized the long and arduous work the disciples were doing. They were entirely committed to spreading this message, had given their lives to it. The crowds understood the faith and courage required and so even though they were impressed and grateful, they weren't exactly willing (or necessarily capable) of joining the work.

The disciples' job was blessed and was indeed a privileged but let's not forget how brave and resilient they had to be to do the work -- frequently facing enemies, imprisonment and death. Only extreme faith mutes the fear of those prospects and allows someone to continue -- the disciples had it but their students weren't quite there yet, on their way, but not yet that trusting and understanding.

Strong, purposeful, resilient faith is required to inspire, promote and give strength, purpose and resilience to humanity against adversity.

12:15-16 People traveled and brought their family, friends and neighbors to be near the disciples, to be beneficiaries of the faith and healing they were providing. 

5:17-18 Losing the grip of their corrupt authority, the high priest (leader/ruler) again arrested the disciples in an effort to stop them and mute them.

The disciples were arrested again. We sometimes lose our determination and our hope when we meet resistance. It's so crucial that we have trust and believe that our purpose will flourish despite adversity if we remain impassioned and driven. When you are bringing love, light, compassion, safety, betterment to the world God is going to ensure that you are able to do so -- He's going to provide and clear the passages you travel in order to do so.

5:19 God arranged for His disciples to be freed. God arranges for you to be free -- be perceptive, and patient to recognize and utilize the opportunities through which to be freed. Remember that God has sent His children a helper, a comforter and His spirit: John 14:16.

Also consider this: Hebrews 13:2 informs us that angels are among us. At any moment God can arrange for one (or many) to be with you, to aid you and comfort you. Develop your faith, give God your trust and your permission to intervene in your life (He's certainly got the tools to do so).

5:20 The angel, messenger of God, delivers this message to the disciples: continue to "speak to the people all the words of this life." Fulfill your purpose; deliver compassion to humanity unhindered by chains and enemies.

5:21 The disciples, having been imprisoned during the night, wake up early in the morning and do just that! They fulfill their purpose of delivering the compassion and wisdom of God's word to humanity. Determination, commitment, focus without hesitation or delay. The disciples did not take time to rest or lick their wounds or discuss... they got right back to work. Completely unafraid of their enemies they got right back to God's business. Full of passion, full of courage, full of faith.

The high priest will wake to find that the disciples have been freed. Well, that's just the upshot of it isn't it? God does not take leisure time -- He's constantly working and planning and protecting His children. Be on the receiving end of that bold commitment. 

5:22 The high priest orders and organizes for the disciples to be brought to up to him.

5:23-24 The officers are baffled as to how or who would be capable enough to enter a secured prison and release the disciples.

5:25 Again, God's sense of humor! How can you not chuckle a little bit here? The high priest and his officers are confused and scratching their heads trying to figure out where the disciples are and how they even got there -- Only to find that the disciples are free and are continuing to do the very thing which got them arrested in the first place!

5:26-27 This time the officers bring the disciples to the high priest without force or capture -- not because they have learned a lesson or found the error in their ways but because they fear the crowd. The crowd would react with frenzy to see their healers and teachers arrested right before their eyes.

5:28 Desperate and frustrated, the corrupt high priest asks why the disciples have not obeyed him. 

5:29-31 The disciples, also now known as the apostles, are quick to respond that they only obey God. More than that, they only participate in systems and organizations which align with justice and truth. They live in bold and direct rejection of corruption and falsehood.  

5:32 The apostles are filled with faith and understanding and they understand that it is their blessed responsibility and privilege to speak of the compassionate truths they have been taught by God through Jesus.

5:33 The high priest and his officers are desperate to cling to their authority -- their corruption has gained them both power and wealth and they are lustful, infatuated with keeping it (at any cost). They plot to kill the apostles, just s they plotted to kill Jesus.

In small and large, simple and intricate ways, there are still corrupt forces in the world which plot to extinguish truth and justice. It is our purpose to ensure that they fail. We must use our lives, our voices, our thoughts and actions to promote compassion within humanity. We must learn not to fear our enemies 1) because God is with us against them and 2) because humanity defends on our courage.

5:34-37 A wise Pharisee, Gamaliel, advises the high priest and his officers to leave the apostles alone. He uses past examples to show those who went against them ended up losing.

5:38 Gamaliel explains to them that if the apostles are merely men, their efforts will inevitably lose their spark and wither away...

5:39 However, if the apostles prove to truly be messengers of God, anyone against them will surely lose. You cannot overthrow God, indeed.

5:40 Just to show their machismo, a last attempt to put fear into the apostles, they bring them back in and beat them, hurl threats at them. Be keenly aware of how strong, brave and faithful the apostles were -- to willingly endure this adversity because they believed so passionately in God and wanted others to be introduced to him.

5:41 This is another of my favorite verses in the Bible, it's beautiful and heart-wrenching all at once. The beauty in it is that the love of God is so strong, the passion of His children is so brave, so selfless and so compassionate. Yet it is heart-wrenching because there are humans who are cruel and that is precisely why we must have courage such as this to defend innocents from their wicked grasp.

"...rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name."

Deep, compassionate faith enables a person to feel the full force of the blessing and privileged that comes from defending and promoting the well-being of our fellow humans. God's most faithful children are dutiful, purposeful and ceaselessly, humbly work against corruption and injustice.

5:42 "... daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching..." Their purpose too important, too necessary to be half-committed or lazily committed to. In every way, they devoted their whole selves to restoring God's philosophy on the Earth.

Every person needs to be passionate about their purpose -- otherwise we suffer from listlessness, chaos, confusion, boredom and nonsensical, poor behavior because of that boredom. Our compassion will restore our perceptive nature, our wisdom and we will begin to realize all the ways we can have a direct role in changing our world.

NT: The Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 4

The Acts of the Apostles 4:1-37

4:1 It's beneficial to us that Jesus and now the disciples frequently are encountered and challenged by their adversaries. Their response and their resilience is instructive; they give us hope and teach us how to traverse an often-bumpy road.

4:2 The Sadducees are angry with the disciples for the same reason they were angry with Jesus: they want to retain their control and wealth -- an increasingly difficult task as people denounced them and began to follow Jesus' message. Jesus exposed their hypocrisy and He taught people to find value in life and love rather than in wealth and government position.

This might seem like an ancient problem but it actually translate well into today's world. In fact, the concept has never not been a problem. Throughout history, people have always craved power and wealth and often have craved those things more than they craved honesty or compassion.

Be perceptive of ulterior motives: people who only say something in order to protect a status or wealth that they have and do not want to lose. Jesus taught a kind and common-sense approach to life, what is there to disagree with in that? 

4:3 The disciples -- Peter and John -- are captured and imprisoned. Remember in Mark 10:35-45, Jesus spoke with the disciples James and John. They expressed to Jesus that they wanted to teach and carry the word throughout the world. Jesus prepared them for what they asked for: the responsibility, the resilience, and the courage of faith required. 

After all, for all He Is and did while on earth, Jesus had many enemies. He constantly had adversaries twisting His words and challenging His beliefs, seeking to mute His voice and to stunt His movement. To effectively fulfill our purposes here on earth, we cannot be frozen by fear or silenced by enemies -- we actually have to face fear and answer our enemies (because they are the ones we are trying to free others from).

Peter and John are a critical point, but Jesus prepared them for this and therefore it's a minor bump in the road.

4:4 Give particular attention to the fact that this account of their imprisonment is quite unfazed by the imprisonment. Those set sail on God's missions are never truly imprisoned or blocked from continuing. Instead, this verse specifically highlights the fact that people were hearing and absorbing this philosophy God gifted humanity through Jesus. They loved it, loved Him. It was changing their lives, giving them direction, comfort and purpose.

4:5-7 Envision this situation: this corrupt religious-government is trying to appear frightening and impressive. Corrupt people of high status in government or any position like to loom over others so to give off the impression that they are superior and powerful. Peter and John do not need to fear this group because their purpose is protected and guided by God -- and so is yours if you allow it to be.

Be perceptive and identify a person's character beneath the superficiality they put on for appearance. 

5:8 Another of Jesus' promises comes into fruition: Mark 13:11 and Matthew 10:19. We are never left on our own to face our adversaries. God imparts His courage and His wisdom on us in the times we most need it. We do not always know how to squirm out of sticky situations and when that happens, we are put on God's cruise control, so to speak. He enables us to handle difficult situations.

5:9-10 Peter explains that if indeed they are being punished for the good dead they have just done, for helping a person in need, it has been on Jesus' authority that it was done. 

5:11 To be specific, Peter identifies Jesus, the healer of the man is the very entity they rejected.

5:12 A reminder from Peter: there is no other way to reach heaven. No other way to disentangle ourselves from adversity, adversaries, tribulations in our lives than to absorb Jesus' message of humility, compassion and truth. I always like to emphasize here that there are people who say they believe and follow Jesus but actually do not with their actions. There are also people who do not believe in Jesus but actually do follow Him with their actions -- because they live with compassion they have absorbed His message (in their own way) -- and it counts. However a person who says they follow but live greedily and cruelly, actually does not count.

4:13 The rulers, elders, scribes, high priest and family of the high priest are not able to think of or verbalize a response. They expected to steamroll over Peter and John because Peter and John were not educated and trained by them (and they wrongly believe that the education they give is valuable one). Peter and John were educated by Jesus -- who taught without deceptive motive, without hypocrisy, without scheming. Peter and John are wise and well-spoken and this shocks them.

4:14 They cannot deny that the ailing man was healed. They cannot label healing as a crime (no matter how much they want to). They thought they were dealing with two tiny gnats but quickly realized the bold and comprehensive force of truth Peter and John stood within. 

When your purpose is compassionate and truthful, no matter how tiny you are, you have the boldness of your purpose added to you and you become a huge, formidable opponent against injustice. You will always have the force of justice fighting right along side you.

4:15-16 They send Peter and John out of the room while they try, and fail, to regain their authority. They cannot condemn two people for performing a miracle. They acted hastily -- out of desperation and they are failing to justify their actions. 

4:17 They come up with this plan, the go-to tactic of all oppressors: they agree to try to instill a stunting fear in Peter and John. This is why it's so important to be devoted to your purpose and to be rock-solid in your faith. You must not allow fear to control you or mute you -- humanity needs your message.

4:18 They command the disciples to stop speaking of Jesus. 

I've observed some interesting characteristics of God's children -- they do not like being told what to do or what not to do. God does not run His house this way so it's a foreign and corrupt concept to them. Another: they cannot deny the truth, it's physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually impossible. God's children will defend justice and truth, and they become more persistent and vocal when justice and truth are threatened. 

4:19 Not surprisingly, Peter and John immediately refuse this command. Peter and John ask the high priests if their command is for them to listen to men over God... this is quite a bold statement. Peter and John's response makes me proud and it also makes me chuckle -- although this group wishes to instill fear and authority, Peter and John are genuinely unfazed and unimpressed with them. There is both wisdom and wit in their response, both faith and courage.

4:20 One of my favorite verses in the bible: For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. It's impossible for a truthful, compassionate and faithful person to be quiet about what matters. Not only is it impossible, we do not want to be quiet. We desire to loudly, boldly and ceaselessly speak of the wisdom God has shown and spoken to us. Our faith and defense of justice is the spark which keeps our heart beating, our soul thriving... it simply cannot be extinguished.

4:21 Just for show and in an effort to save face, the counsel refrains from replying to Peter and John's response. Instead, they throw a few more threats toward them before finally releasing them. They cannot punish Peter and John because of the crowds of people who listen and follow the message they are bringing. People would revolt. Truth has a built-in defense.

4:22 People observed this man, sick since birth and into his forties completely and instantly heal in the name of Jesus. It's not easy to silence the uproar of a miracle. 

4:23 Returning to the other disciples, Peter and John recount their experience. 

4:24 Together, the disciples communicate with God. Always convene and reconvene with God, our source of perseverance. Their first order of business in prayer is their wonder and love for God and all that He is and has created. They reflect on the universe around them and it further inspires their love and amazement. 

4:25-28 Next they quote scripture in which Jesus' adversity is spoken of, Psalm 2:1-2. This is a comprehensive prayer, they first expressed their amazement and now they express their sadness that certain in the world rejected Jesus. Quoting scripture, they reiterate their understanding that God's plan began long ago with purpose and intricacy. 

4:29 The disciples recognize that from beginning to end there have always been and will always be barriers, adversaries who work (hard) to block the way of justice. The disciples ask God to remain with them in order that they can continue to bring the faith they so loved to humanity. The asked God to remain with them so that they could help, guide and heal others -- a prayer powerful in its selflessness. 

They did not ask for money or weapons or cleverness -- they ask God for the courage to get through difficult barriers because they were determined to keep walking and working toward their mission and purpose. It's a wise prayer -- to pray for strength and perseverance rather than for ease and reward.

4:30 Their prayer is that they be able continue to keep helping people. They do not ask for any gifts for themselves, they just want to continue to work for the purpose and justice they believe in. They do not ask to be powerful, they ask to be the instruments through which God can be powerful in pouring healing into the world.

We are truly that important. We each are the vessels through which so much love, healing and guidance can enter the world.

4:31 Their prayer was received, (as all prayers are). This group together would be largely responsible for keeping Jesus' spirit alive among humanity after Jesus' resurrection. The fact that their faith was so strong and pure was worthy indeed of a shaking, worthy indeed of acknowledgement.

Remember Matthew 21:22, Mark 11:24 and Luke 12:32: Not only does God answer and fulfill the prayers of His children, it's also His pleasure to. God knows that His children pray for justice and for truth, for happiness and health. He trusts that our prayers are compassionate in nature and God always answers compassionate requests.

4:32 Those who listened and believed stepped into their place in the family. There was no chaos or disagreement between them because faith united them. Faith in compassion. Faith in this message which promoted and inspired compassion.

4:33 They stood firm in their faith, in their Teacher and in what they had witnessed: His life, His death and His resurrection. No threat or fear kept them from expressing what they knew to be truth.

4:34-37 The disciples were fully committed to ensuring each other's well-being. They were determined and they did whatever selfless act was required to ensure that their purpose of spreading the philosophy of God throughout the world was fulfilled. They gave up their possessions because they were about to travel throughout the world with a message.

They aren't establishing a commune or anything -- they are just working together to prepare each other to set out into various journeys across the world.

Side note: This same concept does not work well among humans today -- nor has it worked with in the past. Historically, human's social systems have been and are incapable of such equality, personal desire (even by just one) has unbalanced the scales --making attempts at such equality impossible and even dangerous. 1 Timothy 6:10 expresses the truth of the world: Greed is the cause of many (if not all) of injustice and tribulation among humanity.

The rampant consumerism of our time despite the exploitation and detriment of humans and earth speaks of the depths and zealousness of our desires. The disciples put God's message in the forefront of their lives, rather than desire. It's unrealistic (and probably unnecessary) that people today are going to give up everything they have -- but as long as our values are prioritized and defending justice and God's compassion is at the forefront -- in many ways, we can be disciples of the word.