Spurgeon's notes on ACTS
Acts 1
Luke commences the Acts of the Apostles with a kind of preface which runs thus
Acts 1:7, 8
Humble waiting upon God, and joyful work for him, are the best cures for excessive curiosity.
Acts 1:10, 11
When we stand gazing and. trifling, the consideration of our Master's second coming should quicken and awaken us; when we stand gazing and trembling, the same truth should comfort and encourage us.
Acts 1:12, 14
Prayer welded them together; we hear no more of those strifes, which were once so frequent, as to which of them should be the greatest.
Acts 1:15, 16
What a gentle way of putting it. Harsh words are not to be used even of the worst of men. One is glad to hear Peter speaking thus calmly, surely he was made tender by the memory of his own fall.
Acts 1:17-26
No instance of the use of the lot occurs after the Spirit was given. It was an Old Testament custom, and to use it now would be idle superstition.
Acts 2:1
Ancient Israel celebrated at Pentecost the feast of harvest: behold, here by the outpouring of the Spirit three thousand souls are to be in one day gathered into the granary of the Lord. Observe how unity and prayerfulness prevailed when the blessing of God descended upon the church.
Acts 2:2
This appealed to their hearing, and was a fit accompaniment of the sacred breath of the Spirit.
Acts 2:3
The fire appealed to their sight. It is an instructive emblem of the spiritual energy of the Holy Spirit. A tongue set on fire of Hell is Satan's choice weapon; but tongues inflamed from above are the special instruments of grace.
Acts 2:12, 13
Men are sure to be divided in opinion upon the best and divinest things. Some wonder ignorantly, others ridicule maliciously, and a few adore reverently.
Acts 2:14, 15
Again we notice the mildness of Peter, he does not grow indignant at the charge of drunkenness, but answers it with the gentlest argument. His discourse which follows is most of it quoted from the Old Testament. Christ's scholars never become wiser than the Bible; the Spirit is given, not to supersede the Scriptures, but to enable us to understand and use them.
Acts 2:16-20
These signs of wrath began to show themselves when Israel slew its King upon the cross; then the sun was turned into darkness. Yet more powerfully did they occur at the destruction of Jerusalem: blood, fire, and vapor of smoke filled the whole city. The year of the redeemed is also the day of vengeance of our God.
Acts 2:21
This portion from Joel is read in the service of the Karaite Jews on the day of Pentecost, and it is extremely probable that it was the lesson for the day in Peters time; he was therefore doubly wise in making it his text.
Acts 2:21
The last verse is so encouraging that we will read it again
Acts 2:21
Is any one of us now seeking the Lord? Let him find comfort in this gracious assurance, for no soul ever perished calling upon the name of the Lord.
Acts 2:22-42, 47
Peter having begun to preach, soon came to the marrow of his subject, and testified concerning Jesus.
Acts 2:22-24
This was plain speech. Peter had no fear of man, he pressed the truth home upon the conscience. Pray for all ministers that they may be equally courageous.
Acts 2:29-32
David's prophecy and the witness of the apostles agreed together; here was convincing evidence for all devout inquirers. Nor was this all, for the miraculous gifts now manifestly bestowed were further proofs of the Messiahship of Jesus. Peter proceeded to dwell upon that argument.
Acts 2:34, 35
David could not have referred to himself, but to one who was his Lord, even to Jesus, now risen and ascended.
Acts 2:37
The concluding words, "Him have you crucified," were the sharp hook by which, as a good fisher of men, Peter caught their hearts. The first word of the awakened showed a right feeling; Peter's love in calling them "men and brethren," had created love in them, and they, in return, address the despised disciples by the same name. If there are any unconverted ones in this family, may they even now inquire, "What shall we do to be saved?"
Acts 2:40
His gospel was very simple; believing repentance, and baptismal profession were required, and nothing more. This same gospel belonged to their children as well as to themselves.
Acts 2:47
Let us pray that such a state of things may again be seen among the people of God, and let us try to produce it.
Acts 3:1-3
They were interrupted on their way to their devotions, but it was a blessed interruption, for in the end they themselves were able to worship all the more fervently, and another was added to the number of those who praised the Lord. May we have grace to turn every incident we meet with to good account for promoting the glory of God. A beggar's cry would not annoy us if we were looking out for opportunities of doing good.
Acts 3:6
Oh, the power of that name! If we did but believe in it as Peter did, we also should bless poor sinners, and be enriched ourselves with something better than silver and gold.
Acts 3:8
His joy was too great for him to go at an ordinary pace. When souls are healed by grace they overflow with enthusiasm. If we remembered our obligations to the Lord Jesus for making us whole, we also should often tread his courts with rapture, and feel as if we must dance for joy.
Acts 3:13
He points them away from himself and John to the Lord Jesus. This is very different from those Popish priests who bid us look to saints, and even urge us to seek blessings from their poor sinful selves.
Acts 3:14, 15
He charges them with their sin. As the sharp needle makes way for the silken thread, so does conviction of sin prepare men for the glorious gospel.
Acts 3:16-18
See how he woos them, as a mother does her child, and interprets their wicked conduct as kindly as he can.
Acts 3:21
Jesus will come again to restore this fallen earth; until then he reigns above.
Acts 4:1-21, 23-30
After Peter and John had healed the lame man, they preached the gospel in the courts of the temple.
Acts 4:3, 4
Quesnel says, "Truth may be oppressed, but it cannot be suppressed; the preacher may be bound, but not the word."
Acts 4:8-12
How Peter glories in the name of Jesus; how he brandishes it in the face of the foe! Almighty power lies in it, and blessed is he who has made it his trust.
Acts 4:18-20
The sun might as easily leave off shining as good men desist from speaking of Jesus.
Acts 4:29, 30
Thus psalms and prayers were presented to the Lord by the united church, and the work went on triumphantly. We, too, have equal cause for adoration, for the Lord of Hosts is with us, working for the glory of his Son.
Acts 4:32
There was need of such liberality, for the Christians were mostly poor, and liable to be deprived of everything by persecution. Covetous men would have been very uncomfortable in the early church, indeed they are not fit to be in any church at any time.
Acts 4:34, 35
Thus when Jerusalem was destroyed and Judea devastated, the Christians had the less to lose, and the less sorrow in being scattered abroad.
Acts 4:36, 37
Yet while some were acting so nobly there were tares among the wheat, professed disciples who could act the liar's part.
Acts 5:2
Intending to make others believe that he had given all, as Barnabas had done. He was not required to give all unless he chose to do so, his sin lay in pretending to be more generous than he really was.
Acts 5:3-5
This was the first act of divine church discipline, a discipline which is still carried out by him who walks among the golden candlesticks. On account of church sins even now some are sickly among us, and many sleep. The nearer we come to God the more truly shall we find that he is a jealous God who will not wink at sin. It was not Peter's word, but the judgment of God, which slew Ananias.
Acts 5:6-10
She had time for reflection, yet she stuck to the falsehood. It is a sad thing when husband and wife go hand in hand to Hell, and most of all so when they make a profession of religion.
Acts 5:11
Well may such fear fall on us also, lest we should be found false to God, and perish in our sin.
Acts 5:12-14
The chaff was driven out, and kept out, but the true saints were all the more ready to join the church. Holy discipline does not diminish the church, it is the sure means of increasing it with the right people.
Acts 5:17, 18
The Sadducees were the Broad Churchmen of their day, yet their liberal views did not prevent their persecuting the lovers of the truth. Men of no religion are frequently the greatest bigots in the world.
Acts 5:24
Staggered but not converted, they went madly on with their persecution. Truly, when a sinner is set on mischief nothing will stop him but the grace of God.
Acts 5:26-28
As in Aesop's fable, the sheep of Jesus are charged by the wolf with troubling the water.
Acts 5:29, 30
Peter does not flinch; he lays the great crime of Jesus death at their door.
Acts 5:31-36, 38, 39
Bad but prudent men have frequently, for policy's sake, advocated toleration, and so have been in the hands of God the means of delivering his people from persecution. We should admire the great Head of the church who can find a protector for her, even in the enemy's camp.
Acts 5:41, 42
Those who had been scourged rejoiced, but their enemies went home envious and wretched. We ought to rejoice if we bear reproach for Christ; and we should persevere in serving the Lord, however furiously we may be opposed.
Acts 6:1
Grecians or Christian Jews who had lived in foreign parts
Hebrews or Palestine Jews
Perhaps, being strangers, they were not well known, and so were overlooked; we have no reason to believe that the neglect was intentional. Mistakes will occur, and if not rectified they may create ill-will and division.
Acts 6:2
Others can do such work; ministers have enough to do to mind their own business.
Acts 6:3, 4
Prayer and preaching make up the entire life of a minister; by prayer he receives the word from God, and by preaching he communicates it to his people. Other church officers should take care that the minister's mind is not burdened with temporal anxieties.
Acts 6:15
His holy and glad heart beamed forth in his countenance, a flash of coming glory lit up his face, and even his foes were forced to see it; yet neither this sight nor his eloquent address could touch their cruel hearts, for they thirsted for his blood, and would have it.
Acts 7:22
His education, when sanctified by God's Spirit, helped to prepare him for his eminent position as the leader and lawgiver of the tribes. No other prophet until our Lord came was mighty both in words and deeds.
Acts 7:23
The life of Moses divides itself into three forties—forty at court, forty with Jethro, and forty in the wilderness.
Acts 7:24-28
The mission of the greatest and best of men is not at once perceived.
Acts 7:37-41, 44, 45
Stephen, in his discourse before his enemies, gives us a few more words concerning Moses, with which we will conclude our consideration of his history—
Acts 7:37
Like Moses, our Lord was the revealer of a system, a ruler, a deliverer, a mediator, and a teacher. He was mighty both in deeds and words, which combination we find nowhere else. He was rejected by his own people, but accredited by God, and to this day he leads his people through the wilderness towards the promised rest.
Acts 7:38
Coming from the living God, the law was a living oracle, though now, through man's sins, it has become a death-dealing word. How honored was Moses to be the channel of communication between God and his people, and to be the associate of the great covenant angel, who spoke the law.
Acts 7:41
All this we have read before. Shall we thus treat the Lord Jesus? Shall we rebel against him and set up other gods? The Lord forbid!
Acts 7:45
Jesus or rather Joshua
Acts 7:45
But though they had all the outward signs, they missed the inward spiritual grace. May the Lord prevent our falling into the same condemnation.
Acts 7:55, 56
Jesus was seen standing to receive the martyrs soul. What a vision! It removed the bitterness of death.
Acts 7:57-60
Asleep amid the falling stones! He slept not until he had left the church the legacy of his prayers. Augustine says, "If Stephen had not thus prayed, the church had not received that young man named Saul." We have no other description of martyrdom in the New Testament, the Holy Spirit foreseeing that the church would have an abundance of such records in after times.
Acts 8:1
He took pleasure in the execution of Stephen, being zealously resolute to put down the church.
Acts 8:2
It is not wrong to lament the death of holy men, for they are a great loss to the community.
Acts 8:4
Driven yet further afield, they carried the gospel into other lands. The winds of persecution fan the fire of faith in the church, and carry the sparks of truth to a distance. The Devil destroys his own kingdom, while he thinks he is crushing the rising empire of Christ.
Acts 8:5
Stephen is gone, but Philip comes forward; the church will not fail for want of men to bear her standard.
Acts 8:6-8
Joy in forgiven sin, joy in healing mercy, joy in God's gracious presence. See how Christians, though persecuted themselves, make others glad.
Acts 8:13
But he did not savingly believe, as is clear from his conduct. He was baffled by Philip, and therefore believed his doctrine to be true, made a profession of faith and entered the church, and might have done immense mischief, had he not been detected by his own greed. The church of God has many foes: Saul vexes her without, and Simon within.
Acts 8:18, 19
Hence the purchase of office in the church is called Simony, Wretched distinction, to furnish a name for a new sin.
Acts 8:24
He did not say, "Pray that I may be forgiven," his heart only throbbed with carnal desires for power, or slavish fears of judgment. All around him the divine light was spreading, but he remained blinded by sordid feelings. The Lord grant us to rise far above everything mercenary in religion.
Acts 8:26
How precious is one single soul in the sight of the Lord! In order to bring one person to the faith, he sends an angel to Philip, and sends Philip from populous Samaria to the desert.
Acts 8:27, 28
A teacher of the gospel must go in the obedience of faith, although the call leads him into the wilderness.
Acts 8:27, 28
The word of God is the best reading on a journey; not only on the desert way from Jerusalem, but on the way through time to eternity. We forget thereby the hardships of the way, we look not aside to forbidden paths, we make thereby blessed traveling acquaintances, and we go forward on the right path to the blessed goal.
Acts 8:29, 30
If a teacher, on his visit, finds people occupied with the word of God, he must not long waste time with digressions about the weather and the state of their health, but take the word of God for his text and introduction, as it lies open.
Acts 8:31-33
It was the finger of God which pointed to this passage; for the sum of all Christian truth is
Christ, both humbled and exalted. In this is contained an admonition for all teachers to lead souls, as the chief matter, to the knowledge of Christ, the Crucified and the Risen One. This, as a rule, is much more effective than moral preaching. The missionaries in Greenland who, with discourses on the living God and his holy commandments, preached for a whole year to deaf ears, struck home when they commenced with the evangelical message, "Behold the Lamb of God, that takes away the sins of the world!"
Acts 8:37
See the order: the word is understood, then comes faith, and then baptism. Is the Lord's order right? Then let no man alter it. None can have any right to church ordinances but those who believe with all their hearts that Jesus is the Son of God.
Acts 8:38, 39
When the good man's work was done, the new convert needed him no more, for he had the key of the scriptures in his own hands.
Acts 8:40
This chapter should be read candidly, and its teachings accepted: what they are is so clear that there is little need of explanation. Take heed how you read.
Acts 9:1, 2
His very breath was threatening; all Judea was not a large enough hunting ground for him. What a rebel he was! What a saint he became! How mighty is divine grace!
Acts 9:5
What surprise filled the soul of Saul when he perceived that the Nazarene whom he had hated was really divine. Little had he dreamed of persecuting the Son of God, he thought he was crushing out a troublesome imposture. O Lord, open the eyes of any other sincere bigot who may be persecuting your cause without knowing it to be your!
Acts 9:6
He rises a changed man, he has seen the Lord and is conquered; he has become the willing servant of Jesus whom he persecuted. His hectoring has ended, his submission is complete.
Acts 9:7-9
And no wonder. The light had blinded him, and the revelation from Heaven so possessed him that he forgot everything else.
Acts 9:10-14
Do we wonder that the good man doubled? Should not we be slow to believe if we were told that the Pope of Rome had given up his superstition, and was humbly seeking a Savior? Yet the case would not be more wonderful.
Acts 9:15, 16
Paul was not merely to be a saint, but an eminent one. Great sinners usually love much when they are forgiven.
Acts 9:17, 18
He did not neglect baptism, as some do. What the Lord ordains we must not despise.
Acts 9:20-22
Thus electing love chose a persecutor; almighty grace made him a penitent; the Holy Spirit made him a believer, and by divine authority he became a minister and an apostle. Grace works miracles.
Acts 9:23-43
Paul's bold preaching soon aroused the enmity of those who had formerly admired him.
Acts 9:26
This was three years after his conversion, after he had been in retirement in Arabia. It must have been a hard lesson for Paul to find himself suspected by brethren whom he loved.
Acts 9:37
This was a right brotherly deed. New converts need a friend.
Acts 9:32-35
Christians are always ready to do good to the sick. We cannot now restore them by miracle, and, therefore, by kind nursing and care to provide hospitals, we must do the best we can to show that we care for them. Spiritual healing is, however, still among us, and it is our joy to whisper in the despairing sinners ear, "Jesus Christ makes you whole."
Acts 9:36
Dorcas or gazelle
Peter healed and Dorcas clothed; grace prompts the saints to help the helpless.
Acts 9:39
and showing the coats and garments or upper and under garments
Acts 9:39
These are the best relics of the saints. Many leave behind them wealth wrung out of the poor: hers was a noble legacy.
Acts 9:40, 41
nothing can be done without prayer, not even by an apostle
Luke describes the weeping of the widows at her death; he relates nothing concerning their joy at her being raised, for that was indescribable. Have we so lived that the poor would rejoice to see us back again when we die? Christian women should make Dorcas their example, and labor according to their ability for the needy ones around them.
Acts 9:42, 43
Whose hospitality has immortalized his name. It matters little what trade a man is, if he serves the Lord in it. Are we doing so in ours?
"What God has cleansed, that call not you common."
We have now to read a chapter peculiarly interesting to us Gentiles, because it shows how the middle wall of partition between Jews and Gentiles, which our Lord broke down by his death, was in due time practically removed by the calling of a Gentile household to the faith of Jesus. Before this time only Jews, proselytes, and Samaritans, all branches of the older family, had been converted, but now a Roman captain and his house were to be saved.
Acts 10:4
Yet something more was wanted, and he must send for one who would tell him of Jesus, the Savior.
Acts 10:7, 8
The tanner's trade was greatly despised, but this did not prejudice the centurion. Better to learn the way of God from one who lodged with a poor tanner than remain in ignorance. Meanwhile God was preparing Peter to comply with the centurion's request.
Acts 10:9-14
The same Peter who formerly would not permit his Lord to wash the feet of his sinful servant now doubts whether that can be cleansed which, by the Jewish law, was unclean. How the old self comes up, even in the regenerated.
Acts 10:15, 16
Do not wonder if you have to teach children many times the same thing, for even an apostle needed to have his lesson repeated three times.
Acts 10:17, 18
See the hand of Providence. How well-timed were the vision and the arrival of the messengers!
Acts 10:19-22
These servants spoke well of their master, and that fact speaks well for them. God will surely bless those families in which the heads of the house and the servants love one another because they all love the Lord.
Acts 10:23
Humble as the lodging was, he offered it to them, and they accepted it. Christians should be hospitable even if they are poor.
Acts 10:23
The messengers of Cornelius were not long detained by the apostle, for
Acts 10:24
It was a journey of thirty miles, but no doubt the apostle and his six brethren had sweet fellowship on the road, and found kind companions in the three attendants.
Acts 10:25, 26
Had he been like his pretended successor, he would have bidden him kiss his toe.
Acts 10:28, 29
Note how he longs to be at work, he wastes no time in idle compliments. Soul matters are weighty and should be at once attended to. Cornelius was ready at once to tell Peter how the Lord had appeared to him, and directed him to send to Joppa, and he added:—
Acts 10:33
The best kind of congregation a preacher can have. Bogatzky says, "These words should be inscribed on all our church-doors and pulpits, that men may consider well wherefore they ought to be in the house of God." Peter's congregation was unbroken—"we are all here;" it was devout—"present before God;" it was attentive—"to hear all things;" it was teachable, for they desired to know "all things that are commanded you of God." We should always go to divine service in this spirit.
Acts 10:34, 35
Not in such a way as to supersede the gospel, but to secure them the privilege of hearing it. If there are among the heathen any like Cornelius, the Lord will be sure to send a Peter to them, for he has accepted them.
Acts 10:48
The fact that they had already received the Holy Spirit so abundantly did not set aside the divine ordinance, it was rather the ground of their right to it. This passage is instructive to those who wish to learn.
Acts 11:1-4, 18-30
Peter had baptized the Gentile household of Cornelius, and so novel an action could not pass unnoticed: the report soon reached the apostles at Jerusalem, and Peter was called upon to explain; he did so, and all were satisfied, and rejoiced in what the Lord had done.
Acts 11:1-3
It would seem that a number of Jewish Christians attached an undue importance to circumcision, and made a kind of party in the church. The Holy Spirit does not conceal the faults and mistakes of good men; no histories and biographies are so impartial as those written by inspiration. Peter was no pope, for the common disciples called him to account; but he did not become angry, or claim to be infallible.
Acts 11:4
See here a beautiful example of humility and patience. Peter had been directed by the Lord in what he did, and the act itself was most commendable, yet he rose and defended his conduct without anger, in a calm, loving manner, and not only exonerated himself, but won over those who had differed from him. So that we read—
Acts 11:18
Would to God that all differences would end so sweetly. Probably they would, if all who are accused would defend themselves in as kindly a spirit as Peter did.
Acts 11:21
Getting into a new field they reaped large harvests. What a time it needed to teach these good men that Gentiles might be saved, and yet their Lord had told them expressly to preach the gospel to every creature.
Acts 11:22-24
This made him rejoice in the good which others had received, and also made him a fit medium for conveying good to many.
Acts 11:25, 26
They were named not after the word Jesus, for we cannot be joint saviors with him, but after Christ, the Anointed, for we also are anointed with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 11:29, 30
They not only wore the Christian name, but performed Christian actions: this act of true fellowship is one of the most beautiful things recorded in the Acts. The Jerusalem church sent a great teacher to Antioch, and the Antioch church, in return, showed its love by supplying the needs of their Judean brethren. A munificent collection for a country suffering from famine would not astonish us now; but from men newly converted, while Christian love was yet a novelty, it was truly admirable. Let us be always ready to support the Lord's poor.
Acts 12:1, 2
Herod the king the grandson of Herod the Great
Troubles seldom come alone; first the famine, then persecution; the church can endure all things.
Acts 12:4
intending after Easter or rather after the Passover
Acts 12:5
What a blessed "but"! Constant guards were baffled by constant prayer. Some would have said, "what can prayer do?" but the early church was not afflicted with such scepticism; they prayed on, and Herod was foiled.
Acts 12:8
The Lord's deliverances are complete ones; Peter must not leave a shoe or a garment in prison, he is to come out with all that he took in.
Acts 12:12
He knew where the brethren prayed, and expected to find them there, and so he did. If he were to come now would he find church members at prayer-meetings? Alas, many of them never go to what they wickedly call "only a prayer-meeting."
Acts 12:13, 14
named Rhoda or Rose
Acts 12:15
If God wishes to surprise his people he has only to answer their prayer's, such is their unbelief.
Acts 12:17
And he said, Go show these things unto James the Lord's brother
Acts 12:17
This is a notable instance of the power of supplication, and those who will but try it will find prayer to be as mighty as ever.
Acts 13:1-3
Here we have the solemn setting apart of the first missionaries. Out of a living and flourishing church the Lord raised up fit men, and their brethren with humble prayer sent them forth.
Acts 13:4
Here begin the voyages and travels of that greatest of missionaries, Saul of Tarsus, late an enemy of the cross. He chartered the first foreign missionary ship.
Acts 13:5
John or John Mark
Acts 13:5
to their minister or attendant
Acts 13:6, 7
Bar-Jesus or Son of Jesus
Acts 13:9, 10
He called himself "son of Jesus," but Paul called him "child of the devil;" he had also taken the name of Elymas, or wise, but he is rightly described as full of all subtlety and mischief.
Acts 13:11
He who had refused spiritual light, now lost natural light; he tried to lead others astray, and became dependent upon the leading of others'
Acts 13:13
John Mark deserted the two missionaries, and it would seem from the after history that he did so in an unsatisfactory manner. The toils and dangers of the enterprise were too much for him. If we have put our hand to the plough let us not look back.
Acts 13:16
Then he went on to describe the rejection of king Saul and the choice of David, and in due order preached to them Jesus and his salvation, and added,
Acts 13:38-41
Paul preached free grace and full forgiveness, and contrasted it with the condemning law; this method of preaching is most admirable.
Acts 13:42
The good news had won their attention, and they were anxious at once to know more of it. How happy are we that every Sabbath brings us the sacred word. Perhaps because it is so common we do not value it as we should.
Acts 13:43
These earnest people wished for private conversation upon the gospel. Ministers are always hopeful of such hearers. We must not be backward in speaking to God's servants concerning our souls.
Acts 13:44
So that there was much excitement. Those who speak slightingly of the power which draws large congregations should reflect that men cannot learn the gospel if they never hear it. What grand days we should see if almost the whole of our population would come together to hear the word of God.
Acts 13:48
The gospel dove being driven away from one place found a congenial nest in another. We cannot force men to be saved, and therefore we must carry the gospel to others when those reject it to whom we have presented it; by this means the eternal purposes of God will be fulfilled, and his own elect will be gathered in.
Acts 13:49, 50
These bigots imagined that the coming of new teachers into their city was a reflection upon themselves. Were they not both honorable and devout already? Therefore they joined the malicious Jews and chased Paul and Barnabas away. It is not often that we read in Scripture of women, and devout women too, opposing the gospel, yet it is no uncommon thing for formal self-righteous ladies to be very bitter against those who dare to differ from them.
Acts 14:1, 2
Like the dog in the manger, they would not allow others to feed upon that which they rejected themselves. If they chose to be unbelievers, why need they be persecutors?
Acts 14:3-7
However much they are harassed, they keep to their life work: nothing can stop them, not even the fear of a cruel death. Do we in like manner speak of Jesus in every company? If not, we fall short of our duty. Let us amend, and in every place show forth the Saviors love.
Acts 14:8
This represents the impotency of all men in spiritual things until the grace of God puts strength into them. When we were yet without strength Christ died for the ungodly.
Acts 14:9-11
Even now-a-days foolish persons will speak of a new minister as if he were a God, and in a short time will turn round and oppose him.
Acts 14:12-17
We do not find that they rent their clothes when the people talked of stoning them, but when they spoke of worshiping them, they could not bear it; being more concerned for God's honor than their own
Acts 14:18, 19
This is popularity—a God yesterday, and a criminal today; garlands first, stones afterwards. How fickle is man!
Acts 14:20-22
Paul was left for dead.
Acts 14:20-22
Paul was a true hero, the garlands did not ensnare him, nor the stones defeat him; he had young converts to cheer, and at all hazards he entered the city again
Acts 14:20-22
The apostles had themselves endured much tribulation, and they very candidly assured the converts that they must expect the same. If we reckon upon a smooth path to Heaven we deceive ourselves.
Acts 14:23
Churches must have pastors; those assemblies which have no ministers are not according to the apostles order.
Acts 14:24-27
The returned missionaries held one of the first missionary meetings. Their speeches consisted of the details of God's work through them, and made the saints in Antioch exceedingly glad.
As a family, do we help missions as we ought? The heathens are perishing, are we clear of their blood?
Acts 15:1, 2
And certain men which came down to Antioch
It was time that this question was settled once for all, before division grew up as the result of it. The first question—"Can the Gentiles be saved?" had been answered; the second was the one before us—"Must they not be circumcised?"
Acts 15:5
The old leaven showed itself. How closely do old ways and thoughts cling to even regenerate men!
Acts 15:7-11
This is the vital doctrine of Christianity—salvation by grace, and that grace revealed in our crucified Lord. Luther says, "We must not yield nor give up this article though Heaven and earth should perish." Peter's short and telling speech was a noble contribution to the Gentile cause.
Acts 15:12
These addresses would have great weight in the discussion.
Acts 15:18, 19
Thus James summed up the evidence, and the brethren saw their way clear to a decision which was hearty and unanimous, Barnabas and Silas were sent to Antioch with a letter containing the opinion which had been so ably stated by James and supported by the whole body of disciples. Oh, that all disputes among Christians could be settled in such a manner!
Acts 15:30, 31
And a great comfort it was, for the saints were confirmed in their freedom from the Jewish yoke, those who troubled them were silenced, and the Gentiles were still further encouraged to receive the gospel. The Antioch Christians had done well to seek a settlement of a vexed question.
Acts 15:36
An active spirit will not long be at rest. Love to Jesus sets a man at work for his cause, and leads him to stir up others, as Paul did Barnabas.
Acts 15:37, 38
He would not go out a second time with a faint-hearted deserter, and he was right. Barnabas, believing that John Mark was penitent for what he had done, and would henceforth be faithful, wished to give him another opportunity; and he was right. Now, since these two brethren had each right on his side, neither of them could yield the point without violating his honest judgment, and we do not therefore wonder that the contention grew hot. The Holy Spirit is very considerate in thus recording the difficulties which occurred even among inspired men. How can we expect always to see eye to eye, when Paul and Barnabas differed?)
Acts 15:39-41
There was no help for it but to part. Barnabas went one way with his nephew, and Paul another with Silas. Mark turned out well, and so justified the opinion of Barnabas, but Paul could not foresee that, and is not to be condemned for acting upon the general rule that he who puts his hand to the plough and looks back has proved himself unworthy. This separation, though painful in its cause, was a most excellent thing. There was no need for two such men to be together, they were each able to lead the way alone, and by their doing so double good was accomplished.
Acts 16:6-9
This is the great missionary call, and it is by night as well as by day sounding in the ears of the church of God. Once Europe thus called to Asia, now all the world is crying to us, "Come over and help us."
Acts 16:10
The change of person and the use of the words "we," and "us," show that Luke was now in Paul's company. Paul and Silas, Timothy and Luke, set forth to cross over into Macedonia as soon as the heavenly communication came. All servants of Christ should be thus prompt in obedience.
Acts 16:11, 12
In this manner the gospel came to our quarter of the globe. Blessed be God that ever Paul was led to cross the sea; may other lands rejoice in missionaries of the cross who shall visit them from us.
Acts 16:13
All sorts of places have been consecrated to prayer, the field, the sea shore, a prison, and even the belly of a fish, and a fiery furnace. Among praying people the gospel is sure of a hearty welcome. It is well worthy of note that the first gospel address delivered in Europe, was heard at a prayer meeting. We ought therefore to prize this institution very highly.
Acts 16:14
The apostle did not bring crowds to Jesus on this occasion, yet was he amply repaid by the conversion of this one woman, whom providence had brought there in the course of her business, on purpose that she might be saved. Observe that it was not Paul who converted her, but the Lord himself Paul would have knocked at the door of her heart in vain, if he who has the key of all hearts had not opened it. Lord, open all our hearts to give attention to your word.
Acts 16:15
Lydia showed her faith by her humility of speech and generosity of act. She was probably a merchant in easy circumstances, and she desired that her beloved teachers should share the comforts of her house. A hundred years before a bloody battle had been fought at Philippi: the bloodless victory of Paul was far more glorious, and its fruits far more useful to coming generations.
Acts 16:16-18
This poor creature was regarded as a prophetess, even as some wicked gipsy women are regarded among the extremely ignorant in our own day. Satan used her as the means of deceiving the people. The unclean spirit pretended to praise Paul and his friends, either with the view of puffing them up with pride, or to disgust the better sort of people by leading them to identify the gospel with the ravings of the maniac girl. Much money was paid to this poor woman by superstitious persons for her soothsaying, just as at this day the ungodly will pay much for the telling of their fortunes, or admission to a spiritualist séance, and yet think believers extravagant if they subscribe largely for the spread of the gospel.
Acts 16:19-22
The reward of these good physicians for the cure they wrought, was such as had been meted out to their Lord beforehand, yet we may be sure they would sooner be beaten than be praised by the devil.
Acts 16:23, 24
So ended a day which began with a miracle; but Satan's brief victory was in a few hours turned into total defeat. Glory be to God, saints may be beaten, but they conquer still.
"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you shall be saved, and your house."
Acts 16:25-40
The battle of Philippi was not over yet, the enemy were yet to be vanquished by those whom they had taken prisoner.
Acts 16:25
They turned, as one has well said, even a porch of death and a gate of Hell into a sanctuary and a gate of Heaven. With bleeding backs and in a comfortless posture they sang like angels, and made the grim walls ring again. No groans and moans were heard, but a nocturnal jubilate such as that dungeon never echoed with before.
Acts 16:26
Such an earthquake was evidently supernatural, and was a great wonder; but greater wonders were yet to come, for hearts were to be opened also.
Acts 16:27
Death, coupled with dishonor, would have been his doom. Desperate and frenzied, he was on the borders of Hell; but grace plucked him as a brand from the burning.
Acts 16:28
Stricken with awe at the miracle, no prisoner left his cell. God can hold men in their places without bonds or bolts.
Acts 16:29-31
The answer was quickly given, and in a few words. Is salvation then so simple? Indeed it is! Have we believed, and have we obtained mercy for our house? If not, let us pray in faith.
Acts 16:32, 33
All his house believed and all were baptized. Here the apostles saw who it was that had said "Come over and help us."
Acts 16:34
His faith brought forth fruit, which evidenced his change of heart, else this rough jailor would not so courteously have entertained his prisoners.
Acts 16:39
Paul sets us an example of claiming our civil rights when to do so will further justice and teach oppressors that they cannot violate laws as they like; yet this example must be followed cautiously, or else, like the apostle, we may appeal unto Caesar, and lose more than we gain.
Acts 16:40
They did not leave the city at once, but called upon Lydia and relieved her mind with the recital of the work of God in the prison, and then, to prevent further tumult, they went on their way.
Acts 17:1-15
We shall still follow Paul in his missionary wanderings. Silas and Timothy continued with him.
Acts 17:3
The apostle's custom was to reason from the Scriptures, and surely there is no weapon so powerful as that which is taken from the armory of inspiration.
Acts 17:4, 5
On a former occasion Satan employed the honorable to disturb the apostles work, now he summons the low fellows of the markets; little does he care what tools he uses, so that he can compass his ends. The mob attacked Jason's house, supposing the preachers to be there. The story reads like a tale of the early Methodist times.
Acts 17:6, 7
Earnest Christians have often been attacked with this handy weapon—they are innovators, and, of course, are the enemies of "our glorious constitution," causing infinite disturbance by their newfangled ways. Truly, church history repeats itself.
Acts 17:8, 9
Honored indeed was Jason to be surety for one against whom the world was enraged, but of whom the world was not worthy.
Acts 17:10
See how they persevere, they are at their old work again.
Acts 17:11
The candor of these Bereans was their nobility, they did not condemn unheard. Knowing the Old Testament to be the word of God, they tested the gospel by it.
Acts 17:12
They proved all things, and then held fast what they had tested.
Acts 17:13
Earnest saints have earnest enemies; pleased with their success at Thessalonica, the Jews used the same tactics at Berea; yet they only gave wings to the feet of the missionaries and kept the light moving on.
Acts 17:15
What Berea lost Athens gained, for Paul arrived there all the earlier. Let Satan do what he may, he only speeds on the cause which he desires to hinder. To God be all glory, for thus vanquishing evil with good.
Acts 17:16
Was it not well that the troublesome Jews drove the apostle to Athens before his companions, that he might, by surveying that idolatrous city alone, find a fresh stimulus for his zeal?
Acts 17:17
In the market he met with idle loungers ready to listen to anything and everything new; and even upon such soil, like the sower in the parable, he scattered his seed.
Acts 17:18-21
Nothing could have pleased Paul better than to address so large and important an assembly as that which gathered on Mars Hill. With a considerable amount of courtesy the philosophers invited him to speak, curiosity to hear his novel teaching being their leading motive. The doctrine of the resurrection seemed most to startle them. The immortality of the soul they had already known, but the resurrection of the body was a new idea. Paul addressed them both faithfully and prudently. Few could have coped with these educated men as he did. His beautiful address is somewhat spoiled in our version, and therefore we will a little revise it.
Acts 17:24-31
What could be more courteous, more cogent, more adroit? He points to their own altars, he quotes their own poets, he appeals to their common sense. He knew the way of putting the truth so as to attract and not repel; and though but few of the Areopagites were saved, yet a noble testimony was borne among men of intelligence, who would talk of what they heard in many a company where else the gospel would have been unknown.
Acts 17:34
Not many wise men after the flesh are called, but a few are, and if only one be saved the preacher is well rewarded for his pains. Paul spoke not in vain in Athens, a church was formed and flourished even in that uncongenial soil.
Acts 18:1-3
Probably at first they accepted Paul as a companion because of their common trade, and through his instrumentality were led to receive the common faith. It is well to turn association in business into a means for winning souls.
Acts 18:4, 5
He felt more earnest than ever, and with greater vehemence pressed upon the Jews the duty of believing in Jesus.
Acts 18:7
If he could not go inside the synagogue, he yet remained as near to it as possible, that those who wished to hear might know where to find him.
Acts 18:9, 10
Good news for the apostle. He was to preach fearlessly because the Lord intended to bless abundantly. Some have said, "If the Lord has an elect people, why need we preach to them?" but the answer is,—if the Lord had not determined to save some, preaching would certainly be in vain.
Acts 18:11
This was quite a long stay for him. During this time he probably wrote both the first and second epistles to the Thessalonians. His time was also well occupied in building up the Corinthian church, which became large and important. As the Christians worshiped next door to the Jewish synagogue, their growing numbers soon aroused the Jews, and they proceeded to prosecute Paul before the Roman proconsul.
Acts 18:14-16
He would not interfere in religious matters, but kept to his proper sphere, therein proving himself to be a far more enlightened ruler than many in modern times.
Acts 18:17
The Jews gained nothing by their attempt, but drew down upon themselves the indignation of the Gentiles. Gallio failed in his duty in not protecting Sosthenes from violence; though he was right in refusing to oppress the conscience of Paul, he was wrong in not securing the civil rights of his opponent. Happy will that day be when civil rulers neither overstep their sphere nor neglect their office. May God bless the Queen and all in authority over us.
Acts 19:1-20
After the defeat of the Jews before the judgment seat of Gallio, Paul remained at Corinth for some time, and then sailed to Ephesus, where they desired him to remain; but he thought fit to proceed by vessel to Caesarea, and onward to Jerusalem. Thence he traveled again to Antioch, and set out on another tour. This indefatigable apostle was always at work, spending and being spent for the Lord Jesus.
Acts 19:1, 2
There are even now professing Christians who know nothing of the Holy Spirit, of the spirit of repentance, of the new birth, of adoption, of holy joy, or of sanctified fellowship. What do we each one of us personally know of the Holy Spirit?
Acts 19:6-9
and separated the disciples, disputing or discoursing
"Temple, or house, or barn, or school
(The gospel consecrates the place,)
No matter where, so Jesus rule
And teach the lessons of his grace."Acts 19:13
Wretched is that man who uses the name of Jesus for his own ends, knowing nothing of its power in his own heart. It is to be feared that many do this even now.
Acts 19:14
How sad is it that when Satan wants tools he often finds them among the sons of ministers.
Acts 19:15, 16
The evil spirit laughs at those whom God has not sent forth into the ministry; they may use pious words, but they are destitute of divine power, and will surely be the sport of Hell.
Acts 19:19
Or nearly £2,000. Bad books, and bad pictures, never look so much in their place as when blazing away in a bonfire.
"Your cards, and foolish books disdain
And cast your plays into the flame.")Acts 19:20
May a like good work be done all around us, for there is great need of it.
Acts 19:23-41
Paul was about to leave Ephesus and journey to Jerusalem, when a riot occurred, which is thus described:—Acts 19:23-41.
Acts 19:23, 24
He employed a large number of artisans in making shrines, which were purchased by pilgrims, to be carried home with them as memorials of the goddess. Demetrius was afraid that his trade would be injured through the spread of Christian doctrine, and, therefore, stirred up his men.
Acts 19:25-27
How finely does he veil self-interest under the cloak of religion. Selfishness is the most powerful adversary to the cause of truth.
Acts 19:28
Yes, and greatly profitable was the trade of shrine-making!
Acts 19:29-31
Had it not been for these entreaties the heroic apostle would have faced the crowd.
Acts 19:32-34
If this man was Alexander the coppersmith, we can understand why the Jews pushed him forward as their representative, for he would be supposed to have weight with his brother craftsmen. The object of the Jews was to show that they were not connected with Paul, and also to cast more odium upon the Christians.
The mob confounded the Christians with the Jews, and were in no mood to hear any explanation.
Acts 19:35-40
town clerk or recorder
Acts 19:35-40
Paul's language had been moderate and winning. He had used no opprobrious language in reference to the idol.
Acts 19:41
Calmed by his judicious speech, the mob retired, and the danger for the Christians ended. The Lord can rule the raging of the people and preserve his own servants from imminent peril.
Acts 20:1-16
The riot at Ephesus had been quelled by the judicious words of the recorder of the city.
Acts 20:1
Not as a coward did the apostle flee from conflict, but after all danger was over in Ephesus, he carried the war into other regions. See with what affection he bade farewell to the brethren; embracing them as a father does his children.
Acts 20:2, 3
With unwearied energy he labored to spread the gospel. The words of the historian are few, but we know from the epistles that each day was crowded with work for Jesus.
Acts 20:4-6
Paul, having seen his dear Philippian brethren, came over with Luke and joined his seven companions at Troas.
Acts 20:7
He felt that he should never speak to them again, and, therefore, he prolonged his address.
Acts 20:8
The place thus became heated, and being very crowded, the air was heavy, and it was not easy for the hearers to keep awake.
Acts 20:9, 10
Remember, if we go to sleep during sermon and die, there are no apostles to restore us. The word of God deserves our wakeful attention.
Acts 20:13
A quiet lonely walk of twenty miles suited Paul, it would give him space for prayer and meditation, and help him to shake off some of the depression which had gathered over his mind while he waited at Philippi. Those who labor much for the Lord must have their times of retirement for self-examination, prayer, communion with God, and preparation for future efforts.
Acts 20:14-16
By these descriptions of Paul's activity we are taught to be active and energetic for our Lord. We can never do enough for him to whom we owe our all. What are we doing? There is a sphere for each one of us, whether old or young: are we filling it? Are we in earnest, or are we incurring the guilt of unprofitable servants?
Acts 20:17-38
The apostle was hastening to Jerusalem, and as he knew that if he called at Ephesus he would be detained, he chose a ship which did not stop at that port. There happened, however, to be a delay at Miletus, which was twenty or thirty miles from Ephesus.
Acts 20:35
The apostle's inmost heart is seen in this touching farewell. His whole care was for the dear ones to whom his ministry had been useful, but whom he must now leave to be sorely tried. He forgot his own troubles in his anxiety for the converts. What a challenge he was able to give to these elders when he bade them bear witness to his labors and his tears! Such an example could not fail to arouse them to diligence; ought it not to stir us up? Are we living in Paul's fashion? We owe as much to Jesus as he did. What are our returns? May the Lord make us ashamed of ourselves, and lead us to a great amendment in the matter of consecration to his glory.
Acts 20:36-38
If the sorrow is so great to part for a while from those whom we love, how much sharper will the pangs be of those who will forever be parted from their godly friends at the last day! How terrible will it be to be separated eternally! God grant it may not be our lot, for Jesus' sake.
Acts 21:19
He did not ascribe anything to himself, but modestly and truthfully spoke of what the Lord had wrought through him.
Acts 21:20-22
Even the Jewish Christians were prejudiced against Paul, how much more would the unbelieving Jews be irritated at his presence! The elders, therefore, proposed that he should show himself to be friendly to the law of Moses by joining in one of those actions which were hardly ever performed except by the zealous.
Acts 21:23-24, 26
It is an open question whether he was justified in this course of action. He was certainly carrying the principle of being all things to all men quite as far as it could be defended. He must have felt that legal purifications were out of date, and he could only have consented to practice them in order to please the Jewish brethren. We ought to admire his desire for peace; yet we cannot shut our eyes to the fact that peace was not the result after all; on the contrary, this conciliatory act led to the apostles imprisonment, and to his being carried in bonds to Rome.
Acts 21:27-28
The charges against the apostle were utterly false. Never had he spoken against the Jews, nor their temple, and so far from polluting the holy place he was doing it too much honor. Servants of God must expect to be misunderstood, and, perhaps, all the more so when for the sake of promoting harmony they yield to compromises.
Acts 21:30
To prevent the defiling of the place with riot and murder.
Acts 21:31-33
And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, or tribune of the cohort
Acts 21:31-33
Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them out of the castle of Antonia which overlooked the temple
Acts 21:35, 36
And when he came upon the stairs, which led up from the temple to the fortress
Acts 21:35, 36
But he, was safe from their fury. The Lord has ways of rescuing his servants out of the most perilous circumstances.
Acts 21:37-40
We left the apostle in the hands of the, chief captain and his soldiers, who were carrying him away to their quarters.
Acts 21:37, 38
The request uttered in the Greek language startled the captain.
Acts 21:39
The best of men are often mistaken for the very worst, nor need they wonder, for their Lord was condemned as a malefactor.
Acts 21:40
The storm subsided into a lull, and Paul, the bravest of the brave, with the utmost composure proceeded to address the crowd.
Acts 22:3-5
He showed that he had once been as furious against the Christians as they themselves now were: this was intended to win their attention to the rest of his defense.
Acts 22:12-16
When baptism is preceded by repentance, and is attended by a believing calling on the name of the Lord, it becomes a beautiful emblem of that washing away of sins, which is graciously given to all believers. Paul told his own conversion, for he well knew that God often blesses such personal confessions. He then proceeded to give his reason for preaching to the Gentiles.
Acts 22:22
Their national prejudice was aroused: they could not endure that the Gentiles should be spoken of as regarded by God. May the Lord save us from all bitterness and bigotry of spirit.
Acts 22:23-30
The infuriated mob raved like madmen when Paul had spoken of the Lord's grace towards the Gentiles.
Acts 22:26
When the centurion who was appointed to scourge him
Acts 23:3
Paul's temper was roused by the unjust conduct of the high priest. His prophecy was fearfully fulfilled: almost at the commencement of the siege of Jerusalem Ananias fell by the daggers of his enemies. We cannot help noting the difference between the meek silence of Jesus, and the indignant reply of Paul.
Acts 23:9
The apostle obeyed the injunction, "Be you wise as serpents and harmless as doves." He saw how hopeless it was to plead his cause before so prejudiced an assembly, and therefore he raised another issue. He knew that the Pharisees and Sadducees hated each other even worse than they hated him; and, therefore, he cast in a spark upon their combustible materials, and set them in a blaze. The two parties left their victim, and turned their weapons against each other.
Acts 23:10, 11
A mid the uncongenial sights and sounds of the barracks, the heart of the apostle would have sunk had it not been for the heavenly visitation. Jesus will not leave his faithful servants alone—he will reveal himself to us when we are in sore distress. Never let us despair, for the Lord has more work for us to do yet.
Acts 23:14, 15
They intended to assassinate him upon the stairs which led down from the fortress to the court. Seldom has a greater crime been contemplated in the name of religion. However, the Lord had a spy upon their secret conclave, and their stratagem was defeated. The deepest designs of Hell are frustrated by the Lord.
Acts 23:23, 24
Forty had sworn to murder him, but five hundred protectors are found for him. The angels of the Lord are round about his people, and the Lord can use a band of soldiers for the same purpose. The apostle left Jerusalem attended like a prince: his enemies were powerless to touch a hair of his head. He went down to Caesarea, and was out of reach of the daggers of his foes.
Acts 23:34, 35
So that he was not put in a public prison, but kept in a room of a palace built by Herod the Great. How he must have admired the manner in which the Lord protected him! Let us trust in God, and be very courageous for the gospel, and the Lord himself will screen us from all harm.
Acts 24:1-3
He flattered the detestable Felix, of whom it was hard to say a single good word. To gain their ends men stoop to anything.
Acts 24:11-16
the way which they call heresy or a sect
Acts 24:24, 25
This aged sinner had enticed Drusilla while a girl of about eighteen from her husband, and was living not only in open sin with her, but also in the commission of every other crime. Paul did well, therefore, to preach to him concerning the judgment: the cowardly voluptuary trembled, but continued in his sins.
Acts 24:26
He longed for bribes, and therefore retained his innocent prisoner. Men will do anything for gain. This man felt the power of Paul's sermon, but loved the wages of sin too well to repent. If we also are saying, "When I have a more convenient season I will call for you;" is it not because we do not mean to give up our sins?
Acts 24:27
And thus the apostle remained shut up for two whole years, and then was compelled to appeal unto Caesar to avoid being taken up to Jerusalem, and murdered on the road. During the time that he waited to be sent to Rome, he was brought before Agrippa. Of his noble speech on that occasion we shall read in our next lesson.
Acts 27:1-26
For the sake of one good man all on board the vessel were preserved. May the Lord give to us, also, all who are with us. Paul was accompanied by Luke and other believers, there were also with him the courteous centurion, several prisoners, a crew of rough sailors, and a band of fierce soldiers, and God gave him all that sailed with him. We pray that all our family, our fellow church members, our servants, our neighbors, our work people, and even our enemies, may be saved. Are not our hearts large enough to pray for all? May the Lord give us faith to intercede for them, and what a joy it will be if all shall come safely through the tempests of this life to the shores of Heaven! Grant it, O Lord! Amen and amen.
Acts 27:30, 31
The sailors, under pretense of casting out anchors from the bow, lowered the boat to make their escape, leaving the vessel and all the passengers to certain destruction; but Paul saw through their cowardly purpose and prevented it. It is a shameful thing to leave others to perish while we can be of any service to them.
Acts 27:33, 34
Picture this one brave man, in the dim twilight, standing in the midst of nearly three hundred haggard faces, speaking so calmly, and giving them such sound advice. Faith ennobles believers, and makes them comforters of others.
Acts 27:35
Such calm devotion spreads courage on all sides. If Paul, even in a storm, gave thanks, what shall be said of those persons who rush upon their meals like swine, and never thank the Lord who provides for them?
Acts 27:38
No longer abandoning themselves to despair, they adopted the last means for relieving the vessel, by throwing out the cargo, determining, when thus lightened, to run her on shore.
Acts 27:42
They were responsible for their safe custody, and would forfeit their own lives if they allowed them to escape; we need not therefore wonder at the soldiers' cruel proposition.
Acts 27:43, 44
Thus was the promise of God kept to the letter: the peril was great, but all were saved from death. God never did forfeit his word, and he never will. It is nothing more than right that we should, without wavering, believe his promises; and if we do so, our lives will be free from care, and we shall have daily cause for rejoicing. This day may unbelief be cast out, and may childlike confidence rule our spirits.
Acts 28:1
island was called Melita or Malta.
Acts 28:2
Compassion and kindness are such precious things, that the Spirit of God records them in favor of the barbarians: even thus will Jesus remember a cup of cold water given to his disciples. Should not kindness be yet more abundantly found in the followers of Jesus?
Acts 28:3
He was not too proud to gather sticks, nor should the most eminent Christian think any work beneath him by which he may minister to the comfort of others. It seemed strange that there should be but one viper, and that it should fasten upon the apostles hand; serpent-bites will wound the most benevolent and holy hands.
Acts 28:4
So readily do we interpret every accident into a judgment, but such a habit is cruelly unjust to good men. Such an instance as this ought to cure us of crying out "What a judgment!" whenever sudden calamities fall on men. God's judgments are reserved for another world, and are rarely seen in this life.
Acts 28:5, 6
Paul remained unmoved amid the changes of human judgment. Though to men he was a murderer one moment and a God the next, in patience he possessed his soul, unmoved in holy faith. We must not allow the opinions of men to affect our minds, or we shall be changing as the wind.
Acts 28:10
The shipwreck of the vessel had not shipwrecked the cause of the gospel; on the other hand, it had given to Malta a noble opportunity of hearing the gospel. The apostle well improved his stay.
Acts 28:11-14
God has hidden ones everywhere, and there amid the excessive vice of such cities as Pompeii, Naples, and the like, were found saints who met Paul at the landing-place of Puteoli, near which commences the Appian Way, along which he marched towards Rome. The news of his arrival reached the brethren in Rome during the week of Paul's halting at Puteoli, and parties at once set out to meet him. This was thoughtful love, and showed that they were not ashamed to be identified with Christ's suffering servant.
Acts 28:15
they came to meet us as far as Appii forum about forty Roman miles from Rome
Acts 28:15
and the three taverns about twenty miles.
Acts 28:16
He, no doubt, had a house near the Praetorian barracks, and thus enjoyed more liberty than in a prison; but he had a soldier fastened to his arm by a chain, a cause of constant discomfort, however courteous the soldier might be.
Acts 28:21, 22
This has always been the mark of real Christians; and yet, for all that, they conquer the hearts of men. Christ is set for a sign which shall be spoken against, and to be called "a sect," has been the constant lot of his faithful church.
Acts 28:23
Such industry should shame us. Paul was not content with delivering a sermon every day, but kept his house open to inquirers, and poured out continually a stream of holy teaching.
Acts 28:24
That is always the case, whoever may be the preacher. On the stony ground the seed brings forth no harvest, even though an apostolic hand sows it. To which of the two classes do we belong? Do we believe? Or are we unbelievers still?
Acts 28:25-28
If we also remain unbelieving, God may take the gospel from us, and send it to others who will accept it. That would be a dreadful thing indeed. How long will it be before we believe in Jesus? Do we mean to provoke the Lord to forsake us forever?
Acts 28:30, 31
Thus Luke, beginning at Jerusalem, closes his narrative at Rome, following the footprints of the gospel from the Mount of Olives to the City of the Seven Hills, and showing how the foundations of the church were laid both in Asia and Europe. What was begun with so much heroism ought to be continued with ardent zeal, since we are assured that the same Lord is mighty still to carry on his heavenly designs.