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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 19, 2024 22:30:50 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:1
Monday, February 19th, 2024
Now when Festus had come to the province, after three days he went up from Caesarea to Jerusalem. Acts 25:1
The verse more rightly reads, “Festus, therefore, having arrived in the province, after three days, he ascended to Jerusalem from Caesarea” (CG).
Chapter 24 ended with a note that Felix was replaced with Festus Porcius and that Paul remained in prison, even after two full years under Felix. With the arrival of Festus as the new governor, it next says, “Festus, therefore, having arrived in the province.”
He has assumed the position as governor. It is expected that he would be in the province from which he would govern for a few days. He would meet those who were assigned under him, get his house and effects in order, etc. However, after a short time, he wisely did what a responsible governor would do. Therefore, it next says, “after three days, he ascended to Jerusalem from Caesarea.”
Only a short time after his arrival, Festus “ascended” to Jerusalem. Though Caesarea was where he ruled from, Jerusalem is highlighted. It is an ascent to Jerusalem from Caesarea. However, despite all manuscripts reading this way, many translations change the wording and say , “from Caesarea to Jerusalem.”
It is unfortunate because it takes the emphasis off of what is being conveyed. This trip was not an unimportant thing to do. It was the complaints of the Jews there that got Felix removed, and Festus needed to show that they were important to him as a leader.
It may even be that a note was waiting for him upon his arrival in Caesarea that they wanted to meet with him. Paul would have continued to be on their minds, and with a change in leadership, there would then have been a chance to have Paul released to them or at least brought to them. If so, they could have him cut down on the trip to Jerusalem, exactly as they had planned two years earlier. This is just what verse 3 will indicate.
Life application: As you read the Bible, think about why things are worded the way they are. That is, if the translation is a competent one and if it is properly structured in its presentation. In the case of this verse, you would not notice the change unless you read other translations and compared them.
Having a parallel Bible with three or even four translations in it is a good way to compare things. Once you see a striking difference in a translation, you can then research further as to why they are different. Then, making your own margin note will remind you the next time through which translation is correct and why.
Study! Then think on what you have studied! Why are things written as they are? The more you think about what you are reading, the more your mind will understand things concerning this precious word that God has given to us. Enjoy your time in Scripture. You will get out of it just what you put into it. So read! Study! And enjoy!
Heavenly Father, how grateful we are that You have expressed Your thoughts to us in a word that is understandable and directed to who we are as Your creatures. It demonstrates what a great and loving God You are. Thank You for Your precious word. And thank You for Jesus who is revealed in it. Yes, thank You, O God. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 21, 2024 2:14:20 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:2
Tuesday, February 20th, 2024
Then the high priest and the chief men of the Jews informed him against Paul; and they petitioned him, Acts 25:2
Chapter 25 began with Festus coming to the province and then ascending to Jerusalem after three days. Now, while in Jerusalem, it says, “Then the high priest.”
Some manuscripts have the plural “priests,” while others have the singular “priest.” Either is possible because any previous high priest would still bear the title of high priest. By this time, the high priest was a person named Ismael, the son of Fabi (Josephus, Antiq., book 20, chapter 8, section 8). Along with him, it next notes, “and the chief men of the Jews.”
The word is prótos. It signifies the foremost, principle, etc. Further, it is this in time, place, order, or importance. In this case, it is referring to people. Being plural, it thus speaks of the principal men of the city. Of this gathered group, Luke next notes that they “informed him against Paul.”
After two full years of time, they were still stewing over Paul. They simply couldn’t move on from his words. Unlike the other apostles who apparently lived and moved freely among the people, Paul actively went forth to the Gentiles, evangelizing them and telling them that there were no cultural distinctions in Christ.
In other words, Paul clearly and unambiguously reveals in his words that Gentiles are just as favored by God as Jews. There is no distinction, even if there are differences (e.g., Jew/Gentile, Russian/Japanese, Black/Caucasian, etc.).
Yes, there are differences in all people and in all people groups, but there is no distinction in Christ. The Jews could not accept this. Therefore, they sat in Jerusalem stewing like meat in a pot, angrily awaiting the day that they could be rid of such a heretic. Therefore, when Festus showed up, they plotted in their minds, “and they petitioned him.”
The word translated as “petitioned” is in the imperfect tense, and so it indicates that they not only petitioned him but continued to petition him. The entire time he was there, they kept bringing the issue of Paul up to them. It shows that they were truly possessed by the situation and simply couldn’t let it go.
One can imagine them going to bed each night, lying on their beds, and tossing and turning at the nerve of this man who said they were just like the Gentiles. But this is how it is in Christ. Thus, they rejected not only Paul’s message but also the One Paul proclaimed.
Life application: To this day, there is an almost idolatrous reverence by some in the church regarding Jewish teachers. They are fawned over, regardless of what they teach or preach. Many of these teachers reinsert law observance, such as telling their followers not to eat pork, to observe the Sabbath, and so forth.
And yet, because these people are Jewish, they are held in special esteem. This is a bad approach to one’s theology. It doesn’t matter if someone has a doctorate, if he speaks fluent Hebrew or Greek, or if he has expensive, flashy clothes. The only thing that should matter to people in the church is adherence to, and right application of, God’s word.
Anything less should not be tolerated. Be careful to not get caught up in fallacious thinking. Evaluate leaders based on the word. In doing this, you will avoid many pitfalls and many false teachers who are out there, trying to steal you away from a right relationship with Jesus.
Lord God Almighty, help us to be sound in our thoughts about those who minister to us. May our hearts be directed to You. If anyone proclaims law observance instead of Your grace, help us to identify this error and get away from it. You alone have done all that is needed to restore us in the giving of Jesus. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 21, 2024 23:18:38 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:3
Wednesday, February 21st, 2024
asking a favor against him, that he would summon him to Jerusalem—while they lay in ambush along the road to kill him. Acts 25:3
The Greek more rightly reads, “Asking a favor against him, that he might summon him to Jerusalem, making an ambush to kill him along the way” (CG).
The previous verse told of the charges the chief priest and leaders made against Paul. Based on those, it now says, “Asking a favor against him.”
When Felix was noted as being replaced, the narrative said he left Paul in prison as a favor to the Jews. Now, with a new governor to replace Felix, they are asking for advanced favor from the inexperienced Festus against Paul as well. The fact that they had previously planned to kill him was certainly erased from the memory of those serving under Felix after two years. And so, a plan is now made by the Jews under the government of Festus. It was so “that he might summon him to Jerusalem.”
Paul was incarcerated in Caesarea. How inconvenient it would be for all of the leadership to be gathered in Caesarea when just one man could be brought to Jerusalem! It made all the sense in the world to not inconvenience Festus with such a trivial matter there in Caesarea. One can almost hear their cunning words. But all the while, they were planning on “making an ambush to kill him along the way.”
Instead of a giant contingent of soldiers, spearmen, and cavalry, Paul would probably be conducted by a few soldiers. The contingent would be easy prey. In no time, the Jews could be done with Paul once and for good!
Everything about the account shows that the memory of Paul was as fresh as it could be on the minds of the Jews. The failure of the past was to them a stinging rebuke concerning their supposed duties to God.
Until they made things right, they would feel they remained out of His favor over the matter. It is ironic that the opposite is true. They had left the favor of the Lord when they rejected Christ. It was Paul who could lead them back to the truth of their actions and into a right relationship with Him once again. But they were blinded to this truth and were, once again, plotting to do away with their loathed foe.
Life application: There are times that we become so passionate about a matter that it will blind us to any possibility of seeing other possible options concerning what we perceive as the truth. This is how Paul was before the Lord personally called him as an apostle.
Now, the people he was once aligned with had become his sworn enemies. People who are trained, for example, in the doctrine of the Jehovah’s Witnesses are told that they possess the truth and everyone else is a heretic. They cannot see beyond their own state, and they are normally completely unwilling to hear any other option.
This is true with most of us in one way or another. It is a state known as cognitive dissonance. We shut out anything that interferes with our presuppositions, and we then refuse to believe things that may be evident on the surface.
We should be willing to test and verify everything, even if it goes against our presuppositions. The Jews who wanted Paul dead presupposed that Jesus was a heretic, and they were unwilling to even entertain the thought that Paul could be right about Him. What is it that we think we are so sure about that we are unwilling to see other options?
Let us honestly evaluate what we believe and let us be willing to check and verify it by setting aside any false presuppositions. It is a healthy way to approach all matters because we may be completely blinded to a matter that we are promoting without the right knowledge to even speak on it, much less claim that it is the absolute truth.
Lord God, may we be willing to challenge everything we believe and teach to others, honestly opening our eyes and checking if we could be wrong. If we are, and if we don’t do this, we will be instructing others in that which is false. May we not be such people. Instead, help us to think clearly and rightly about all things that we in turn teach. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 22, 2024 23:26:19 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:4
Thursday, February 22nd, 2024
But Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself was going there shortly. Acts 25:4
A more literal rendering would be, “Therefore, indeed, Festus answered, Paul is kept in Caesarea, and he himself is about in quickness to go out” (CG).
In the previous verse, the leaders’ plot to have Paul ambushed on a journey to Jerusalem was noted by Luke. This was based upon their asking Festus to have him brought up to Jerusalem. However, Luke next records, “Therefore, indeed, Festus answered.”
The final decision on such a matter was up to the Roman authority. As Festus was the new governor at Caesarea, what he decided would settle the matter. At this time, rather than accommodate the Jews, it says, “Paul is kept in Caesarea, and he himself is about in quickness to go out.”
The intent of Festus is debated. Luke uses a present tense verb, “is kept.” Some, such as the NKJV, interpret this in the sense that Paul “should be kept at Caesarea” because he was a Roman. It was a matter which Rome had to judge, and, therefore, Caesarea was the place where Paul belonged.
Others interpret this as simply being a matter of fact, thus, “Paul is being held at Caesarea, and I myself am going there soon” (NIV). In this, it is believed that it was just more expedient for them to come to Caesarea and have them attend a trial there.
It seems unlikely that Felix would have ignored informing Festus about Paul’s situation and the attempt to kill him. Thus, the first option may be correct. This also seems more likely because the Jews have asked the favor of having him brought to Jerusalem.
Further, as Festus was in Jerusalem, it would have been rather irresponsible of him to not have talked to those in the Roman garrison. During their talk, the subject of Paul’s imprisonment would have been a matter of importance. Therefore, it seems that, at least for the time being, he was aware of possible trickery on their part. Verse 9 may dispute this, though, as Festus is said to want to do the Jews a favor.
Another option is that Festus, being the new governor, simply wanted to establish the precedent that he was in charge, and by not caving to the demands of the Jews at such an early date, he was demonstrating this authority. Therefore, he would only yield to their requests when it suited his purposes.
Life application: As noted above, the verb used by Luke is present tense, “is kept.” Despite this, there are variations in translation: is being held, was at, was being kept, should be kept, to be kept, is to be kept, etc.
Such changes, though possibly correct, do not accurately identify what the Greek actually says. The job of translators is to translate. Unless the preface to a Bible notes that they take liberties with their translations, identifying what type of liberties they take, it is not really appropriate to insert guesses, biases, presuppositions, and so forth.
These things will often not make a great deal of difference, but at times, a pastor or preacher will argue over a single word – from the version he is using – to establish a doctrine, only for it to be incorrectly translated in the first place.
Therefore, as a student of the Bible, the more time you spend checking things out, the better off you will be in what you believe. Be prepared to defend what Scripture says, but if you are going to do so, it is best for you to be properly prepared.
Today, with internet access available wherever you go, you can easily check what the preacher or teacher is saying right while you are listening to him. We live in a time of great blessing concerning the ability to access information. Let us not ignore it!
Lord God, how blessed we are. We can carry a little device with us that has more information available on it than entire libraries. We no longer need shelves full of books to access important information about Your word. Help us to wisely use the technology You have favored us with at this time in history. May we be responsible with what we have available! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 24, 2024 1:04:28 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:5
Friday, February 23rd, 2024
“Therefore,” he said, “let those who have authority among you go down with me and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him.” Acts 25:5
A literal translation would be, “‘Therefore, those able among you,’ he says, ‘having descended together, if anything is wrong in the man, accuse him’” (CG).
The previous verse revealed Festus telling the Jews that Paul was kept in Caesarea and that he was going there soon. Because of this, his continued words begin with, “‘Therefore, those able among you.’”
Depending on the translation, various versions say something like “those who are able,” while others essentially say, “those who have authority.” The Greek could mean either. In one case, it would be considered “someone who could personally come and testify against Paul” like Tertullus. In the other, it would be a leader who could speak for the charges against him.
Whichever is the intent, the outcome will be the same. Charges will be made concerning Paul in Caesarea during a trial. From there, a judgment from Festus can be expected. Next, “he says, ‘having descended together.’”
Just as a journey to Jerusalem is an ascent, so a journey from it is a descent. In his statement, a word not found elsewhere in Scripture is seen: sugkatabainó. It is derived from a word meaning “with” and another meaning “to descend.” Thus, it signifies “to descend together.” Finally, to finish the sentence, he says, “if anything is wrong in the man, accuse him.”
Once the descent to Caesarea is made, charges can be laid before Festus for consideration. It would be determined if there was any fault in him. The matter that should have been settled two years earlier when Felix was governor must once again be considered. This time, it will be before Festus.
Life application: In Psalm 122, it says –
“Jerusalem is built
As a city that is compact together,
4 Where the tribes go up,
The tribes of the Lord,
To the Testimony of Israel,
To give thanks to the name of the Lord.” Psalm 122:3, 4
The tribes of Israel ascended to the place where the Lord dwelt among them. For the believer in Jesus Christ, something new has taken place –
“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Ephesians 2:4-6
In Christ, we are, even now, positionally seated in the heavenly realms. The reason this is so is because we are, in fact, in Christ. As Christ is in heaven right now, and because we are in Him, in God’s view, we are there too. Therefore, Hebrews 4 says –
“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16
Though this is written specifically to the Hebrews, it is a truth that applies to all believers. We do not need to first ascend to meet with God. Rather, we simply need to enter His presence, coming through Jesus as our Mediator to make our petitions and praises.
As Jesus said –
“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” John 4:24
We don’t need to physically be anywhere particular to worship God. We just need to be in Christ. If we are, then we have access to God. Let us not get so caught up in rites and rituals that we forget this truth. The church is not a place. It is the people of God in Christ Jesus. Live out your life in this understanding. There is no lack of access to God when you access Him through the Lord Jesus.
Glorious Lord God, all praises, honor, and glory to You for what You have done in and through Christ Jesus our Lord. We come boldly before You today in His name, praising You for who You are. You are the God who has received us because of Your own goodness toward us. How can we withhold our thanks and praise? We shall not! Yes! All thanks and praises to You, O God. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 25, 2024 0:53:23 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:6
Saturday, February 24th, 2024
And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea. And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought. Acts 25:6
A literal translation would be, “And having stayed with them more than ten days, having gone down to Caesarea, the next day, having sat upon the bema, he commanded Paul to be brought” (CG).
In the previous verse, Festus had told the leaders of Israel to come down to Caesarea with him and to accuse Paul there instead of him being brought up to Jerusalem. Next, it says, “And having stayed with them more than ten days.”
Depending on what Greek text is used, there may be a difference in translation. Some variations are: “more than ten days,” “no more than ten days,” “eight or ten days,” or “not more than eight or ten days.”
Why the texts read differently isn’t known, but it could be that “no more than eight or ten days” is an idiom for a short amount of time. From that, different scribes wrote it as they felt was intended. This is speculation, but for whatever reason, different texts do read a bit differently. Regardless of the actual time, it next says, “having gone down to Caesarea.”
During his short trip to Jerusalem, he probably would have been quite busy, possibly visiting all of the main soldier areas, the houses of the dignitaries, and the like, just like any such governor’s visit today.
From Jerusalem, he then returned to the governor’s station in Caesarea. And, notably, there was no delay in his commitment to bring the matter forward for the Jews to make their accusation. Therefore, “the next day, having sat upon the bema, he commanded Paul to be brought.”
The béma, or judgment seat, was normally an elevated place ascended by steps, somewhat like a throne. A literal explanation is “tribunal chair.” It is derived from the same root as the word basis, a step. Thus, it is a foot-breath. By implication, then, it is a rostrum.
Life application: In Romans 14:10, Paul says that we will all stand before the béma of God. In 2 Corinthians 5:10, he says that we must all appear before the béma of Christ. These are one and the same judgment, Christ Jesus being God.
This judgment will be for rewards and loss based on our lives in Christ. The judgment for salvation or condemnation for believers was determined at the cross of Calvary. By faith in what Christ did there, we are saved. We have moved from death to life and from condemnation to salvation.
The doctrine that says one can lose his salvation is actually heretical because it means that our salvation after coming to Christ is up to us. Were this so, it means that His salvation was not fully effectual for the purpose it was intended. Further, it means that our salvation was not of grace at all but of works.
If so, at any point after being saved, that salvation can be removed because of our actions, it means that we are responsible for our salvation. But salvation is a gift, and it is of grace. Be sure to not let people trouble you with their incorrect ideas about salvation.
Having said that, what we do with our salvation is up to us. How will we be judged by Christ at the béma we must appear before? What we do today has consequences. Therefore, let us consider what we do and act in accord with the salvation we have been granted. May the Lord smile upon our lives and actions that we live now!
Glorious Lord God, thank You for the salvation You have granted to us through the shed blood of Jesus Christ our Lord. May we be faithful to live out our salvation in a manner that is pleasing to You. Help us in our weaknesses, O God. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 26, 2024 0:29:31 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:7
Sunday, February 25th, 2024
When he had come, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood about and laid many serious complaints against Paul, which they could not prove, Acts 25:7
In the previous verse, Festus had returned to Caesarea and sat on the judgment seat the next day, commanding Paul to be brought forward. With that remembered, it next says, “When he had come, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood about.”
Saying that they “stood about” seems to imply that there were quite a few who came down. It was a grand show that they put on for Festus. This was certainly intended to make it appear that all of the Jewish leadership was in complete agreement concerning the need to have Paul judged and removed from society. Therefore, it next says that they “laid many serious complaints against Paul.”
These allegations would have been the same as before and which Paul will refute, such as him being a defiler of their religion, which was the sanctioned religion of the province. They would accuse him of being a defiler of the temple, which Rome had sanctioned as an acceptable edifice for worship by the Jews.
They would also certainly accuse him of being one who disturbed the peace. As such, he was supposedly a threat not only to Jewish society but Roman rule as well. Further, they would certainly note him as one who would question the rule of Caesar because he claimed there was another king.
These, and any other such accusations, would be proclaimed against him, things “which they could not prove.” They could not prove them in the past, and they were not able to prove them at this time either.
Life application: The reason they could not prove the charges against Paul is because what they charged him with was not true. If he was tried in Jerusalem, this would not have mattered. They would have unjustly found him guilty and dealt with him accordingly. However, at the Roman judgment seat, reliable evidence of guilt would be needed.
Assuming that you were to be given a fair trial today concerning a matter, would you be found innocent or guilty? Paul had done nothing wrong because he lived his life in a manner that was in accord with the laws of the land.
This is what is expected of Christians. If we do wrong, we can expect to be judged according to our wrongdoing. If we act responsibly and in accord with the laws of the land, as long as a trial is fair and impartial, we can expect to be judged accordingly and be exonerated.
Obviously, not every trial is fair. In fact, fair trials are becoming less and less likely in the world because of biases, political agendas, a perception that Christians are somehow wrongdoers, etc. At such times, there is not much that can be done about it. However, for normal conduct in life, we should be obedient to the rules and laws that govern the society in which we live.
Lord God, regardless of what comes about in our lives, as long as we are living for You in a manner that is in accord with Your word, we can expect You to judge our lives accordingly. In this life, that may not be the case, but what happens now is just a temporary blip on the way to eternal glory. So, Lord, help us to live lives that honor You now. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 27, 2024 0:06:25 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:8
Monday, February 26th, 2024
while he answered for himself, “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar have I offended in anything at all.” Acts 25:8
More literally, it says, “He, making defense, ‘Neither toward the law of the Jews, nor toward the temple, nor toward Caesar, have I sinned anything’” (CG).
The previous verse noted that when the Jews had come down from Jerusalem, they stood about and made many serious complaints against Paul. In response, it now says, “He, making defense.”
Paul states his defense very precisely and without any ruffles or flourishes. If he said more, Luke did not record it. That, however, is unlikely. Luke’s record is usually very precise, and such is probably the case here. Paul simply states his side as a fact. There would be no need to expand his words because the burden of proof rests with his accusers. Therefore, his words say, “Neither toward the law of the Jews, nor toward the temple, nor toward Caesar, have I sinned anything.”
Paul specifically makes his defense against the three main charges, any of which could cause him to be punished. He had not violated the law, desecrated the temple, or offended Caesar. In the words, “not…have I sinned anything,” the English seems clunky, and it is usually paraphrased to get the sense across. However, it would have been a perfectly clear and understandable statement to Festus.
The word he uses is hamartanó. It can refer to an offense against man or God, including sin. It most especially means “to miss the mark.” Paul had stayed on course and not strayed from soundness in any of these areas. He had not offended in any manner that could be considered a violation worthy of trial.
He may have offended the Jews by going to the Gentiles to proclaim the saving message of Jesus, but that would only be something that offended them emotionally. It was not something that could be avoided in normal human interaction. They would have to get over it apart from legal charges.
Life application: In today’s world, there is an attempt to regulate personal offense, as if nobody should be allowed to harm the emotional state of others on even a basic level. The problem with this is that by passing such ridiculous laws, those who are targeted by them are emotionally offended.
It is not possible to avoid offending others because every person experiences life differently. Some enjoy one thing, others another. People can get upset by simply hearing that another doesn’t like to do what someone might find completely enjoyable –
“I just love going to the beach. It is my place of refuge and relaxation.”
“Oh my, I can’t stand the beach! The sand gets everywhere, kids running around are so annoying, and the water is so salty… I just hate the place.”
*And the first person is suddenly offended, going home to cry.
Despite this, people in power want to somehow legislate control over emotional distress. This approach caters to the weakest as if they have an absolute right to never be offended. It is an impossible avenue to follow, and it will only continue to degrade society as the end times approach. Be sure when you vote to not cast a vote for anyone who promises to eliminate such ridiculous things. This is not the purpose of the government.
The Bible does not focus on such petty issues. Rather, it focuses on offenses that are truly harmful to others. As for the emotional state of others, like the Jews in Paul’s time, they must simply grow up and get over their emotional insecurities.
Lord God, help us to be respectful and responsible in our interactions with others. At the same time, help us to understand the fallen nature of the world in which we exist. May we be sound in our thinking about what it means to accept personal responsibility for things that may offend us, but which are not truly offensive. Help us to understand our own limitations and not attempt to impose ourselves unnecessarily on others. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 27, 2024 23:25:07 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:9
Tuesday, February 27th, 2024
But Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, answered Paul and said, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?” Acts 25:9
The Greek more literally reads, “And Festus, intending to lay the Jews a favor, answering Paul, said, ‘Are you willing, having gone up to Jerusalem, to be judged there concerning these before me?’” (CG).
In the previous verse, Paul gave his short defense concerning the charges against him. Now, with that complete, it says, “And Festus, wishing to lay the Jews a favor.”
In this clause is the second and last use of the word katatithémi. It signifies to lay or deposit a favor, probably with the view of receiving one in return. It was first seen in Acts 24:27. Both uses are tied into the sitting governor’s relationship with the Jews.
Festus was probably asked, in advance, that after the initial presentation of the charges, the matter could be brought to Jerusalem for evaluation there. Because it involved non-Roman religious matters, such a request would seem innocuous but satisfactory. Otherwise, he would certainly have just rendered his judgment and been done with the matter.
But he was an appointed diplomat and wanted to tactfully handle matters between himself and those he would have to deal with. Therefore, he “answering Paul, said, ‘Are you willing, having gone up to Jerusalem, to be judged there concerning these before me?’”
What seems apparent is that Festus found nothing wrong in Paul from the standpoint of his Roman jurisdiction. However, being the new governor, such a request would help maintain a friendly relationship with those now under him.
As such, and in order to obtain that standing, he asked Paul if he was willing to be judged, with him in attendance for his protection as a Roman citizen, by the religious court of the Jews. For him, it was a win-win move. If Paul declined, Festus would still be shown to have tried for the sake of the Jews. If accepted, then Festus would have allowed what was unnecessary from his seat of judgment but favorable in the eyes of the leaders of his subjects.
Life application: Politicians are generally people who are looking out for themselves. They desire power, recognition, and the ability to enrich themselves. The larger a city becomes, the more power and ability to influence others at higher levels they wield. For example, the mayor of Chicago will have more power and political influence than the mayor of a city of twelve hundred people.
As cities increase in size, the electorate generally tends to become more liberal. This means the people are less godly, more inwardly focused, and their attitudes about political issues increasingly do not align with Christian values.
For this reason, biblical Christianity becomes less and less acceptable to those in power. They do not want to be reminded of their sinful ways. Instead, they replace God with corruption and wickedness. However, these local leaders will have more sway with the next level of authority, such as the governor. Therefore, his policies will naturally align with those who can keep him in power.
From there, the governors have sway with the federal authorities and the corruption continues to expand. The ones to suffer the consequences of this are those whose ideas and goals do not match those of the people in power. Eventually, true Christians begin to be considered the enemy within. One can see this in almost any country on earth where there is a sizeable Christian population.
Their calls for holiness and right living stand at odds with the extreme levels of corruption and perversion that continue to be brought forth. Soon, there is a dividing wall between the two. Thus, the two ideologies are completely at odds. Those with the power will eventually act to remove this supposed infection from their site.
It is a pattern that has repeatedly occurred in the nations of the world, and it is one that is coming to a head throughout the world today. Christians must be willing to stand on their values and speak out, even if it means trouble lies ahead. Paul did this, and many faithful throughout the ages have done so as well.
Evaluate yourself. Strengthen yourself. Be ready to stand up for what is right, even if it will cost you greatly. The Lord will return a great blessing upon you when you stand before Him.
Wonderful Lord God, Your way is right and just and holy. Help us to stand up for it in this world of ever-increasing wickedness. May our lives and actions be found pleasing in Your sight as we face perversion and corruption head-on. Strengthen us for this battle, O God. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 29, 2024 2:30:58 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:10
Wednesday, February 28th, 2024
So Paul said, “I stand at Caesar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you very well know. Acts 25:10
The words are more literally rendered, “And Paul said, ‘I am, having stood upon the bema of Caesar, where I should be judged. I harmed Jews nothing, as you also know very well” (CG).
In the previous verse, Festus asked Paul if he was willing to go up to Jerusalem to be tried. In response, Paul speaks firmly and directly: “And Paul said, ‘I am, having stood upon the bema of Caesar.”
The verb is a perfect participle, active. In essence, “I have stood and continue to stand upon the bema of Caesar.” As such, it is not surprising that Paul declined the invitation to be tried in Jerusalem. He had nothing to gain, and it was evident that neither Rome nor Jerusalem had any basis for a conviction against him.
Therefore, it was to this that he made his appeal. He was brought to a Roman setting for alleged crimes against Rome. The religious crimes of which he was charged went unproven, and so to send him back to Jerusalem would be a mockery of his time spent under Roman imprisonment. Because of where he was brought and where he continued to stand, he next notes it is “where I should be judged.”
Barnes paraphrases Paul”s thoughts by saying, “I am a Roman citizen. I have a right to justice. I am under no obligation to put myself again in the hands of the Jews. I have a right to a fair and impartial trial; and I claim the protection and privileges which all Roman citizens have before their tribunals – the right of a fair and just trial.”
This, then, is almost a rebuke to Festus for leaving the justice of Rome and a Roman citizen in the hands of those who had failed to make a case against him, despite many weighty accusations which were obviously false. Regardless of Festus being in attendance in Jerusalem or not, the trial would be a travesty. With that understood, and to make the point perfectly clear, he next says, “I harmed Jews nothing, as you also know very well.”
Although the tone of his voice is lacking, we can guess that the words were courteously stated while still being cutting in their meaning. The “you also” indicates quite clearly that Paul feels Festus has overlooked his rights as a Roman to accommodate those he will have to face during his tenure as governor. The stand is inappropriate, and Paul reminds him of this.
Paul also uses a word, kallion, found only here in Scripture. It means “very well.” Paul not only says “you also,” but he adds in this direct and bold statement that what Festus was presented, he was completely aware of it, despite not acting on what he knew.
Life application: When Jesus was tried, John records a part of His time before the leaders of Israel –
“The high priest then asked Jesus about His disciples and His doctrine.
20 Jesus answered him, ‘I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing. 21 Why do you ask Me? Ask those who have heard Me what I said to them. Indeed they know what I said.’
22 And when He had said these things, one of the officers who stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, ‘Do You answer the high priest like that?’
23 Jesus answered him, ‘If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why do you strike Me?’” John 18:19-23
Jesus’ words were truthful and were stated in a way that told the high priest that what He had previously spoken could be verified by others. If this made the high priest look biased in his judgment and incomplete in his actions that led to Jesus’ arrest, that was his problem. Jesus said nothing evil or malicious.
This is something we must consider in our own speaking with others. People may not like how we respond to them, but as long as our words are truthful, any offense taken by those who hear us is their problem. Jesus and Paul were brought forth for trial. In Jesus’ case, it was to bring false charges against him to eliminate him.
In a similar manner, the Jews falsely accused Paul. The previous trial had demonstrated that. However, Festus’ actions only exacerbated the problem by not acknowledging Paul’s innocence and immediately calling forth a not-guilty verdict.
Therefore, they both stated what was true concerning the trials in which they stood. Should you find yourself accused of wrongdoing, if you are innocent, be sure to speak out firmly about what the situation is. If the law is on your side and the judge is fair, you will suffer no harm from your words. However, if the trial is unfair, it will not make any difference from the start.
Either way, saying what is true and standing upon the truth is always the best option in such matters.
O God, it seems more likely each day that those who are willing to boldly proclaim the truth concerning Jesus will face increased persecution. The world has quickly taken a stand against the message of sin, our need for redemption, and that it is only found in Jesus. Instead, people want to work out wickedness without being bothered by the thought of facing judgment for their actions. Therefore, they increasingly want to do away with the messengers who proclaim this. And so, O God, give us boldness to stand firm on this truth no matter what the consequences. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Feb 29, 2024 14:33:17 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:11
Thursday, February 29th, 2024
“For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death, I do not object to dying; but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me, no one can deliver me to them. I appeal to Caesar.” Acts 25:11
Paul just corrected Festus’s request by noting that he stood before Caesar’s judgment, where his judgment should take place. He also noted that he had done no wrong to the Jews. Therefore, it would be inappropriate for him to be sent to a judgment by the Jews. Continuing his words, he next says, “For if I am an offender, or have committed anything deserving of death.”
Better translated, he ties the two thoughts together, “For, indeed, if I am an offender and have committed anything deserving of death.” It may be that he was an offender. That was the point of a trial. But the trial for such a thing did not belong to the Jews whom he had not wronged. Instead, Paul understood that if he had done something wrong within the confines of Roman law, that he would be judged and punished according to that law. If found an offender, he says, “I do not object to dying.”
A citizen of Rome bore the responsibility of being Roman. They were to live according to the laws of Rome and uphold the principles, values, laws, and statutes of Roman society. Those who offended were to be charged and punished in the manner set forth by the laws of Rome. That included the death penalty. He would comply with the law, even if found guilty of a capital crime. However, he next says, “but if there is nothing in these things of which these men accuse me.”
Paul’s words are more succinct, “if, however, there be none of which these accuse me.” The charges were made by the Jews. He has demonstrated that their case has no merit because he did nothing that violated Roman law. But even if he did, they had no authority over such things.
He was in the court of Rome. Therefore, it was completely unnecessary and unlawful to send him outside of that court for a trial. Thus, asking him to go to Jerusalem was a pointless venture. Therefore, he notes, “no one can deliver me to them.”
The meaning of this is “no one can legally deliver me to them.” Festus could have done so, but it would have been a violation of Paul’s rights. If discovered, Festus would have to face the consequences of such a bold violation of Roman law. It is something he would not even consider.
With this stated, Paul could have stopped and waited for a response from Festus, which certainly would have been after a consultation with his lawyer, a note of feigned apology to Paul’s accusers, and then a “You are free to go” to Paul.
However, Paul still had the words of Jesus from Acts 23:11 in his ears, and he probably felt sure that by his next words, they would come to pass. And so, without waiting for Festus to give his response, he used his rights as a Roman citizen and said, “I appeal to Caesar.”
This appeal, stated before the court with any witnesses in attendance, could not be denied. Making this appeal meant that Jesus’ words would now come to pass. Paul would be sent to Rome.
As a side note, this verse is one the Bible’s surest proofs that the death penalty of the Old Testament was never set aside in the New. Paul, the apostle of our church-age doctrine, acknowledges that Rome had a right to execute people and that there was nothing contrary to Christian ethics that he could or would appeal to. If there were, it would be in one of his epistles. It is not. Paul takes it as the norm that the death penalty was acceptable and expected for crimes as determined by the government.
Life application: It is always good to either know the law or have someone who knows the law represent you concerning legal matters. The way the laws of most nations are structured, one must tread carefully in such things.
Even when someone has not committed an infraction and also has proper representation, those who sit in judgment are often completely flawed in their thinking. Judges are elected or appointed by politicians. Therefore, there is usually already a bias involved in how they will judge.
Because politics is involved, some of the least astute people are appointed, all the way up to the highest courts in the land. In the United States, a recent appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court could not provide a definition for what a woman is. This demonstrates either an amazingly flawed social and political bias or a level of mental retardation never before seen in this court. And yet, because of her gender, race, and political persuasion, she was appointed to this highest court in the land.
In other words, just because you have done nothing wrong, it does not mean that you will not be found guilty of a crime you did not commit. In such an instance, you may then appeal your sentence to a higher court. If they carry the same bias as the lower court, which is commonly the case, you may then appeal to the highest court in the land.
As long as there are a sufficient number of truly impartial judges, you may have a chance of being exonerated. If not, and it is becoming more likely by the day, you may find yourself punished. As Christians are the most recent societal punching bags to be targeted, this can be expected more and more as the future unfolds. Be prepared for such a time.
Lord God, we long for the day You come for Your people. It is an unfair world, and the wickedness in it is increasing daily. We know You will judge all wrongdoing, but until that day, be with Your people as we face the onslaught of increasingly hostile governments against those who hold fast to Your word. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 2, 2024 1:48:22 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:12
Friday, March 1st, 2024
“Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, ‘You have appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you shall go!’” Acts 25:12
In the previous verse, Paul had appealed to Caesar as was his right as a Roman citizen. With that, it next says, “Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, ‘You have appealed to Caesar? To Caesar you shall go!’”
Festus had a body of legal counselors, just as anyone in such a position today would have. It would be unwise to render any decision without going through them because they were schooled in the law.
To bypass them in a legal matter would show incompetence, especially if the ruling turned out badly later. After the legal counsel explained the law, Festus then rendered his decision to Paul – to Rome, he would go, and to Caesar, he would be brought.
Some translations state his words as an acknowledgment, “You have appealed.” Others, as a sarcastic question, translate it as, “Have you appealed?” The first is probably correct because the words are said after the consultation with his council, not before.
If he were being a wise guy, he would have first asked it sarcastically and then conferred with his council. But without having been in the room, it is impossible to say for sure. Either way, Festus would have probably been more than happy to have this out of his hands. The Jews could not say that they had a new governor who wasn’t willing to hear them, and Paul couldn’t make a complaint as a citizen of Rome about Festus’s faulty care for his rights.
Life application: In the book of Proverbs, it says –
“Where there is no counsel, the people fall;
But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14
It is unwise to make decisions without being properly informed on a matter. This is why there are lawyers and legal advice. It doesn’t matter if it is an issue concerning estates, being in an accident, or being charged with a crime, there are lawyers to meet these and many other needs.
But there is also counsel for the more weighty and important matters of life as well, meaning the matters concerning one’s relationship with his Creator. In Proverbs, and while speaking of attaining wisdom, it says this about that –
“A wise man will hear and increase learning,
And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.” Proverbs 1:5
Overall, the Bible is a book of wisdom. It is also a book that contains books of wisdom within it, such as Proverbs. Taking time to read the Bible, think about what it says, and even going into deeper personal studies demonstrates wisdom.
Along with that, attending studies with someone who is properly trained in theology and sound biblical hermeneutics is important as well. Today, one doesn’t even need to drive across town to do so. You can watch a study a day on YouTube. You can listen to a podcast while jogging. You can have a study going while driving to work. Such avenues of learning demonstrate that you are being wise with your time.
To not seek out your Creator and to not try to have a proper relationship with God is unwise. Don’t be unwise. For best happy in the afterlife, read and study your Bible!
Lord God, forgive us for those times where we get distracted in life and misdirected from what is important. Help us now and always to be responsible with our time and to carefully pursue a sound relationship with You. Thank You for Your precious word. With it, we can seek its truths in order to gain a heart of wisdom. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 2, 2024 22:41:52 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:13
Saturday, March 2nd, 2024
And after some days King Agrippa and Bernice came to Caesarea to greet Festus. Acts 25:13
A more literal rendering is, “And some days having passed, Agrippa the king and Bernice came down to Caesarea, having saluted Festus” (CG).
In the previous verse, Paul was told that because he had appealed to Caesar, to Caesar he would go. Now, the narrative continues with, “And some days having passed.”
While Paul was awaiting his transfer to Rome, an indeterminate amount of time elapsed. However, during that time, the narrative introduces two people, “Agrippa the king and Bernice.”
Lengthy commentaries on these two abound if you want to learn more about them. In short, however, Agrippa is Herod Agrippa, the son of Herod Agrippa I. He was a brother of Drusilla, the wife of Felix, seen in Acts 24:24. The Pulpit Commentary lists some of the facts about him and Bernice –
“He was only seventeen at his father’s death, and so not considered by Claudius a safe person to entrust his father’s large dominions to. But he gave him Chalets, and afterwards, in exchange for it, other dominions. … He was the last of the Herods, and reigned above fifty years. Bernice was his sister, but was thought to be living in an incestuous intercourse with him. She had been the wife of her uncle Herod, Prince of Chalets; and on his death lived with her brother. She then for a while became the wife of Polemo, King of Cicilia, but soon returned to Herod Agrippa. She afterwards became the mistress of Vespasian and of Titus in succession (Alford).”
Of these two, it says they “came down to Caesarea, having saluted Festus.” This would be a formal introduction to the new procurator. If they were already acquainted, it would be a congratulatory visit to his appointment. Either way, they have come to acknowledge his being placed in his role as the new governor.
Life application: One can see the same formalities today when dignitaries come to the office or residence of a newly appointed or elected official. Luke carefully records these events, describing what occurred when it is relevant to the ongoing narrative.
The visit of these two, and their interactions with Paul, will be carefully noted and detailed. The Lord is setting out His word so that we can see how the message of the gospel went forth and what were some of the workings that made it possible.
As you read the Bible, think about what is presented and why. We are being given insights into how the transfer from the Jewish-led to Gentile-led church took place, why it was so effective, and what will occur, even into the future as the words of Paul’s epistles are fulfilled.
Look at the minute details and also look at the wider picture. A beautiful panorama of history is taking place before our eyes as we read and contemplate this precious word.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your word, which includes us in the process of what occurred in the past so that we can know how we got to where we are now as Christianity spread in Israel and then beyond, even to the furthest extents of the world. We can see Your guiding hand in all of it. Hallelujah! We are seeing Your word fulfilled, even before our eyes. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 3, 2024 23:10:36 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:14
Sunday, March 3rd, 2024
When they had been there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying: “There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix, Acts 25:14
In the previous verse, it noted that Agrippa, the king, and Bernice came down to Caesarea to greet Festus. That continues now with, “When they had been there many days.”
The term “many days” is a comparative term. The Pulpit Commentary says, “The number indicated by the comparative degree, πλείων, depends upon what it is compared with. Here, it means more days than was necessary for fulfilling the purpose of their visit, which was to salute Festus.”
It may be that they were enjoying the time by the ocean, had found things that interested them, or they may have been avoiding going back to their regular lives for some reason. Luke doesn’t explain why they continued, nor does he tell what the number of days was. However, with any office dealings and other formalities complete, it was an opportune time to then enter into his talk about Paul. Therefore, it next says, “Festus laid Paul’s case before the king.”
Festus probably thought that Agrippa, being a Jew, would be interested in the case. Further, he might have thought the king may be able to shed some light on Paul’s belief and what course of action should be taken with him.
The words “laid” and “before” are separated by the NKJV, but in the Greek, it is a single word, anatithémi. That comes from ana and tithémi – “to set before.” It is used only one other time, in Galatians 2:2, where Paul said he “communicated to [anatithémi: literally “set before”] the apostles the gospel which he preached among the Gentiles. Of Festus’s words, he was “saying: ‘There is a certain man left a prisoner by Felix.’”
Festus is careful to note this fact. He had assumed charge of Paul from another, and he desired to ensure that the case was handled properly and in an expeditious manner.
Life application: Paul had a particular calling concerning the gospel. He faithfully carried out his duties before the Lord. Eventually, he went to those in Jerusalem and laid before the leaders what he communicated to the Gentiles. They accepted his presentation of the execution of his duties.
One of the main points of Paul’s apostleship was that the law of Moses was fulfilled in the coming of Christ. A New Covenant was introduced, which superseded the Old, rendering the Old obsolete. This message went forth to the Gentiles who were never under the law. In accepting the good news of Jesus, they were sealed with the Spirit and saved.
Judaizers, however, came in and tried to infect the believers by insisting that the Gentiles had to adhere to the Law of Moses to be saved. This is not what Paul laid before those in Jerusalem, and it is not what Jesus had instructed Paul to communicate. Rather, we are saved by grace through faith. Law observance has no part in the equation.
And yet, to this day, the same wicked spirit of the Judaizers continues in the world. Do not budge on grace. Do not mar grace. And do not diminish the glory of the cross of Christ by trying to earn what is provided freely by God through the giving of His Son.
Trust that Jesus has paid the debt and that nothing more is needed. This is what gives God the greatest glory. Our pitiful attempts to merit His favor apart from the cross are like a slap in His face. Yield to the notion that Jesus is fully sufficient to save you and keep saving you. All glory to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!
Yes Lord God! We give You glory and honor and praise for what You have done for us. We receive the completed work of Jesus, accepting by faith that what He has done is fully sufficient to save us and to keep us saved forever. Hallelujah and Amen!
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 4, 2024 23:47:20 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:15
Monday, March 4th, 2024
“about whom the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, when I was in Jerusalem, asking for a judgment against him. Acts 25:15
In the previous verse, Festus laid Paul’s case before Agrippa the king, noting that Paul had been left by Felix. He continues the thought now, saying, “about whom the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me.”
The words of the verse are rather clear. The entire body of the leaders of the Jews, both chief priests and elders, had a united voice against Paul. Even if they couldn’t agree on sound theology, such as their arguments concerning the resurrection of the dead, they could all agree that Paul was an enemy of their way of life. He was telling the Gentiles that they were on the same level with God as the Jews if they were in Christ.
Further, anyone not in Christ stood condemned before God. To them, this was intolerable, and it was worthy of being excommunicated from the temple and the nation. And more, in their eyes, it was worthy of death. Therefore, Festus next says, “when I was in Jerusalem.”
As Festus had just become governor, and as he had made one trip to Jerusalem, what was presented to him must have been of the highest importance to the Jews. It wasn’t like the topic was something that could wait until they had established a good working relationship.
Rather, right from the moment of his being introduced to them, they brought the issue of Paul up as an absolutely important diplomatic matter. And the issue was that they were “asking for a judgment against him.”
The Greek word is dike. It speaks of a judicial hearing, an execution of a sentence, punishment, justice, etc. It is only found elsewhere in Acts 28:4, 2 Thessalonians 1:9, and Jude 1:7. Some older texts actually have a stronger word in the Greek, katadikazo, a word implying “condemnation.”
Either way, the Jews were intent on getting their hands on Paul, and they did this through the pretext of a trial leading to judgment. However, their true intentions were to have him killed during the passage to or from Jerusalem.
Life application: The Jews wanted Paul dead. Extrabiblical writings reveal that Paul and most of the apostles were eventually martyred for their faith. The fact is, however, that we are all going to die. And that could happen at any moment.
We have no control over stopping that aspect of our existence. However, we can control what we do while we are alive. Each of us must work out our own salvation. This doesn’t mean working out getting saved or remaining saved. Rather, it means working out what we will do with the salvation we received based on faith in Jesus.
The older one gets, the more he realizes how short this life really is. A young person will look at old people and think, “Wow, they are really old.” An old person will look at a young person and think, “It was only moments ago when I was like that.” Because of this, we should consider our days and be willing to use them wisely, to the glory of God.
This is especially so because of what was already noted. We have no idea when our day of death will come. Therefore, let us be about the business of the Lord while we can. It should not be our attitude to say, “I will start living for the Lord tomorrow!” Rather, we should say, “I will live for the Lord today!”
Demonstrate the wisdom that the Bible proclaims and live out your days, starting right now, for the sake of the Lord. Each moment is a new moment to dedicate to Him. May it be so in our lives!
Lord God Almighty, help us to be wise and discerning about the lives we lead. May we forget what is past, put what we cannot change behind us, and go forward with a new and right attitude from moment to moment, honoring You and bringing glory to You all our days. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 6, 2024 0:45:58 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:16
Tuesday, March 5th, 2024
“To them I answered, ‘It is not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused meets the accusers face to face, and has opportunity to answer for himself concerning the charge against him.’ Acts 25:16
Although a tad clunky, a more literal rendering is, “To whom I answered, ‘That it is not Romans’ custom to grant any man to destruction before that the accused may have the accusers to face, and he may receive place of defense concerning the accusation’” (CG).
In the previous verses, Festus explained Paul’s position to king Agrippa and noted that the Jews were asking for a judgment against him. With that, it next says, “To whom I answered.”
It is Festus’s answer to the Jews that he is now explaining to Agrippa. His words to them were, “That it is not Romans’ custom to grant any man to destruction.”
The words “to destruction” are not found in some manuscripts. Despite this, the Jews had asked for a trial and a sentence based on their charges. If granted, it would have led to that being the sentence. However, Roman custom did not simply allow its citizens to be handed over willy-nilly, especially “before that the accused may have the accusers to face.”
Paul had already been tried before Felix, but no sentence was given. Instead, he punted and had Paul remain incarcerated under his authority until his departure. The Jews now wanted Paul charged based on their same accusations as if the charges were valid against him.
Instead, Festus noted to them that there would need to be a trial where his accusers came and presented to his face what their claim against Paul was, “and he may receive place of defense concerning the accusation.”
Once their charges had been presented to his face, Paul could then respond to each charge individually or collectively. Either way, he was allowed under Roman law to have a trial that any citizen of Rome was allowed to have.
In his words, Festus clearly noted to the king the obligation of his office, demonstrating that he was bound to Roman law and that his judgment was not because of any bias against the Jews. If Agrippa were inclined to the ruling decision of the leaders of Israel, it could cause tension between the two unless he understood that Festus’s hands were bound under the fair principles of Roman justice.
It seems that this comment is less one of arrogance or Roman superiority than one of attempting to show harmony between his office and his rulings over the Jewish people under his jurisdiction.
It is of note that the same verb translated as “to grant” was used by Paul in verse 25:11, which was after the meeting with the leaders of Israel and Paul in Caesarea. Festus uses the same term now as if it were his idea all along to be Paul’s defender as a citizen of Rome. He uses the word as if it were spoken to the Jews before the meeting!
Paul’s words were convincing enough, and his appeal to Caesar was valid enough, to justify where he was. The advice of Festus’s council supported Paul’s words, and so he, in turn, now uses them before Agrippa. Paul has proven his verbal and analytical prowess concerning the matter.
Life application: The Greek word, noted above as “to grant,” means “to show favor.” In other words, it is more than simply delivering Paul to the Jews. Rather, it is doing so as a grant. In the case of the law, Festus couldn’t just grant a favor without a legal reason behind his actions.
This is how it should be anywhere. Laws are put in place to keep the playing field level. Each person who is authorized to have those laws apply to him has a right to appeal to that law. Unfortunately, many people don’t know what the law states in a particular matter and their rights are trampled.
This happens with unjust prosecutors and judges all the time. They grant things that they should not grant. They also withhold charges against people they are aligned with. This is the fallen world in which we live. The safest course of action against this is to have proper legal representation, but that is not always a guarantee.
Having said that, when we stand before Jesus, our judgment will be absolutely fair in all ways. There will be no underhanded dealings, and there will be no favoritism. Everything will be perfectly just. Knowing this, let us live for the Lord in a manner that will always be honoring Him and demonstrating faith through the things we do. In this, our judgment will be a positive one.
Lord God, we know that when we stand before You for judgment, things will be handled fairly and in a just manner. Thank You that we will be treated with the favor of Jesus because we are now in Christ. The punishment for our failures came at the cross. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord and for what He has done for us. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 6, 2024 23:02:24 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:17
Wednesday, March 6th, 2024
“Therefore when they had come together, without any delay, the next day I sat on the judgment seat and commanded the man to be brought in. Acts 25:17
The Greek more literally says, “Therefore, they, having come together, having made no delay, the next, having sat on the bema, I commanded the man to be brought” (CG).
Festus had just told Agrippa that it was not the custom of the Romans to deliver any man to destruction before the accused could meet his accusers face to face so that he could answer for the charges against him. Having said that, he next says, “Therefore, they, having come together.”
That was seen in verses 25:5, 6 –
“Therefore, he said, ‘let those who have authority among you go down with me and accuse this man, to see if there is any fault in him.’
6 And when he had remained among them more than ten days, he went down to Caesarea.”
From there, Festus next says to Agrippa, “having made no delay, the next, having sat on the bema, I commanded the man to be brought.” These words are exactly as recorded in the continuation of verse 25:6 –
“And the next day, sitting on the judgment seat, he commanded Paul to be brought.”
As can be seen, the words are exactly in accordance with what was recorded by Luke. The only thing not stated, and which would have been an obvious part of his formalities while in Jerusalem, is that he had spent ten days with the Jews.
Thus, immediately after his time in Jerusalem, the trial with the leaders and Paul came about. He cannot be said to have been negligent in this matter as it was, truly, the next day after his state visit. It demonstrated then, and it is showing to Agrippa now, that he intended to be a governor who was willing to listen to the complaints of the leaders of the people under him.
At the same time, it demonstrated that he was concerned about placing the rights of Roman citizens in a very high priority. The Jewish king, therefore, would understand that the priorities of Festus were exactly what they should be as a governor of Rome who was placed over a district of the empire.
Life application: After WWII, MacArthur was placed in a leadership position over the nation of Japan. His time there lasted from 1945 to 1952. His word was considered as the absolute authority concerning what would take place.
At the same time, he demonstrated concern for both the Japanese and for the forces assigned under his command. It was a balancing act that proved highly successful. The nation of Japan was brought out of its former state and into a thriving modern society.
However, this time of ruling will be outshined by that of the coming millennial reign of Christ. Hints of that time are found throughout the Old Testament prophets, and they clearly indicate that this rule will go forth from Jerusalem in the land of Israel with the people of Israel as chief among the nations. For example –
“The word that Isaiah the son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem.
2 Now it shall come to pass in the latter days
That the mountain of the Lord’s house
Shall be established on the top of the mountains,
And shall be exalted above the hills;
And all nations shall flow to it.
3 Many people shall come and say,
‘Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,
To the house of the God of Jacob;
He will teach us His ways,
And we shall walk in His paths.’
For out of Zion shall go forth the law,
And the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
4 He shall judge between the nations,
And rebuke many people;
They shall beat their swords into plowshares,
And their spears into pruning hooks;
Nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
Neither shall they learn war anymore.” Isaiah 2:1-4
This sentiment is repeated in Micah 4:1-3. One must ask, “What is the point of recording such detail throughout the prophets unless it is actually going to happen?” Where is the glory in failed prophecies, or prophecies that are transferred from one people group to another without the covenant between the first two parties being fulfilled and set aside as promised?
If you believe that the church has replaced Israel in God’s redemptive plans, you have accepted a premise that says God cannot be trusted to complete what He has started, or that God has changed what He began in order to accommodate a fluctuating narrative that overlooks direct and purposeful promises to a particular group of people.
If He is willing to do that to Israel, how can we be sure He will not do that to the church as well? Such a ridiculous notion is incomprehensible when thought through. Be sound in your thinking by rejecting replacement theology. God has not rejected Israel. The word even explicitly says that in Romans 11.
Every promise made to Israel the nation will come about, exactly as the word says. The Gentiles have been graciously grafted into God’s redemptive workings. They have not replaced Israel. Rather, they have become a part of the commonwealth of Israel. Read and believe God’s word. In this, you are demonstrating faith in Him. His word is an expression of who He is.
Lord God, thank You for Your faithfulness to Your people. How good and wonderful it is to know that even if we walk away from You, You will never abandon us. We are prone to wander, but You remain faithful even as we do. Thank You, O God, for Your steadfastness in remaining faithful to those You have covenanted with! Hallelujah and amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 7, 2024 22:19:54 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:18
Thursday, March 7th, 2024
“When the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation against him of such things as I supposed, Acts 25:18
The verbs need to be tweaked. More literally, it reads, “Concerning whom, having stood up, the accusers were bringing no charge which I was thinking” (CG).
Festus, still telling Agrippa what took place with Paul, just noted that on the next day, after Paul’s accusers had come to Caesarea, he convened a trial. Now, he notes, “Concerning whom.”
This is speaking of Paul, who was noted as “the man” of the previous verse. The case against Paul is being presented with the charges against him now being spoken forth. Next, it notes concerning those bringing the charges, “having stood up.”
It is a formal court procedure where the ones to speak stand to address the court. All others remain seated until called to speak. Of those standing up, Festus next says, “the accusers were bringing no charge which I was thinking.”
Based on the urgency of the Jew’s complaints, he figured he had a real troublemaker or a capital offender on his hands. However, expecting accusations of being an agitator or someone who had committed a horrendous crime, he was left pondering what was so serious.
Because of this, it seems that his words are possibly asking, “Maybe you can shed some light on this King Agrippa.” Festus was stumped about how to handle such charges because they had nothing to do with Roman law. This became evident when Paul appealed to Caesar. Paul stood in Caesar’s court, as he said, “where I ought to be judged.”
Life application: Paul notes that those of the church must all appear before the Bema seat of Christ. We will all be judged for what we have done. There is only one thing that will be a source of rewards for us: things done in faith.
Our walk began in faith, believing that God sent Jesus to restore us to Himself. We didn’t see Jesus, we weren’t there at the resurrection, and we didn’t see Him ascend. Rather, we took those things on faith, along with everything else that we hold sacred to our walk with the Lord.
For example, we have the word of God, but we must believe that what it contains is truth. If we don’t have faith in the initial creation account as is recorded in Genesis, then we lack faith in God’s word. If we teach a long-term creation, something not in accord with the word, we are demonstrating that we do not trust the biblical narrative. Instead, we are believing something other than what it says, evolution, for example.
And yet, there is no evidence to support the evolutionary model. Thus, we are placing our faith in evolution above our faith in God’s word. For this, we will lose rewards. If we do something nice for another, but it is not done in faith, where can there be reward in that? People who do not believe in Jesus do nice things all the time, and yet they will receive no reward for their actions.
Everything comes down to faith. Be people of faith and live your life in that state. What you do, do with the aim and goal of pleasing God. This should start with knowing what is pleasing to Him. And that is found in His word.
Read the word, remember what it says, and apply it to your life. In this, you will be demonstrating faith. It logically follows, then, that you will receive rewards for what you have done when you stand at the bema of Christ. May it be so for you!
Lord God, may we be willing to read Your word, remember Your word, and apply Your word to our daily walk before You. Help us to be people of faith who act in faith toward You in everything we do. We pray this to Your glory. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 9, 2024 0:49:24 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:19
Friday, March 8th, 2024
but had some questions against him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive. Acts 25:19
More literally, the Greek reads, “But certain questions concerning their own religion they had against him, and concerning a certain Jesus having been dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive” (CG).
In the previous verse, Festus told Agrippa that Paul’s accusers did not charge him with any of the crimes he had expected. He continues now, saying, “But certain questions concerning their own religion.”
Festus now uses the same basic word as that which Paul used in Acts 17:22. There it was deisidaimonesteros, and here it is deisidaimonia. They carry the same meaning, and each is only used one time in the Bible. It basically means a “dread of a deity.”
In essence, it refers to a religion or a superstition because of a fear of that deity. As Agrippa is a Jew, it is certain that Festus is using the term in a general sense, just as Paul did in Acts 17:22. It may not be Festus’s religion, but he acknowledges that it is Paul’s.
Some versions say “superstition” instead of “religion,” but that is not the intent. Festus was not there to insult King Agrippa but to acknowledge the religion of the Jews. It was such points of their theology that “they had against him.”
Festus was expecting some type of aggravated crime to be charged against Paul. Instead, however, they were spending their time trying to disassociate their beliefs from those of Paul. As has been seen in the past, the religion of the Jews was considered an acceptable religion under Roman rule (religio licita).
However, the Jews constantly attempted to separate faith in Jesus from their faith. If they could do this, it would mean that Christianity might be considered unacceptable (religio illicita). This would make Paul an offender against Rome. Every attempt thus far had failed, but they continued to press this angle of attack against Paul.
Their accusations were against Paul’s interpretation of their religion “and concerning a certain Jesus having been dead.”
The verb is a perfect participle. Festus had heard that Jesus was dead, and he had no reason to believe that wasn’t true. Not accepting the premise of a resurrection, he assumed that if Jesus had died, He was still dead.
Until this point, the name “Jesus” hasn’t been cited by Luke at all in the account. Despite this, it is apparent from the words of Festus that Jesus has been the subject of the entire situation. But, again, this Jesus was dead. Even Paul admitted he had died. To Festus, it was an axiom that when someone is dead, he stays dead.
Therefore, he uses the perfect participle. The results of the action continued even to the present time. On the other hand, this supposedly dead Jesus was One “whom Paul affirmed to be alive.”
In this case, the verb is in the imperfect tense, which implies that despite what Festus had heard about Jesus dying, because Paul had mentioned it, he also kept insisting that He was alive. It seems that Festus is holding the entire scenario in contempt despite Paul’s continued proclamation of the resurrection of Christ. The same blinders that covered the eyes of Israel’s leaders also covered the eyes of this Roman governor. This agrees with the words of Paul found in 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 –
“Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28 God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29 so that no one may boast before him.”
Life application: Today, much of the world has heard about Jesus, including His death and resurrection. It is normally not an issue to speak about this with others and they already are aware of the details. “Sure, I have heard that. It’s what Christians believe.”
However, knowing that a Christian believes this does not mean that they accept the premise themselves. Christian/atheist debates happen at colleges and seminaries all the time. The atheists know what the Christians believe but simply deny it happened. There are people in church leadership positions and professors in Christian colleges who don’t really believe the things they teach.
But this is the key and central point of the faith. It is the dividing line between who is saved and who is not saved. Paul goes into great detail concerning the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15, but the initial premise, that Jesus rose from the dead, is the final part of the simple gospel.
Scripture proclaimed He would die, be buried, and resurrect. Faith in that is what saves. If these things were according to Scripture, it means that God knew the future when those things were written. Thus, He is the Creator God who transcends time.
If these things were according to Scripture, then it means that God had a plan set forth in advance. Thus, He is the Initiator of the process and the One who followed through with it each step of the way. Therefore, salvation is an act which is of the Lord alone. Because of this, it logically follows that there is one and only one way to be saved – His way.
The simple and easily ignored or dismissed claim that Jesus resurrected carries with it all of the weight and authority of the final decree of God for salvation. If you have ever wondered why such a basic and simple set of words is so greatly maligned by people, it is because, as simple as they are to understand, they are some of the most incredible words one could possibly accept.
Truly, only an act of faith that what is recorded in Scripture can bring one to accept them. As this is so, how pleasing it must be to God when we demonstrate that simple act of faith. As Christians, be people of faith. If you have believed that God could raise a man from the dead, then accepting the other words of Scripture should not be that difficult to accept as well.
Lord God Almighty, what could we do that deserves Your salvation? The greatest achievements of man quickly fade away with time. The kindest gestures between humans are still tainted with the sin that resides within us. But to have faith that You can restore us to Yourself through the gospel of Jesus Christ is something completely beyond ourselves. In accepting the gospel, we are throwing ourselves totally at Your mercy. We understand this and we believe. Thank You for the good news of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 9, 2024 21:19:16 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:20
Saturday, March 9th, 2024
“And because I was uncertain of such questions, I asked whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these matters. Acts 25:20
A more literal translation is, “And I, being perplexed at the question concerning this, bid if he be willing to go to Jerusalem and there be judged concerning these” (CG).
In the previous verse, Festus noted the dispute between the Jews and Paul. It concerned questions against him about their own religion, and about Jesus who had died but whom Paul affirmed to be alive. Because of these things, Festus continues, saying, “And I, being perplexed at the question concerning this.”
Festus uses a word translated here as “being perplexed,” aporeó, which means “at wit’s end,” or “at a complete loss.” There was more than doubt concerning the things he had heard. Rather, he simply didn’t understand how to proceed.
This gives a reason for his now asking Agrippa, who was a Jew, to give insights on the matter and even maybe help in what judgment should be rendered. As for his judging the matter during the court session, because of his lack of ability to understand what the sides were arguing over, Festus “bid if he be willing to go to Jerusalem.”
Paul stood in Caesar’s court. That dealt with matters of Roman law and infractions committed under it. If nothing else, Festus knew that these disputes between Paul and the Jews had nothing to do with his jurisdiction.
Or, at best, the dispute may ultimately be judged in a Roman court, but only after the lesser issues between the parties were hammered out. Because of this, there might be a resolution to some of the issues in Jerusalem. If so, he asked if Paul was willing to go there “and there be judged concerning these.”
Before seeking Agrippa, which comes later, but also before Paul is sent to Rome, Festus made the suggestion of going to Jerusalem to have the matter revealed through a trial.
Some scholars see this as a statement of doubt as to Paul’s innocence. Others see it as a pretext Festus used based on verse 9, where it said that he wanted to do the Jews a favor. As it is impossible to know his true intentions, we can only speculate as to what his motives were. What seems likely is that he simply wanted to do the Jews a favor while, at the same time, he wanted to get a more competent court setting to explain just what the Jews felt Paul had done wrong.
Life application: There are many things in Scripture that are uncertain, such as the motivation of Festus for asking Paul to go to Jerusalem. It is certain that he had no idea what to do about the dispute between the two parties. But his ultimate motivation for asking for a trial in Jerusalem cannot be known.
As such, speculation is necessary to comment further. However, when speculating, it is appropriate to identify it as such. Pastors will often make claims from the pulpit about things that simply cannot be known, but they state them without such qualifiers.
The problem with this is that the congregants probably have no idea that the pastor is speculating. From there, if they were awake and paying attention during the sermon, they will always think that what they heard is something right out of the Bible. This should not be.
Anytime a teacher or preacher is speculating, he should state it explicitly – or use words such as might have, may, etc., – to show that he is guessing about what he is saying. Further, it is never inappropriate to ask a pastor, preacher, or teacher to explain his words. He is there to teach. If he is teaching, he is also to be held accountable for his words if they do not align with Scripture.
At the same time, there is no need to be arrogant or overly wordy when asking to clarify what has been stated. Putting a teacher on the spot in an embarrassing manner is simply inappropriate. Have tact when asking for clarification.
Lord God, help us to be sound in our doctrine and questioning of the things we hear concerning Your word. If we hear something that seems like it needs further clarification, may we use tact and courtesy as we dig to find a resolution to our questions. Help us in this so that we will be rightly instructed in Your word. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 10, 2024 23:52:44 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:21
Sunday, March 10th, 2024
“But when Paul appealed to be reserved for the decision of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I could send him to Caesar.” Acts 25:21
In the previous verse, Festus noted that he had asked Paul whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem to be judged concerning the matters he was charged with. Festus now tells Agrippa, “But when Paul appealed to be reserved.”
The words “to be reserved” refer to Paul’s desire to be judged in Rome instead of Jerusalem. It was Paul’s appeal, and it was his right to so appeal. Because of this, the order was given by Festus (after checking with his counsel) to have him kept until that request could be effected. As for Paul’s appeal, it was “for the decision of Augustus.”
The words translated as “of Augustus” are tou Sebastou (τοῦ Σεβαστοῦ), literally, “the august.” Thus, it is a translation of the name Augustus. It is not a proper noun, but rather the title of the emperors of Rome. Augustus here is Nero. As a point of history, and which pertains directly to one of our 12 calendar months, Charles Ellicott explains the name Augustus –
“The title is the Greek equivalent, as seen in the name Sebaste (= Augusta) given to Samaria, for the epithet which, like our “his majesty,” had become a kind of official title of the Roman emperor. It had first been given by the Senate to Octavianus (Sueton. Aug. c. 7), and was adopted by his successors. As connected with ‘augur,’ it had originally, like Sebastos, a religious connotation. The month of August, dedicated to the first emperor as July had been dedicated to Julius, and the names of Augsburg and Sebastopol, arc interesting as perpetuating its memory.”
Concerning Festus’s response to Paul’s appeal, he next tells Agrippa, “I commanded him to be kept till I could send him to Caesar.”
After consulting with his legal counsel, Festus determined that Paul was to go to Rome. He had exercised his legal right to be presented to Caesar. Therefore, he could not be sent to the leaders in Jerusalem without violating his rights as a Roman citizen.
As for the word translated as “decision,” it is diagnósis. It is a noun that is the same as our medical term. It is used only here in the New Testament. It means “judicial examination” or “decision.” It is a thorough examination, just as a doctor would do today.
Life application: Learning the etymological roots of our words today can actually help open up the Bible in wonderful ways. It can also help us understand our own language and why it is the way it is.
One good practice is to learn what the root of particular names is. For example, you might meet someone named Shoshanna. If you know that it is derived from the Hebrew word of the same spelling and that it means Lily, you now have an opportunity to engage them about Jesus –
“Shoshanna, what a beautiful name. Do you know what it means?”
“No.”
“It means Lily. It is a Hebrew word found in the Bible, such as in the love poem The Song of Songs.”
“Really, I didn’t know that! Wow! How did you know that?”
From there, you can then go on to tell this precious Lily about Jesus. You might be surprised at how many names in our language are derived from Hebrew and Greek words. Keep this in mind and try to remember these things. It is a marvelous way of starting a conversation that may change the direction of someone’s life.
Lord God, thank You for Your wonderful word that is given to bring people to a saving knowledge of Jesus. Help us to use it in a manner that will bring glory to You by sharing its wonderful details with others. May we be attentive to this all the days of our lives. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 11, 2024 20:45:57 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:22
Monday, March 11th, 2024
Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I also would like to hear the man myself.”
“Tomorrow,” he said, “you shall hear him.” Acts 25:22
A more literal translation is, “And Agrippa to Festus, ‘I was desiring also to hear the man.’ ‘Tomorrow,’ he says, ‘you shall hear him.’”
In the previous verse, Festus noted that Paul had appealed to Caesar. Therefore, he commanded that Paul be kept till he could be sent. Having said that, it next says, “And Agrippa to Festus.”
Luke leaves a verb out, making it seem as if the conversation is occurring right in front of the reader. Agrippa responds to Festus with the words, “I was desiring also to hear the man.”
The verb is imperfect indicative. Thus, it means that he had already wanted to hear Paul. His desire wasn’t formed at the time of this meeting. The Berean Literal Bible gives a good sense of the exchange, inserting the word “said” in italics, “Then Agrippa said to Festus, ‘I have been wanting also to hear the man myself.’”
Because Agrippa was a Jew, and because he knew more than what Festus would have known, and also because he had certainly heard about Jesus and the faith that had stemmed from Him, his curiosity piqued. He was surely excited to be able to speak to one of the known apostles of the faith.
As such, speaking to Paul would be a fantastic opportunity to spend at least a portion of his time finding out what the things he had heard about Jesus meant. In response, Festus obliges the king, granting him his desired audience. As it says, “‘Tomorrow,’ he says, ‘you shall hear him.’”
Life application: Even though Paul was not with Jesus during His early ministry, the words of the Lord to the apostles still apply to Paul. In Matthew 10, Jesus said –
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. 17 But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. 18 You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. 19 But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you.”
This is exactly what is occurring now. Paul has been delivered up to councils. He has been mistreated in the synagogues and by Israel’s leaders. He has been brought before governors, and now he is to be presented before a king. He is certainly being used as a testimony before Gentiles. During these events, we can be sure that the Spirit of the Father was with him and speaking in him.
Therefore, when we read Acts, we are reading things that were inspired by God. We can be certain that because of Luke’s careful attention to the details of his writings we have just what God wants us to know.
But remember to be careful to take Acts in its proper context. It is a descriptive account of what occurred. We are not being given any prescriptions to follow. Paul’s letters, which stem from his knowledge and life experiences, are given for our doctrine. Taking the Bible in the proper context will keep us from many flawed doctrines.
Therefore, as you read, keep asking what is being conveyed, to whom are the words directed, what is the dispensation in which it is occurring or prophesied to occur, and so forth. In maintaining the proper context, you will be much sounder in your handling of Scripture.
Handle the Bible carefully and responsibly. It is a treasure for us if we do so. It can be a great harm to our doctrine and to others if we fail to do so. Remember the context as you read.
Lord God, we know that we are saved by grace through faith. But we have a walk that must occur after that day. If we don’t properly pursue Your word, our walk will not be in accord with Your will for us. So, help us in this, O God. Be with us as we study and consider Your wonderful word. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 13, 2024 0:06:31 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:23
Tuesday, March 12th, 2024
So the next day, when Agrippa and Bernice had come with great pomp, and had entered the auditorium with the commanders and the prominent men of the city, at Festus’ command Paul was brought in. Acts 25:23
In the previous verse, Agrippa said that he would like to hear Paul. Having said that, Festus responded that the king would hear him the next day. With that remembered, it now says, “So the next day.”
Just as promised, Festus had the meeting prepared accordingly. He was careful to discharge his duties and to do so with a touch of panache. That is evident in the next words, “when Agrippa and Bernice had come with great pomp.”
It is a word found only here in Scripture, phantasia. It signifies pomp, imagination, outward appearance, etc. It is where we get our word fantasy from. The Pulpit Commentary notes, “It is of frequent use among medical writers for the outward appearance of diseases.” It comes from phantazó, to cause to appear, make visible, etc. That is also only used once, in Hebrews 12:21, concerning the sight which Moses saw at Mount Sinai.
There was pageantry and showiness given to welcome the king and his wife as they “had entered the auditorium.”
The word translated as auditorium is also used only here, akroatérion. It indicates the courtroom for hearing cases. As for the display in this hall, one can almost hear musicians playing as they do today with the arrival of distinguished guests. The scene would have been something Cecil B. Demille could have studied for his next big film. There were probably people bowing and standing by the chairs where the king and his wife would sit, ready to lend them a hand as they were then seated.
Along with their arrival also came “the commanders and the prominent men of the city.”
The word translated as commanders is the Greek word chiliarchos, commanders of thousands. The pomp wasn’t just adorned on the bodies of the king and queen. Rather, it was also shown in the many high-level officers who were in attendance. It would be like a state visit filled with admirals and generals.
The prominent men of the city probably would have included civil officers and people of high influence such as businessmen, lawyers, etc.
Everything was arranged to elicit the sense of great honor being bestowed upon the king and his wife. However, with all of these notable people, the center of attention was actually not on any of them at all. Rather, it next says, “at Festus’ command Paul was brought in.”
All of these people were gathered because the king had asked for a hearing with a prisoner. It was probably rather unexpected for some of those attending. Whatever they thought they were being called together for, they must have suddenly wondered what type of magic trick or interesting performance this prisoner could come up with to impress the visiting dignitary.
This verse shows the certain eyewitness nature of the event. It also has to be considered the highest of ironies to flow from Luke’s pen. Here we have the flash and pomp of Agrippa and Bernice, Jews clinging to the things of this world, dressed in fine clothes and attended by followers of various sorts. And yet, they were bound under the yoke of the devil.
On the other hand, there stood Paul, the chained prisoner who had been freed in Christ from the world of sin. While they live lavishly, he had endured so much, suffering with the sufferings of Christ to bring a completely different type of life to the world’s people. The pomp of these two is reminiscent of Luke 16:15 –
“You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.”
Life application: This gathering was certainly an immense chance for Paul to speak the gospel to the people of Caesarea. However, Charles Ellicott makes a most profound connection to this verse and that of Acts 12:20-23 –
“There is an almost tragic pathos in the thought, which must have been present to the mind of the historian, and perhaps, also, to that of others, that this display of the pride of state was exhibited in the very city that had witnessed the terrible chastisement of a like display in his father [Agrippa I]. The vice was inherited: the lesson had not been learnt.”
His thoughts support the idea of the self-inflicted generational curse. Too often, Christians get misled by the thought of a generational curse being laid upon themselves, as if God is somehow angry at them because of the misdeeds of their ancestors.
It is true that such misdeeds transfer from generation to generation. However, this is not something actively being brought upon people by God. Rather, such instances are passed on by parents who were unwilling to change from the sinful ways of their own parents. They then pass on the vices or abuses they learned to their own children. And the cycle continues.
Often, only with a clean break from the environment in which a person is found will there be a change in the direction of that person. In other words, in the debate of nature vs. nurture concerning how people will succeed or fail, it is nurture that leads to the seemingly incessant generational curse.
Once a person is taken out of that environment, either by chance, force, or personal choice, will he then have a possible change in direction? The new life will hopefully bring in new possibilities. The supposed curse is ended, not by God lifting His oppressive hand off the person, but by the person being removed from the oppressive hand of generational nurturing.
And of all of the changes that can occur within a person’s life, the greatest is the change from being property of the devil to a saved believer in Christ. With this change, anything is possible in that new life. No wonder the devil is so intent on focusing his attention on young believers! This is a prime reason why discipleship must come quickly into the lives of those who come to Christ.
Lord God, we thank You that, in Christ Jesus, all things are new. We can have a complete break from the lives we once lived. We can have a new direction from broken families, failed societal norms, and cultural customs that are opposed to right living in Christ. May we look to the word, determine what is proper in our Christian life, and then conduct our lives according to how You direct us there. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 13, 2024 23:39:04 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:24
Wednesday, March 13th, 2024
And Festus said: “King Agrippa and all the men who are here present with us, you see this man about whom the whole assembly of the Jews petitioned me, both at Jerusalem and here, crying out that he was not fit to live any longer. Acts 25:24
In the previous verse, the entrance of King Agrippa and Bernice was accompanied by much pomp. The audience included commanders and prominent men of the city. With that introduction, the narrative now continues directly into the words concerning Paul. Luke records, “And Festus said: ‘King Agrippa and all the men who are here present with us.’”
Festus addresses Agrippa as the principal in the gathering. He then also notes all the men. He doesn’t say anything about Bernice in his address. Bengel seems to see this purposeful omission as a way of avoiding the presentation of a prisoner to a woman. That seems to stretch things. As Bernice is the wife of the king, she is implicitly included in the address to the king.
Regardless of this, however, Festus next notes, “you see this man about whom the whole assembly of the Jews petitioned me.”
The expression “the whole assembly of the Jews” includes the legal counsel, the Sanhedrin, and any others with which he had direct relations. It could even be inclusive of the entire nation, if he was told the specifics of Acts 22:22, where the whole assembly cried out for him to die.
The entire nation seemed to want Paul removed from the face of the earth. As Festus was the newly appointed governor, it was his duty to figure out what was going on and to administer justice to the nation he was appointed to lead. And yet, he was also responsible for the care of each and every Roman citizen under his authority. Therefore, he had to tread carefully in his handling of such an important matter. Understanding this, Festus next notes, “both at Jerusalem and here.”
This reveals that their petition to have him executed was not limited to his time in Jerusalem but also the meeting that was held at Caesarea. This is something that was unstated in Luke’s record of that meeting. Everywhere he went, the nation was in an upheaval over the existence of this one man. It was a challenge that could not go unaddressed.
Therefore, he desired that the king himself hear the matter and consider what was to be done. As for the Jews, he next notes that wherever he went, they were “crying out that he was not fit to live any longer.”
There was the call for capital punishment upon a Roman citizen. This means the jurisdiction lay solely within Festus’ realm of authority. But so did the maintenance of the Jewish people. As this was true, a resolution had to be obtained, or things would only devolve over Paul’s state. This is especially true because Paul had been incarcerated for more than two years, and yet the matter before Festus continued to fester.
Life application: Festus had an obligation to secure the rights of the Roman citizens under him. This is true of leaders in America today. They are obligated to do what they can to secure the rights of citizens of the United States.
And yet, this has not been happening. US citizens have been attacked, beaten, robbed, raped, and murdered within the borders of the United States by a flood of illegal immigrants who have come across her borders. These illegals are not deported, many are simply released without a trial, and the rights of the citizens in obtaining justice are denied.
This has also been occurring in European nations. There is a global agenda to replace vast swaths of the population of these nations with people who have no rights to the benefits enjoyed by the citizens of any given nation. And yet, they are given benefits that the citizens are denied.
This is setting up the end times prophesied in the Bible. In Daniel 2, the Bible speaks of a line of kingdoms that would come upon the earth that would have control over the affairs of Israel. The fourth kingdom refers to the Roman Empire. It existed in the past, and it is being revived in our times. Daniel records this –
“And the fourth kingdom shall be as strong as iron, inasmuch as iron breaks in pieces and shatters everything; and like iron that crushes, that kingdom will break in pieces and crush all the others. 41 Whereas you saw the feet and toes, partly of potter’s clay and partly of iron, the kingdom shall be divided; yet the strength of the iron shall be in it, just as you saw the iron mixed with ceramic clay. 42 And as the toes of the feet were partly of iron and partly of clay, so the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. 43 As you saw iron mixed with ceramic clay, they will mingle with the seed of men; but they will not adhere to one another, just as iron does not mix with clay.” Daniel 2:40-43
The Roman Empire was formed from many people groups. They would not adhere to one another because their priorities, religions, and cultural expressions were not cohesive. Because of that, the empire could not stand. Learning from this lesson, the globalists have an agenda to destroy national sovereignty by flooding individual nations with people whose priorities are completely different than those within the nations they are coming to.
By doing this, the seed of these people will not intermingle properly. Chaos will be the inevitable result. Out of this chaos will come calamity, death, and destruction. This is the goal of the globalists. In reducing the population of producing people groups, there will be those who are more easily subjugated. Or, at least, this is the hoped-for intent.
However, the calamity coming upon the world will be greater than they can control. Isaiah prophesies that man will become as scarce as fine gold. Jesus says that if those days were not cut short, none would survive. What is happening in civilized nations of the world today is intentional, but its results will go beyond the ability of the globalists to control.
As you see your nation being destroyed by an influx of people who are not like you, it is depressing, even maddening. And yet, the Bible prophesied that it would be this way. Because of this, we know that the coming of the Lord is at hand. Despite the sadness of seeing longstanding nations destroyed, rejoice that a greater and eternal state lies ahead.
Man without Christ is hopeless. But thank God for Jesus. He provides a better hope and a new and eternal kingdom for those who await His coming.
Heavenly Father, it is difficult to see the world devolve into the chaos produced by the rabid people who are in control. But we know that this is a part of what must occur before You come for Your people. Soon, the world will destroy itself because of its rejection of You. For those who wait for You, however, there is the prospect of eternal joy. Thank You for the hope we possess beyond this fallen, sin-filled world. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 14, 2024 21:17:05 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Acts 25:25
Thursday, March 14th, 2024
“But when I found that he had committed nothing deserving of death, and that he himself had appealed to Augustus, I decided to send him. Acts 25:25
The words are better translated as, “And I, finding nothing he has done worthy of death, and he also himself having appealed to Augustus, I judged to send him” (CG).
Festus has just explained to Agrippa that the whole assembly of the Jews was in a snit over Paul and that they had petitioned him, crying out that he was not fit to live any longer. However, Festus continues, saying, “And I, finding nothing he has done worthy of death.”
Depending on the source text, the verb is either a present or an aorist participle. Either way, the statement should be considered as an emphatic one, as Festus’ trial found the accuser’s case lacking. Their argument failed to sustain their charges. However, a monkey wrench was tossed into the situation, complicating things. Festus next tells Agrippa, “and he also himself having appealed to Augustus.”
As Paul had appealed to Augustus, Festus had to include a full report concerning the appeal that he made. It would make no sense for a prisoner to appeal something, claiming he was innocent, and yet he was then sent by Festus to Caesar without citing what evidence he had to support the claim.
However, Paul’s appeal was made because of where the location of the trial would be, meaning Caesarea, not Jerusalem. When Jerusalem was suggested, the appeal was made. This caused a certain amount of difficulty concerning what to report.
As such, and as Festus was not schooled in such matters concerning Jewish life, he sought King Agrippa’s assistance in the matter. This will be revealed in the next verses. For now, and because Paul had every right to appeal to Caesar, Festus next says, “I judged to send him.”
His judgment was actually exactly what had to take place. Paul, as a Roman, could not be denied his right to appeal, especially when it involved the matter of jurisdiction. Once the matter of moving the trial to Jerusalem was raised, it opened up the path to Caesar’s judgment seat.
Life application: As noted above, there is a difference in the tense of the first verb of the verse being evaluated. There are also a few other small differences in the Greek texts. They really don’t change the intent of what is said in any grand way, but it is still good to know what is different and to try to determine how such things may have occurred. Note the difference in that first verb:
Κατελαβόμην [katelabomen]
Καταλαβόμενος [katalabomenos]
Imagine reading a paper and seeing, “I have risen to tell you about Jesus.” However, another paper about the same town hall meeting says, “I have arisen to tell you about Jesus.” That is a small difference, and the meaning is essentially unchanged. But you want to know how that change came about.
Studying the reason for scribal errors is an immense field. This is because there are innumerable texts to be referred to. They are also incomplete at times. Different handwriting styles, splotches, degradation of the document, and so forth can all make it difficult to know exactly what has been written.
Further, scribes are just people. They get tired, they get distracted, and so forth. Errors such as haplography, dittography, transposition, etc., can affect a text. Margin notes concerning texts may creep into the text itself by the error of the next scribe.
Watching videos or reading books about textual criticism can help you to understand what is going on and why. Too often, people take a faulty stand on such things, claiming that those who read one version or another are doing the devil’s bidding by reading a compromised translation. But those same people fail to understand that there are variations even in their own translation.
For example, the KJV is not a single translation without variation. There is the original 1611 edition, which is almost impossible for a modern reader to understand. John 3:16 alone will give you a headache –
“¶ For God so loued þe world, that he gaue his only begotten Sonne: that whosoeuer beleeueth in him, should not perish, but haue euerlasting life.”
There is a Cambridge edition and an Oxford edition. There are innumerable changes between them. But more, if you decide on the Cambridge, there are variations in it. There are differences in the 1629, 1638, 1760, 1873, 1900, etc. editions.
If there is this much variation in a translation, imagine how much variation exists because of scribal errors in thousands of Greek texts. Critical scholars of manuscripts should not be excoriated. They should be applauded for the tedious and thankless work they carry out to bring us the most accurate text possible.
God has, through the multitude of biblical texts available, ensured that we have His word. Our job is to study and show ourselves approved concerning this invaluable gift that He has safely maintained throughout the ages for His people to read and cherish. Praise God for His superior word!
Lord God, we know that the contents of Scripture are a faithful and reliable testimony to what You have done and are doing in the stream of human existence. Thank You for those people who faithfully keep and maintain this word, doing their best to present it to us in an understandable way so that we can know You better with each page we turn. Amen.
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