Country Road Faith

Who Do You Think You Are?

2026-07-17T10:28:00.000-05:00

N.T.#836 "Who Do You Think You Are?"

July 17, 2026

Acts 7

LET IT GLOW

Who does Stephen think he is, preaching to the priests and Sanhedrin council about Jesus? He is only a deacon. He is full of faith and power, submitting to the Holy Spirit, of good report.

I'm just a nobody, trying to tell everybody, all about somebody who saved my soul-Jesus.

Stephen was a Spirit-filled deacon who knew his Jewish history of Israel. He delivered to the high priest, Caiaphas, his sermon about:

Paatriarch Abraham
Joseph
Moses
Exodus
David and Soloman.

Stephen gave a long speech about Israel's relationship with God. The Jews constantly rejected God's message and His prophets, as well as the Sanhedrin counsel rejected the Messiah Jesus Christ.

Have you accepted or rejected Jesus as the Messiah, Savior, Son of God, Sacrifice for our sins?

LET IT GROW

Stephen made 3 points:

Israel's history is the history of God's acts in the world.
People worshiped God long before there was a temple, because God does not live in a temple.
Jesus' death was just one more example of Israel's rebellion against and rejection of God.
(Life Application Study Bible)

No need for us to defend ourself when witnessing. Simply tell what Jesus has done in your life.

You know, we are all sinners. It's just that some of us have confessed our sins and believed in Jesus as our Savior. some have not. As believers, we are to strive to obey God's Word and live a life pleasing to God. However, we fail so often.

LET IT GO

Help us let go of pride and humbly share the gospel wherever we go.

When Lies Are Told Against Us

2026-07-16T11:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#835 "When Lies Are Told Against Us"

July 16, 2026

Acts 6-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

It is very hard to live with lies being told against us. What do we do? Cour down or stand? However, Stephen endured, not compromising his words and witness.

What a zeal Stephen had! The Lord used him in kingdom work, for he was full of faith, power, and did great miracles and wonders among the people. Luke does not give details here. Stephen was the link between the establishment of the Jerusalem church and the conversion of Saul/Paul.

How influence is our Christian walk?

LET IT GROW

There was a group of Libertines disputing Stephen:

They were in opposition to what Stephen shared, preaching in the name of Jesus in the synagogue.
They were not able to resist the wisdom and spirit by which Stephen spoke. (verse 10)
So their tactic was to speak lies, bringing slanderous charges of blasphemy against Moses and God committed by Stephen.(verse 11)
They stirred up the people, elders, and scribes, bringing Stephen to the council. (verse 12)
False witnesses said Stephen spoke blasphemous words against the temple and the law; (verse 13)
as well as saying Stephen spoke that Jesus was going to destroy the temple and change the customs of Moses. (Jesus referred to his body being killed.) (verse 14)
Stephen's face was aglow with the love of the Lord Jesus for these his persecutors. (verse 15)

We know what happened to Deacon Stephen-he was stoned to death; Paul saw it and was convicted.

How committed are we to serving Jesus, sharing his Truth and love with unbelievers? Are we willing to die for Jesus? He was willing to die for us.

LET IT GO

Help us share Your love, King Jesus, wherever we are.

Serving

2026-07-15T09:30:00.000-05:00

N.T.#834 "Serving"

July 15, 2026

Acts 6-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

So seven deacons were chosen to serve in the church-Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas. As a special dedication to service, the apostles, prayed for them and laid hands on them.

This was a practice for commissioning someone to carry out a specific task. (Swindoll)

What resulted?

The Word of God increased,
The number of believers/disciples multiplied greatly,
a great company of priests were obedient to the faith. (verse 7)

This first century church grew in the number of believers.

LET IT GROW

Deacon Stephen was active in ministry:

He was full of faith and power.
He did great wonders and miracles among the people.

There was strong leadership, rapid growth, concerned involvement, and a large church in Jerusalem with believers active. (Swindoll)

Does our church have those qualities?

are we meeting needs of our members and others?

LET IT GO

Open our eyes to the needs of our people, Lord.

May we serve others for Your glory.

*Sorry for the delay everyone. We were at a family reunion.

Is Our Faith Seen by Others?

2026-07-09T08:54:00.000-05:00

N.T.#833 "Is Our Faith Seen by Others?"

July 10, 2026

Acts 6

LET IT GLOW

There were two very different groups within the church in Jerusalem. Their common bond was Jesus and the Holy spirit filling them. They were the Hellenists and the Hebrews.

The Hellenists were Jewish by birth, yet adopted the customs from their Gentile neighbors. Many rejected pagan religions, only worshiped God, brought sacrifices to the temple, observed the festivals, and obeyed the Law of Moses. They dressed like Gentiles, socialized with Gentiles, but embraced the Roman government as their own. Greek was their main language. In other words, these believers had the worlldy ways in them.

The second group was called Hebrews. They obeyed the Law of Moses, conducted themselves using the Pharisaic code of conduct-how they dressed, washed, ate, conducted business, what they ate and touched. They abandoned their Jewish identity and accommodated the Greek culture. They spoke Hebrew or Aramaic.

That gives us a background concerning this young church in Jerusalem. Now days our churches have various types of people differing in cultures, traditions, and ways to worship the same God.

LET IT GROW

A problem arose between the Grecians and the Hebrews in the church in Jerusalem. The Grecians felt the needs of their widows were being neglected. The disciples said they should not leave the Word of God to serve tables. They simply could not do it all.

Back then, if women had no husband nor family, they had a bleak life for provisions. The disciples could not do everything everywhere. The solution was to pick out 7 men of good character, deacons, to serve and meet the needs of others in the church. Remember, there were several thousands of converts by this time in the church.

The deacons were to be good men of good reputation. Later on, Paulsent Timothy the qualifications of deacons. The names of the 7 men are listed in verse 5, which included Stephen.

We will continue Stephen's encounter with the religious groups later. Stephen was full of faith and power, as well as the Holy Spirit.

When people look at our life, what do they see?

LET IT GO

Use us to be servers today, Lord Jesus.

May others see evidence of our faith.

Wait and See

2026-07-08T11:05:00.000-05:00

N.T.#832 "Wait and See"

July 8, 2026

Acts 5-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

An angel of the Lord freed Peter and John from prison, then they taught about Jesus in the temple. Officers took them to the Sanhedrin meeting. Peter them about Jesus being a Prince and a Savior to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.

This cut the Jewish leaders to the heart. They were about to pass judgment on the disciples and sentence them to death when a Pharisee, Gamaliel stepped in to defend the guys. This man was head of the famous school of Hillel. He had many followers, among them was Saul of Tarsus. When this man rose to speak, everyone listened.

Do people listen to what we have to say or do they fluff it off?

Jesus is the only way to heaven.

Jesus is God's Son who gave His life for you so your sins could be forgiven.

Believe on Jesus and you will be saved from the punishment for your sins.

LET IT GROW

Wait and see how this turns out was this leader's policy.

Gamaliel cautioned the Sanhedrin about killing the disciples. He reminded them of Theudas, with 400 followers, that left. Judas had followers in Galilee, revolting against paying taxes to Caesar when God was Israel's true King. Those people dispersed.

He went on the warn them to let Peter and John alone, for if this work was of men, it would become nothing.

But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. (verse 39)

It was agreed, so they told the apostles to not speak in the name of Jesus, beat them, and let them go. (verse 40)

Were the guys disheartened? No way! They rejoiced having been counted worthy to suffer shame for Jesus' name. (verse 41)

They continued to teach and preach Jesus Christ in the temple and every house. (verse 42)

Keep witnessing, friend.

LET IT GO

Keep us in Your will, Lord.

Strengthen us as we suffer and witness for You.

Prepare the way.

To You be the glory forever!

Are You a Witness?

2026-07-07T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#831 "Are You a Witness?"

July 7, 2026

Acts5-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

An angel opened the prison doors for Peter and John and brought them out. Their instructions were to go, stand, speak in the temple to the people. The next morning the high priest sent officers to get the two, but they were not there. Someone else told the high priest the guys were teaching in the temple. The captain of the officers went and got P & J, taking them before the Sanhedrin.

What were the leaders of the Sanhedrin blaming Peter and John?

They thought the death of Jesus was being placed on the leaders of the Sanhedrin. Weren't the guys told to not teach in Jesus' name?
They had filled Jerusalem with their doctrine.
They intended to bring Jesus' blood upon them.(verse 28)

LET IT GROW

How did Peter answer?

We ought to obey God rather than men. (verse 29)

God raised up Jesus, whom they hung on a tree. (vesre 30)

God exalted Jesus to be a Prince and a Savior, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. (verse 31)

Peter and John are Jesus' witnesses.

The Holy Ghost is given to those who obey Him. (verse 32)

Peter was blaming the Jewish leaders for killing the Messiah. How brave Peter was!

Are you a witness for Jesus and what He has does for you?

We are obligated to obey God instead of human commands when they are contradicted. It is hard but rewarding.

LET IT GO

Help us obey Your Word and Holy Spirit, Father.

Please save those who read this post.

When Persecution Comes

2026-07-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#830 "When Persecution Comes"

July 6, 2026

Acts 5-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

How do we react when persecution comes? Peter and John were persecuted. How did they react?

What does Luke tell us happened after the couple died having lied to Peter, the church, and God?

The apostles did many signs and wonders among the people. (verse 12)
They were held in high esteem. (verse 13)
There were numbers of believers in Jesus added to the church. (verse 14)
People carried their sick into the streets so Peter's shadow would fall on the sick and be healed. (verse 15)
People from the surrounding cities brought their sick and possessed, and they were all healed. (verse 16)

Good things were happening. People believed in the Lord. There were healings. It was supernatural activity-

LET IT GROW

Jesus promised His disciples would do miraculous works like Him. (John 14:12)

When God starts working, the devil does, too. The high priest and the Sadducees began to oppose the apostles. They were filled with jealously. (verse 17) They cared nothing for God's glory only their own. So what did the religious leaders do? They threw the apostles in jail. (verse 18)

Peter and John would have been on trial the next morning if something had not happened. What was it? An angel of the Lord set them free and sent them on mission:

Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. (verse 20)

The Sanhedrin convened, sent for Peter and John from prison, but did not find them there. Someone reported the preachers were in the temple. Thus, Peter and John were brought into the meeting.

I'm leaving this event hanging. Read the rest of the story. Persecution came to the preachers of the Gospel.

They didn't hide from their enemies, but obeyed God instead of men.

What keeps us from sharing the Gospel with others?

LET IT GO

Help us let go of ourself centeredness and follow You, Jesus.

Hide us behind the cross to be Your witnesses.

Our Sins Will Find Us Out

2026-07-03T10:14:00.000-05:00

N.T.#828 "Our Sins Will Find Us Out"

July 3, 2026

Acts 5

LET IT GLOW

A man named Barnabas sold some land and willingly brought the money to the apostle. es to distribute to those in need at the church. (4:36-37) Then Ananias and Sapphira sold something and brought the money to the apostles, also.

What was the difference?

The couple kept back part of the money; apparently they lied about giving all of the money received, and Peter confronted them. It was God they lied to. (verse 4) When Ananias heard this, he immediately died. Lying to the servant of God was like lying to the Spirit of God Himself. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Three hours later the man's wife came and lied to Peter, also. She died, too. Why didn't the couple just tell Peter that they kept part of the money from selling something? Maybe pride got the best of them.

Be careful to tell the truth.

LET IT GROW

Those people were not required to sell the item, nor give it to the church. Deception is a sin. He must have committed to give all the proceeds to meet the needs of others as Barnabas did. However they kept back some for themselves. It was a lie that damaged the family of God.

Fear came upon the church when they heard what happened. (verse 11) God hates sin in the church, so we need to take it seriously, repenting.

LET IT GO

Help us be truthful with others and You, Father.

Our sins will find us out.

A New Church

2026-07-02T09:33:00.000-05:00

N.T.#828 "A New Church"

July 2, 2026

Acts 4-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Peter and John were released and they returned to the other disciples together. The two told the group what had happened. It was a time of rejoicing, praying unto god in one accord, which was a thanksgiving prayer.

The Sanhedrin and others may threaten them, but they can never defeat. "If God be for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31) (Falwell)

How do we react when persecuted?

LET IT GROW

How did the disciples pray?

They prayed with all boldness so they could speak God's Word and with heal i, show signs, and wonders done in the name of Jesus. (verses 29-30)

This first-century church was persecuted, Spirit-filled, powerful, and praying church.

What happened next?

The place where they were shook as with an earthquake when their prayer was offered up.
All were filled with the Holy Ghost.
They spoke the Word of God with boldness.
Each member of the Jerusalem church was interested in the welfare of each other member.
Houses and lands were sold in order to be distributed to those in need by the apostles. (verses 32-37)

What a loving and caring environment.

LET IT GO

Show us Your will, Your way, Lord Jesus.

May we follow it.

What a Witness!

2026-07-01T10:35:00.000-05:00

N.T.#827 " What a Witness!"

July 1, 2026

Acts 4-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

When a good work is going on, evil steps in and tries to mess things up. Peter and John had witnessed to a lame man, God healed him, and he walked. Peter and John were put in prison overnight. They preached Jesus and repentance. There were 5,000 men believed due to Peter's second sermon.

Now there was a group of religious leaders gathered to discuss the problem. The sermon and healed man were not their concern. They wanted to know By what power, or by what name, had they done this. (verse 7)

What was Peter's response?

Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him this man stand here before you whole. (verse 10)

There was but one answer: they had been with Jesus. (verse 13)

The name Jesus is the Greek version of the Hebrew name Joshua, which means, The Lord saves. Jesus' name speaks to who He is, what He has done, and what He can do. Salvation from sin, death, and hell is found in Him alone. (Tony Evans)

The religious ones could not refute the Truth and evidence with the healed man standing in their midst. What a witness!

LET IT GROW

The Jewish leaders observed Peter and John's boldness, they were uneducated and untrained men. Over the 3 years Jesus was with them, He taught the former fishermen everything they knew. One can receive all sorts of educational degrees, but if they have never been with Jesus, there is no lasting spiritual effect on others.

The Jewish leaders' hearts were so hard that they decided to threaten Peter and John not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. They didn't care about the Truth, just preserving their own religious authority. How sad!

Was it right in the sight of God for them to obey men rather than obey God?

For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. (verse 20)

How about you, friend? I choose to share the Truth: Jesus crucified, risen from the dead, sits at the right hand of the Father. There is no other way to get into heaven except believing in this Jesus, repenting of your sins.

Peter and John were let go without punishment because of the people. Certainly, others had seen the change in Peter after he had denied Christ 3 times. The HHoly Spirit spoke through them with boldness and wisdom.

Has your life been change? Have you been with Jesus and allowed Him to change your heart? Don't be surprised if people reject your witness for Jesus.

LET IT GO

Help us be bold in sharing salvation through Jesus only.

May we obey You before men.

Suffering for Christ

2026-06-30T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#826 "Suffering for Christ"

June 30, 2026

Acts 4

LET IT GLOW

Are you helping to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ? This last week at Vacation Bible School, we had 4 teenagers get saved. Praise the Lord! It took a lot of time and effort in planning, decorating, and teaching from others and me, but it was worth it. Peter and John suffered because they shared the Gospel, as they spent the night in prison.

There were three groups of people angered with Peter and John because they were preaching Jeesus resurrected from the dead. They included priests, captain of the Temple, and Sadducees. The Sadducees were violently opposed to this doctrine. They threw Peter and John into prison until the next day. However, from Peter's second sermon 5,000 men belied. What a great victory for the faith. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

LET IT GROW

Beginning in the life of one lame man, God brought 5,000 men to Christ-in spite of the opposition of powerful unbelievers. (3:1-10; 4:4) There is no stopping the kingdom of God manifested through the power of the Holy Spirit when Jesus is being glorified. (Tony Evans)

The Jewish leaders got ticked off because they were proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. (verses 1-2) Since the Sadducees didn't believe in the resurrection of the dead, they were so annoyed. They tried to shut up Peter and John from preaching. But that didn't happen.

Are we willing to face a night in jail if it would bring 5,000 people to Christ? Shouldn't we be willing to suffer for the sake of even one?

When we witness, we risk rejection and persecution. Whatever the risks, realize that nothing done for God is ever wasted.

*People are trying to tie up the internet so my blog is not seen throughout the world. Evil people in many countries are doing this. I'm talking about thousands. I pray for them and others will read the Truth and find Jesus as their Savior through my little efforts. Please pray I will be protected from them and the Word will continue to reach others. God's Word will not be destroyed.

LET IT GO

Pray others will come to Jesus.

Are You in The Family?

2026-06-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#825 "Are You in The Family?"

June 29, 2026

Acts 3-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

It doesn't matter what family we are born into, but if we are reborn spiritually into God's family.

When Peter was preaching, he made references:

The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
The God of our fathers
Jesus is the Holy One
and the Just
Prince of Life.

The lame man was not healed magically or naturally but supernaturally through the power invested in the name of Jesus of Nazareth. (Falwell)

LET IT GROW

Peter put the blame on the Jews for killing Jesus. He called the people to repentance. Turn from your iniquities. (verse 26) Receive Jesus as your Savior and Messiah. You will be blessed.

Friend have you done so? What about your family?

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for including us Gentiles in Your kingdom.

A Healed Man Led Others to Jesus

2026-06-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

N.T.#824 "A Healed Man Led Others to Jesus"

June 26, 2026

Acts 3

LET IT GLOW

Peter and John encountered a lame man (over 40 years of age) outside the Temple gate. This beggar obviously expected a monetary contribution from them. However, the two had none to give, but parted on the man the ability to walk.

The man asked for what he wanted, but received what he needed. The man went from limping to leaping. When God meets your needs, he may not give you what you asked for, but what he provides will always be greater than what you wanted. (Tony Evans)

LET IT GROW

The people saw what had happened to the beggar, for he had always been lame. They were filled with awe and astonishment at what had happened. (verse 10)

When God does something amazing in one's life, he usually has a greater purpose i mind than that individual's benefit. Truth was proclaimed to the crowd and Jewish leaders. His transformation ultimately led to the salvation of many souls. There were 5,000 men, whose lives were changed when they repented of sins and believed in Jesus. God healed, the beggar praised God, the people responded. (Tony Evans)

We don't know what influence our lives can have on others.

LET IT GO

May we yield to You today Lord Jesus.

Church is Important

2026-06-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#823 "Church is Important"

June 25, 2026

Acts 2-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Salvation is not dependent on baptism. (1 Cor. 1:17) We repent of our sins, ask Jesus to forgive us first.

We read of Peter's sermon and 3,000 were added to the church that were saved.

What happened next as the church age began?

The people continued stedfastly in the apostle's doctrine/teachings.
They continued in fellowship with believers.
They shared meals in homes with gladness and singleness of heart.
They prayed together.
Som sold their possessions and gave to those believers in need.
They continued daily with one accord in the Temple. (verses 42-47)

LET IT GROW

Friend, are you a member of a Bible teaching church? Believers need fellowship with other believers. We grow spiritually and impact the kingdom work.

We are told to:

love one another (John15:12)
carry one another's burdens (Gal. 6:2)
forgive one another (Eph. 4:32)
encourage one another (1 Thess. 5:11).

A disconnected Christian is a disobedient and unfruitful Christian. Each of us is an integral part of the body of Christ. Such public love, devotion, joy, ministry, and testimony convinced unbelievers to trust in Jesus Christ. (Tony Evans)

I hope you see how important it is to have a church family.

LET IT GO

Let go of excuses.

Do You Believe?

2026-06-23T07:23:00.000-05:00

N.T. #822 "Do You Believe?"

June 24, 2026

Acts 2-Part 3-witnesses

LET IT GLOW

Peter continued his sermon centered around the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. It was God's purpose that the Messiah should suffer death for us. Since His suffering and death was ordained, so was His resurrection and glory. (verses 23-24) It was all in God's plan in order to save souls.

Peter's sermon includes:

the prophecy of David (verses 25-28)
Peter's testimony (verses 29-31)
the eye-witnesses (verse 32)
the exaltation and ascension of Jesus into heaven (verses 33-36).

LET IT GROW

David overheard God the Father telling the Messiah, Sit at My right hand until I make your enemies your footstool. (verses 34-35)

Peter's conclusion is God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. (verse 36)

The hearts of the people in the crowd was pricked and asked what they should do.

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (verse 38)

Salvation is independent of baptism. Baptism, emersion in water, illustrates what has happened in our heart to others. We die to self and are raised a new person in Christ.

Have you believed in Jesus? Have you admitted your sins to Him and asked His forgiveness? Have you been baptized in a Bible-teaching church?

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for loving us sinners so much that You died for us.

Where Will You Spend Eternity?

2026-06-22T08:27:00.000-05:00

N.T.#821 "Where Will You Spend Eternity?"

June 23, 2026

Acts 2-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Peter began preaching in the church age of grace before the return of Christ. He quoted Joel 2:28-32. (verses 14-20) Keep in mind that it was less than 2 months since Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. People recalled the darkness that occurred when Jesus died. Our Christian faith rests on the basic fact of the empty tomb.

Is your faith alive, too?

LET IT GROW

And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Acts 2:21)

Friend, have you been saved from the penalty of your sin-death and eternal punishment in hell? Simply ask Jesus to forgive you your sins, believe He is the Son of God who died in your place.

LET IT GO

Pride can get into our way of coming to Jesus.

Or maybe you think you have done so many wrong things that you can't be saved.

Dear one, just believe, for Jesus' love covers a multitude of sins.

We have all sinned and come short of the glory of God.

The Day He Came

2026-06-22T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#820 "The Day He came"

June 21, 2026

Acts 2

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (verse 1-4)

Pentecost means fiftieth.

What is Pentecost?

*It was the third Israelite feast mentioned in Leviticus 23.
*It was a harvest festival of thanksgiving for the crops some 50 days after the Passover week.
*The Old Testament Pentecost occurred 50 days after the Israelites left Egypt and the Passover
Lamb was slain.
*Jesus was crucified at Passover time, and He ascended 40 days after His resurrection.
*The Holy Spirit came 50 days after the resurrection, 10 days after the ascension.
*An offering of first-fruits was made. (Lev. 23:20) (Liberty Bible Commentary)
*This was the birth of the church.
*Individuals were filled with the Holy Spirit.
*There was witnessing, devout men heard the Word.
*There were different reactions. (verses 12-13)

What a unique and significant day!

LET IT GROW

What do we observe:

1. There was obedience. Believers and the apostles gathered together as Christ had told them. They went to Jerusalem and waited for the Holy Spirit in spite of the great danger.
2. There was unity among the believers, in one accord.
3. A mighty wind/sound came through the upper room from heaven. It was sudden, abruptly, unexpected, startling all present. (Like a tornado, hurricane, or gale.)
4. It filled all the house where they were sitting.
5. Cloven (divide) tongues of fire came upon each believer. Fire often denotes the divine presence.
6. This symbolized the Holy Spirit enabling them to speak and preach and share the Gospel.

God still commands us to be filled with the Spirit. (Eph. 5:18)

Galatians 5:22-23 tells us the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

When the apostles were able to speak in tongues, it meant each heard the Gospel in their own language, for the Holy Spirit interpreted it for them. It was not gibberish. Speaking in tongues was for that time, not needed today. We have interpreters for us who knows both languages.

LET IT GO

We confess sins so we are right with God.

When we obey and submit to Jesus, His Spirit comes upon us so we can witness for Him.

Chosen by God

2026-06-19T10:03:00.000-05:00

N.T.#819 "Chosen by God"

June 19, 2026

LET IT GLOW

Here is the first church business meeting. The disciples, some women, Mary and Jesus' brothers all met together in the upper room. The group of believers grew from 11 to more than 120. They had been praying, seeking God's guidance and getting organized.

They were meeting to replace Judas, the betrayer of Jesus. Judas gave his heart to greed and sold out Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Judas realized how serious his actions had been. He hung himself, fell down head first to the ground, and his body burst open. Judas' legacy is tragic. A field was bought by Judas but never used. It was known as the "field of blood," for that is where he committed suicide. Psalm 69:25 and Psalm 109:8 tell of this desolation place.

Not all stories have a good ending. Judas mad his choice of denying the Lord Jesus. Which choice have you made-follow Jesus or deny Him?

LET IT GROW

So Joseph called Barsabas and Matthias were believers nominated to replace Judas and to join the group of apostles. They had been with Jesus from His baptism and ascension. Also, they had witnessed the resurrection. Lots were cast and Mathias was chosen to join the 11. This meant he was chosen by God.

LET IT GO

Thank You Father that You choose us to be Your child.

Give us faith to carry on Your business/kingdom work.

Bless those who are Your faithful ones.

Stop Gazing and Go

2026-06-18T20:24:00.000-05:00

N.T.#818 "Stop Gazing and Go"

June 18, 2026

Acts 1-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Jesus had commissioned His disciples in verse 8 to be His witnesses. They would have the Holy spirit to empower them to do so. Then when Jesus was finished speaking, He was taken up into a cloud and disappeared to heaven.

What happened net?

They were gazing upward when 2 men appeared to them in white clothing.
They asked why the guys were gazing up into heaven.
They informed the guys that Jesus would come back in the same way He left-in clouds of glory. (verse 11)

Wow! What a thing to experience! How would you react to an extraordinary thing happening before your eyes?

LET IT GROW

What a dramatic departure! It was a confirmation for the disciples, and us, that Jesus is exactly who He claimed to be:

He is Mediator between man and God.
He is the Son of God who came out of heaven to earth to save souls.
He is our High Priest who makes reconciliation for the sins of men.
He is the Christ Savior who intercedes for people before God.
He is the High Priest who is touched with the feelings of our infirmities and delivers us.

(The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible)

This same Jesus in the same way, would descend for believers as they had seen Him ascend from them. Before Jesus returns, His Holy Spirit empowers His church to carry on the ministry of worldwide evangelization. (Liberty bible Commentary)

Are we still standing, gazing up, looking for our Savior to return instead of serving and witnessing for Him?

LET IT GO

Stop gazing and go tell.

How Does the Church Act?

2026-06-17T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#817 "How Does the Church Act?"

June 17, 2026

Introduction to Acts

Background

This is the second book which is written by Luke, the physician and disciple of Jesus Christ. Luke was Paul's close friend and traveling companion, as well as personal physician. (Col. 4:14) some think Luke wrote Acts before the end of Paul's first Roman imprisonment instead of after the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70.

Acts emphasizes that Jesus was Israel's long-awaited Messiah, shows the gospel is offered to all people, and the work of the Holy Spirit (mentioned over 50 times). (MacArthur)

We will be studying:

the birth of the church at Jerusalem
its persecution and espansion
Peter and the beginning of Gentil Christianity
Paul's three missionary journey
Paul's final journey to Rome. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Luke wrote to Theophilus, a former Roman official of high rank. He was possibly a new convert who need to be grounded in Christ. Maybe Luke led him to the Lord. He was an example of humility and love so needed by the world and among God's people.

Jesus had shown Himself for 40 days after the resurrection to people. He spoke of things pertaining to the kingdom of God. (verse 3) His followers were to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit.

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (verse 8)

What are we to be a witness sharing? Jesus died on the cross as our replacement for punishment of our sins and rose from the dead to give us eternal life through faith in Him.

What kind of witness are we? Are we loving toward others? Do we share our faith? How does the church act? Is it meeting people's needs?

Comfort, Peace, and Love

2026-06-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#816 "Comfort, Peace, and Love"

June 16, 2026

Summary of John-Part 4

Are you in need of some comfort and peace? Jesus has it to give.

But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have sad unto you. Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (14:26-27)

What are the new commandments Jesus gave us?

First, abide in Jesus. (15:7) Obedience to Christ Jesus means we are His friends.
Love one another as He has loved us. (15:12) Jesus gave sacrificially for others.

Jesus warns us that the world is going to hate us believers in Jesus. He warns us 8 times. They will put us out of the synagogue, kill us. We may even experience loss of employment and rejection by our own family because we stand up against sin, stand for the Word of God, live differently. However, be of good cheer, Jesus has overcome the world. (16:33)

John wrote these things so we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the son of God, and as we believe, we have life through His name. (20:31)

Friend, are you a believer in Jesus today? Your eternity depends upon it.

The Way, Truth, Life

2026-06-15T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#815 "The Way, Truth, Life"

June 15, 2026

Summary of John -Part 3

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (8:32)

Abiding in His Word gives greater knowledge of the truth and sets one free from sin, the penalty of sin through forgiveness. God's truth will have no effect upon you unless you accept it and believe it. Are we applying it in our life?

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. (11:25)

Though we die physically, our soul will live on. Where will your soul live-heaven or hell?

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another. (13:34-35)

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. (14:6)

The only way to heaven is belief in Jesus as Savior and son of God. There is no other entrance but through Jesus Christ.

As the way, Jesus is our path to the Father. As the truth, He is the reality of all God's promises. As the life, He joins His divine life to ours, both now and eternally. (Life Application Study Bible)

He Is

2026-06-12T10:04:00.000-05:00

N.T.#814 "He Is"

June 12, 2026

Summary of John-Part 2

What is the spiritual character of God? When the Samaritan woman encountered Jesus, she first saw a Jew, then a prophet, and finally the Messiah. (Falwell)

God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. (4:24)

She knew the Messiah was coming and called Christ. Jesus proclaimed to her that He is the Messiah. Many Samaritans believed on Jesus because of the woman's testimony. (verse 39)

They said: We have heard Him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world. (verse 42)

Jesus had several witnesses to His claim: John the Baptist (5:33-35), His works (verse 36), the Father (verses 37-38), the Scriptures (verses 39-47).

Peter had assurance: And we believe and are sure that thou art the Christ, the son of the Living God. (verse 69)

John wrote the claims of Christ to be the "I AM:"

*bread of life (6:35)
*the light of the world (8:12; 9:5)
*the door (10:7)
*the good shepherd (10:11. 14)
*the resurrection and the life (11:25)
*the way, the truth, and the life (14:6)
*the true vine (15:1).

Friend, it is not enough to know this about Jesus, but you must believe it in your heart. Have you confessed your sins and asked Jesus to forgive you and be your Savior?

Everlasting Life is Available to YOu

2026-06-11T11:06:00.000-05:00

N.T.#813 "Everlasting Life is Available to You"

June 11, 2026

Summary of John

Those of you who have been following along as I study the Bible know I like to review my highlighted verses in the book and important activities.

John dubbed himself as the "disciple whom Jeseus loved." He mentions it 15Three key words times throughout his writings. He focused on the deity of Christ Jesus. His signs through miracles Jesus performed was evidence. John mentions 8 of those. Three key words which John uses are signs, believe, and life(54 times). John wrote this book so we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Also, there are 7 statements that Christ claimed as the "I AM."

John begins with an opening statement in verse 1: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Jesus existed with God as the Son and Creator of all things. He has communion and fellowship with God. This Word was made flesh and dwelt among us. (1:14)

John the Baptist was Jesus' cousin and proclaimed repentant of sin the people must do and believe in Jesus as Savior as Savior. Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. (verse 29)

Jesus chose His disciples away from Jerusalem, away from the religious hypocrisy. Among them were fishermen, a tax collector, a doctor,

Early in His ministry Jesus proclaimed: Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. (2:19) The religious ones killed Jesus, but He arose from the dead three days later, just as He said.

The most proclaimed verse which John said is found in 3:16, For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

We see the source of love is God, He extended this love to us, sacrificed for those He loves, and the result is our everlasting life. Friend, have you trusted in this loving God as your Savior?

Do You Believe in Jesus Christ?

2026-06-09T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#812 "Do You Believe in Jesus Christ?"

June 9, 2026

John 21-Part 4

I believe God's Word is Truth. Jesus is Truth and The Word. What do you believe?

In verse 24, this disciple is John the author of this book. He testifies of those things which he wrote about Jesus are true. The elders in the church of Ephesus know it to be so.

Early church history reports that after John spent several years as an exile on the island of Patmos, he returned to Ephesus where he died as an old man, near the end of the first century.(Life Application Study Bible)

John's writings are authentic because he was an eyewitness, one of the 12 and one of Jesus' closest friends. John wrote all of the words in this scroll, so it was written by one person, the same eyewitness. Every word contained in this scroll is truth. John was recalling events accurately under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. (Swindoll's New Testament Insights on John)

It is important that our words are truth. That is one of my reasons for having this blog, to share the Truth with others. Do you speak truth to others?

LET IT GROW

John is saying in the last vers that this Gospel contains only a small sample of what Jesus did and taught. There are many other things that could have been written. If all were written down, then the whole world could not contain the books written. (Tony Evans)

John was selective rather than exhaustive in his testimony. (McArthur)

The gospel of Jesus Christ rests upon three pillars: His virgin birth, atoning death, and bodily resurrection. When faith falters, Jesus reveals Himself in love and through it to a triumphant faith. Though our love for Christ may fall short of His love for us, we should strive to equal his love. (Herschel Hobbs)

How do you believe Jesus is? Is He the Son of God, Messiah and Savior to you? Your eternity depends upon your answer.

LET IT GO

Repent of your sins, believe in Jesus, and be saved.