Country Road Faith

Unconditional Love

2026-08-28T09:58:00.000-05:00

N.T.#856 "Unconditional Love"

August 28, 2026

Acts 15-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Unconditional love. Do you have it to pass on and have you received it?

Now we read of Paul's second missionary journey. (13:36-18:22) Paul invited Barnabas to return with him to the cities where they had established churches. However, Barnabas wanted to take Mark with them and Paul refused. So Paul chose Silas instead due to Mark's previously departing from the pair. They went to Cilicia and Barnabas with Mrk sailed to Cyprus on their missionary journeys. Even with disagreements, both men continued to share salvation through Jesus Christ by faith.

LET IT GROW

Mark ultimately did succeed in the ministry and Paul came to love and appreciate him. (Col. 4:10) Now there were two missionary teams, not just one. More doors opened to share the Gospel. Silas was Paul's secretary when he wrote 1 Peter.

Conflict is inevitable, so expect it. No conflict is easy, so endure it. Any conflict can benefit the people involved, so let it. (Swindoll)

LET IT GO

As You show us unconditional love, may we show unconditional love to others.

LET IT GO

Solving Problems

2026-08-28T08:30:00.000-05:00

N.T.#855 "Solving Problems"

August 27, 2026

Acts 15

LET IT GLOW

A problem arrived. So many times that happens.

When the Jewish converts from Judaea arrived in Antioch, they insisted that the men be circumcised in order to be saved. (verse 1 and 5) The rapid progress of Gentile evangelization in Antioch, Cyprus, and Asia Minor posed a serious threat to the Jewish Christians at Jerusalem. So the apostles and elders of the church had a conference.

LET IT GROW

How did the guys handle this situation?

Peter stood up and spoke to the meeting:

He reminded the people that God had accepted the Gentiles by faith alone and not on Jewish terms. (verse 7)
There is no difference between the Jewish believers and Gentile believers. (verse 9) Salvation is not by works nor faith plus works, but by faith alone.
Don't put a yoke on their necks. (verse 10)
But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they. (verse 11)

Then Paul and Barnabas declared what miracles and wonders God had done among the gentiles by them. (verse 12)

James, the pastor of the church at Jerusalem and brother of the Lord, spoke decisively and they accepted his words. He suggested that they no longer trouble the Gentile who had turned to God. (verse 19) Also, they are to abstain from idols, fornication, and things strangled, and from blood. (verse 20)

Messengers were chosen to take a letter to the church at Antioch telling what James had said and their agreeing to it. There was rejoicing and agreement there.

It is good for brethren to dwell together in peace.

LET IT GO

Help us to show love to others today.

Missionaries

2026-08-24T13:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#855 "Missionaries"

Aug. 24, 2026

Acts 13

LET IT GLOW

The first official gentile mission was carried by Paul and Barnabas, sent by the church at Antioch to Cyprus and Galatia. The encountered a sorcerer Barjesus who called for the two men and wanted to hear the Word of God. He was trying to tun away the deputy from the faith. Paul rebuked him and he was struck blind.

John Mark joined Paul and Barnabas. John departed and returned to Jerusalem. John Mark deserted his friends

God opened the doors for the missionary wok sharing the Gospel in Antioch, Paphos, and Perga, Iconium, Derbe, and Lystra. (chapters 13-14)

In Lystra they met a crippled man from birth, who Paul helped get healed. The man's faith resulted in his walking. Paul shared the Gospel there. Jews stoned Paul and left him for dead. Paul mentions this event in 2 Corinthians 11, being caught up in the third heaven. Paul survived and bore the scars of the stoning, mentions it in Galatians6:17. Many believed due to hearing about Jesus. God opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles. (14:27)

Do you help support missionaries' work?

LET IT GROW

You can read of Paul's first missionary journey in chapter 13, and his second missionary journey in chapter 15.

If you are suffering for Christ, being a believer, rejoice! The Lord did not promise to keep us from suffering; He promised to sustain us through suffering. (Swindoll)

Fix your hope and heart on Jesus, not on people.

LET IT GO

Be what God wants us to be.

Who is Worthy?

2026-08-20T08:30:00.000-05:00

N.T.#855 "Who is Worthy?"

August 20, 2026

Acts 12-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

They looked for Peter everywhere and he was nowhere to be found. That was good for us, except not good for the guards of the prison. Letting a prisoner escape meant death to the guards.

Herod left Jerusalem and went to Caesarea, where his other capital was.

There was no explanation of Peter's escape but that Jesus came and set him free.

LET IT GROW

The people paid Herod Agrippa I a visit. (verses 19-20)

Herod put on his robe made of silver and sat on his throne, speaking to the people. They shouted, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man. (verse 23)

The king did not refuse the honor, but relished and reveled in it.

Because the king did not give God the glory, the Lord smote him with worms, eating up the king. The praise due Jehovah resulted in the king receiving it and he died.

In Isaiah 42:8, God says He will not give His glory to another.

Instead of Peter being killed by Herod, it was Herod who was killed by Peter's God!

The Word of God grew and multiplied. (verse 24)

Barnabas and Saul took John Mark with them on their missionary journey to Antioch

People are believing in Jesus as Savior during this time. The early church was growing.

LET IT GO

Lord, only You are worth of worship and praise

Freedom From Prison

2026-08-14T11:15:00.000-05:00

N.T.#854 "Freedom From Prison"

August 14, 2026

Acts 12-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Do you feel like you are in a prison-financial, marital, family, job keeping you there? Peter must have felt hopeless, but his situation had hope., So does your, dear friend.

We left Peter in prison, chained, and between two soldiers. The church was praying for Peter, without ceasing. A guard was on the outside, also. He was waiting for trial and execution, but it was Easter, so he was waiting. Peter was definitely securely bound in prison. No escaping for him. He was doomed.

Except, someone comes to visit Peter-an angel of the Lord (Jesus probably) showed up. /He woke up Peter, caused his chains to fall off, and told him to get dress. (verse 7)Peter followed the angel out of the prison, passed by the guards and got to the street. Peter assumed he was seeing a vision. (verse 9) Then he realized he wasn't dreaming-he was free. (verse 10)

What a divine rescue mission!

Have you ever been rescued by the Lord?

After surgery, years ago, I stopped breathing because of too much morphine. My lips were turning blue, my husband tells everyone. He yelled for help, a nurse yelled for help, and my family doctor and surgeon came to my rescue. Thank God my family doctor was there close by and knew what to give me. It wasn't my time to go home. Neither was it Peter's time to die.

LET IT GROW

Peter went to the home of John Mark's mother where believers gathered to pray for him. Peter knocked at the door of the gate, (courtyard) a servant Rhoda answered. She was so overjoyed to see Peter that she left him out in the cold and ran back inside to tell everyone he was there. She forgot to let Peter in. (verse 14)

Notice the church's response:

They had been praying for Peter, but when God miraculously answered, they couldn't believe it.
They told Rhoda she was out of her mind-no way Peter could be standing outside.
Peter kept knocking.
When they opened the door, the prayer warriors were astonished.
Peter had come to share what had happened to him with James and the brethren, disciples.

God answers our prayers, sometimes immediately and sometimes later. Sometimes it is a no and sometimes it is a yes.

Peter left and went to Caesarea. (verse 19)

LET IT GO

Only Jesus paid the price for me.

Only His love could set me free.

Nobody else could open prison doors-just Jesus and nothing more.

Please set us free from our prisons, Lord Jesus.

Be a Faithful Prayer Warrior

2026-08-13T07:17:00.000-05:00

N.T. #853 "Be a Faithful Prayer Warrior"

August 13, 2026

Acts 12

LET IT GLOW

How faithful are you in praying for others?

Good things were happening. People were getting saved, believing in Jesus as their Savior. But a turn for the worse happened. Herod Agrippa I was the grandson of Herod the great, the cruel Roman ruler of the area. He started persecuting the church. He killed James, the brother of John, with a sword. James was the first apostle to fall victim as a martyr for the faith. (Tradition says an officer guarding James confessed Christ as Savior and was beheaded with the apostle. You can see the cruelty of those in charge.

Since those actions pleased the Jews, Peter was arrested and thrown into prison. Since it was Easter time, they waited for his trial.

How difficult it was to have lived in those times and be a believer in Jesus.

LET IT GROW

Prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him (Peter)

Herod would have brought Peter to trial and execution, but something extraordinary happened while he slept between 2 soldiers, in chains and a guard standing outside the door.

Prayer was answered, but those who prayed for Peter had a hard time accepting thier prayers were answered. We will continue the story tomorrow.

LET IT GO

Help us trust You to answer our prayers as You see fit, Lord Jesus.

Thank You for Your everlasting love for us.

Helping Others

2026-08-12T09:30:00.000-05:00

N.T.#852 "Helping Others"

August 12, 2026

Acts 11-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

We are going to help a sister church this Saturday. A small group of us are helping pain and clean up a church and parsonage that had been closed for about a year. My brother in law is taking over as pastor. They have gone from the attendance of 9 to 27 so far. It is a country church in need of help. The people are there in the area, waiting for this to happen. The Lord is blessing the work. Today's lesson is a similar situation.

Barnabus and Saul stayed in Antioch for a full year, teaching the new believers. There was a famine in the region, a drought. The church at Antioch assisted the church in Jerusalem. They gave generously to care for the needs of others. Those two delivered help.

Each person should do as he has decided in his heart-not reluctantly or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Cor. 9:7)

Do we give to the needy?

LET IT GROW

Is the Lord preparing you for some kind of ministry?

Here we read of Gentile believers in Antioch providing loving support to Jewish believers in need. Prejudices were overcome.

How do we react with Christians of another race?

LET IT GO

Open our eyes, Lord Jesus, to see the needs of others.

Help us to help others for Your glory.

On a Mission

2026-08-11T10:21:00.000-05:00

N.T.#851 "On a Mission"

August 11, 2026

Acts 11

LET IT GLOW

Believers in Jesus Christ come from every tongue, tribe, nation, race, and gender. We live, work, and worship together under His banner, not our own. (Tony Evans)

Back at Jerusalem, they were waiting for Peter to arrive. Both believers and unbelievers were there. So Peter explained in detail his heavenly vision, Cornelius' conversion, and the new Gentile believers. Racial divisions stand in God's way and oppose the truth of the Gospel. (Gal. 2) Christ is Lord of all, both Gentiles and Jews.

LET IT GROW

God's mission for the church is a worldwide one. After Stephen was stoned to death, believers scattered to Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. Jesus was preached and many turned to the Lord. (verses 19-21)

When the church at Jerusalem heard about this, they sent Barnabas to Antioch. He was a Jew from Cyprus sent to the Jews to witness to them. Many Gentiles had been saved by the grace of God. Barnabas was glad and encouraged them. He then went to Tarsus to seek Saul. They both went to Antioch, staying a whole year, teaching the people.

A half million people lived there, including retired Roman officials. Commercial and political power was at Antioch. It was 300 miles from Jerusalem.

And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. (verse 26)

LET IT GO

Use us as Your missionaries today.

Fill us with Your Word and love.

Do You Believe?

2026-08-10T07:23:00.000-05:00

N.T.#850 "Do You Believe?"

August 10, 2026

Acts 10-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Do you have questions about God, the Word, life? So did a man in our lesson today. Read on to find how he got answers.

This man, Cornelus, was praying and fasting and the angel of the Lord appeared to him. He was told to send for Peter in Joppa. He was a Gentile, a centurion, and a God-fearing man who gave alms and prayers to God. Four days later, Peter arrives and Cornelius tells him what transpired.

What was Peter's message?

God is no respecter of persons. (Respecter means one exhibiting partiality.) (verse 34)
Every nation that fears God and works righteousness is accepted with God. (verse 35)
God wants preaching of peace by Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all.). (verse 36)
Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit and power from God, went about doing good and healing, for God was with Him. (verse 38)
Peter was a witness of what Jesus did. The Jews slew and hung Jesus on a tree. (verse 39)
God raised Jesus up on the third day and showed Him to others. (verse 40)
He appeared only to certain ones chosen by God. The disciples ate and drank with the Risen Jesus. (verse 41)
They preach and testify that God will be the Judge of quick (lively) and dead. (verse 42)
That through His name (Jesus) whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins. (verse 43)

Friend, have you ever asked Jesus to forgive you of your sins and recognized He is the only Savior, Son of God?

LET IT GROW

Peter was saying that God does not play favorites, Anyone from any nation may be saved, all on the same basis of faith. Gentiles are now acceptable, by the grace of God. Gentiles and Jews come to God the same way-believing in Jesus Christ, so both can be saved, the whosoever.

A one-time-only occurrence happened as the Holy Spirit fell on those believing Gentiles and they spoke in tongues. Those believers were baptized in Jesus' name. (verse 48)

LET IT GO

Lord Jesus, help those who read this to believe in You as Savior.

Jesus is alive!

Help us share Your death, burial, and resurrection today.

What a Day For God to Work!

2026-08-07T09:53:00.000-05:00

N.T. #850 "What a Day For God to Work!"

August 7, 2026

Acts 10

LET IT GLOW

It was about ten years after Pentecost. It was time to go to the lost Gentiles with the Gospel. God had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles and bring them into His family.

Warren W. Wiersbe's Bible Exposition Commentary gives us for acts to this wonderful drama:

Preparation
Explanation
Proclamation
Vindication.

Before God saved the Gentiles, He prepared Peter to bring the message and Cornelius to hear the message.

Who was Cornelius?

He was a God-fearing Gentile and a Roman centurion.
He gave charitably to the Jews.
He prayed to God.
He had a vision of an angel telling him to send for Peter in Joppa. (verses 3-6)
He obeyed by sending his servants to bring Peter to him. (30 miles away)

It was probably just an ordinary day for Cornelius. Yet, God was about to do something extraordinary in his life. The emptiness Cornelius felt in his life was about to change.

LET IT GROW

Meanwhile, Peter was on his roof praying at noon. Daily, he got alone with God three times a day to pray. This particular time Peter had a vision from God:

A large sheet was lowered from heaven with all kinds of animals in it that were unclean for Jews to eat. Peter was told to kill and eat those animals. Peter was hesitant because he had never eaten anything unclean to a Jew.

What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. (verse 15)

This vision was seen 3 times for Peter to understand. In the meantime, men were at Peter's gate to see him. The Lord convinced Peter He had sent them. Lodging them, the next day Peter and the men went to Cornelius at Caesarea.

Peter had to overcome prejudices the Jews had for Gentiles. Cornelius fell down to worship Peter, but Peter declared he was only a man, for him to stand up. The two talked together.

God had showed Peter that he should not call any man common or unclean. (verse 28)

The people were there before Peter ready to hear what God told Peter.

God is no respecter of persons. But in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

What does that mean? Anyone from any nation may be saved, all on the same basis of faith. It is God's grace for us all.

Peter preached Jesus as the only way to obtain forgiveness of our sins by Holy God. Jesus, the Son of God, died, was buried, and rose from the dead, a perfect sacrifice for our sins. Many believed in Jesus and were baptized.

LET IT GO

Help us overcome our prejudices, Lord.

Use us in kingdom work to share salvation in Jesus is for all who believe.

Peter is Ministering

2026-08-06T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#849 "Peter is Ministering"

August 6, 2026

Acts 9-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Luke turns from Saul's ministry to Peter's ministry to the Gentiles. Peter grew up hauling nets on the Sea of Galilee, married, perhaps raised a little family in the fishing village of Bethsaida. Then he met Jesus. Not long after that, he gave up his stake in what might have been a busting-at-the-seams fishing company to follow the Messiah. He was one of the disciples that spoke quickly, acted without thinking, committed himself impulsively and led with unflinching pride. Peter was the one who declared he would not fall away from Jesus, yet denied Him 3 times Peter was the one who first suffered for his faith, beaten with John in the temple, but he went back to preaching again and won 5,000 to faith in Jesus. He became the man through whom God worked some of the greatest miracles of the apostolic era. (Swindoll)

Peter went to the city of Lydda. One of the believers was bedridden for 8 years. Someone had to feed the man, clean him up, dress him, move him, every day for 8 long years. Peter commanded the man to get up and make his bed, for Jesus makes him whole. He did. This miracle caused many in the city and surrounding area to turn to the Lord. (verses 32-35)

LET IT GROW

Then Peter went to Joppa, the town where Jonah had run from centuries earlier. That was where Tabitha, called Dorcas, a believing woman who sewed clothing, died. Peter prayed over her and Jesus raised her up. Many in Joppa believed in Jesus.

Swindoll says where there is authentic miraculous work, the Lord alone is glorified, no showmanship, unbeliever are convinced to believe, and Biblical truth is validated.

Friend, have you asked Jesus into your hear to be your Savior, repented of your sins?

LET IT GO

Help us deny ourself, take up our cross, and follow You, Jessus.

On The Road

2026-08-04T08:00:30.897-05:00

N.T.#848 "On The Road"

August 5, 2026

Acts 9-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Have you traveled to share the Gospel of Jesus? We have made several foreign trips, with many being saved. Saul did the same. Read on to find out more of his life as a Christian.

Saul hit the ground with both feet preaching Jesus. He was on the road for a lifetime of mission work. He disputed against the Grecians and they sought to kill him. He was commissioned to take the Gospel to the Gentiles. (9:15) Saul went to Tarsus, his hometown. Many believed.

We won't read of Saul until 11:25. Barnabas went to Tarsus to find Saul. They went to the church at Antioch and ministered there, That took place 7 years after Saul left Jerusalem and about 10 years after his conversion. Saul may have used Tarsus as his headquarters for taking the Gospel to the Gentiles in the part of the Roman Empire. He ministered in the regions of Suria and Cilicia (Gal. 1:21) and established churches there (Acts 15:41).

Saul, later Paul, suffered for the Gospel-1 beating by Romans and 5 Jewish beatings are recorded in Acts or the epistles. Luke tells of one shipwreck he went through.

[Resource: The Bible Exposition Commentary by Warren W. Wiersbe]

"It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until He has hurt him deeply." (A.W.Tozer)

"When God wants to do an impossible task, He takes an impossible man and crushes him," (Alan Redpath)

LET IT GROW

It was a time of growth for the churches-spiritually and numerically. The door of faith had been opened to the Jews (Acts 2), Samaritans (Acts 8), and soon the Gentiles (Acts 10).

Peter returns on the scene as Saul moved off. God changes His workmen, but His work goes on.

Our part is to surrender our wills to His will, to abandon our ways for His ways. (Swindoll)

LET IT GO

Only Jesus paid the price for me.

Only His love could set me free.

Nobody else can open prison doors-just Jesus and nothing more.

Early Years of Saul

2026-08-04T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#847 "Early Years of Saul"

August 4, 2026

Acts 9-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

After Ssaul received his eyesight, Saul visited Arabia for about 3 years. The Lord instructed him to get alone so He could teach Saul His Word. Maybe it was then that he experienced perils of robbers and perils in the wilderness. (2 Cor. 11:26) Saul may have done some evangelizing while in Arabia. He messages came directly from the Lord Jesus. (Gal. 1:10-24)

Saul preached Christ as the Son of God, the Mesiah and deity, in the synagogues in Damascus. The people were amazed that Saul changed from persecuting Christians to preaching Jesus. Those Damascus Jews could not believe their ears or eyes. After many days, the Jews took counsel to kill Saul, watching the gates day and night to kill him.

LET IT GROW

Saul would suffer many things for the cause of Christ. (verse 16)

The disciples at Damascus let Saul down by the wall in a basket.

The disciples in Jerusalem were afraid of Saul and believed he was not a disciple. (verse 26) Barnabas took Saul to the disciples of Jesus, declaring he:

had seen the Lord Jesus,
spoke to Jesus,
and boldly preached Jesus in Damascus.

Saul was converted to a believer, Barnabas shared. He went in and out of Jerusalem. (verse 28)

What can we learn from Saul's experience?

God can use even the most obscure saint.

We should never be afraid to obey God's will.

God's works are always balanced.

We must never underestimate the value of one person brought to Christ. (Warren W. Wiersbe)

LET IT GO

Keep us humble before You, Jesus.

Use us in kingdom work.

Bless those who are faithful.

Save the lost.

From Persecutor to Preacher

2026-08-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.t.#846 "From Persecutor to Preacher"

August 3, 2026

Acts 9-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Have you had an eye opening experience? Saul certainly did!

In the meantime, across town, a believing Jew named Ananias had a vision from the Lord Jesus. His instructions were:

Ananias was told to go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and call for the man Saul of Tarsus, for he is praying there. Saul was the guy who put Christians in prison.
Saul saw in a vision you coming in, placing your hands on him, and his sight returning.
Ananias was cautious because Saul's making believers suffer, for the chief priests gave Saul authority to do the same in Damascus. (verse 14)
Lord Jesus informed Ananaias Saul's purpose for the Lord to bear His name to the Gentiles, kings, and Israel, for he was a chosen vessel. (verse 15)
The Lord was going to show Saul the great things he must suffer for His sake. (verse 16)

Get up and go. Well, I feel his reluctance. That sounded like a good reason to avoid Saul, yet Ananias obeyed God even though it could have meant his life.
God can use even the most obscure saint for kingdom work. Faithfulness is more important than fame. This was an extraordinary thing that happened to Saul. We may not know how valuable a person is when saved.

LET IT GROW

Ananias didn't know what an influence Saul was going to have for generations to come. Truly, Paul was a chosen vessel yielded to God's will not his own. He wrote 2/3 of the New Testament. Saul was a well-educated Roman citizen, a Jew, and knew the Greek language. He was a pharisee to the top degree. Yet he was humbled by the Lord Jesus for 3 days without sight until Ananias came.

What happened to saul?

In verse 17, Ananias explains that Jesus sent him to Saul.
Ananias laid hands on him. Probably prayed, but Luke doesn't say so.
Saul received his sight as well as the Holy Spirit. (verse 17)
Scales fell from Saul's eyes, he arose and was baptized.
Saul ate meant, was strengthened, then stayed in Damascus a few days.
He preached in the synagogues, Christ, the Son of God.

What a changed man! From persecutor to preacher. This changed heart couldn't but share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

LET IT GO

and let God.

Blinded by the Light

2026-07-31T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#845 "Blinded by the Light"

July 31, 2026

Acts 9

LET IT GLOW

What does it take for you to come to Jesus? For Saul, it took a divine appointment and his being struck blind. Read on for details.

Can you see this Pharisee Saul riding a very high horse on his way to Damascus? It only took a few seconds for God to bring him down. Saul was on a mission, for he had letters from the high priest giving permission to bound Christians (believers of the Way) and drag them to Jerusalem. Every breath Saul took he became more adamant against Christian believers. He wanted to bring them for trial before the Sanhedrin counsel. Keep in mind, Saul thought he was doing a good thing, yet he was sinning.

All sin, regardless of its character, is ultimately directed against the Lord God. There is no such thing as private or personal sin. Every sin that is committed affects others, but in its terminal point, every sin affects God. (Falwell)

Saul's persecution of Christians meant he was persecuting the Lord God of heaven. And God wasn't about to let Saul get away with it.

Do we consider the consequences of our sins?

LET IT GROW

This great light brought Saul to the ground. Look at the conversation between Jesus and Saul:

Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?

Who art thou, Lord?

I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?

Arise, and go to the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. (verses 4-6)

Those with Saul were speechless, having heard the voice, but seeing no man. Saul was blinded by the Light of Jesus, His holiness. That made Saul realize Jesus is alive, the Son of God. Have you believed in Jesus?

Saul was 3 days without sight, as well as not eating and drinking. (verse 9)

LET IT GO

Strengthen us when persecution comes our way, Lord Jesus.

God is Working!

2026-07-30T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#844 "God is Working!"

July 30, 2026

Acts 8-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

How did the >Ethiopian know he should be baptized? (verse 36) Maybe he had seen people baptized in Jerusalem or Philip included this in his witness to the man. (Gentiles were baptized when they became Jewish proselytes. Also, born again believers in Jesus were baptized. Baptism is an important part of a believer's commitment to Christ and witness for Him. This man was speaking while others in his caravan were listening.

Even though this man was a eunuch, the Ethiopian was accepted by God. Have you been born again? Do you believe in Jesus as your Savior?

LET IT GROW

We have seen the Holy Spirit reaching working in the life of an Ethiopian. In Acts 8, Samaritans were saved; in Acts 9, Saul, a Jew, in converted; in Acts 10 the Gentiles find Christ. The Lord is working in the world as people hear the Gospel.

Is God working in your area?

During our Vacation Bible School, we had 5 youth saved. since then, another youth and an adult got saved, plus one youth came for baptism. God is working in our church.

LET IT GO

Glory to God in the Highest!

A Divine Appointment

2026-07-28T09:22:00.000-05:00

N.T. #843 "A Divine Appointment"

July 29, 2026

Acts 8-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

As the end of conversation with Simon the sorcerer ended, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, accompanied by Philip. They witnessed to the Samaritans along the way. Philip was instructed to go to Gaza, along the sea to the Sinai Peninsula. There he met an Ethiopian.

Who was this Ethiopian?

He was a eunuch of great authority under Queen Candace of Ethiopia. She was the mother of the king. She was in charge of the country's treasure. What was unusual about the situation was two things:

Candace came to Jerusalem to worship.
The eunuch was reading from the prophet Isaiah, sitting in his chariot.

LET IT GROW

Philip understood what was happening-the Holy Spirit sent him to witness to this man. Philip asked the man if he understood what he was reading. Being a non-Jew, he did not. The man invited Philip to sit with him.

The Scripture read was found in Isaiah 53:7, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth.

This was describing the Suffering Servant Jesus Christ. He died a sacrificial death, taking our place as punishment for our sins.

The eunuch professed: I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. (verse 37)

Then the eunuch wanted to be baptized. There was sufficient water for an immersion of baptism.

Dear one, have you been born again?

LET IT GO

May we be sensitive to You leading, Holy spirit.

Help us be available, tactful, faithful to sharing the Gospel.

Bewitched People

2026-07-28T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#842 "Bewitched People"

July 28, 2026

Acts 8-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Have you ever met a person that left you scratching your head in wonderment? You couldn't put your finger on it, but they were not quite what they seemed. Something didn't jive. Peter met his that day.

Simon was a sorcerer in Samaria. He had bewitched the people there.

In Greek, bewitched means amazed; be bestounded; wonder.

The people thought Simon's power came from God, but it was from the devil. People came to know the Lord Jesus as Savior, through the preaching of Philip, and were baptized. It appeared that Simon was among them, yet there was no sign of his repentance of sin nor confession of sin. He continued with Philip, observing the miracles and signs Philip did. Simon wanted to get close to Philip and learn his ability to heal the sick and perform miracles.

Then Peter and John were sent to Samaria by the apostles; they prayed the Holy Spirit would come upon the believers, laying hands on them. Simon saw this and offered them money for the power of the Holy Spirit. This guy certainly didn't understand what was going on, did he? (verses 14-18)

Simon was totally off base. You can't buy God's love, salvation, power, Holy Spirit. Also, Peter and John did not call down the Holy Spirit upon the people when they laid hands on them and prayed. They didn't bestow the Holy Spirit, but witnessed the Samaritans receiving the Holy Spirit.

Simon had previously used magic, real or illusion, for selfish gain. He misunderstood that he could actually ask to purchase the power of the Holy Spirit. Totally off base!

[Resources: Liberty Bible Commentary, Swindoll's Living Insights on Acts]

LET IT GROW

Peter let Simon have it.

But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. (verses 20-23)

Perish refers to the total destruction of something, its utter ruin. In effect, Peter was saying, "May your money follow you into hell because that's where you're headed!" It was possible that Simon could repent, but we don't read if it happening.

Bitterness and wickedness was in Simon's heart. (verse 23) Peter saw it.

Repentance and prayer were needed to root out the evil ways and desires that had so long been a part of Simon's life. Simon wanted power, to make money, and gain prestige. God is not a slot machine to be used to fulfill our carnal desires.

Friend, have you admitted your sins to God, asked His forgiveness, believed Jesus is Christ the Savior, and been saved from hell?

LET IT GO

Lord Jesus, deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, the glory forever.

Ministry of Philip

2026-07-25T08:13:00.000-05:00

N.T.#841 "Ministry of Philip"

July 27, 2026

Acts 8-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Dr. Luke leaves the persecution Saul was doing on the believing church in Jerusalem. He picks back up in chapter 9 with the conversion of Saul on the road to Damascus.

In the meantime, Luke focuses on the ministry of Deacon Philip:

Philip went to Samaria and preached Christ to them.
Many believed in Jesus as Savior.
His successful ministry resulted in healings, casting out of unclean spirits, and other signs of the presence of the Holy Spirit in him.
Many were bewitched with the sorcery by Simon the Sorcerer, known as Simon Magus.
Simon had great sway over the people of Samaria.
People even said Simon had great power of God, which was the opposite-the devil was his source of power.
Men and women believed in Jesus as Philip preached about the kingdom of God and Jesus. They were baptized. (verse 12)

The Lord used Philip to spread the Gospel in Samaria.

LET IT GROW

The apostles heard Samaria received the Word of God, so they sent Peter and John there. (verse 14) News of Philip's preaching and the conversion of the Samaritans reached Jerusalem. The church at Jerusalem was all Jews and this assembly was all Samaritans. Peter and John prayed for those new converts to receive the Holy Spirit.

When a sinner gets saved, that is when they receive the Holy Spirit. Salvation is a prerequisite.

LET IT GO

Jesus, help us let go and let You take control of our thoughts and words, actions and deeds.

Scattering and Preaching

2026-07-24T14:32:00.000-05:00

N.T.#840 "Scattering and Preaching"

July 24, 2026

Acts 8

LET IT GLOW

What happened after Stephen was stoned to death?

There was great persecution against the Jerusalem church.
The believers scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria.
Except for the apostles, they buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him and remained in Jerusalem. (verse 1-2)
Saul made havock of the church by entering every house putting men and women in prison who were believers. (verse 3)

Saul had papers of permission from the authority of the Sanhedrin and high priest. He smashed in doors and arrested believers in this new Christian sect.

Folks, this could happen to us eventually. If Muslims conquered America, they could do the same to us. Is our faith strong enough to survive?

LET IT GROW

The result of the persecution of Christians was the scattering of those who preached the Word. (verse 4)

Saul was trying to stamp out Christianity, but God had other plans for him. Saul hated Christianity, rejected Jesus, and persecuted Christians.

We know how the rest of the story ends up-Saul is converted to Christ, becoming Paul, the greatest missionary the world has ever known.

God used the wicked actions of unbelievers to fulfill His purpose. So hang in there my friend. Be a witness for Jesus wherever you are.

LET IT GO

Keep the faith.

Serve and worship the Lord Jesus. Jesus is the only way to heaven. Believe in Him.

Reap the blessings.

It Was The Death of HIm

2026-07-23T07:10:00.000-05:00

N.T.#839 "It Was The Death of HIm"

July 23, 2026

Acts 7-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Deacon Stephen gave a fantastic sermon to the Sanhedrin council of the Jews. What did it profit? After all, he was stoned to death.

When the men of Israel were at their worst, the man Stephen was at his best. (Falwell)

Thou shalt not kill. Those stone throwers knew that commandment. Those who claimed to be devoted to God were treating His witnesses this way-killing him.

And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep. (verses 59-60)

LET IT GROW

Do we see Stephen still trusting the grace of God, the righteousness of Jesus, for his salvation? He had trusted and lived for Christ during life, so he could expect to trust and live for Christ in eternity.

Jesus had said a similar thing at His death-forgiving His killers.

Stephen had compassion for his persecutors. He wanted them to be saved.

Believers are to forgive men no matter what the offense may be. We are told to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to them that hate us, pray for them who despitefully use us, and persecute us. (Matthew 5:44)

LET IT GO

Lord, replace hate with love, revenge with forgiveness, lies with truth, injustice with justice.

Help us to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. (Mic. 6:8)

Give us faith to endure to the end, Lord Jesus.

Faithful to the End

2026-07-22T09:47:00.000-05:00

N.T.#838 "Faithful to the End"

July 22, 2026

Acts 7-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

What issue was the religious leaders having with Stephen?

They elevated the temple building to almost idol status.
They rebelled against God, which they claimed to worship.
They killed the Messiah to preserve the temple, from which they derived their power.

By not embracing Jesus as the Messiah, their power was not from the Holy Spirit.

Do we put too much importance on our church building? Is it more important than people?

LET IT GROW

How did Stephen describe the religious leaders?

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in the heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost:

Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. (verses 52-53)

How did the men react?

When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. (verse 54)

When people are confronted with their sins, the guilty either repent or respond with rage. Stephen's opponents ground their teeth and covered their ears. they rushed him out of the city and stoned Stephen to death.

Before the faithful deacon died, he looked up into heaven, saw the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. (verse 56) What a unique opportunity. What a faithful witness!

Stephen's clothing was laid down at the feet of Saul.

Did you read the last two verses in this chapter? When Stephen was being stoned to death, he asked the Lord Jesus to receive his spirit and not charge them with this sin-murder.

Be prepared for resentment, loss of comfort, reputation, friends, family, freedom when presenting the Truth.

LET IT GO

Help us walk in Truth, Lord Jesus.

May we share the Gospel no matter the cost.

Delivered From Bondage

2026-07-21T11:14:00.000-05:00

N.T.#837 "Delivered From Bondage"

July 21, 2026

Acts 7-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

What has you in bondage? Do you need delivering from it? Jesus can do it!

We left Stephen standing before the Sanhedrin counsel of the Jews. It was a set-up. (verse 13) They had false witnesses accusing Stephen of blaspheming against the temple, law. Also, they said he said Jesus would destroy the temple and change customs Moses gave. It was a lie. Jesus Himself said if they destroyed His temple (body), then He would raise it up in 3 days. (6:11-15)

Stephen's face glowed with the love of Jesus for his persecutors to see. Jesus was with him. The high priest asked if those things were so. (7:1)

This Spirit-filled deacon gives a lengthy sermon, applying the historical account, shows the fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham and the Patriarchs, Jesus fulfilled the Jewish heritage, and those not recognizing Jesus as the Messiah were traitors to their forefathers. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Wow! Stephen let them have it! He spoke truth that they could not deny.

LET IT GROW

Stephen recounts their Jewish history:

God called Abraham and obeyed, not knowing where he was going (Promised Land) given to his seed, yet at that time Abraham had no children. This was a faith-walk.
The Hebrews went into bondage, dwelling in Egypt 400 years.
Abraham was circumcised, as an agreement to God's covenant.
When a famine hit, Jacob and his family ended up moving to Egypt for food.
Stephen went into detail about the life of Moses, the God-given deliverer. Ultimately, Jesus Christ would come to be their Deliver and our Deliverer.
David found favor with God; his son Solomon built God a Temple.

Stephen's remarks should have convinced the hearers that Jesus truly is their Messiah. Yet it did not, sadly.

LET IT GO

Lord, we see how Your mighty hands moved upon the lives of Abraham's family in Jewish history.

Set us free from the bondage of sin in each of our lives.

To You be the glory forever!

You are our Deliverer.

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.