The Gospel to the Gentiles - Part 6 - Devo for 10/10/2009

Reading
Acts 9:32-12:25

Truth for Today
We are quick to exclude from our group those we deem undesirable - those who fail to flatter us, support our opinions, reinforce our prejudices, boost our pride, feed our egos, or whose style of life is significantly different. The world in general expresses its intolerance and bigotry in conflicts at every level, from silent prejudice to outright war. Even believers are not immune to this tendency. Those of another culture, skin color, social status, educational group, or income level often find themselves unwelcome in some churches. Such intolerant exclusivism grieves the heart of the Lord Jesus Christ, whose purpose and prayer was that believers "may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me" (John 17:21).

Reflecting on the Text
1. Why do you think God led Luke to include the events of chapter 12 in his writings? What lessons can be found in Herod's persecution of church leaders and his subsequent death?

2. How is God leading you to cross racial or cultural barriers with the love of Christ? What are some specific actions you can take?

3. In these chapters we see the extraordinary events that happen when the children of God call out in faith to their heavenly Father. On a scale of 1-10 (with 1 being "on life support" and 10 representing "I'm in communion with God all day every day") how would you rate the health of your prayer life?

4. What do you specifically need to change?

The Gospel to the Gentiles - Part 5 - Devo for 10/09/2009

Reading
Acts 9:32-12:25

Going Deeper
Paul later gave a theological explanation of the historical events recorded in Acts 10-11. Read Ephesians 2:11-22 for this explantion.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What is the gist of Paul's argument? What is he saying?

2. What truth was Peter beginning to grasp when he remarked that God shows no partiality (10:34)?
(Verses to consider: Deuteronomy 10:17; 2 Chronicles 19:7; Job 34:19; Romans 2:11; 3:29-30; James 2:1)

3. What evidence or lines of argument did Peter use to clam his Jewish brothers who were alarmed and outraged by the salvation of the Gentiles (11:1-18)?

The Gospel to the Gentiles - Part 4 - Devo for 10/08/2009

Reading
Acts 9:32-12:25

Questions
1. How did God sovereignly prepare Cornelius for what was to follow?

2. What did God do to show Peter that Gentiles had the same access as Jews to the plan of salvation?

The Gospel to the Gentiles - Part 3 - Devo for 10/07/2009

Reading
Acts 9:32-12:25

Questions
1. Identify some of the highlights of Peter's ministry cited by Luke. Why were these events singled out and recorded?

2. What insights into Peter's character are found in chapters 9-12?

The Gospel to the Gentiles - Part 2 - Devo for 10/06/2009

Reading
Acts 9:32-12:25

Keys to the Text
Salvation to the Gentiles: Although the widespread salvation of Gentiles came about because Israel as a nation refused her Savior, that extension of grace was not an afterthought with God. From His first calling of Abraham, it was God's intent that His chosen people should be the instruments of bringing salvation to the Gentiles. "In thee," the Lord told Abraham, "shall all families of the earth be blessed" (Genesis 12:3). In the covenant at Sinai God called Israel to be His witnessess, His spiritual ambassadors to the world as "a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation" (Exodus 19:6). The tribes of Jacob were to be "a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth" (Isaiah 49:6). God's ultimate plan of redemption has always included the Gentiles in every way as much as the Jews, His specially chosen people under the old covenant. Through Jesus Christ, believing Gentiles are as fully saved, as fully the children of God, and as fully as citizens of His divine kingdom as are believing Jews.

The Gospel to the Gentiles - Part 1 - Devo for 10/05/2009

Reading
Acts 9:32-12:25

The Context
After describing Saul's astounding conversion, Luke turned again to the ministry of Peter. In the first nine chapters, the convicting and regenerating work of God's Spirit has been mostly confined to the Jews. Beginning in chapter 10, Luke describes the Holy Spirit's sovereign activity in a Gentile army officer stationed on the Mediterranean coast. This is a watershed moment in the history of the church. The one true God - the God of the Hebrews - is about to unveil His eternal plan for the Gentiles.

To confirm the Gentiles' acceptance by God and their full inclusion in His kingdom as heirs of grace, Luke records the new converts' experience of the Holy Spirit. Exactly as happened with the Jewish believers at Pentecost, these new Gentile converts began speaking in unlearned foreign languages. The Jewish believers who had accompanied Peter from Joppa were amazed. To show that Peter's evangelistic encounter with the Gentile Cornelius was not a fluke, Luke mentions the widespread outreach that had begun taking place in Antioch. This effort to preach to non-Jews by believers from Cyprus and Cyrene had both the power and blessing of God on it.

Unable to stop the masses from embracing this new faith, the Jews launched a direct attack upon the leaders of the Christians. No more mere threats and warnings - this time, Herod had James executed and Peter arrested. Though from a human perspective the situation appeared terribly grim, from a heavenly perspective this was just another occasion to display the infinite power of God.

The Conversion of Saul - Part 6 - Devo for 10/03/2009

Reading
Acts 9:1-31

Truth for Today
The Spirit transformed Saul in two fundamental ways. First, He took Saul's natural strengths and refined them. Saul was a gifted natural leader, with strong will power. He was a man of strong convictions, a self-starter, bold, a master at using his time and talents, a motivated individual, and a profoundly gifted thinker and speaker. The Holy Spirit also eliminated undesirable characteristics and replaced them with desirable ones. He replaced Paul's cruel hatred with love; his restless, aggressive spirit with peace; his rough, hard-nosed treatment of people with gentleness; his pride with humility. Only the Spirit of God can so thoroughly sanctify a life.

Reflecting on the Text
1. What natural strengths does God want to strengthen and use in your life? What undesirable qualities do you think the Lord wants to replace? What is necessary on your part for this process of sanctification to proceed?

2. When has God used you to play an "Ananias" role in someone's life? What was that like?

3. Pray faithfully for the people you know (or know of) who are highly antagonistic to the gospel. Watch what God will do!

The Conversion of Saul - Part 5 - Devo for 10/02/2009

Reading
Acts 9:1-31

Going Deeper
Read Philippians 3:1-14 for more insight into Paul's thinking about his relationship with Christ.

Exploring the Meaning
1. How does Paul compare and contrast his life before and after meeting Christ?

2. Read Romans 3. Consider the way in which Paul met Christ. Is salvation initiated by God or by humanity? What are the implications of this for your prayer life?

3. What kinds of thoughts and feelings do you imagine Paul experienced during the three days he was without sight, while he fasted and waited for divine instructions (9:6-9)?

The Conversion of Saul - Part 4 - Devo for 10/01/2009

Reading
Acts 9:1-31

Questions
1. What specifically did God ask Annanias to do, and why was this a troubling command?

2. What was the ironic twist in Saul's story (9:2, 23, 29)?

3. Acts records that Christianity was often referred to as "the Way" in the first century (see 9:2; 19:9, 23; 22:4; 24:14, 22). What does this mean?
(Verses to consider: 18:26; John 14:6; Hebrews 10:19-20; 2 Peter 2:2)

The Conversion of Saul - Part 3 - Devo for 09/30/2009

Reading
Acts 9:1-31

Questions
1. What happened to Saul as he made his way to Damascus to round up more Christians?
(Verses to consider: Acts 22:14; 26:16; 1 Corinthians 9:1; 15:8)

2. How did his traveling companions react?

The Conversion of Saul - Part 2 - Devo for 09/29/2009

Reading
Acts 9:1-31

Keys to the Text
Saul/Paul: Like his namesake, Saul, Israel's first king, Paul was from the tribe of Benjamin. (Saul was his Hebrew name; Paul was his Greek name). He was also a Roman citizen. Paul was born about the time of Christ's birth, in Tarsus, an important city in the Roman province of Cilicia, located in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). He spent much of his early life in Jerusalem as a student of the celebrated rabbi Gamaliel. Like his father before him, Paul was a Pharisee, a member of the strictest Jewish sect. Miraculously converted while on his way to Damascus (ca. AD 33-34) to arrest Christians in that city, Paul immediately began proclaiming the gospel message. Paul received the Spirit without any apostles present because he was a Jew (the inclusion of Jews in the church had already been established at Pentecost), and because he was an apostle in his own right, since Christ personally chose him and commissioned him for service. After narrowly escaping from Damascus with his life, Paul spent three years in Nabatean Arabia, south and east of the Dead Sea (Galatians 1:17, 18). During that time, he received much of his doctrine as direct revelation from the Lord. More than any other individual, Paul was responsible for the spread of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.

The Conversion of Saul - Part 1 - Devo for 09/28/2009

Reading
Acts 9:1-31

Drawing Near
1. What is your conversion story? How did you come to believe in Christ?

2. What was your life like before?

3. In what tangible ways has Jesus Christ transformed you?

The Context
As our study continues in chapter 9, Luke records a monumental event in the history of the church - the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. It was Saul (Paul) who would become God's apostle to the Gentiles, leading the church in spreading Christianity "to the ends of the earth." Therefore it is Paul, more than any other person, who figures prominently in Acts 10 through 28. No one else was better suited to the task than Paul: a "Hebrew of the Hebrews" (Philippians 3:5; Galatians 1:14); a native of Tarsus, thus thoroughly acquainted with Greek culture (17:22-31); a citizen of Rome (16:37); trained in a trade so that he could support himself (18:3) as he traveled and ministered.

But before Christ could use this highly gifted man, He first had to transform him. And thus we have the record of his life-changing encounter with Christ on the Damascus road! The change in Saul was instantaneous. In less than one week he went from "breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord" (9:1) to preaching Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God" (9:20).

The church was understandably suspicious, but Saul's powerful and persistent preaching, coupled with the efforts by the Jewish authorities to kill him, finally convinced the apostles that Saul's conversion was genuine. According to Galatians 1:17-18, Saul/Paul spent about three years in Arabia between the time of his conversion and his journey to Jerusalem. According to Luke, following Saul's acceptance by the apostles, the church enjoyed another growth spurt and a time of peace.

The Gospel Begins to Spread Beyond Jerusalem - Part 6 - Devo for 09/26/2009

Reading
Acts 8:4-40

Truth for Today
God often accomplishes His sovereign work through human instruments (see 2:4, 14; 4:8, 31; 6:3-8; 7:55; 8:17; 10:1-48; 16:25-34). Like a master sculptor, He takes otherwise useless and inconsequential tools and uses them to create a masterpiece. There is a prerequisite, however, for being used by God. Paul writes, "But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work." (2 Timothy 2:20-21). God uses holy tools to do His work.

Reflecting on the Text
1. Simon tried to be used by God, but failed. How is Simon's story a sober warning to all in the church who claim to be believers in Christ?

2. Why do you think God called Philip away from a thriving ministry to many and sent him to speak to one solitary individual in the desert? What are the implications of this divine act for your own life?

3. As a child of God who has been commanded to make disciples of all nations, how specifically do you sense God is leading you to share the gospel this week? What can you do to become a more effective witness?

The Gospel Begins to Spread Beyond Jerusalem - Part 5 - Devo for 09/25/2009

Reading
Acts 8:4-40

Going Deeper
Read Matthew 13:1-23 for more insight about sharing God's Word.

Exploring the Meaning
1. How does the parable of the soils in Matthew 13 illustrate the varying reactions to the gospel that are reported in Acts 8?

2. What events in chapter 8 suggest satanic opposition to the spread of the gospel? In other words, what demonic and worldly roadblocks did the believers encounter as they took the gospel into Samaritan territory?

3. Some Christians point to chapter 8 as proof that believers need to seek a "second blessing." By this they mean that believers need to be baptized in the Holy Spirit at some point following salvation. What evidence do you see for this? Against this?
(Verses to consider: Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:13)

The Gospel Begins to Spread Beyond Jerusalem - Part 4 - Devo for 09/24/2009

Reading
Acts 8:4-40

Questions
1. How did Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch come about?

2. How do you see the Spirit's continuing role in the growth of the church?

The Gospel Begins to Spread Beyond Jerusalem - Part 3 - Devo for 09/23/2009

Reading
Acts 8:4-40

Questions
1. What does it mean that the believers "went everywhere" preaching the word?
(Verses to consider: Acts 9:32; 13:6; 14:24; 15:3, 41; 16:6; 18:23; 19:1, 21; 20:2)

2. Based on the record of chapter 8, was Simon a true Christian or not? Explain your answer.

The Gospel Begins to Spread Beyond Jerusalem - Part 2 - Devo for 09/22/2009

Reading
Acts 8:4-40

Keys to the Text
The City of Samaria: The ancient capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, which eventally fell to the Assyrians (722 BC after over 20 years of idolatry and rebellion against God). After resettling many of the people in other lands, the Assyrians located Gentiles from other areas into the region, resulting in a mix of Jews and Gentiles who became known as Samaritans. The Samaritans withdrew from the worship of Yahweh at Jerusalem and established their worship at Mount Gerizim in Samaria. As a result of this history, Jews repudiated Samaritans and considered them heretical. Intense ethnic and cultural tensions raged historically between the two groups so that both avoided contact as much as possible.

Miracles, Wonders, and Signs: Many miracles accompanied the spread of the good news. "Wonders" refers to the amazement people experience when witnessing supernatural miracles. "Signs" point to the power of God behind miracles. Marvels have no value unless they point to God and His truth. Throughout the book of Acts such works were often done by the Holy Spirit through the apostles and their associates to authenticate them as the messages of God's truth.

The Gospel Begins to Spread Beyond Jerusalem - Part 1 - Devo for 09/21/2009

Reading
Acts 8:4-40

Drawing Near
As the church grew, the believers had to depend on God's Spirit more than ever for direction and wisdom. Think of a time when you knew with certainty that God was leading you to do something. How did you know? What happened?

The Context
Acts 1:8 is one of the most significant verses in the entire book. It not only serves as a blueprint for God's global plan but also functions as a kind of outline for Luke's inspired record. Chapters 1-7 detail the action of Christ's witnesses in Jerusalem. Beginning with the persecution led by Saul in chapter 8, the gospel began to spread as Christ had commanded.

Luke recorded Philip's trip into Samaria and his ministry there in order to reveal the marvelous truth that Jesus, the promised Jewish Messiah, was also the King and Savior of the Gentiles. The message of Christ was and is a worldwide gospel. All nations and languages would be invited and included in the kingdom of God (see Isaiah 56:3; Daniel 7:14). Philip was sovereignly instructed to suddenly leave a booming ministry in Samaria to go south into the desert. There he met a prominent official from the court of Candace, the queen of Ethiopia, reading (but not understanding) the prophet Isaiah. The succeeding story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch provides a wonderful picture of God's global love and His surprising plan to get the good news of Christ to those who have never heard. Even though there is opposition, the underlying truth of this section of Acts is clear: Nothing can stop God's powerful and eternal plan to fill heaven with worshippers from "all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues," (Revelation 7:9).

The Deacons of the Church - Part 6 - Devo for 09/12/2009

Reading
Acts 6:1-8:3

Truth for Today
At first glance, Stephen's death may seem pointless. Here was a promising career cut short. His ministry seems to have ended in failure. Not only was he killed as a heretic, but his death also triggered the first persecution against the entire church. That persecution, spearheaded by Saul of Tarsus, scattered the Jerusalem fellowship. Such a skewed view of Stephen's death, however, betrays a lack of understanding of the way the Holy Spirit works. The persecution, which seemed to be a negative, was in reality a positive factor. It led to the first great missionary outreach by the early church. Satan's attempt to stamp out the church's fire merely scattered the embers and started new fires around the world. In the words of the early church Father Tertullian, the blood of the martyrs became the seed of the church.

Reflecting on the Text
1. Review the description of the deacons in 6:3-5. If you had been in the early church, what personal character flaws might have disqualified you from a position of service? In what areas do you need to grow?

2. Stephen's presentation of the gospel to the Jews might be labeled bold, even blunt. When is it appropriate to speak hard words to the lost and to be more confrontational regarding sin? Who in your life might benefit from such tough love?

3. Today, persecution of believers is happening around the world. Some 200 million Christians (your brothers and sisters in the faith!) face ongoing suffering, torture, and even death simply because of their commitment to Jesus Christ. What can you do for them? How can you encourage them?

4. How would you answer the person who said: "I don't see any way that any good can possibly come from the suffering and persecution of Christians?"

The Deacons of the Church - Part 5 - Devo for 09/11/2009

Reading
Acts 6:1-8:3

Going Deeper
In some ways, the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah's task was similar to Stephen's situation. Read Jeremiah 7:23-28.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What did God say the results would be when Jeremiah faithfully proclaimed the truth of God to the people of Israel?

2. What implications does this hold for modern-day Christians called to share the truth of the gospel with a secular culture?

3. What happened immediately following Stephen's death? Why do you think his murder did not appease those who were opposed to the gospel?

The Deacons of the Church - Part 4 - Devo for 09/10/2009

Reading
Acts 6:1-8:3

Questions
1. What situation prompted the leaders of the early church to take steps to organize more efficiently, appointing Stephen and others to special positions of service?

2. Consider this statement: "We dare not try to force the Spirit to fit our mold. Organization is never an end itself but only a means to facilitate what the Lord is already doing in His church." Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why?

3. What were the requirements for the men chosen to leade the church in serving ministries? Why would these qualities be needed?

4. How would you characterize Stephen's message to the Jews? Was it "seeker sensitive"? Was it hotheaded? Misguided? What were Stephen's major points?

The Deacons of the Church - Part 3 - Devo for 09/09/2009

Reading
Acts 6:1-8:3

Unleashing the Text
Chapter 6
v. 1 - multiplied - By this point, the church may have numbered twenty thousand

v. 1 - Grecians...Hebrews - The "Hebrews" were Jews from Palestine; the "Grecians" were Jews from elsewhere in the Greek world.

v. 2 - serve tables - The word translated "tables" can refer to tables used in financial matters; whether the situation involved meals or money, the apostles did not want to neglect their top priorities.

v. 6 - laid hands on them - a symbolic act demonstrating affirmation, support, and identification

v. 9 - Synagogue of the Libertines - probably three separate synagogues comprised of the groups listed

v. 11 - blasphemous words - Unable to prevail over Stephen in a formal debate, these Jews resorted to deceit.

v. 15 - face of an angel - pure, calm, unruffled composure reflecting the presence of God

Chapter 7
v. 1 - high priest - probably Caiaphas

v. 6 - four hundred years - an approximate figure; see Genesis 15:13-14

v. 8 - twelve patriarchs - the twelve sons of Jacob, who became the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel

v. 19 - cast out their young children - only the male children

v. 23 - he was full forty years old - Moses spent forty years in Pharaoh's court, forty years in exile in Midian, and forty years leading the Exodus and Israel's wilderness wanderings.

v. 39 - would not obey - Israel would not follow Moses' leadership and yearned to return to slavery in Egypt.

v. 42 - God...gave them up to worship the host of heaven - God abandoned the people to their sin of idolatry.

v. 44 - tabernacle of witness - the predecessor of the temple

v. 51 - stiffnecked - proudfully stubborn, like their forefathers

v. 51 - uncircumcised in heart and ears - thus, as unclean before God as the uncircumcised Gentiles

v. 51 - resist the Holy Ghost - by rejecting the Spirit's messengers and their message

v. 54 - gnashed...with their teeth - in anger and frustration

v. 58 - laid down their clothes...Saul - Paul's first appearance in Scripture reveals him to be deeply involved in this sordid, murderous scene.

v. 59 - stoned - the legal punishment for blasphemy; however, this was not a legal execution but an act of mob violence

v. 60 - lay not this sin to their charge - a Christlike plea for his killers' forgiveness

v. 60 - he fell asleep - a common New Testament euphemism for the death of believers

Chapter 8
v. 1 - scattered - Thus began a widespread persecution of Christians that caused many to flee Jerusalem.

v. 3 - made havock - a verb used in extrabiblical Greek writings to refer to the destruction of a city or mangling by a wild animal

The Deacons of the Church - Part 2 - Devo for 09/08/2009

Reading
Acts 6:1-8:3

Keys to the Text
Moses and the Law: Moses was the greatest and most revered of all of the Old Testament prophets. The Ten Commandments and all the laws and instructions recorded in Exodus through Deuteronomy made up the "law of Moses." It was this law that the Jewish religious leaders held above all others. Stephen recounts the Israelites' history, including Moses' prediction that another great prophet would come - Jesus.

Stoning: The usual method of capital punishment in ancient Israel. People who broke specific statutes of the law of Moses were put to death by stoning. Stoning was usually carried out by the men of the community, upon the testimony of at least two witnesses, who would then cast the first stones (Deuteronomy 17:5-7; John 8:7; Acts 7:58). Stoning usually took place outside the settlement or camp. Offenses punishable by stoning were certain cases of disobedience, child sacrifice, consultation with magicians, blasphemy, breaking the Sabbath, the worship of false gods, rebellion against parents, and adultery. (Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Dictionary)

The Deacons of the Church - Part 1 - Devo for 09/07/2009

Reading
Acts 6:1-8:3

Drawing Near
Many Christians unconsciously believe in an unwritten rule: "If I live a moral life and if I faithfully serve God, He is somewhat obligated to protect me from anything really bad." Do you agree with this rule? Why or why not?

The Context
The rapid growth of the first-century church meant an influx of people. More people meant more needs and new ministries to meet those needs. New programs meant administrative and logistical problems that threatened to consume all the apostles' time. Rather than neglect the spiritual disciplines of prayer and teaching God's Word, the apostles called and commissioned a group of men to attend to the pressing needs of the body.

Stephen was one of the church's newly appointed "deacons." With Christ-like character, he ministered powerfully among the people until the day he encountered a group of argumentative Jews. After he declared the truth about God to them, they told lies about him to the Jewish authorities. For faithfully discharging his duties as a believer, Stephen was arrested! If Stephen was nervous as he stood before the high priest and powerful council of the Jews, he didn't show it. He gave the religious leaders a concise review of Jewish history and then abruptly accused the council of murdering the long-awaited Messiah. This blunt and pointed sermon sent the Jews into a rage and resulted in the first martyrdom in church history.

Stephen's death seemed to escalate the Jews' persecution of the followers of Christ. The man named Saul proved to be a major leader in this widespread campaign of intolerance and terror. From a human perspective, this was an awful turn of events; from a divine perspective, everything resulted in a far greater good. The Christians were forced to scatter to the surrounding regions of Judea and Samaria. As they did, the gospel began to be preached to Gentile audiences. Thus, in the midst of terrible persecution, the church actually grew!

The Apostles of the Church - Part 6 - Devo for 09/05/2009

Reading
Acts 3:1-5:42

Truth for Today
Widespread confusion exists over what the primary mission of the church of Jesus Christ should be. Some argue that the church should lead the crusade for social justice for the poor and downtrodden. Others see it as a political force to help change the culture. Still others view their church as a private club, where they can socialize with their friends. On a more biblical note, the church's goal is to mature the saints through the preaching of the Word, fellowship, and discipleship. It also meets to praise and worship God. These are important goals that should mark every church. Yet none of them is the church's primary goal here on earth. Indeed, every one of them could be better accomplished in heaven.

What is the primary goal of the church? Our Lord answered that question by charging us to "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20) The church's primary goal is evangelism. It is to carry on the work begun by the Lord Jesus Christ, whose mission was "to seek and to save that which was lost." (Luke 19:10) That is the only duty of the church that can't be better done in heaven.

Reflecting on the Text
1. In the face of persecution, the early church became even bolder in their witness. How do you account for that fact?

2. Who have been the most effective spiritual leaders in your life? Why?

3. What practical steps can you take to help make your local congregation more like the body of believers depicted here - in praying? in sharing? in modeling the gospel? in leading others to Christ? in purity?

The Apostles of the Church - Part 5 - Devo for 09/04/2009

Reading
Acts 3:1-5:42

Going Deeper
Later on, the apostle Paul helped to define more clearly what a leader in the church should look like. Read Titus 1:5-9.

Exploring the Meaning
1. Compare the requirements for church leaders that Paul gives in Titus with the leadership example set by the apostles in Acts 3-5.

2. When is it acceptable (or even right) for a believer to disobey the civil authorities?
(Verses to consider: Romans 13:1-7; Daniel 6:4-10)

3. Acts 5:1-11 contains a sobering warning against sin in the church. Why do you think God's judgment came so swiftly on Ananias and Sapphira? What are the implications of this event for the church today?
(Verses to consider: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18; 15:7; 23:23-36)

The Apostles of the Church - Part 4 - Devo for 09/03/2009

Reading
Acts 3:1-5:42

Questions
1. How did the healing of the blind man at the temple promote the spread of the gospel?

2. List all the names for Jesus that Peter used in his preaching (3:12-26; 4:8-12; 5:29-31). How had the disciples' view of Jesus expanded?

3. Describe the inner workings of the fledgling church during this time of growth, persecution, and then divine judgment. What qualities stand out to you?

The Apostles of the Church - Part 3 - Devo for 09/02/2009

Reading
Acts 3:1-5:42

Unleashing the Text
Chapter 3
v. 1 - ninth hour - 3:00 p.m.

v. 2 - alms - a charitable donation of money

v. 11 - porch...Solomon's - a portico surrounding the temple's Court of the Gentiles

v. 13 - the God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob - a description of God familiar to Peter's Jewish audience

v. 14 - murderer - that is, Barabbas (see Mark 15:11; Luke 23:18)

v. 15 - Prince of Life - the Divine Originator of life

v. 19 - be converted - a frequent New Testament word that refers to sinners turning to God

Chapter 4
v. 1 - the captain of the temple - chief of the temple police force, and second in command to the High Priest

v. 3 - for it was now eventide - Jewish law did not allow trials or hearings at night

v. 4 - five thousand - the total number of men in the Jerusalem church

v. 8 - filled with the Holy Ghost - This explains Peter's eloquent and powerful preaching.

v. 12 - none other name - There are only two religious paths: the broad (and futile) way of works to achieve salvation that ultimately leads to eternal death, and the narrow way of faith in Jesus, leading to eternal life.

v. 19 - to hearken unto you more than unto God - Christians should always obey governmental authority, unless that authority commands something contrary to God's Word.

v. 24 - Lord - a rare term that means "absolute master" and implies sovereignty

vv. 32-35 - all things common - When people in the church had needs, those who could help did so by giving money or possessions to the apostles for distribution.

v. 33 - great grace - that is, "favor"

Chapter 5
v. 2 - kept back part of the price - not a sin in and of itself; however, they had promised the full amount received to the Lord; they lied in trying to appear more generous than they were

v. 5 - great fear - afraid over the seriousness of hypocrisy and the prospect of divine judgment

v. 9 - tempt the Spirit of the Lord - to presume upon God's forbearance

v. 13 - and the rest...join himself to them - They respected Christ's followers, but feared the deadly potential of joining the church.

v. 15 - shadow of Peter - They truly thought he possessed healing power that could be transmitted even through his shadow; the Scripture never says this.

v. 28 - doctrine - that is, the gospel of Jesus Christ

v.34 - Gamaliel - the grandson of the revered rabbi Hillel, and most noted rabbi of his time

v. 40 - beaten them - an unjust flogging, probably thirty-nine lashes (see Deuteronomy 25:3)

The Apostles of the Church - Part 2 - Devo for 09/01/2009

Reading
Acts 3:1-5:42

Keys to the Text
The Temple: Because these first century Christians were devout Jews, they continued to meet in the temple for worship and to teach in the synogogues. This temple in Jerusalem was begun by Herod the Great in 20 BC and was still under construction when the Romans destroyed it in AD 70. At the time of Jesus' ministry and after, the temple was one of the most impressive structures in the world, made of massive blocks of stone bedecked with gold ornamentation. The temple buildings were made of gleaming white marble, and the whole eastern wall of the large main structure was covered with gold plates that reflected the morning sun, making a spectacle that was visible for miles. The entire temple mount had been enlarged by Herod's engineers, by means of large retaining walls and vaulted chambers. By this means the large courtyard area atop the temple mount was effectively doubled. The whole temple complex was magnificent by any standard.

Chief Priests, Rulers, Elders, and Scribes: These positions made up the Sanhedrin, the Jewish national ruling body and supreme court. It had seventy-one members, including the High Priest. The chief priests were a group within the Sanhedrin composed of members of influential priestly families. They were mostly Sadducees. The scribes were primarily Pharisees and were the authorities on Jewish law.

The Apostles of the Church - Part 1 - Devo for 08/31/2009

Reading
Acts 3:1-5:42

Drawing Near
As the early church grew, the new Christians were not always popular. Have you ever been disliked or laughed at for being a Christian? If so, how did it feel? How did you respond?

The Context
With the coming of the Spirit upon the followers of Christ, the church immediately began to grow. Now we see the impact of this new program in the eternal, unfolding plan of God.

The apostles Peter and John are the initial leaders of the church. A healing at the temple gives them an open door to declare plainly that Jesus, crucified and resurrected, is the long awaited Messiah who fulfills all the predictions of the prophets. Their preaching, however, quickly gets them in trouble with the Sanhedrin, the same authorities who arrested and killed Jesus, the dangerous rabbi from Nazareth. These religious leaders now seek to intimidate and silence His followers.

Undaunted, the believers pray for courage and continue living in such a way that the world sits up and takes notice. Those outside the church are startled to see believers care for one another and share with one another in extravagent ways. The apostles continue to boldly preach about Jesus right in the temple courts.

Still smarting from the apostles' refusal to heed their threats, and in light of the growing popularity of the church, the Jewish authorities clamp down. They arrest and jail Peter and his colleagues. When God miraculously frees His spokesmen in the night, the apostles march straight back to the temple and resume their preaching! Not even a severe beating at the hands of the council can dampen the fervor of the people of God.

The [Empowering] of the Church - Part 5 - Devo for 08/29/2009

Reading
Acts 1:1-2:47

Truth for Today
In an effort to appeal to people's interest, the church today emphasizes a great amny different programs, methods, and approaches. "Culturally relevant" worship services emphasizing music and drama have become increasingly popular. Secular psychology, management techniques, and advertising strategies have all made significant inroads into the life of the church. Seminars on everything from how to have a good marriage to how to handle money abound. Not all of those things may be harmful. Some, in their place, may even be helpful. But what has too often been sacrificed in the flurry of activities and programs is the priority of preaching. The first event following the empowering of the Holy Spirit was Peter's sermon. It led to three thousand conversions and launched the church at Jerusalem. The book of Acts is largely the record of apostolic preaching. Preaching has always remained central to the church's mission.

Reflecting on the Text
1. In Acts, there is always a close connection between the activity of God's Spirit and the proclamation of the gospel. Time and time again those who experience the baptism or filling of the Spirit begin immediately speaking with others the truth about God and His Son, Jesus Christ. How vocal are you about the things of God? To what do you ascribe this?
(Verses to consider: Acts 1:8; 2:4, 17; 4:8, 31; 6:10; 10:44-46; 13:9; 19:6)

2. These early believers had no building of their own to meet in. What does that tell you about what the "church" really is?

3. Reflect on your prayer habits (and your church's commitment to prayer). What specific, practical step can you take this week to emulate the early church in this area?

4. Ask God to make you faithful to serve, give, and pray so that our church might become all that God wants it to be.

The [Empowering] of the Church - Part 4 - Devo for 08/28/2009

Reading
Acts 1:1-2:47

Going Deeper
This is when the Holy Spirit empowered the church. For more insight about what the church is, read the apostle Paul's description of the church in Ephesians 3:1-12.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What theological insights does Paul's exposition in Ephesians 3 add to Luke's historical narrative of the empowering of the church? What is God's intent in creating the entity we call the church?

2. What was the thrust of Peter's sermon to the gathered crowd at Pentecost?

3. How does Luke describe the atmosphere and activities of the first-century church (2:42-47)?

The [Empowering] of the Church - Part 3 - Devo for 08/27/2009

Reading
Acts 1:1-2:47

Questions
1. Following the ascension of Christ into heaven what did the believers do? What are we told about the identity of this group?

2. Use three adjectives to describe the events that occurred after the Spirit came.

The [Empowering] of the Church - Part 2 - Devo for 08/26/2009

Reading
Acts 1:1-2:47

Questions
1. What words and phrases does Luke use in his opening paragraph to drive home the truth of Christ's resurrection?

2. What instructions and insights did Jesus give His followers concerning the Holy Spirit?
(Verses to consider: Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Titus 3:5-6; Ephesians 3:16, 20)

The [Empowering] of the Church - Part 1 - Devo for 08/25/2009

Reading
Acts 1:1-2:47

Drawing Near
How would you rate the reputation of Christ's church in the world today? Why?

The Context
Luke's book of Acts picks up where his Gospel left off, providing details of the early years of the church that Jesus had promised to build. Together, the two books, Luke and Acts, form a comprehensive and seamless account of how the followers of Jesus "turned the world upside down" (Acts 17:6) by taking the good news of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ to "uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8).

The opening chapters of Acts portray the apostles and other disciples gathered together in Jerusalem just before the feast of Pentecost. Following Christ's ascension into heaven and a season of prayer, the time comes for the fulfillment of the promise of the indwelling Spirit (see John 14:16-17, 26; 16:5-15). This marvelous, miraculous outpouring of God provides the supernatural power for believers to take the life-changing message of the gospel to all nations. Acts 2 concludes with a snapshot of church life in the first century.

Keys to the Text
Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is the divine agent who creates, sustains, and preserves spiritual life in those who place their trust in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit is not merely an influence or an impersonal power emanating from God. He is a person, the third member of the Trinity, equal in every way to God the Father and God the Son. Among the many characterisitcs of personhood that the Hoy Spirit manifests are: He functions with mind, emotion, and will; He loves the saints; He communicates with them, teaches, guides, comforts, and chastises them; He can be grieved, quenched, lied to, tested, resisted, and blasphemed. Since Pentecost, the Holy Spirit has indwelt all believers, illuminating their understanding and application of God's Word. He fills them, seals them, communes with them, fellowships with them, intercedes for them, comforts them, admonishes them, sanctifies them, and enables them to resist sin and serve God.

Introduction to Acts

As the second book Luke addressed to Theophilus (see Luke 1:3), Acts may originally have had no title. The Greek manuscripts title the book "Acts," and many add "of the Apostles." The Greek word translated "Acts" (praxeis) was often used to decribe the achievements of great people. Acts does feature the notable figures in the early years of the church, especially Peter (chapters 1-12) and Paul (chapters 13-28). But the book could more properly be called "The Acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles," since His sovereign, superintending work was far more significant than that of any human being. The Spirit directed, controlled, and empowered the church and caused it to grow in numbers, spiritual power, and influence.

AUTHOR AND DATE
Since Luke's Gospel was the first book addressed to Theophilus (Luke 1:3), it is logical to conclude that Luke is also the author of Acts, although he is not named in either book. The writings of the early church fathers such as Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria, Tertullian, Origen, Eusebius, and Jerome affirm Luke's authorship, and so does the Muratorian Canon (ca. AD 170). Because he is a relatively obscure figure, mentioned only three times in the New Testament (Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:11; Philemon v. 24), it is unlikely that anyone would have forged a work to make it appear to be Luke's. A forger surely would have attributed the work to a more prominent person.

Luke was Paul's close friend, travelling companion, and personal physician (Colossians 4:14). He was a careful researcher (Luke 1:1-4) and an accurate historian, displaying an intimate knowledge of Roman laws and customs, as well as the geography of Palestine, Asia Minor, and Italy. In writing Acts, Luke drew on written sources (15:23-29; 23:26-30), and he also, no doubt, interviewed key figures, such as Peter, John, and others in the Jerusalem church. Paul's two-year imprisonment at Caesarea (24:27) gave Luke ample opportunity to interview Philip and his daughters (who were considered important sources of information on the early days of the church). Finally, Luke's frequent use of the first-person plural pronouns "we" and "us" (16:10-17; 20:5-21:18; 27:1-28:16) reveals that he was an eyewitness to many of the events recorded in Acts.

Some believe Luke wrote Acts after the fall of Jerusalem (AD 70; his death was probably in the mid-eighties). It is more likely, however, that he wrote much earlier, before the end of Paul's first Roman imprisonment (ca. AD 60-62). That date is the most natural explanation for the abrupt ending of Acts, which leaves Paul awaiting trial before Caesar. Surely Luke, who devoted more than half of Acts to Paul's ministry, would have stated the outcome of that trial and described Paul's subsequent ministry, second imprisonment (2 Timothy 4:11), and death, if those events had happened before he wrote Acts. Luke's silence about such notable events as the martyrdom of James, head of the Jerusalem church (AD 62, according to the Jewish historian Josephus), the persecution under Nero (AD 64), and the fall of Jerusalem (AD 70) also suggests he wrote Acts before those events transpired.

Background and Setting
As Luke makes clear in the prologue to his Gospel, he wrote to give Theophilus (and the others who would read his work) "a declaration of those things" (Luke 1:1) that Jesus had accomplished during His earthly ministry. Accordingly, Luke wrote in his Gospel "unto thee in order" (Luke 1:3) of those momentous events. Acts continues that record, noting what Jesus accomplished through the early church. Beginning with Jesus' ascension, through the [empowering] of the church on the Day of Pentecost, to Paul's preaching at Rome, Acts chronicles the spread of the gospel (the good news of Jesus) and the growth of the church. It also records the mounting opposition to the gospel.

Theophilus, whose name means "lover of God," is unknown to history apart from his mention in Luke and Acts. Whether he was a believer whom Luke was instructing or a pagan whom Luke sought to convert is not known. Luke's address of him as "most excellent Theophilus" (Luke 1:3) suggests that he was a Roman official of some importance (24:3; 26:25).

Historical and Theological Themes
Acts records the initial response to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). It provides information on the first three decades of the church's existence - material found nowhere else in the New Testament. Though not primarily a doctrinal work, Acts nonetheless emphasizes that Jesus of Nazareth was Israel's long-awaited Messiah, shows that the gospel is offered to all people (not merely the Jews), and stresses the work of the Holy Spirit (mentioned more than fifty times). Acts also makes frequent use of the Old Testament: for example, 2:17-21 (Joel 2:28-32); 2:25-28 (Psalm 16:8-11); 2:35 (Psalm 110:1); 4:11 (Psalm 118:22); 4:25-26 (Psalm 2:1-2); 7:49-50 (Isaiah 66:1-2); 8:32-33 (Isaiah 53:7-8); 28:26-27 (Isaiah 6:9-10).

Acts abounds with transitions: from the ministry of Jesus to that of the apostles; from the old covenant to the new covenant; from Israel as God's witness nation to the church (composed of both Jews and Gentiles) as God's witness people. The book of Hebrews sets forth the theology of the transition from the old covenant to the new; Acts depicts the new covenant's practical outworking in the life of the church.

Christ and His Kingdom - Part 6 - Devo for 04/18/2009

Reading
Revelation 19:1-20:15

Truth for Today
All attempts to equate this glorious reign of Christ over the whole earth with any past event or with the church is utterly foreign and contradictory to the clear eschatological teaching of Scripture. There is no way this text can be fulfilled except by the universal reign of Jesus Christ over the whole earth - as the prophets had for so long predicted.

Reflecting on the Text
1. How does this glorious picture of Jesus' returning and making all things right encourage you? Do you still have questions about Christ's coming reign on earth? If so, write them out here.

2. Which millennialist view of Christ's thousand-year reign do you support? Why?

3. What hopes and fears do the truths of these two chapters bring to the surface in your own soul?

4. Ask God for the opportunity this week to share the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ with someone for whom you have prayed (parent, sibling, friend, coworker, etc.).

Christ and His Kingdom - Part 5 - Devo for 04/17/2009

Reading
Revelation 19:1-20:15

Going Deeper
The prophet Micah foresaw the time when God would reign over all. Read Micah 4:1-8.

Exploring the Meaning
1. How does the prophet Micah describe the coming Millennium time of peace?

2. What will draw people to God's mountain?

3. Read 2 Samuel 7:12-16. What promise did King David receive? How is it fulfilled in Jesus? Why is the premillennialist view necessary for the fulfillment of this prophecy?

Christ and His Kingdom - Part 4 - Devo for 04/16/2009

Reading
Revelation 19:1-20:15

Questions
1. How is the Second Coming of Christ described by John in chapter 19?
(Verses to consider: Matthew 24:27-31; Acts 1:9-11; 17:31)

2. Compare and contrast the judgment of Satan with the reward of the faithful witnesses during the thousand years. What will God do (20:1-6)?

3. Describe what will happen at the Great White Throne judgment. Who will be judged, and how?
(Verses to consider: Matthew 11:20-24; John 5:22-29; 12:48; Acts 17:31; Romans 2:5, 16; Hebrews 9:27; 2 Peter 2:9; 3:7; Jude 6)

Christ and His Kingdom - Part 3 - Devo for 04/15/2009

Reading
Revelation 19:1-20:15

Questions
1. What reasons are given for heaven's rejoicing in 19:1-5?

2. Why would the redeemed of heaven be glad for God's judgment?
(Verses to consider: Isaiah 9:7; Jeremiah 23:5; Revelation 16:7)

3. What is "the marriage of the Lamb"?
(Verses to consider: John 14:1-3; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 1:4; 5:22-24)

Christ and His Kingdom - Part 2 - Devo for 04/14/2009

Reading
Revelation 19:1-20:15

Keys to the Text
The Millennium: This is the thousand-year reign of Christ over the earth (20:2-7). There are three main views regarding the duration and nature of this period:

(1) Premillennialism says Christ will return before the thousand-year reign and sees this as a literal thousand-year period during which Jesus Christ reigns on the earth, in fulfillment of numerous Old Testament prophecies (for example, Psalm 2; Isaiah 11:6-12; 24:23; Hosea 3:4-5; Joel 3:9-21; Amos 9:8-15; and Zechariah 14:1-11). Premillennialism says that Christ will return after the events of the Great Tribulation but before the final judgments and the establishment of the new heavens and new earth. Using the same general principles of interpretation for both prophetic and non-prophetic passages leads most naturally to premillennialism. Another strong argument supporting this view is that many biblical prophecies have already been literally fulfilled, suggesting the future prophecies will likewise be fulfilled literally.

(2) Postmillennialism says Christ will return after the thousand years and understands the reference to a thousand-year period as only symbolic of a golden age of righteousness and spiritual prosperity. It will be ushered in by the spread of the gospel during the present church age and brought to completion when Christ returns. According to this view, references to Christ's reign on earth primarily describe His spiritual reign in the hearts of believers in the church. Postmillennialism essentially teaches that the church, by preaching the gospel, will "Christianize" the world and usher in a worldwide era of peace commonly called the "millennium." Following this Golden Age, Christ will return and eternity will begin.

(3) Amillennialism understands the thousand years to be merely symbolic of a long period of time. This view interprets Old Testament prophecies of a millennium as being fulfilled spiritually now in the church (either on earth or in heaven) or as references to the eternal state. But, using the literal, historical, grammatical principles of interpretation so as to determine the normal sense of language, one is left with the inescapble conclusion that Christ will return and reign in a real kingdom on earth for a thousand years. There is nothing in the text to render the conclusion that "a thousand years" is symbolic. Never in Scripture when "year" is used with a number is its meaning not literal.

1. Why is it so important to interpret all of Scripture by the same method?

2. List different beliefs about end time events that stem from each of these views.

Christ and His Kingdom - Part 1 - Devo for 04/13/2009

Reading
Revelation 19:1-20:15

Drawing Near
1. John's vision of the last days turns a corner here, when the King of kings returns to rule and reign in righteousness! What are you most looking forward to about Jesus' second coming?

2. The Bible makes it clear that we will be judged and rewarded according to our works. How does knowing Jesus will come again affect how you live each day?

The Context
How will the world end? There are many answers to that question as there are doomsday prophets, futurists, and scientists. Some speculate about collisions with giant asteroids. Others worry about nuclear conflagration. Still others fret over possible extraterrestrial invasion or the extinction of the human race due to pollution or disease. But those who study the Bible know that "history" is, literally, "His story." God is, and always has been, sovereign over the events of earth. The New Testament book of Revelation repeatedly reminds us of this truth. The day is coming when the Lord Jesus Christ will return to reward His followers and to punish His enemies.

Few passages in all of Scripture are as majestic and powerul as Revelation 19-20! It begins with the sound of rejoicing over the defeat of the evil world system called Babylon. It ends with the Battle of Armageddon and Christ's glorious second coming - events that mark the close of the Tribulation. Then we see the binding of Satan, Christ's thousand-year earthly kingdom, Satan's final rebellion, and the Great White Throne Judgment. In the end, Jesus Christ will make all things right. Alleluia!

Destruction and Devastation! - Part 6 - Devo for 04/11/2009

Reading
Revelation 17:1-18:24

Truth for Today
Despite all the terrifying judgments, which by this time all people will acknowledge to be from God, and the worldwide preaching of the gospel (Matthew 24:14) by the 144,000 and others, people will still refuse to believe. It seems incredible that, having experienced the fury of God's judgment and having heard the message of salvation, people will stubbornly cling to their sin. But the sad truth is that "...that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved" (John 3:19-20).

The unbelieving world rejected Jesus when He came, it rejects the life-giving message of the gospel now, and it will continue to reject the truth during the future outpouring of God's wrath and judgment. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries (Hebrews 10:26-27).

Reflecting on the Text
1. What gives you hope, knowing that so great a judgment of God will come in the future?

2. The merchants and businessmen served money as their god, and they lost everything in these heavenly scenes of destruction. How can you be a wise steward of the money with which God has entrusted you, without becoming caught up in the "materialistic Babylonian spirit" that permeates contemporary culture?

3. If the current world system is doomed and destined for destruction, what practical steps can you take to make sure you and your family can live "in the world" and not become ensnared by its values?

Destruction and Devastation! - Part 5 - Devo for 04/10/2009

Reading
Revelation 17:1-18:24

Going Deeper
The book of Daniel records several visions of the end times. The king of Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar, asked Daniel to interpret a dream he had about an image of gold with feet of clay that was broken in pieces by a stone. Read Daniel 2:36-45.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What will happen to Nebuchadnezzar's powerful Babylonian kingdom?
(Verses to consider: Daniel 5:30-31)

2. What insight does Daniel's vision give to the meaning of the beast and the seven kings in Revelation 17:3, 8-16?

3. How does Daniel describe God's ultimate kingdom (v. 44)?

Destruction and Devastation! - Part 4 - Devo for 04/09/2009

Reading
Revelation 17:1-18:24

Questions
1. How do the kings and merchants respond upon hearing the news of Babylon's destruction in chapter 18? In what did they have their security?

2. What is God's message to His own people in chapter 18?
(Verses to consider: Isaiah 48:20; Jeremiah 50:8; 51:6-9, 45; 2 Corinthians 6:17; 1 John 2:15)

Destruction and Devastation! - Part 3 - Devo for 04/08/2009

Reading
Revelation 17:1-18:24

Questions
1. The scene in chapter 17 opens with the image of a harlot. What does it mean to commit spiritual adultery?
(Verses to consider: Jeremiah 3:6-9; Ezekiel 16:30; 20:30; Hosea 4:15; 5:3; 6:10; 9:1)

2. What title did John see written on the harlot's forehead and what does it mean?

3. List all the images of final destruction that you find in these chapters.

Destruction and Devastation! - Part 2 - Devo for 04/07/2009

Reading
Revelation 17:1-18:24

Keys to the Text
Babylon: In the book of Revelation this name refers to the entire worldwide political, economic, and religious kingdom of Antichrist (see Revelation 16:17-19 for details of its fall), not to a real city in John's time. The original city of Babylon was the birthplace of idolatry where the residents built the tower of Babel, a monument to rebelliousness and false religion. Such idolatry was subsequently spread when God confounded humanity's language and scattered them around the world (see Genesis 11:1-9). This passage pictures Babylon causing the world to become intoxicated with her pleasures and enter with excessive indulgence into rebellion, hatred, and idolatry toward God. "Fornication" means spiritual prostitution to the Antichrist's false system.

1. What are some towers of idolatry in your life?

2. How has God had to work in your life to get rid of these things?

Destruction and Devastation! - Part 1 - Devo for 04/06/2009

Reading
Revelation 17:1-18:24

Drawing Near
1. Thinking about the reality of evil helps open our eyes to see the very real spiritual battle we are engaged in every day. What evidences of this spiritual battle have you seen lately in your life?

2. What resources have been most helpful to you in fighting the good fight?

The Context
Revelation reminds us that there is a cosmic battle going on now and will be going on in the future. No one can be neutral. Each of us is either part of the domain of darkness or part of the kingdom of God. As we yield to one sphere or the other, we become the companions of God or the companions of Satan. To doubt this reality is the gravest mistake any of us can make, because making the wrong choice results in eternal disaster.

God offers all people the life-giving gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Satan and the forces of hell lure people to their destruction by dangling before them the "passing pleasures of sin" (Hebrews 11:25). There is coming a day when the siren call of hell will be so loud as to be all but irresistible. This passage tells us that people of that time will ignore the repeated powerful preaching of the gospel and the warnings conveyed by the terrifying judgments from God. Having rejected all offers of grace and mercy, they will see death come upon mankind on a scale unprecedented in human history. Yet even then they will not repent; in fact they will curse God. People at that time will have made the irrevocable choice to side with the forces of hell.

This section (chapters 17-18) reveals the dark destiny of this satanic kingdom - called by the symbolic name "Babylon" - and the beast who leads it. We see God's judgment on religious Babylon - the evil "religious" system of the end times, and the destruction of the beast's vast economic and political system.

Victorious Voices - Part 6 - Devo for 04/04/2009

Reading
Revelation 14:1-16:21

Truth for Today
The message of the seventh trumpet is that Jesus Christ is the sovereign King of kings and Lord of lords. He will one day take the rule of the earth away from the usurper, Satan, and from earth's petty human rulers. History is moving inexorably (without the possibility of being stopped) toward its culmination in Christ's earthly reign. When He returns, He will bring covenant blessings to the redeemed, but eternal judgment to those who reject Him. In the light of that sobering truth, Peter exclaims, "...what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God...?" (parts of 2 Peter 3:11-12).

Reflecting on the Text
1. Warren Wiersbe (a commentator) has written: "One of the themes that links Revelation 14-16 together is expressed by the word voice, which is used eleven times. In the events recorded, God speaks to His people or to the lost world, or His people and angels speak out in praise of the Lord or in warning to the world. As the world moves into the last half of the Tribulation, heaven is not silent." What do you sense the voice of God is saying to you in this lesson? Why?

2. Though the Battle of Armageddon is yet future, you are involved in a real spiritual battle in the present (see Ephesians 6). How can you be victorious and evade spiritual injury today?

3. Think of the people in your life who need to embrace the "everlasting gospel" (14:6). What are some practical ways that you can point them to the cross?

Victorious Voices - Part 5 - Devo for 04/03/2009

Reading
Revelation 14:1-16:21

Going Deeper
The redeemed in heaven sang the "song of Moses." Read this song of praise in Exodus 15:1-18.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What things had the Lord done for His people?

2. Identify the themes in this song of Moses that are also found in Revelation 14-16.

3. Read Proverbs 23:17. Why is it important to fear God (see Revelation 14:7)?
(Verses to consider: Romans 1:18-21; 1 Peter 2:17)

Victorious Voices - Part 4 - Devo for 04/02/2009

Reading
Revelation 14:1-16:21

Questions
1. What do you learn about God's great "winepress" of wrath, the great battle (14:19-20; 16:14-19)?

2. The bowl judgments form the content of chapter 16. What is the nature of each of these catastrophes? What was the response of the inhabitants of earth following them?
(Verses to consider: Exodus 7:20-25; Isaiah 60:2; Jeremiah 4:23-27; Joel 2:2; Mark 13:24-25)

3. What glimpses of God's power and triumph do you see throughout these chapters?

Victorious Voices - Part 3 - Devo for 04/01/2009

Reading
Revelation 14:1-16:21

Questions
1. How are the 144,000 described in chapter 14? What are they doing?
(Verses to consider: Psalm 40:3; Zephaniah 3:13; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 1:4; Colossians 1:22)

2. John saw several different angels in this vision. What were they each doing?

3. What is the "song of Moses" (chapter 15)? What does it say about God?

Victorious Voices - Part 2 - Devo for 03/31/2009

Reading
Revelation 14:1-16:21

Keys to the Text
Song of Moses and Song of the Lamb: The song of Moses was a song of victory sung by the people of Israel immediately after their crossing through the Red Sea (Exodus 15:1-21; see Deuteronomy 32:1-43). The song of the Lamb refers to Christ's sacrificial death and extols God's powerful works in creation as He providentially upholds the universe. These two songs celebrate two great, redemptive events: (1) deliverance of Israel by God from Egypt through Moses; and (2) deliverance of sinners by God from sin through Christ. Like one gigantic choir, the redeemed of the Lord will sing and rejoice over the accomplishment of God's entire redemptive work before Christ's return.

Seven Golden Bowls: These bowls symbolize God's judgment. They are shallow saucers, familiar items often associated with various functions of the temple worship, such as serving wine or using in blood sacrifices. Their flat shallowness pictures how the divine judgments will be emptied instantly rather than slowly poured, drowning those who refused to drink the cup of salvation.

1. What other things has God in your life that should generate a song of praise to Him?

2. What other judgments from Scripture have been instantaneous (please give references)?

Victorious Voices - Part 1 - Devo for 03/30/2009

Reading
Revelation 14:1-16:21

Drawing Near
1. Think back over what you have studied thus far in the book of Revelation. What main themes have you seen over and over again?

2. Armageddon has become a somewhat overused symbol for fierce conflict, or even to describe football games and wrestling matches. What do you know about the Battle of Armageddon? What questions do you have?

The Context
Revelation 14 serves as a preview of the end of the Great Tribulation. In this chapter, John shows his readers the triumph and vindication of the 144,000 faithful Israelites, who are redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. The fall of Babylon (symbolic of the Satanic world system) is foreseen and the fate of its loyalists foretold. The chapter then gives a summary glimpse of the battle of Armageddon, the great and terrible "winepress of the wrath of God."

Revelation 15 depicts the Tribulation saints who have overcome the beast. They sing songs of praise celebrating God's infinite power, perfect sovereignty, and eternal faithfulness. It also introduces the seven angels who are given the task of pouring out seven bowls of wrath, God's final judgments at the end of the seven-year Tribulation period. The bowl judgments are described in chapter 16 in rapid-fire staccato fashion, each one stronger in fury and intensity. Through all of this, the book of Revelation always reminds us that though the power of evil is great, God's plan and purposes will triumph and Jesus will be crowned King and Lord.

The Terrible Triumvirate - Part 6 - Devo for 03/21/2009

Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18

Truth for Today
The book of Revelation is the ultimate action thriller. Anyone who loves books filled with adventure and excitement will certainly love this book. The amazing Revelation contains drama, suspense, mystery, passion, and horror. It tells of apostasy by the church. It spealks of unprecedented economic collapse, and of the ultimate war of human history - the war that will truly end all wars. It describes natural disasters rivaled in intensity only by the world-wide Flood of Noah's day, as God will pour out His wrath on the sin-cursed earth. It speaks of the political intrigues that will lead to the ascendancy of the most evil and powerful dictator the world has ever known. Finally, and most terrifying of all, it describes the final judgment and the sentencing of all rebels, angelic and human, to eternal torment in hell. The book of Revelation is thus a book of astounding drama, horror, and pathos. Yet, amazingly, it is also a book of hope and joy with a happy ending, as sin, sorrow, and death are forever banished.

Reflecting on the Text
1. Should the reality of Satan and his evil intent alter the way you approach each day? If so, in what ways? If not, why not?

2. Given the fact that Satan is a sworn enemy of God and His servants, how can you practically and specifically better support your pastor and church leaders this week?

3. What insight or truth from this lesson do you find most meaningful (i.e., comforting or convicting)?

The Terrible Triumvirate - Part 5 - Devo for 03/20/2009

Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18

Going Deeper
Daniel's visions and prophecies of the end times contain similar imagery. Compare this Old Testament vision with Revelation. Read Daniel 7:1-28.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What added insights does this passage contribute to your understanding of the beasts in Revelation 12-13?

2. What promises are given of God's ultimate victory (vv. 9-14, 18, 22, 27)?

3. Read John 8:44. How did Jesus describe Satan?
(Verses to consider: John 10:10; 1 Peter 5:8; 1 John 3:8)

The Terrible Triumvirate - Part 4 - Devo for 03/19/2009

Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18

Questions
1. What did John see in chapter 13? What did these characters do?
(Verses to consider: Daniel 8:23-25; 9:24-27; 11:36-45; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-11)

2. How is the second beast described (13:11)? How is he related to the first beast?

3. What is the "image" made by the beast (13:14)?
(Verses to consider: Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11; Matthew 24:15; 2 Thessalonians 2:4)

4. Why is the mark of the beast significant during the end times (13:16)?

The Terrible Triumvirate - Part 3 - Devo for 03/18/2009

Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18

Questions
1. The main characters described by John in chapter 12 are a woman, a male Child, and a dragon. Who or what is signified by each of these characters?

2. Describe the cosmic conflict recorded in chapter 12. What was/is the outcome?
(Verses to consider: Job 1:6; 2:1; Daniel 10:13; Ephesians 2:2; 6:10-19; Jude 9)

3. What will happen to Israel during the Tribulation?
(Verses to consider: Exodus 19:4; Deuteronomy 32:9-12; Psalm 91:4; Isaiah 40:31)

The Terrible Triumvirate - Part 2 - Devo for 03/17/2009

Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18

Keys to the Text
Satan: The name Satan, meaning "adversary" or "enemy," appears especially in Job and the Gospels. The term devil comes from a Greek verb meaning "to slander" or "to falsely accuse." The Bible identifies him as a murderer, a liar, a roaring lion seeking to devour, the god of this evil age, the tempter, the dragon, the serpent, and the "accuser of the brethren" (Revelation 12:10). His accusations against the believers are unsuccessful because Christ is our Advocate (1 John 2:1). The Lord provides His saints with sufficient armor to combat and thwart the adversary (Ephesians 6). Ultimately, Satan's power over Christians is already broken and the war is won through Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, which forever conquered the power of sin and death.

Antichrist: A false prophet and evil being who will set himself up against Christ and the people of God in the last days before the second coming of Christ. Used only in the writings of John in the New Testament, the term refers to one who stands in opposition to all that Jesus Christ represents (1 John 2:18; 22; 4:3; 2 John 7). John wrote that several antichrists existed already in his day - false teachers who denied the deity and the incarnation of Christ - but that the supreme Antichrist of history would appear at some future time. Paul called him the "man of sin" and the "lawless one" (2 Thessalonians 2). This man is not Satan, although Satan is the force behind him. He exalts himself, declaring himself to be God and demanding the worship of the world. In this act of satanic self-deification, he defies God. Antichrist (the first beast) will be primarily a political and military leader, but the false prophet (second beast) will be a religious leader. Politics and religion will unite in a worldwide religion of worshipping the Antichrist (see Revelation 17:1-9, 5-17).

1. Give 2 biblical situations (referencing the verses) where Satan has confronted or afflicted someone. How did the person(s) deal with the attack?

2. What does the Scripture teach about the fate of the Antichrist?

The Terrible Triumvirate - Part 1 - Devo for 02/23/2009

Reading
Revelation 12:1-13:18

Drawing Near
1. How do the media and Hollywood films portray supernatural evil and demonic activity? Is this accurate according to the Bible's view?

2. Have you ever been in a situation or around a person that seemed to epitomize "evil"? Describe your experience of coming "face-to-face" (either literally or figuratively) with such blatant, intense wickedness.

3. What speculations have you heard about the identity of the Antichrist?

The Context
Our world is the theater where God's glorious story of redemption is played out. Satan and his demonic hosts have attacked the human race, turning the earth into the main battleground in their cosmic war against God, the holy angels, and the elect. This study focuses on the terrible three enemies to come: Satan (the dragon), Antichrist (the first beast), and the false prophet (the second beast). The beasts represent the final Antichrist, whose career spans the same time period as the seal and trumpet judgments.

In the future, Satan will serve God's purpose by being permitted to launch another deadly assault against the human race. That attack will take place during the Great Tribulation. He and his demonic forces will unsuccessfully battle Michael and the heavenly host (that is, the holy angels of God). As a result of their defeat, the devil and his demons will be permanently cast down to the earth. With his theater of operations then restricted and his time running out, Satan will marshal all of his malevolent, fallen angels in an all-out attempt to deceive and destroy the souls of men.

Chapters 12-14 are actually a digression in John's vision, taking readers back through the Tribulation from Satan's perspective. These chapters are filled with difficult apocalyptic imagery and symbolism. Take your time as you work through these chapters. It would benefit you to use a commentary or concordance as you study.

The Two Witnesses - Part 6 - Devo for 02/21/2009

Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19

Truth for Today
As an exile on the island of Patmos, John had no opportunity to preach to all nations. But John recorded these prophecies to warn all sinners that, while judgment is presently restrained, a future day is coming when the seventh angel will sound his trumpet and sin's dominion will be broken. In that day the freedom of Satan and his demons will come to an end, godless men will be judged, and believers will be glorified. These chapters present an interlude of hope tinged with bitterness that reminds all Christians of their evangelistic responsibilities to warn the world of that day.

Reflecting on the Text
1. In his vision, John ate the "little book" and it was both bitter and sweet to him. In what ways is what you're studying bitter and sweet to you?

2. John's calling to tell the world all that had been revealed to him is reminiscent of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). How passionate are you about sharing God's truth with family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers? What keeps you from being a more active witness for Christ?

The Two Witnesses - Part 5 - Devo for 02/20/2009

Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19

Going Deeper
The problem of evil is not new. King David encountered many enemies of God and saw evil men flourish. Read what he observed in Psalm 2:1-12.

Exploring the Meaning
1. Describe the nations' attitude toward God. What is the psalmist's advice to them?

2. Who is the "King of Zion" mentioned here (vv. 6-7)? What will he accomplish?

3. In Revelation 11, we've seen how the two witnesses play a major role in the unfolding of the events. Read Mark 9:1-10. Why do many commentators and Bible scholars believe that the two witnesses will be Moses and Elijah?
(Verses to consider: Deuteronomy 18:15-18; 34:5-6; 2 Kings 2:11; Malachi 4:5, 6; John 1:21; James 5:17)

The Two Witnesses - Part 4 - Devo for 02/19/2009

Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19

Questions
1. What happened with the sounding of the seventh trumpet (11:15-19)?

2. How does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty?

The Two Witnesses - Part 3 - Devo for 02/18/2009

Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19

Questions
1. In 10:1-2, John saw and angel come down from heaven. What happened next? What did the angel do? What was John commanded to do?
(Verses to consider: Deuteronomy 32:39-42; Psalm 19:7-11; 69:24; Jeremiah 15:16; 25:30)

2. Why was John given a measuring rod and what did the angel tell him to do?

3. Summarize the work of the two witnesses (11:1-14). What will result from their ministry?

The Two Witnesses - Part 2 - Devo for 02/17/2009

Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19

Keys to the Text
Two Witnesses: These are individuals granted special power and authority by God to preach a message of judgment and salvation during the second half of the Tribulation. Fulfilling the Old Testament requirement of two or more witnesses to confirm testimony (see Deuteronomy 19:15; John 8:17; Hebrews 10:28), these two prophets will represent the culmination of God's testimony to Israel: a two-pronged message of His judgment and His gracious offer of the gospel to all who will repent and believe. While it is impossible to be dogmatic about the identity of these two witnesses, several observations suggest they might be Moses and Elijah: (1) like Moses, they strike the earth with plagues, and like Elijah, they have the power to keep it from raining; (2) Jewish tradition expected both Moses and Elijah to return in the future; (3) both Moses and Elijah were present at the Transfiguration, the preview of Christ's second coming; (4) both Moses and Elijah used supernatural means to provoke repentance; (5) Elijah was taken up alive into heaven, and God buried Moses' body where it would never be found; and (6) the length of the drought the two witnesses bring (three-and-one-half-years; see 11:3, 6) is the same as that brought by Elijah.

1. Some suggest that the two witnesses could be Elijah and Enoch. For what reasons would they choose these two?

2. How do the witnesses die and what happens following their death?

The Two Witnesses - Part 1 - Devo for 02/16/2009

Reading
Revelation 10:1-11:19

Drawing Near
1. A friend asks you, "If God is so good, why is there so much evil in the world?" How do you respond?

2. These chapters remind us that God is sovereign and that all events (past, present, and future) are under His control. How does this truth encourage you?

The Context
Throughout history, God's people have wondered why God has allowed evil in the world. The wicked often appear to prosper. Sin seemingly runs wild and unchecked. Why, people ask, does God not stop all the carnage, corruption, and chaos in the world? Why does He allow His children to suffer? When will divine justice prevail and the righteous be delivered and the wicked punished?

All the pain, sorrow, suffering, and evil in the world cause the godly to long for God to intervene. A day is coming when He will break His silence, a day when all the purposes of God concerning men and the world will be consummated. At this time, the Lord Jesus Christ will return and establish His earthly kingdom. The sounding of the seventh trumpet, which heralds the imminent return and reign of Christ, will usher in that long-anticipated day.

But before that seventh trumpet sounds there will be an interlude, described in 10:1-11:14. This pause gives John and his readers the occasion to assimilate the startling truths that have just been revealed. It also serves to encourage God's people in the midst of the fury and horror of divine judgment, reminding them that God is still sovereign. During the interlude, God comforts His people with the assurance that He has not forgotten them and that they will ultimately be victorious. The sounding of the seventh trumpet marks the end of this interlude and results in the seven rapid-fire catastrophic bowl judgments described later in chapters 15 and 16.

God's Trumpets - Part 6 - Devo for 02/14/2009

Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21

Truth for Today
There is a sense in which the present age is man's day; he is free to do what he wants within certain limitations. It is also Satan's day, during which the "god of this age" (2 Corinthians 4:4) has been granted certain liberties within the parameters of God's purposeful, sovereign tolerance. But God will not permit the present state of affairs to continue forever. He will end man's day, overthrow the usurper Satan, destroy the present evil world system, and establish the earthly kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ. That future time of judgement is known, appropriately, as the Day of the Lord. That day involves a complete renovation of the universe and the earth by judgment and restoration.

Reflecting on the Text
1. How has your view of God been altered or sharpened by this study?

2. How has your view of Satan and his evils been shaped or modified by the truths of this lesson?

3. What does a healthy fear of God look like? In what areas of your life do you fail to revere God and treat Him as holy?

God's Trumpets - Part 5 - Devo for 02/13/2009

Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21

Going Deeper
The Old Testament prophets foresaw a mighty "Day of the Lord." For more insight, read Isaiah 13:1-13.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What added insights does this Old Testament passage provide concerning the Day of the Lord?

2. Why will God judge the earth?

3. Read Luke 10:18. How does this verse help you identify the "star fallen from heaven" in Revelation 9:1?
(Verses to consider: Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-16)

4. Read 2 Peter 2:4. Who are the creatures incarcerated in the bottomless pit (Revelation 9:1-2)? Why is Satan's unlocking of this abyss such a horrible event?

God's Trumpets - Part 4 - Devo for 02/12/2009

Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21

Questions
1. What will happen to the earth as a result of the first four trumpet judgments?

2. Some have described the result of the sounding of the fifth trumpet (9:1-12) as "hell on earth." Why? What will happen when this event unfolds?

3. How do you explain the response of those who are left after the sixth trumpet's horrible judgment (9:13-21)?

God's Trumpets - Part 3 - Devo for 02/11/2009

Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21

Questions
1. What events unfold with the breaking of the seventh seal (8:1-5)?

2. What is the meaning of the angel standing at the altar, holding the golden censer?

God's Trumpets - Part 2 - Devo for 02/10/2009

Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21

Keys to the Text
Seven Trumpets: In Revelation, trumpets primarily announce impending judgment. The trumpets are of greater intensity than the seals but not as destructive as the final bowl judgments will be (see 16:1-21). They occur during the final three and one-half years, but the time of each is indefinite, except the effects of the fifth trumpet judgment, which will last five months (9:10). The first four trumpets announce the divine destruction of earth's ecology (vv. 6-12), while the final three involve demonic devastation of earth's inhabitants (9:1-21; 11:15-19).

Day of the Lord: This will be a day of wrath, trouble, distress, devastation, desolation, darkness, gloominess, clouds, thick darkness, trumpet, and alarm (Zephaniah 1:15-16, 18). There are nineteen indisputable uses of "the Day of the Lord" in the Old Testament and four uses of it in the New Testament (see Acts 2:20; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Peter 3:10). The Old Testament prophets used "Day of the Lord" to describe near (current) historical judgments or far (future) eschatological divine judgments. Six times it is referred to as the "day of doom" and four times as the "day of vengeance." The New Testament calls it a day of "wrath," day of "visitation," and the "great day of God Almighty" (Revelation 16:14). These are terrifying judgments from God for the overwhelming sinfulness of the world. The future "Day of the Lord" which unleashes God's wrath falls into two parts: (1) the end of the seven-year Tribulation period (Revelation 19:11-21) and (2) the end of the Millennium. These two events are actually 1,00o years apart, and Peter refers to the end of the 1,000 year period in connection with the final "Day of the Lord" (2 Peter 3:10).

1. List out the seven trumpet judgments.

2. The Old Testament prophet Joel speaks of the "Day of the Lord." What are some of the things he says about this time period?

God's Trumpets - Part 1 - Devo for 02/09/2009

Reading
Revelation 8:1-9:21

Drawing Near
A new Christian confides in you: "I'm reading the book of Revelation and, frankly, I don't understand most of it. But I do understand that the notes in my study Bible clearly say that all these terrible judgments will be poured out on unbelievers - maybe even some of my friends! Do you believe that? I'm having a hard time believing that a loving God could do that to His beloved creatures!" How do you respond?

The Context
The first five seals (false peace, war, famine, death, and vengeance) describe the preliminary judgments leading to the full outpouring of divine wrath. As horrifying as those preliminary judgments are, they pale before the terrors of the sixth seal, which marks the beginning of the Day of the Lord. So terrifying are the judgments of the sixth seal that people are finally forced to acknowledge God as the Source of the calamities. At that point they will cry "to the mountains and rocks, 'Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?'" (Revelation 6:16-17).

When the Lamb opens the seventh and last seal on the scroll, the judgments of the Day of the Lord will intensify and expand dramatically. This final seal contains the trumpet and bowl judgments. While the exact timetable for these judgments is not revealed, their escalating devastation indicates they all occur during the last half of the Great Tribulation. Therefore, the seventh seal encompasses all God's final wrath up to the triumphant return of the Lord Jesus Christ in glory.

Opening the Seals - Part 6 - Devo for 02/07/2009

Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17

Truth for Today
While Scripture reveals that God is loving, merciful, and gracious - the Savior of sinners - one truth about Him that is decidely unpopular today is that He is a God of vengeance against those who reject both Him and salvation in His Son. The Bible repeatedly affirms that to be the case. God's vengeance is not to be equated with petty human vindictiveness and bitter desire for revenge. God's holiness, righteousness, and justice demand that He take vengeance on unrepentant sinners. Vengeance belongs to God alone because all sin is ultimately against Him and an offense to Him.

Reflecting on the Text
1. The unleashing of divine judgment after the breaking of the fifth seal brings to mind the subject of the age-old persecution of God's people. In what ways have you experienced animosity from unbelievers because of your faith? How can you better glorify God in the future in the midst of such circumstances?

2. As you study John's vision of the future and ponder all that is to come, how specifically are you motivated, challenged, and convicted to:
- Walk with Christ more closely?
- Share your faith with others?
- Worship God?
- Study the Word?

Opening the Seals - Part 5 - Devo for 02/06/2009

Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17

Going Deeper
When Jesus' disciples asked Him what would be the signs of the end of the age, Jesus mentioned many things similar to John's vision in Revelation. Read Matthew 24:6-33.

Exploring the Meaning
1. What destructive events in nature will come at the end of the age?

2. How do these future events described by Christ dovetail with the events depicted in Revelation 6 and 7?

3. Read 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10. Compare what it reveals to John's description of events surrounding the breaking of the fifth seal (Revelation 6:9-11).

4. Read Joel 2:28-32. How does the Old Testament prophecy of the great and terrible Day of the Lord compare to the description by John in Revelation 6:12-17?

Opening the Seals - Part 4 - Devo for 02/05/2009

Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17

Questions
1. What did John see when the sixth seal was broken?

2. Who will be in heaven worshipping together? Describe the tone of this scene (7:9-12).

3. What is promised to those who endure (7:13-17)?

Opening the Seals - Part 3 - Devo for 01/28/2009

Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17

Questions
1. The first seal depicts a time of worldwide peace. How will this aid in lulling the people of the earth into a false sense of security?
(Verses to consider: Daniel 9:24-27; 1 Thessalonians 5:3)

2. What kind of judgment did the breaking of the second and third seals unleash upon the earth?
(Verses to consider: Daniel 11:36-45; Mark 13:7, 8; Luke 21:9)

3. What will be the results of the breaking of the third, fourth, and fifth seals?

Opening the Seals - Part 2 - Devo for 01/27/2009

Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17

Keys to the Text
The Seals: In chapter 5, Christ was the only One found worthy to open the little scroll - the title deed to the universe. As he breaks the seven seals that secure the scroll, each seal unleashes a new demonstration of God's judgment on the earth in the future tribulation period. These seal judgments include all the judgments to the end. The seventh seal contains the seven trumpets; the seventh trumpet contains the seven bowls.

Each of the scroll's seven seals represents a specific divine judgment that will be poured out sequentially on the earth. The seals encompass the entire seven-year period of the Tribulation, culminating with the return of Christ. It seems best to understand the first four seals as taking place during the first half of the Tribulation. The events of the fifth seal will mark the midpoint, and then the events of the sixth and seventh seals wills stretch into the second half of the seven-year period of the Tribulation.

Great Tribulation: A seven-year period of intense judgment on the earth. The exact phrase, "the great tribulation," is found only once in the Bible, here in 7:14. The Great Tribulation is to be distinguished from the general tribulation a believer faces in the world (Matthew 13:21; John 16:33; Acts 14:22). It is also to be distinguished from God's specific wrath upon the unbelieving world at the end of the age (Mark 13:24; Romans 2:5-10; 2 Thessalonians 1:6). The Great Tribulation fulfills Daniel's prophecies (Daniel 7-12). It will be a time of evil from false christs and false prophets, and natural disasters will occur throughout the world (Matthew 24:21; Mark 13:22). The second half of the Tribulation will feature the Day of the Lord, in which God unleashes His judgment and wrath on the earth in intensifying waves. Though it is a time of unparalleled judgment, it is also a time of unparalleled grace in salvation (see Matthew 24:12-14).

1. What are some of the ways God has demonstrated His judgments on the earth in times past? List verses with your answers.

2. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11. What truths do you find in this passage that secure your hope of not being present during the seven-year Tribulation period?

Opening the Seals - Part 1 - Devo for 01/26/2009

Reading
Revelation 6:1-7:17

Drawing Near
1. We've all seen cartoons of a wild-eyed, bearded prophet holding up a sign that says: "Repent! The end is near!" Why is that type of thing often laughed at?

2. Do you believe in a final judgment? Why or why not?

The Context
The Bible teaches that the world is headed inexorably (definition - not to be persuaded, moved, or stopped) toward a final, cataclysmic war called the Battle of Armageddon. Until that climatic holocaust, things will continue to deteriorate as the world falls deeper and deeper into chaos, confusion, and sin. As the end approaches, wars will increase, crime will escalate, there will be economic upheavals, and the world will experience unprecedented natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, famines, and diseases. All those calamities will mark the outpouring of God's wrath on the fallen, rebellious world.

In Revelation 5:1-7, the setting is heaven, where Christ received from God the Father a scroll sealed with seaven seals until opened by the One with authority to do so. Beginning in chapter 6, the scene shifts to earth and the effects of the scroll being unrolled and its seals broken. The unrolling of the scroll marks the beginning of God's wrath and judgment on sinful mankind as the Lord takes back creation from the usurper, Satan.