Snakey Dialogue (Genesis 3)

Adam and Eve hanging out in the Garden of Eden having a good ol' time! Then, out of the lush vegetation…a talking snake slips onto the scene and begins to question them; singling out Eve.

Snake: Hey! What's up Adam and Eve?
Adam & Eve: (Taken back and surprised a little by a talking snake) Huh!
Snake: Hey Eve, what's up?
Eve: Not much, just chillin and enjoying this beautiful day in this beautiful place.
Snake: Really? You and Adam are enjoying it here? Huh. Seems with all the rules and regulations that God has imposed on you that it would feel a bit…umm…restricting. I mean, is God serious about you not eating from any tree here?
Adam: (Contemplating the whole scene and remaining very quiet)
Eve: We can eat from all the trees, well, except the one in the middle of the Garden. God told Adam if he, I mean we, eat from it we'll die. I guess I'm not even supposed to touch it.
Serpent: Really? That's hilarious because there's no way you'll die just from eating fruit from a tree is there?
Eve: (Contemplating)
Adam: (Contemplating with a confused look on his face)
Serpent: You know what I think?
Eve: (Curious) What?
Serpent: I think that when you eat from this tree (stares at it for a moment), you'll become just like God. You'll know good and evil both!
Eve: What's evil?
Adam: (Still quietly contemplating things with a confused look on his face)
Serpent: It's something…uh…well…uhh…well it's something God knows. You mean to tell me he has kept something from you? Shocking! That seems kind of odd that he would keep something from you…doesn't it?
Eve: (Begins staring at the tree) Yeah, it does. I mean this fruit looks very good. I think it could help me learn something new too. (She reaches out and grabs it and pulls it close to her mouth)
Adam: (Still quietly contemplating while Eve hands him a piece of the forbidden fruit)
Serpent: (Grinning from ear to ear) *Do snakes have ears?
Adam & Eve: (Both bite into the juicy fruit (not the gum) of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil and begin blushing at the realization they're standing around naked)

What do you think about the serpent of old's (aka the Devil) tactics in tempting man and woman? He's sly isn't he? How would you retell the temptation of Adam and Eve?

Random thoughts on Genesis by teenagers

Last night we continued studying Genesis chapter 2. We've been hanging out there for a while (there's a lot to learn). I let my students share their thoughts last night and here's what they had to say: Hope you enjoy!

Man was first. Woman was second. God created earth.
- Makayla

I learned that God created us in his image so we are important. At first I thought who cares, people are going to hell. But I guess everyone is important and that we should try even though in Bluffton it’s very discouraging. I’m also learning more about myself and how I truly feel about things, but I’m glad we’re doing this because the topics are coming up and I’m trying to really understand things and not just blow them over. Even to change my view to what God wants and I’m trying to change my attitude a little bit.
- Rebecca

Man was first. When man and woman were created they were naked.
- Anonymous

I learned that woman was created by a man’s rib.
- Anonymous

God created dinosaurs. The world hasn’t been around for millions of years.
- Anonymous

I learned a lot of neat things from the Bible. I learned about the creation of man and woman and their fall to the dark side.
- Andrew

I learned in Genesis that Adam and Eve were not ashamed to be there. Genesis is also about how God created earth.
- Anonymous

So far I’ve learned a lot of things that God created that I had no clue he did. I learned more about Adam and Eve that was really cool for to learn about.
- Katie

Woman was made from man and they could eat from any tree except one.
- Anonymous

God created Eve by the pieces of Adam.
- Brandon

God created us in his image. He gave us everything on earth. When he saw that man was lonely, he cared enough to make woman.
Laundry is a result of the Fall.
- Janella

It’s not that I learned anything new, it’s that I enjoyed discussing Genesis with the youth group.
- Anonymous

The world was created in Genesis.
- Brooke

I learned how dinosaurs were created and destroyed.
- Kory

Life

What an incredible day yesterday was! We had the chance to see our baby using the new 4D ultrasound technology. It gives an actual 3D picture of the baby (I have video footage to prove it).

It was silent in the room while we transfixed our eyes on the TV monitors. Squirming before our very eyes was our tiny 4½-month-old baby. The doctor said she had big cheeks! She also advised us to buy some roller skates because our kid was nonstop moving around. The technology allowing us to look at our baby was fascinating, but the baby herself (not a slip, we’re having a girl) was indescribable. I thought of Genesis 1:26-27 where God makes man and woman in His own image. Part of being made in God’s image is our ability to create life. I’m blown away at life and how priceless it is.

Rest (Genesis 2:1-3)

Well, the past two weeks have been crazy! I apologize for not posting a new post last week. Things have picked up at work, school, and home. Most of you know my wife is pregnant, our first. Well, we find out in a week the sex of our baby. Needless to say we’re excited! We really don’t prefer a boy to a girl or vice versa, we’re just happy to be having a baby! We’re fulfilling God’s mandate in Genesis 1 to be fruitful and multiply.

Genesis 2:1-3 is a continuation of the creation story started in Genesis 1. This passage talks about the completion of God’s work and the rest God takes on the seventh day. Verse 2 reads,

By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.

God’s world was done. Everything was perfect. Everything was in its proper place and performing its proper function. Can you imagine such a world? Then we move from creating and working to rest. Can you imagine God resting? Someone asked once, “Doesn’t He have to like always be doing something?” Well, Scripture would tell us, “no!” God worked hard for six days and then rested. He did nothing! Genesis even goes on to say in verse 3,

God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.

So, we have a day where God is not doing anything and He blesses this day and makes it holy.

Questions to ponder:
- What do you think about God resting?
- Why did He do it?
- If you believe we’re made in His image, what does this teach us about ourselves?
- Does this passage of Scripture bother you? If so, how?
- Do you rest each week?

*I sure could use some rest!

Authorship of Genesis

Who wrote Genesis? Tradition points to Moses. Can we trust tradition? What does Scripture say? In youth group last night we dug into Scripture to see whom it pointed to as the author of Genesis. First, we made some general assumptions about the author. For example:
- He had to have had a lot of alone time with God to really know the entire creation story.
- He had to be well educated. Smart.
- A Hebrew who understood the language and how to write.
- Organized.
- Thoughtful.

We dug into several Old Testament passages (mostly in Exodus) and learned:
*Click on the Scriptures to read them
- Moses was well educated in Egypt and later in the desert by God. (Exodus 2:1-10)
- He was a Hebrew. (Exodus 2)
- He had 40 days alone with God on the mountain. (Exodus 24:12-18)
- God, face to face, spoke to Moses. (Exodus 33:7-11)
- After receiving the Lord’s commands, Moses gave them all to the Israelites. (Exodus 34:32)
- Even Jesus mentions Moses as an author of Old Testament books. (Luke 24:27)
- Paul does the same thing. (Acts 26:22)

So, was Moses the author of Genesis? It seems pretty clear where the tradition comes from and why we have it. What do you think? Could it be possible that Moses had help writing some of the Old Testament books? Could it be possible he had nothing to do with writing any of the Old Testament books? What do you think?

Imago Dei (Part 2)

Being created in God’s image implies:

1. We treat all human beings with respect. If you read further into Genesis (Chap. 6,7,8,9) you would come across a story about a man named Noah. He built the massive wooden boat for all animals and his family to protect them from the flood. During Noah’s time all flesh was corrupt on earth. God wasn’t happy with His creation and was about to destroy everything, but He found an obedient man that He could rebuild humanity through (Noah). After the flood, God told Noah,

“Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed;
for in the image of God has God made man.”

It’s interesting to note God’s reminder to Noah that man still carries the image of God. This should teach us that humanity is priceless to God. Everyone, even terrorists, was made in the image of God. Do you believe that?

2. It also implies that we have a responsibility to take care of God’s planet. He put Adam and Even in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and work it. He asked them to rule over His creation. Do you believe that?

Your thoughts?

Imago Dei (Genesis 1)

The imago Dei is Latin for God’s image. Genesis 1 teaches us that we’re made in God’s image. Genesis 1:26 reads,

“Let us make man/woman in Our image, according to Our likeness.”

This short sentence packs so much truth it’s overwhelming. What does it mean? What does it imply? What does it teach? Did we lose this image during the Fall? The book of Genesis is helpful in that it does offer an explanation of what it means to be made in the image of God. Here’s what it teaches:

1. God only created humans in His image. (Genesis 1:26-27)

2. After creating man/woman in His image, God tells them to rule over the earth, blesses them, tells them to be fruitful and multiply, and to fill the earth and subdue it. (Genesis 1:26-28)

3. If we read a little further into the book of Genesis (Chapter 5) we learn a little bit more about what it means to made in the image of God. We also see that man/woman haven’t lost completely the image of God (in them) during the Fall (Genesis 3). Genesis 5:1-3 reveal that Adam’s own son (Seth) was created in Adam’s image. So, we see a comparison of the divine/human image to the parent/child image.

What does all of this teach us? Here’s a short compilation of what we can deduct from Genesis about being made in God’s image and likeness:
- We are His representatives on earth
- We have a responsibility to rule over the earth
- We were created for relationships
- We can think and reason (can animals do this?)
- We can create (e.g., imagination, new life)

This is all I have time to write now, but we’ll continue this next week and prowl further into the implications of being created in the image of God.

Creation pt. 2 (Genesis 1:20-31)

To pick up where we left off two weeks ago we must read Genesis 1:20-31. Within the walls of this Holy Scripture we discover days five and six of God’s creation. Here’s a breakdown of those days:

Day 5 (vv.20-23)
- All the sea creatures and birds of the sky created
- God blesses them and tells them to, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth.”

Day 6 (vv.24-31)
- Creatures of the earth created
- Man & woman created in God’s image and likeness
- God tells man and woman to rule over the fish, birds, and creatures of the earth
- God blessed man and woman and tells them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”
- God gives every seed-bearing plant and fruit-bearing tree to humans and the beasts of the earth for food
- God sees everything He has made and is very pleased

It’s interesting to note God response to His creation. From the beginning He finds His creation to be good. From day one to day six we hear the phrase, “God saw that it was good.” What does this teach us? The Hebrew word used for good is tob and it encompasses a variety of meanings. Here are some of those meanings pulled from the Word Study Dictionary of the Old Testament:
- Pleasing, fruitful, morally correct, proper, convenient, abundant, and plentiful

So, we see that God’s creation is perfect in every sense. It doesn’t just look good, it functions good according to its purpose. I have a hard time imagining this because of the way sin has tainted our world. It’s just too overwhelming to think of a world without sin. But that is exactly the way our world was originally created. This just goes to show how messed up and distorted the Fall (Genesis 3) made our world. We see why sin is such a big deal to God.

Questions related to day 6:
- What does it mean to be made in the image and likeness of God?
- How does this make us different from the rest of God’s creation?
- What does it teach us if we are made in God’s image and likeness?

What Genesis is teaching me

If you think creation is beautiful, you should see the Creator! Studying Genesis has been rewarding and challenging. Reading and digging into chapter 1 has revealed several things:

1. Genesis 1 wasn’t written as a scientific document to explain in detail the process of how everything was created.
You can’t accurately use the text to answer questions like, “Did evolution occur?” “Is the Big Bang Theory true?” “Did God create our world in six literal days?” “How old is our world?” These questions go beyond the point of what Genesis is trying to teach. Genesis is a book about beginnings. It’s about our (humans) beginning. We see where we came from, what we’re supposed to be doing, and where we’re going. I don’t think I can argue against or for any of the creation theories anymore using Genesis. Maybe things did evolve over a period of time or maybe they just appeared completely formed. I wasn’t there and can’t propose an precise scientific study of how everything came into existence. However, I still blatantly reject the idea of humans evolving from monkeys on the grounds of Genesis 1:27,

God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

If we evolved from anything, it was the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7). I just believe God created it all; how He did it I don’t know. The fact of the matter is, “In the beginning God created.”

2. Man & Woman are the pinnacle of God’s creation.
This is a statement I was a bit skeptical about. I questioned whether or not God really created everything for us. It felt selfish to say He did do it all for us. But, He did. If we weren’t the high point of God’s creation why would Genesis tells us that He created us in His image? Nothing else in creation receives this honor. I think of Jesus’ sacrifice and suffering on the cross, all for us. If we weren’t the high point of God’s creation why would He die for us?

So, this is what I’ve been learning and chewing on for the past month. Care to share your thoughts?

Creation (Genesis 1:1-19)

Last night we began studying creation as recorded in Genesis (1st book of the Bible). Chapter one is packed full of events and happenings, so we didn’t get through the entire chapter, which is ok because we don’t want to rush it and miss something. We did make it to the fourth day. Here’s a systematic unpacking of what we discovered:

Day 1 (vv.1-5)
- God was before everything
- He created the heavens and the earth (earth was formless and empty)
- He created water
- The Spirit of God was hovering over the waters
- God created light, saw it was good and separated it from darkness
- He called light “day” and darkness “night”

Day 2 (vv.6-8)
- God creates the expanse between the waters below and above earth
- God calls the expanse “sky”

Day 3 (vv.9-13)
- Waters gather in one place (the Seas) and dry ground appears
- Land produces vegetation, seed-bearing plants and trees (with fruit)

Day 4 (vv.14-19)
- God creates the lights of the sky; sun, moon, and stars
- They mark the seasons, days, and years
- The sun governs our days and the moon governs our nights

We also sought to find some key words and phrases in Genesis 1:1-19. We looked for things that were repeated a lot. Here’s what we discovered:
- God saw it was good (v.4, 10, 12, 18)
- God created (vv.1-19)
- And God said (v.3, 6, 9, 11, 14)

Question of the night:
- There was light and darkness on the first day, but there was nothing created to emit the light (e.g., sun, stars). Where did the light come from? How could there be light without the sun and stars? Is this passage even talking about physical light? Or is it something else?

A poem for Paul

Our Wednesday night Bible study in Acts has come to an end. We’ve learned so much about Paul and how he lived his life. If only more Christians would strive to live life with no regrets and totally sold-out to God. Would it make a difference? Oh yeah! I don’t know why, but I felt compelled to try and put Paul’s life into a simple short poem. Tell me what you think?

Paul’s Life

Trained by Pharisees and in his mind smart
A man of great knowledge, but lacking true heart

An advocate for learning, praised for his stature
He demanded Christ’s followers all be captured

Proud to protect that which was dear
He boldly persecuted out of a self-righteous fear

One day as he traveled to Damascus
A Light shown forth and he met his real Master

Broken, blind, and discipled by Ananias
Paul was now a disciple of the humble Messiah

Transformed from within and determined to preach
Paul set out to tells others of the life within reach

Befriended by Barnabas and an encouragement to the Church
Paul’s message of Christ crucified must be heard

He ministered in Antioch and taught others about Christ
Confess and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead and you will have life

After preaching and teaching God moved Paul on
He was now God’s ambassador to a world living in wrong

He walked, rode, and sailed thousands of miles
Always keeping in mind he must preach Christ to the Gentiles

He never forsook his Jewish roots
He loved his people, even when they falsely accused

Now on trial Paul appeals to Caesar
No worry, Jesus has promised him a new place to minister

Headed for Rome and shackled in chains
A northeaster wind showed that Paul’s faith would remain

Taking charge and holding onto God’s Word
Amidst and sinking ship Paul made sure God was heard

Settled in Rome and preaching without restraint
He will always be remember as one of the great saints

The End

Julius (Acts 27)

Acts 27 records the incredible story of Paul’s journey to Rome through the Mediterranean Sea. They are traveling on a very large ship (Luke reports that there were 276 people on board, 27:37). A Roman centurion by the name of Julius is in charge of transporting prisoners to Rome aboard this ship. One of those prisoners (Paul) will have a huge impact on his life. At first, Julius pays little attention to Paul’s advice concerning sailing (v.11). However, it can’t be deduced that Julius is unfair in his treatment of Paul because verse 3 records quite the opposite,

Julius, in his kindness to Paul, allowed him to go to his
friends so they might provide for his needs.

Apparently Julius had a certain amount of respect for Paul. We’re not sure why; maybe it developed from the way Paul treated him, maybe Paul’s Roman citizenship helped him connect to Julius, or maybe good words from other Roman soldiers were spoken about Paul. Whatever the case, Paul and Julius know and communicate to each other.

As they continuing sailing Paul informs Julius and the men aboard the ship that the voyage is going to be dangerous. His advice is ignored and they continue sailing. It’s not long after this that the crew finds themselves in a violent “northeaster” storm. The storm is so bad that even Luke seems to indicate he’s lost hope. He writes in verse 20,

When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved.

An interesting change takes place in the heart of Julius during this trying time. He moves from treating Paul’s words as weightless and empty to believing everything Paul has to say (read verses 29-32 & 42-43). The previous night an angel of the Lord visited Paul and promised him that God would see everyone through and to safety (v.23-24). Paul holds tight to God’s promise and it gives him new inspiration during a difficult time. As we continue reading through Acts 27 we see Paul, in a way, take command of the ship. He’s their voice of reason during uncertainty and doubt. He relays God’s message to them, a message of hope and encouragement. A message that says, “Everyone will be saved!” And it’s amidst this backdrop, a horrible storm and no hope, that Julius finds trust in Paul’s words.

Questions:
- Does God use outside circumstances (e.g. a natural disaster, suffering, death, troubling time, etc.,) to bring us into a relationship with Him?
- If yes, how?
- Does God use outside circumstances (e.g. a natural disaster, suffering, death, troubling time, etc.,) to nurture our relationship with Him?
- Why?
- Do you think He cause events (e.g. a natural disaster, suffering, death, troubling time, etc.,) like that to happen?
- If you believe He causes events like that to happen, what does that say or teach about God?
- How does your view line up with what Scripture teaches?
- How would Julius answer these questions?

Paul before Agrippa II (Acts 26)

Digging into Acts 26 we find Paul ready to speak before King Agrippa II and his high-class audience (see Acts 25:23 for a rundown of who all was present). Paul opens his speech by buttering up King Agrippa II. Luke writes in verses 1-3,

Then Paul stretched out his hand and proceeded to make his defense: "In regard to all the things of which I am accused by the Jews, I consider myself fortunate, King Agrippa, that I am about to make my defense before you today; especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews; therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

We see the Holy Spirit working here in Paul’s life by the way he respects those in authority. He’s living out what he asked other Christians to do in Romans 13:1,

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.

Paul had every right to be angry and seditious towards those above him, but he wasn’t. This was an honest man being accused of something he didn’t do. What an example for us today in how we should respond when the world rises up against us. Continuing, we hear Paul again tell his testimony. He starts from his childhood and retells his journey to becoming a Pharisee. He gives details regarding his obsession with persecuting Christians (v.9-11). Then, he transitions into his encounter with the Living Christ on the road to Damascus. From this point on Paul was adamant in preaching repentance, turning to God, and proving repentance by what you do; to both Jews and Gentiles.

During Paul’s discourse on Christ Festus interrupts and basically calls him crazy (v.24). Paul defends himself and even adds, “What I am saying is true and reasonable.” Paul says Christianity is reasonable? He then asks Agrippa II his thoughts and if he believes the prophets and what they have to say in regards to Jesus. Agrippa II responds, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” Paul replies, “Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
The tenacity of this man is amazing and inspiring! My prayer is for the Holy Spirit to give me that type of boldness before the world.

Questions:
- How would you have responded to Agrippa II/Festus?
- Would you have been able to respond in respect and love like Paul?
- What does this teach us about Paul’s conversion?
- What does this teach us about the power of God?

Festus (Acts 25)

Well, we’re almost through the book of Acts. It’s been a long journey, but very rewarding. We get an up close and personal example of the Holy Spirit’s work in the world around us through the Lord’s disciples. Some of the benefits in reading Acts straight through have been:
- A chance to see God at work in ordinary people.
- A chance to see what those ordinary people can accomplish with the Holy Spirit living in them.
- A chance to see many lives transformed by God through the Holy Spirit.
- A chance to see what a community of believers working together in unity to spread the Gospel looks like.
Those are just a few generic observations. Reading the text and connecting people and places has been rewarding for me. I’ve come away with a new respect for Paul and his missionary journeys. What an amazing man!

Moving back to our story in Acts 25 we find Paul back in familiar territory and ready to stand before a new Roman governor by the name of Festus. He doesn’t seem to be as corrupt as the previous one (Felix). Again, some Jews think up a plot to kill Paul on his way to Jerusalem. Luke writes in verse 3,

They urgently requested Festus, as a favor to them, to have Paul transferred to Jerusalem, for they were preparing an ambush to kill him along the way.

Festus wisely summons Paul’s accusers to Caesarea and the plot to kill Paul is foiled again (ha!). Next we find Paul standing trial and speaking boldly in the presence of his enemies. A turning point occurs in this trial when Paul appeals to stand before Caesar. This was something all Roman citizens had a right to do. Who was the Caesar that Paul would be appealing to? None other than the fun-loving compassionate man named Nero (yeah right!). So, this pretty much seals the deal on Paul’s trip to Rome. We shouldn’t be surprised because back in Acts 23:11 Jesus says to Paul,

“Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem,
so you must also testify in Rome.”

Paul is going to Rome to spread the Gospel. It may be under different circumstances (as a prisoner) then you or I would like to go, but he’s going. Before Paul leaves however, someone wants to see and hear him. Who is it? King Agrippa II and his wife/sister? Bernice. He was great-grandson to Herod the Great (Remember him? He tried killing Jesus as a baby). His father (Herod Agrippa I), if you forgot, was the one struck down by God in Acts 12:23 for not giving praise to God. So, Paul, in chains and prison garb, gets an impressive audience to speak before. What kind of message will he bring? What type of miraculous things will God work out? We’ll find out next week as we explore Acts 26.

Book Review (Gutsy Faith)

In Jeff Edmondson’s book Gutsy Faith (Hard Conversations with God) we learn how to hear and obey God’s voice and will for our lives. The title of the book (Gutsy Faith) gives good credence to what self-surrendered obedience to God takes. Not shy to address tough issues Jeff dives headfirst into a hard conversation with God. One of the key points to this book is that it is never God’s desire to say no to His children (pg.25). From this we’re launched on a no holds barred journey of what our lives would/could look like if we embraced and believed this.

Positive: I appreciated the extra reading of Scripture before each chapter. It set the stage nicely for what each chapter contained. A nice job was done connecting the Scriptures to the chapters in the book. I also appreciated Jeff’s inductive Bible study skills of pulling truth from the Scriptures.

Usually the chapters will start with a re-telling of the Scripture chunks (the ones you’re asked to read at the beginning of each chapter) in a bit more drawn out and readable way (I really liked that!). This was a nice way to pull the reader into the story and maybe make him/her see some things they missed or see from a different perspective. Jeff then explains the passage in its historical context. Answering the question: What did this mean back then? He also looks at the passage of Scripture within the context of the previous and following chapters of the book. We find this to be the key in interpreting some of Jesus’ sayings and teachings. Jeff also is very mindful of the Scriptures as a whole and their teaching about human salvation and redemption.

The Bible study within this book was very well done. I actually wanted more of it. I think it shows how much time the author spent studying, reading, and re-reading not just the passage of Scripture, but the whole book. The story was told, personal illustration was given, sometimes practical advice was given, and through the Thought Questions section application was given.

The Thought Questions section at the end of each chapter move this book into the workbook/small group genre. I personally think this book would best be used within a small group or one on one situation. Sure you can go through by yourself, but working with someone else and hearing how he or she answered the questions would build fellowship. The questions weren’t surface level questions either. This is something I appreciate because so many times bible studies and/or devotional books ask shallow thoughtless questions. To answer these questions you’re going to have to sit down and think. It’s helpful because it helps you hammer out what you really believe. Used within a small group setting, this could be priceless, because you could help one another in developing a systematic theology.

This book is also very practical. Chapter 14 Too Tired To Deal With It is an extremely helpful chapter to anyone wanting to hear from God or anyone wanting to know how to hear from God.

Negative: Although this book is for everyone, at the same time it isn’t. Anyone could read it, but not everyone will pull from it what Jeff is intending to be pulled. This book is meant for someone already in a relationship with Jesus. If you don’t have that, you may find this book interesting and a good read, but nothing more. This is especially true when it comes to the Thought Questions section of the book. These questions play off of one’s relationship with God. They seek to develop and grow a deeper understanding of God and to nurture a deeper relationship with Him. So, those who read this and don’t have that (personal relationship with God) will feel left out. But, Jeff knew this when writing the book and I believe he was targeting a specific group (late teen to twenty somethings) who will no doubt find this book a helpful guide as they walk with the Lord.

Final thoughts: I highly recommend this book to any youth pastor/pastor needing a discipling tool for older teenagers and college career. It wouldn’t hurt for adults to read too. This could also be a helpful tool for any pastor engaged in evangelism and discipleship. Once new converts are won to the Lord, they will no doubt find themselves having hard conversations with God. This book is also a perfect fit for one on one and small group discipleship. It’s enjoyable, easy to read, and challenging. If you interested in purchasing this book you can do so by clicking here --> Gutsy Faith by Jeff Edmondson.

Thoughts on Acts

Acts

Below is compilation of my thoughts and personal study in the book of Acts. This is a result of teaching through each chapter in the book of Acts, something that took a year to accomplish. I thank my teenagers for their patience and insights. If you want to adventure along I recommend you have your Bible near so you too can read and discover God’s truth in Acts. Hope you enjoy!

Waiting on God
(Acts 1)

Have you ever been told to wait? It can birth feelings of frustration, impatience, humiliation, and invigoration. Even all four at once! Usually the emotions following waiting depend on what we’re waiting for. Some say, “I can’t wait to get married! I can’t wait to get out of school! I can’t wait in line, I’m an important person!” Despite who we are, we all find ourselves waiting. What is it about waiting that perturbs us humans? Yes, waiting for something pleasurable (like a gift) is a lot different then waiting to hear a doctor’s report on if you have cancer or not. But I’m not focusing on the thing we’re waiting for, but on waiting itself.

In Acts 1:4 Jesus tells His disciples,

“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.”

Some suggest Jesus is restoring His disciple’s faith by asking them to wait in Jerusalem. He’s giving them a second chance to not run off and desert Him like they did when He was crucified. Others say it was to fuel their desire and want for the Gift He promised. No matter how you view this, one thing remains…they had to wait. More importantly, Jesus asked them to wait. What? God asking us to wait? Seems kind of absurd! Especially since we live in a society drenched in instant this and instant that. Waiting just doesn’t fit into the picture here. Or does it?

Throughout the book of Acts we find people waiting. Numerous times we find the disciples waiting in jail (Acts 5:18, 12:5, 16:23), Paul had to wait to receive his sight back after his Damascus Road encounter with Jesus (Acts 9:9), and the Gentile Christians at Antioch had to wait to hear the verdict on if they were to be circumcised or not (Acts 15:1, 5). Waiting is everywhere! *Even before the book of Acts, in the Gospels, the disciples have to wait three days for their Savior to rise from the dead.

In our day and age people are cleverly thinking up new ways to make waiting shorter. We have drive-thru restaurants, drive-thru banks, and now drive-thru prescription pick-ups. Imagine your grandparent’s reaction to hearing that when it was first announced. Think of how frustrating it is when you have to wait in a drive-thru? (There has to be some irony here. The drive-thru was invented so you wouldn’t have to wait, right?) You know what I’m talking about. The guy/gal in front of you orders that “special burger” that takes 10 minutes to make. So, you’re forced into staring at their bumper sticker, which reads, “Proud parent of an honor student.” Or the other classic, “Proud parent of a kid who beat up your honor student!” Nevertheless, you’re left waiting.

I once heard it took all day to do laundry by hand, now it takes an hour or two. We can have dinner ready in minutes. That should give us at least an hour or so of extra free time from the normal time it would take to prepare a hearty dinner, right? With things working quicker and us not having to wait so much, you would think we would have more free time. Think again! I surveyed my own life during the week and I was amazed at how little free time I have. It seems every shortcut taken to save time was canceled out. Why? Because I kept filling my schedule with one more thing. The fact that we can do more things quicker only means we can do more things. It’s like I don’t want to have to wait around, so I busy myself doing something else. I try really hard to eliminate waiting in my life. Should I be doing that?

Looking back to Acts 1, I think Jesus was on to something when He asked His disciples to wait? Maybe there’s something to learn about God here. If Jesus deems it necessary to wait, then maybe waiting isn’t so bad. Jesus could have instantly given the disciples the Holy Spirit, but instead He asked them to wait. Maybe He was preparing them for the Christian life, which waiting is embedded in. How? As Christians, we all universally have something we’re waiting for. Maybe I should say Someone. The return of our Lord Jesus Christ. Someday (I hope it’s soon!) the waiting will be over. So, the next time you find yourself waiting, let it remind you of the hope we have as Christians. Hope in our Lord’s return. Let Him teach you in that sometimes frustrating, impatient, humiliating, and invigorating moment of waiting that He is one day coming back.


Questions:

- Do you cringe when you have to wait for something?
- What do you think God is trying to teach us by having us wait?
- Is there anything you have learned about God or life through waiting?
- Do you think it’s cruel that God sometimes has us wait for things?
- Why do you think Jesus told them to wait?


Fellowship
(Acts 2)

After Peter’s Pentecostal sermon in Acts 2, we see some radical changes implemented into the lives of the early believers. Read Acts 2:41-47 and you’ll see what I’m talking about. To kick start this special event, Pentecost was a special time for Jews all over the region. During this time (50 days after Passover. The Greek word for “fiftieth day” is Pentecost), they would make the pilgrimage to Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Weeks. Thousands of Jews would be in Jerusalem during this time. Now we see why God was waiting to pour out His Spirit. As they were gathered the Holy Spirit was given to all in the upper room who were praying and they began speaking in tongues. Following this, Peter (now filled with the Holy Spirit) delivers a fiery sermon calling for repentance and baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ (v.38).

The aftermath is incredible. Listen to Luke’s words as he records the events in verse 41,

“Those who accepted his
message were baptized, and about
three thousand were added to their number that day.”

Luke doesn’t stop there, good things continue to happen. Listen to verse 42,

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching
and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

One of the things I note from this passage is the fellowship the early believers were devoted to. In the Greek language the word is Koinonia. It means communion with, close association with, and community. This word is also used by Paul in 2 Corinthians 13:14 to described the type of fellowship we believers have with the Holy Spirit. He states,

“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

That’s a pretty intimate type of fellowship.

One of the things I cherish about J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings is the close fellowship between the characters. One example is the fellowship between Frodo and Sam. They are in such a tight fellowship with one another that what one does or feels, the other does or feels. We even discover that Sam is willing to risk his life to protect and follow Frodo. In the book you have a fellowship on a journey and this fellowship involves people making sacrifices for one another, helping one another, and sticking with one another despite despairing circumstances.

The fellowship in Tolkien’s novel shadows the type of fellowship the early Christians in Acts display. Acts is a real life documentation of Christians in Agape love with one another. I think it’s important to note that this fellowship happens after the Holy Spirit is poured out. So, we see a close connection between loving one another in an Agape type way and being filled with the Holy Spirit. Could we love one another like that without the Holy Spirit? This must have been an exciting time for the early Christians! Luke goes on to describe them as meeting together every day (v.46). There had to be something supernatural going on for that to happen!

It’s like pulling teeth today to get Christians to come together for one Sunday morning service. I won’t dare touch Sunday night or the midweek service. You pastors know how well those are attended (some pastors and churches have dealt with the problem by canceling services). Maybe we need to be praying for God’s Spirit to fill us in such a way that we want and desire to come together. Then, when we do come together, it’s out of our love for God and commitment to one another. Do you long for real and authentic fellowship with one another? If yes, don’t throw away those longings, but keep praying, because God answers our prayers.


Questions:

- How does this portrayal of fellowship stack up to our portrayal of fellowship today?
- What are some ways we could improve our fellowship with one another?
- Why do you think the early Christians were so adamant about coming together?
- What hindrances keep us from coming together like the early Christians?
- What ideas do you have to help improve our fellowship as Christians?

Enabling
(Acts 2)

Acts 2 opens up with a firestorm (literally) of action! Listen to Luke’s description in the opening verses,

1When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.

In the next verse (v.4) we see the disciples speaking in other languages as the Spirit enabled them. In Greek (the language the New Testament was originally written in) the word “enabled” is didomi (to give, grant, or permit). First and foremost we must see that this giving/enabling comes from God. The disciple’s part in all of this was to wait (see Acts 1:4). God’s part was enabling them to speak in different languages. God was the supplier of the power. This is only the beginning of God through the Holy Spirit enabling His disciples to do miraculous and amazing things. Throughout the book of Acts the disciples are enabled by the Holy Spirit to speak in tongues, heal the sick, stand bold amidst persecution, and even raise the dead! It’s amazing what God wants to do through us.

I wonder how willing we are to be used by God? How willing and open are we to Him enabling us? Our culture focuses on self-empowerment. I’ve seen late night info commercials flaunting the slogan “The real power is within you”. Yikes! If that’s the case, I’m in trouble! The Bible makes it pretty clear that humans are born with sinful natures (Ephesians 2:3). Implying we’re marred from birth. The only power inside us is the power to naturally do evil. Does that sound like the type of power you want? In light of this, it makes sense that God would want to come live inside of us (through the Holy Spirit). If He doesn’t, we’re doomed to spending life chained to our sinful nature.

One of the dangers in reading Acts is to think, “God will never work like this again.” God will and is working like this and has been for the past 2,000 years. Acts isn’t just a parade of God’s best in action. It’s showing us what life in the Spirit is like. Those of us who have accepted Christ have the Spirit living inside of us (Ephesians 1:12). We have that same enabling power the early disciples received. God through His Holy Spirit wants to use us like He did those early disciples.

If you have trouble seeing the Holy Spirit at work, go and ask some of the saints in your church for examples. Be prepared for a long list of stories, because they are living testimonies to the Spirit’s work. We cannot doubt the Spirit’s work. The book of James tells us,

6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.
If you doubt the Spirit will ever work in your life and perform the type of miracles He did through the early disciple’s lives…He probably won’t. Even though God is way more than we can ever expect, sometimes what we expect is what we get. So, I challenge you to spend some time reading and re-reading this first part of Acts (v.1-4). Remember that the disciples had nothing in themselves to produce the type of power they received when the Holy Spirit came on them. These were regular men and women (they were there too).

Questions:
- Do you ever doubt what the Spirit can do in your life?
- Have you ever witnessed the Spirit doing something miraculous? If yes, what?
- What are some of the stories the saints in your church tell about the Holy Spirit?


Crippled from birth
(Acts 3)

Imagine being born crippled. Imagine the often taken for granted things in life you would never know or understand. Things like running, jumping, and walking. But then one day, out of the blue, you are healed. Imagine the excitement and splendor in learning how to do all the things you’ve missed out on in life. Such is the story at the beginning of Acts 3. Peter and John are on their way to the temple to pray (Jewish custom) and they encounter a man, a beggar, who was crippled from birth (v.1-2). He makes his usual requests for money and receives something more; a healing, and more importantly the Gospel.

This healing is a miraculous story for two reasons:

First, this wasn’t a healing done by Jesus, but by one of His disciples. A disciple that had abandoned Him a few months earlier (read Luke 22:54-62). I’m talking about Peter. Before Pentecost, Peter was guilty of desertion, but after God poured out His Spirit on him, Peter became something better. What I mean is that Peter, after being filled with the Holy Spirit, became more original. He was in tune and in fellowship with God. This was what man and woman were originally created for. Remember Genesis and the Garden of Eden? Man and woman were supposed to live in perpetual fellowship with God there. But, after being deceived by the serpent, the fellowship with God was broken. Their sin carried with it harsh consequences. Kicked out of the Garden of Eden and kicked out of fellowship with God. (Here’s the full story if you want to read it, Genesis 3:1-24)

Second, this story could almost be used as an analogy to describe the condition of every human being before they encounter Christ. We are all born crippled in a spiritual sense. The Bible constantly reminds us that we are born with sinful natures. Listen to the words of Paul as he writes to the Church in Ephesus (Ephesians 2:3) describing life before coming to know Christ,

“All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings
of our sinful nature and following
its desires and thoughts.”

Sinning comes natural for us. Even if Satan and all his cronies were wiped out, we would still sin (*See note below). They don’t make us sin, we choose to sin because of our sinful natures. They aren’t the problem, we are. I heard somebody once say, “If you want to see the most evil creature on earth, you’re going to need a mirror.”

*I’m not trying to downplay or deny the influence Satan and his demons have on people. I’m not saying they sit around and do absolutely nothing, because they do try and entice us to sin in numerous ways (ways we probably aren’t even aware of). My point is that they are not the ones who make us sin. Yes, Sate did entice Eve in the Garden of Eden, but he didn’t make her take the fruit or the bite (same goes for Adam), she made the choice as well as Adam. If we blame our sins and sinful nature all on fallen angels, Jesus shouldn’t have died for us, but for them. We are responsible for our sins and our sinful nature.

The Good News for us who believe in Christ is that we receive a healing. God’s Holy Spirit was given to us for this very purpose. To cleanse us, to purify us, and to put to death our sinful nature. Despite your theological background you cannot deny that God wants His Spirit to live in us. He wants His Spirit to live through us. He wants His Spirit to make us like His Son Jesus Christ.

The crippled man saw and heard Someone that day in his encounter with Peter and John, Someone who would change his life forever. He heard the Gospel and saw the Spirit at work in Peter and his own life (his healing). God’s Spirit is going to change the Ancient World forever with the help of men and women willing to submit to Him. He wants to do miraculous things in and through us. We just need His grace to allow us to let Him do it. Are you willing and ready?

This story is a remarkable way to start a ministry. The crippled man was just as happy as I’m sure the disciples were. Acts 3:9 talks of him jumping and praising God. Before we come to God we are crippled, remember that. Read Acts 3 again and see humanity in the crippled man. I hope this story opens your eyes to the need of God in men and women around the world.

Questions:
- Do you find it amazing the Peter healed this man?
- Why or why not?
- When’s the last time you saw a display of God’s power like this?


Festus
(Acts 25)

Well, we’re almost through the book of Acts. It’s been a long journey, but very rewarding. We get an up close and personal example of the Holy Spirit’s work in the world around us through the Lord’s disciples. Some of the benefits in reading Acts straight through have been:
- A chance to see God at work in ordinary people.
- A chance to see what those ordinary people can accomplish with the Holy Spirit living in them.
- A chance to see many lives transformed by God through the Holy Spirit.
- A chance to see what a community of believers working together in unity to spread the Gospel looks like.
Those are just a few generic observations. Reading the text and connecting people and places has been rewarding for me. I’ve come away with a new respect for Paul and his missionary journeys. What an amazing man!

Paul’s now back in familiar territory and ready to stand before a new Roman governor by the name of Festus. He doesn’t seem to be as corrupt as the previous one (Felix). Again, some Jews think up a plot to kill Paul on his way to Jerusalem. Luke writes in verse 3,

They urgently requested Festus, as a favor to them, to have Paul transferred to Jerusalem, for they were preparing an ambush to kill him along the way.

Festus wisely summons Paul’s accusers to Caesarea and the plot to kill Paul is foiled again (ha!). Next we find Paul standing trial and speaking boldly in the presence of his enemies. A turning point occurs in this trial when Paul appeals to stand before Caesar. This was something all Roman citizens had a right to do. Who was the Caesar that Paul would be appealing to? None other than the fun-loving compassionate man named Nero (yeah right!). So, this pretty much seals the deal on Paul’s trip to Rome. We shouldn’t be surprised because back in Acts 23:11 Jesus says to Paul,

“Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem,
so you must also testify in Rome.”

Paul is going to Rome to spread the Gospel. It may be under different circumstances (as a prisoner) then you or I would like to go, but he’s going. Before Paul leaves however, someone wants to see and hear him. Who is it? King Agrippa II and his wife/sister? Bernice. He was great-grandson to Herod the Great (Remember him? He tried killing Jesus as a baby). His father (Herod Agrippa I), if you forgot, was the one struck down by God in Acts 12:23 for not giving praise to God. So, Paul, in chains and prison garb, gets an impressive audience to speak before. What kind of message will he bring? What type of miraculous things will God work out? We’ll find out next week as we explore Acts 26.


Paul before Agrippa II
(Acts 26)

Digging into Acts 26 we find Paul ready to speak before King Agrippa II and his high-class audience (see Acts 25:23 for a rundown of who all was present). Paul opens his speech by buttering up King Agrippa II. Luke writes,

Then Paul stretched out his hand and proceeded to make his defense: "In regard to all the things of which I am accused by the Jews, I consider myself fortunate, King Agrippa, that I am about to make my defense before you today; especially because you are an expert in all customs and questions among the Jews; therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

We see the Holy Spirit working here in Paul’s life by the way he respects those in authority. He’s living out what he asked other Christians to do in Romans 13:1,

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.

Paul had every right to be angry and seditious towards those above him, but he wasn’t. This was an honest man being accused of something he didn’t do. What an example for us today in how we should respond when the world rises up against us. Continuing, we hear Paul again tell his testimony. He starts from his childhood and retells his journey to becoming a Pharisee. He gives details regarding his obsession with persecuting Christians (v.9-11). Then, he transitions into his encounter with the Living Christ on the road to Damascus. From this point on Paul was adamant in preaching repentance, turning to God, and proving repentance by what you do; to both Jews and Gentiles.

During Paul’s discourse on Christ Festus interrupts and basically calls him crazy (v.24). Paul defends himself and even adds, “What I am saying is true and reasonable.” Paul says Christianity is reasonable? He then asks Agrippa II his thoughts and if he believes the prophets and what they have to say in regards to Jesus. Agrippa II responds, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” Paul replies, “Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
The tenacity of this man is amazing and inspiring! My prayer is for the Holy Spirit to give me that type of boldness before the world.

Questions:
- How would you have responded to Agrippa II/Festus?
- Would you have been able to respond in respect and love like Paul?
- What does this teach us about Paul’s conversion?
- What does this teach us about the power of God?


Julius
(Acts 27)

Acts 27 records the incredible story of Paul’s journey to Rome through the Mediterranean Sea. They are traveling on a very large ship (Luke reports that there were 276 people on board, 27:37). A Roman centurion by the name of Julius is in charge of transporting prisoners to Rome aboard this ship. One of those prisoners (Paul) will have a huge impact on his life. At first, Julius pays little attention to Paul’s advice concerning sailing (v.11). However, it can’t be deduced that Julius is unfair in his treatment of Paul because verse 3 records quite the opposite,

“Julius, in his kindness to Paul, allowed him to go to his
friends so they might provide for his needs.”

Apparently Julius had a certain amount of respect for Paul. We’re not sure why; maybe it developed from the way Paul treated him, maybe Paul’s Roman citizenship helped him connect to Julius, or maybe good words from other Roman soldiers were spoken about Paul. Whatever the case, Paul and Julius know and communicate to each other.

As they continuing sailing Paul informs Julius and the men aboard the ship that the voyage is going to be dangerous. His advice is ignored and they continue sailing. It’s not long after this that the crew finds themselves in a violent “northeaster” storm. The storm is so bad that even Luke seems to indicate he’s lost hope. He writes in verse 20,

When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the storm continued raging, we finally gave up all hope of being saved.

An interesting change takes place in the heart of Julius during this trying time. He moves from treating Paul’s words as weightless and empty to believing everything Paul has to say (read verse 29-32 & 42-43). The previous night an angel of the Lord visited Paul and promised him that God would see everyone through and to safety (v.23-24). Paul holds tight to God’s promise and it gives him new inspiration during a difficult time. As we continue reading through Acts 27 we see Paul, in a way, take command of the ship. He’s their voice of reason during uncertainty and doubt. He relays God’s message to them, a message of hope and encouragement. A message that says, “Everyone will be saved!” And it’s amidst this backdrop, a horrible storm and no hope, that Julius finds trust in Paul’s words.



Questions:
- Does God use outside circumstances (e.g. a natural disaster, suffering, death, troubling time, etc.,) to bring us into a relationship with Him?
- If yes, how?
- Does God use outside circumstances (e.g. a natural disaster, suffering, death, troubling time, etc.,) to nurture our relationship with Him?
- Why?
- Do you think He cause events (e.g. a natural disaster, suffering, death, troubling time, etc.,) like that to happen?
- If you believe He causes events like that to happen, what does that say or teach about God?
- How does your view line up with what Scripture teaches?
- How would Julius answer these questions?


A poem for Paul

Our Wednesday night Bible study in Acts has come to an end. We’ve learned so much about Paul and how he lived his life. If only more Christians would strive to live life with no regrets and totally sold-out to God. Would it make a difference? Oh yeah! I don’t know why, but I felt compelled to try and put Paul’s life into a simple short poem. Tell me what you think?

Paul’s Life

Trained by Pharisees and in his mind smart
A man of great knowledge, but lacking true heart

An advocate for learning, praised for his stature
He demanded Christ’s followers all be captured

Proud to protect that which was dear
He boldly persecuted out of a self-righteous fear

One day as he traveled to Damascus
A Light shown forth and he met his real Master

Broken, blind, and discipled by Ananias
Paul was now a disciple of the humble Messiah

Transformed from within and determined to preach
Paul set out to tells others of the life within reach

Befriended by Barnabas and an encouragement to the Church
Paul’s message of Christ crucified must be heard

He ministered in Antioch and taught others about Christ
Confess and believe in your heart in that God raised Him from the dead and you will have life

After preaching and teaching God moved Paul on
He was now God’s ambassador to a world living in wrong

He walked, rode, and sailed thousands of miles
Always keeping in mind he must preach Christ to the Gentiles

He never forsook his Jewish roots
He loved his people, even when they falsely accused

Now on trial Paul appeals to Caesar
No worry, Jesus has promised him a new place to minister

Headed for Rome and shackled in chains
A northeaster wind showed that Paul’s faith would remain

Taking charge and holding onto God’s Word
Amidst and sinking ship Paul made sure God was heard

Settled in Rome and preaching without restraint
He will always be remember as one of the great saints

The End

Thoughts on Suffering

“Why does God allow bad things to happen?”

It’s a legitimate question, one I too have asked. However, the early Christians didn’t cower or run from this question, they continued to embrace God and speak justly of Him during suffering. I want to begin talking about why God allows bad things to happen or why God allows evil and suffering in this world? It’s a question many ask and still seek an answer to. Some claim it as their number one reason for not believing in God. My hopes as we endeavor through this, are that we learn something new about God and how good and loving He really is towards us. He is perfect in His love towards us and He never wills us to suffer. It was never a part of His original plan for us. But nonetheless, evil and suffering exist in our world today.

Why does God allow evil and suffering in this world?
Thinking deeply about evil and suffering allows us to see that it ultimately points back to one of God’s greatest gifts to humanity, free will. Because of God’s love for Adam and Eve He created them to be completely free. In the Garden of Eden God allowed man and woman to make choices. They could choose to be obedient to Him and His one rule (not to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil) or they could choose to be disobedient.

In Genesis 3 we see Adam and Eve exercising their free will. They were tempted by the Serpent and chose to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. God didn’t step in and stop them because He gave them the choice. How could He have granted them total freedom if He didn’t allow them to be disobedient? And so we see it was from one of God’s greatest gift to humanity (free will) that evil emerged. Human freedom gave birth to the evils from which suffering transpired. So we discover God permits evil, suffering, pain, and death in this life because He granted us free will.

Think about it this way, a god who feared evil would not have let it exist. But our God who is all powerful (Omnipotent), all knowing (Omniscient), and everywhere (Omnipresent) is unshakable in His sovereignty (Rule over entire Universe) even amongst evil. So firm in fact, He came to earth, lived among us, and remained the unblemished Lamb who never sinned. If God didn’t permit evil and suffering, His coming to earth, living a perfectly holy life, resisting sin, and dying for us would be meaningless. He brings hope to humanity by redeeming us to God through His blood.

So, why does God allow evil and suffering in this world? Because He gave us total and complete free will. And it couldn’t be called free will without the ability to choose freely right or wrong. And it was our wrong choices that let evil, death, suffering, and pain into our world. Now it becomes much clearer as to why humanity needs a Redeemer (Jesus). Thank you God for free will and redemption!

Amazing as this might sound, God can cause good to come out of bad. He can take a hopeless situation and turn it completely around. Not fully convinced? Look at what resulted from humanity bringing evil, suffering, pain, and death into the world, God gave His One Son, Jesus Christ. And through His Son He restored a broken relationship between Himself and humanity (available to all who confess Jesus as Lord and believe God raised Him from the dead.). I want to talk about the ways God can pull good from bad or how He can use suffering in our life to help us become more like Him.

How does God use suffering in our lives to help us become more like Him?
One of the many things I admire about the early Christians in the book of Acts is their reaction during suffering. Luke writes in Acts 12:5 after Peter was thrown into prison that “the Church was earnestly praying for him.” They turned to God. Earlier they had faced a similar situation and knew calling out to God in prayer was their only hope (Acts 4:23-24). That is probably one of the greatest goods to come out of suffering; people turning to God. What an example we set for others when suffering only strengthens our relationship with Jesus Christ. Something to think about the next time you find yourself facing hard times.

Another way God uses suffering in our lives is, to strengthen us spiritually. If we never suffered, like an athlete who neglected training and exercise, our spiritual lives would become weak, lazy, and never taste victory. Spiritual growth occurs when suffering pushes us beyond our human limits and we realize our finite human condition and powerlessness. Then we learn what it means to totally trust in God’s perfect sacrifice (Jesus Christ) and His empowering Holy Spirit. Again, this trails back to turning to God amidst suffering.

Scary as this is to say, I see suffering as essential to the life of every believer. In our spiritual lives suffering functions like a proof to an algebraic equation, telling the truth about our relationship with God. If we have a solid or shaky relationship with Jesus Christ, suffering will show it. Think of friendship. How do you know you have true friends? Is it because they stick with you when times are good and nothing bad happens? No way! You call them true friends because they stick with you through thick and thin. And when something bad does happen, you don’t blame them. You rely on them and turn to them for help. Wouldn’t it be great if we could do that with God during our times of suffering?

So I say all of this to say, suffering, if we allow it can bring us closer to God. I have no doubts that suffering can do quite the opposite too. I’m not naïve; I know things happen sometimes (i.e. death of a loved one, murder, suicide) and there is no explanation as to why and God seems further away than ever. But, I believe we make the choice on which way we want it to lead us. Goes back to God giving us free will (right to choose). The best example given on how to respond to evil, suffering, pain, and death is found in Jesus Christ. Read Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John and you’ll discover He let suffering push Him closer to His Father.

Notes on Suffering:
- God promises to be w/ us in our struggle. (Phil. 3:10)
- Promises victory over temporal suffering in eternity. (Rom 8:18)
- We discover this in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Click --> here to go back to home page.

Thoughts on Roman Centurions

Coming soon!

Thoughts on the Lord's Prayer

Coming soon!

More on Felix (Acts 24)

A big thanks to all who went on and helped out with the Dirty Feet Retreat! It was an awesome youth retreat! I see God working in ways I would have never guessed!

Last week we began looking closely at the Roman governor Felix. We put together a character sketch of Felix using the Scriptures. The surface level observations we made help lead us to sub-surface observations. Sub-surface observations are simply; observations that go deeper into the text. They may not specifically be mentioned or addressed. You have to really familiarize yourself with the passage (by reading and re-reading it) and the book to find them. As always, the rewards are worth it!

Here is what others observed about Felix’s character from mining the Scriptures:

- John10 said, “Felix = A Roman governor dude who probably made good money and lived above everyone else. To some he might seem like a jerk I guess. He wanted Paul to give him money so that proves my point.”

- Yourblogreader said, “My impression of Felix is, he's a big chicken, only doing what others expect of him.”


Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Here are some of my own sub-surface observations I make regarding Felix’s character:

Sub-surface Observations:

Verse 24-25 reads,

He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you."

- Felix wanted to hear what he wanted to hear. He didn’t want to hear the truth as Paul proclaimed it. Why? Probably because he wasn’t living a righteous and self-controlled life. Then, when Paul moved on to talk about the judgment to come it made Felix queasy and he couldn’t stomach the truth anymore.

He also had ulterior motives for questioning and listening to Paul. The man was hoping Paul would offer him money. He wanted Paul to buy him off. The Gospel wasn’t front and center for Felix, he was. What’s amazing is that God allowed Felix the opportunity to hear the Good News. God gave him a chance for repentance. Did he ever take it? It’s hard to know for sure. From our encounter with him in Acts 24 it sounds like he didn’t care too much about it. I hope I’m wrong.

*I'll be back next week with a short review on Gutsy Faith by Jeff Edmondson.