Lent, Pentecost and the Day of the Lord

Lent has started this year on Wednesday, 26 February 2020 and ends on Thursday, 9 April 2020. We are looking for to Pentecost or the Feast of Weeks. This is the fiftieth day after the Passover in the Jewish tradition. Pentecost is also significant to Christians as it is the 'Outpouring of the Holy Spirit' and is the fiftieth day after the Crucifixion of Yshua the Messiah.

Peter the Apostle made a speech on the first Pentecost after Yshua's crucifixion and Resurrection, in which he quoted Joel. The full passage of Joel is given below. However, Peter's quote was only from last part of chapter 2 in Joel. Peter's emphasis was on 'pour out my spirit upon all flesh' and those who call upon the Lord will be saved; because at that time the Holy Spirit was pourd unto believers and that gift of the Spirit and salvation is available to those who called on the Lord.

It is interesting to see that the context of Joel 2 is the the Day of the Lord, which is about endtimes. It also mentions the remnant who call will be saved. Peter's verses can be used to encourage the Gentiles to come to Christ, which is up to the End Times. During those times, when the Christians would have been taken back to be with the Lord, much more of Joel 2 will be fulfilled on earth.

The situation facing the world today is showing the potential of increased severity. It seems that the current events may be a prelude to what will be coming in the future. Hence while Peter was sharing God's Salvation at that time, for us now is the time to also share God's Salvation plans. We should also take hold of the encouragement Joel 2, such as 'Fear not, .., be glad and rejoice' and that God is also going to restore what is lost, and replace it with plenty.


Joel 2 Authorized (King James) Version (AKJV)
2 Blow ye the trumpet in Zion,
and sound an alarm in my holy mountain:
let all the inhabitants of the land tremble:
for the day of the Lord cometh,
for it is nigh at hand;
2 a day of darkness and of gloominess,
a day of clouds and of thick darkness,
as the morning spread upon the mountains:
a great people and a strong;
there hath not been ever the like,
neither shall be any more after it,
even to the years of many generations.
3 A fire devoureth before them;
and behind them a flame burneth:
the land is as the garden of Eden before them,
and behind them a desolate wilderness;
yea, and nothing shall escape them.
4 The appearance of them is as the appearance of horses;
and as horsemen, so shall they run.
5 Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap,
like the noise of a flame of fire that devoureth the stubble,
as a strong people set in battle array.
6 Before their face the people shall be much pained:
all faces shall gather blackness.
7 They shall run like mighty men;
they shall climb the wall like men of war;
and they shall march every one on his ways,
and they shall not break their ranks:
8 neither shall one thrust another;
they shall walk every one in his path:
and when they fall upon the sword,
they shall not be wounded.
9 They shall run to and fro in the city;
they shall run upon the wall,
they shall climb up upon the houses;
they shall enter in at the windows like a thief.
10 The earth shall quake before them;
the heavens shall tremble:
the sun and the moon shall be dark,
and the stars shall withdraw their shining:
11 and the Lord shall utter his voice before his army:
for his camp is very great:
for he is strong that executeth his word:
for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible;
and who can abide it?

12 Therefore also now, saith the Lord,
turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting,
and with weeping, and with mourning:
13 and rend your heart, and not your garments,
and turn unto the Lord your God:
for he is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger, and of great kindness,
and repenteth him of the evil.
14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent,
and leave a blessing behind him;
even a meat offering and a drink offering
unto the Lord your God?

15 Blow the trumpet in Zion,
sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly:
16 gather the people,
sanctify the congregation,
assemble the elders,
gather the children,
and those that suck the breasts:
let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber,
and the bride out of her closet.
17 Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord,
weep between the porch and the altar,
and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord,
and give not thine heritage to reproach,
that the heathen should rule over them:
wherefore should they say among the people,
Where is their God?

18 Then will the Lord be jealous for his land,
and pity his people.
19 Yea, the Lord will answer and say unto his people,
Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil,
and ye shall be satisfied therewith:
and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen:
20 but I will remove far off from you the northern army,
and will drive him into a land barren and desolate,
with his face toward the east sea,
and his hinder part toward the utmost sea,
and his stink shall come up,
and his ill savour shall come up,
because he hath done great things.

21 Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice:
for the Lord will do great things.
22 Be not afraid, ye beasts of the field:
for the pastures of the wilderness do spring,
for the tree beareth her fruit,
the fig tree and the vine do yield their strength.
23 Be glad then, ye children of Zion,
and rejoice in the Lord your God:
for he hath given you the former rain moderately,
and he will cause to come down for you the rain,
the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month.
24 And the floors shall be full of wheat,
and the fats shall overflow with wine and oil.

25 And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten,
the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm,
my great army which I sent among you.
26 And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied,
and praise the name of the Lord your God,
that hath dealt wondrously with you:
and my people shall never be ashamed.
27 And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel,
and that I am the Lord your God, and none else:
and my people shall never be ashamed.

28 And it shall come to pass afterward,
that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh;
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your old men shall dream dreams,
your young men shall see visions:
29 and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids
in those days will I pour out my spirit.
30 And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth,
blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.

31 The sun shall be turned into darkness,
and the moon into blood,
before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.
32 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered:
for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance,
as the Lord hath said,
and in the remnant whom the Lord shall call.

What is that to you? You follow Me

John 21:21-22
Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, “But Lord, what about this man?”
Jesus said to him, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.”

The risen Lord Yshua had just restored Peter and assigned him to "feed His sheep". Then Peter was concerned what would happen to another disciple. Sometimes we too may be concerned about the spiritual assignment that others have. Sometimes it may be due to unconscious envy or sometimes it is just curiosity and meddling in places that we should not have. God has assignments and plans which are different for everyone. It is enough to listen, obey and serve God the way that He intended, without wasting our thoughts on others unless God wants us to intervene.

He was transfigured before them

Mark 9:2
Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them.

The supernatural experience of the Transfiguration may be the high point for anyone who experienced it. A commentator said that God will never allow us to stay there - that is equally true. Such wonderful experience may be a good faith and confidence booster, but it does not directly benefit anyone else. God will give good things to His children, but He also wants His children to feed His sheep. So God may empower us from time to time, but we are to live mostly through the natural world, with all its flaws, and bring the Good News to others.

For he knew what was in each person

John 2:24-25
But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. 25 He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.

Our Lord Yshua know us well. He was not disillusioned with the many mistakes that Peter made, even though Peter will be chosen along with others to lead His church. God knows every hair on our head, so he would know each one of us very well. On the other hand, we are susceptible to disillusionment. In the church context, many have fallen away after being disillusioned by the misdeeds of their church leaders. This is certainly a play into the hands of the enemy. Instead, our response as we mature in Christ, is to look at only Yshua as our role model and somehow who could never fall. There may be other great church leaders, but we should think of them at most as big brothers or sisters leading us, but they are never our perfect role models.

But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid

Matthew 14:29-30
So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous,[b] he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!”

Peter could walk on water. There is no reason to doubt that this is true. In fact, it was more than Jesus asked Peter and Peter obeyed; because the verse before this, it was Peter who asked Jesus to call Peter out to the water. We don't understand what made Peter said that - probably Peter did not think about it too. It was probably has his impulse driven by faith that he somehow knew Jesus is divine, that led him to prompt Jesus to call him.

We know the rest of the story well. Peter paused to consider his physical reality and that fleeting moment of questioning destroyed the power of faith. The clear lesson for us is to step out in faith, and not focus on the reality that holds us back. One commentator said that "You will only recognize His voice more clearly through recklessness - being willing to risk your all".

he put on his outer garment ... and plunged into the sea

John 21:7
When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment ... and plunged into the sea

Simon Peter first responded to God's call at sea without thinking of anything else. He completely obeyed Jesus and stepped out into the sea. Soon, Peter was walking on the sea, just like Jesus, his Master did. However, soon he looked around himself, and his mind started to apply the physical restrictions that he was used to, such as man cannot walk on water. As a result he sank. For us, there are times when we are called by God and felt so empowered while doing God's task. It is important to know that once God uses us, He will continue to enable us to do greater things. Our part is to look at Him, and not look at the physical restrictions.

See, we have left all and followed You

Mark 10:28
Then Peter began to say to Him, “See, we have left all and followed You.”

Peter mentioned this to Jesus, probably wanted Him to understand the great sacrifices that he and his fellow disciples had made. Jesus assured them that they will be rewarded and there is an implication that such sacrifices are the least the disciples can do.

We also wondered that when people follow Jesus, is it for personal gain, even for their own personal salvation or something else. The something else should be the total surrender towards Jesus for His love's sake. To really know Jesus is to know His is the ultimate King and the response should be the total surrender to His Lordship. In doing this, we are surrendering all ourselves to Him and that includes all decisions and aspects of our life.

Do you also want to go away?

 John 6:67
Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?”

Jesus said the above following a somewhat difficult teaching for understanding as well as following. Jesus was teaching that we must eat His flesh and drink His blood to get eternal life. He is the ultimate manna that was provided by God to the people. For various reasons, various people cannot accept this or were offended by the sayings.

At this point many of those who were disciples (not the twelve), chose to turn away and Jesus understood this. This is where the true believers were differentiated. Jesus also explained that it is God who gave people understanding and faith to follow Him, and not because people chose based on their own understanding. So Jesus said the above question to his twelve inner disciples, and Peter moved by God, declared that Jesus is the Son of the living God.

Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep"

John 21:17
Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep"

Jesus asked this of Peter after He asked him the "Do you love me?" questions. Not only was Jesus confirmed Peter's love for Him, He also showed us what the result of our love for Him must be. He does not say whether this is spiritual food, like the Word of God or physical food which implies provision for the poor. Hence we can assume that Jesus means both kinds of food to feed His sheep. This is the result of our being in Christ. It is not about attending ceremonies, traditions or activities. It is primarily concerned with the care of our fellow humans who are also God's children whether they accept it or not.

Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?

John 21:17
He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah,[d] do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?”


The Lord Yshua asked Peter, one of His closest disciples if he loved Him. Peter was hurt that Yshua asked him three times. He may be confused, maybe a little angry that he was not trusted or that there is any doubt. However Yshua knew our human heart and the limited capacity for love. He may be prompting Peter to assess himself about how deep is his love for his Lord.

We no doubt ask ourselves the same question too. We may come to the conclusion that our love cannot be greater than Yshua's love for us that brought Him to the cross. We can only be thankful and dwell within His love for us, knowing that nothing can take it away.

Where I am going you cannot follow Me now

John 13
36 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, where are You going?”
Jesus answered him, “Where I am going you cannot follow Me now, but you shall follow Me afterward.”

This was the context that prompted Peter to later ask why he cannot follow Jesus at that time. His eagerness and loyalty is exemplarary in this case - he wanted to follow Jesus even though he did not know where Jesus was going. This could be a lesson in faith in comparison with the account of Abraham and Isaac.

However the context here is quite different. The Lord Jesus was not intending to prove Peter's faith to Peter, as was the account with Abraham. Here, Yshua's intention was to reveal to Peter what would happen and prepare him to continue the task after He was gone.

Of course Jesus wanted Peter to be with Him ultimately when Peter's tasks on earth were finished. More importantly, Peter still had much to grow and to receive the Holy Spirit. With Jesus on earth, Peter had the great privilege of learning by example in the ministry of Jesus. When Jesus left, only then can the Holy Spirit come into Peter. It is the Holy Spirit that Peter needed to surrender to and allow Him to empower his life and ministry.

Lord, why can I not follow You now?

John 13:37
37 Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I not follow You now? I will lay down my life for Your sake.”

Peter at this time did not understand why he cannot follow Jesus. He was impulsive but at this time he was genuinely intending to follow Jesus at the end. The only  problem was that when the situation arise, he was not ready to do so.

To put it to perspective, Peter was already following Jesus for about three years. God knows when we are ready to do certain things and when we are not. God may have chosen us and called us to some specific task, and he has a timing for everything.

As we hear God's assignment for us, we would also need to wait on God's timing to perform them. Going ahead to eagerly out ou our own enthusiasm and own desire to please God, may not necessarily produce the outcome that God intended.

If righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain

Paul warns against false teaching which can be so subtle. He describes a time when he went to Jerusalem and he had Titus the uncircumcised Greek with him. The enemies planted false believers in the church to try and move people back to the old religion which they were in bondage to the Law. Paul defends not only the gospel but the freedom in Christ.

Paul describes that he has the full support of the Jerusalem apostles James, Peter and John and they showed this by giving Barnabas to Paul to help him spread the gospel to the Gentiles. Paul also recalls that he once had to rebuke Peter, when Peter who ate freely among the Gentiles, suddenly turned back to the customs of the Law when some other Jews arrived. Paul explains that justification is not by the works of following the traditions of the Law but by faith itself.




Galatians 2
Defending the Gospel

1 Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and also took Titus with me. 2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated to them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to those who were of reputation, lest by any means I might run, or had run, in vain. 3 Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised. 4 And this occurred because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage), 5 to whom we did not yield submission even for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

6 But from those who seemed to be something—whatever they were, it makes no difference to me; God shows personal favoritism to no man—for those who seemed to be something added nothing to me. 7 But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised had been committed to me, as the gospel for the circumcised was to Peter 8 (for He who worked effectively in Peter for the apostleship to the circumcised also worked effectively in me toward the Gentiles), 9 and when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised. 10 They desired only that we should remember the poor, the very thing which I also was eager to do.

No Return to the Law

11 Now when Peter[a] had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed; 12 for before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. 13 And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy.

14 But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, “If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you[b] compel Gentiles to live as Jews?[c] 15 We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, 16 knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

17 “But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Certainly not! 18 For if I build again those things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. 19 For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. 20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.”

But even if we preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed

Paul sends a letter to the Galatians, first introducing himself as an apostle of Christ and God. Immediately he rebukes them for straying away and being led by false teachings and false gospels. Apparently some of the believers have been opened to some false gospels and may have been genuinely misled. It is most likely subtle changes to the true gospel which can easily fool people into heretical beliefs.

Paul reveals his credentials by giving a testimony of his miraculous conversion from prosecutor to apostle. He mentions the fact that he isolated himself for several years after his conversion, showing that he received an independent revelation from Christ. Yet later he was accepted by the main church in Jerusalem, hence showing that it is a consistent and true gospel that he preached.




Galatians 1
Greeting

1 Paul, an apostle (not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father who raised Him from the dead), 2 and all the brethren who are with me,

To the churches of Galatia:

3 Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Only One Gospel

6 I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, 7 which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed.

10 For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.

Call to Apostleship

11 But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. 12 For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.

13 For you have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God beyond measure and tried to destroy it. 14 And I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries in my own nation, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.

15 But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, 16 to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, 17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus.

Contacts at Jerusalem

18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter,[a] and remained with him fifteen days. 19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James, the Lord’s brother. 20 (Now concerning the things which I write to you, indeed, before God, I do not lie.)

21 Afterward I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. 22 And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea which were in Christ. 23 But they were hearing only, “He who formerly persecuted us now preaches the faith which he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they glorified God in me.

Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him

The persecution of believers in Jerusalem increased and Herod had just executed James, the brother of John. He arrested Peter next, before the Days of Unleavened Bread. Peter was put in prison and this is where the miracle happened. An angel appeared to Peter and guided Peter out of the prison through open gates. It was only when Peter was outside the prison that he realised it was not a dream. Peter reunited with his companions who stayed with Mary, the mother of John Mark.

There was the account of Herod's demise. Herod was entertaining guests from Sidon and Tyre whom had rebuilt relations with him. On that night, Herod gave an oration but when people praised him and he did not give glory to God, Herod was struck down.

There is also another short account that Barnabas and Saul had completed their ministry at Jerusalem and returned to Antioch probably, but this time, they took John Mark with them.






Acts 12
Herod’s Violence to the Church

1 Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. 2 Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. 3 And because he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to seize Peter also. Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread. 4 So when he had arrested him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to keep him, intending to bring him before the people after Passover.

Peter Freed from Prison

5 Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant[a] prayer was offered to God for him by the church. 6 And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison. 7 Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands. 8 Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and tie on your sandals”; and so he did. And he said to him, “Put on your garment and follow me.” 9 So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. 10 When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him.

11 And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.”

12 So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying. 13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a girl named Rhoda came to answer. 14 When she recognized Peter’s voice, because of her gladness she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter stood before the gate. 15 But they said to her, “You are beside yourself!” Yet she kept insisting that it was so. So they said, “It is his angel.”

16 Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren.” And he departed and went to another place.

18 Then, as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter. 19 But when Herod had searched for him and not found him, he examined the guards and commanded that they should be put to death.

And he went down from Judea to Caesarea, and stayed there.

Herod’s Violent Death

20 Now Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon; but they came to him with one accord, and having made Blastus the king’s personal aide their friend, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food by the king’s country.

21 So on a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat on his throne and gave an oration to them. 22 And the people kept shouting, “The voice of a god and not of a man!” 23 Then immediately an angel of the Lord struck him, because he did not give glory to God. And he was eaten by worms and died.

24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.

Barnabas and Saul Appointed

25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from[b] Jerusalem when they had fulfilled their ministry, and they also took with them John whose surname was Mark.

Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life

Peter returned to Jerusalem after the conversion of Cornelius and his household. However, at this time, the conversion of the Gentiles were still a new concept to the rest of the apostles and they questioned Peter intently. Peter explained all the miraculous events that took place, starting from the vision, to the messages from angels, and how God arranged for Peter and Cornelius household to meet. Finally the Holy Spirit was given to the Cornelius household and manifested outwardly so no one could deny. The apostles and the brethren accepted this and glorified God.

Many believers were scattered when Stephen was martyred. As the believers spread throughout the region, such as Antioch, they first preached to their fellow Israelites. However the Gentiles started hearing and believing and their numbers increased. When the leaders at Jerusalem heard of this, they send Barnabas to Antioch. Barnabas was described as a good man, full of the Holy Spirit. He fetched for Saul at Tarsus to join him, and they both stayed with the church at Antioch. The believers there were first called Christians. There is also an account of a prophet called Agabus, who visited Antioch and prophesied of a coming famine. The believers at Antioch send relief to the believers in Judea by Barnabas and Saul.






Acts 11
Peter Defends God’s Grace

1 Now the apostles and brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. 2 And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him, 3 saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!”

4 But Peter explained it to them in order from the beginning, saying: 5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision, an object descending like a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came to me. 6 When I observed it intently and considered, I saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. 7 And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ 8 But I said, ‘Not so, Lord! For nothing common or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.’ 9 But the voice answered me again from heaven, ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’ 10 Now this was done three times, and all were drawn up again into heaven. 11 At that very moment, three men stood before the house where I was, having been sent to me from Caesarea. 12 Then the Spirit told me to go with them, doubting nothing. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. 13 And he told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house, who said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter, 14 who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved.’ 15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, as upon us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, ‘John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?”

18 When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.”

Barnabas and Saul at Antioch

19 Now those who were scattered after the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but the Jews only. 20 But some of them were men from Cyprus and Cyrene, who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.

22 Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.

25 Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. 26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

Relief to Judea

27 And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. 29 Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. 30 This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God

Cornelius the centurion is described as a man who feared God. This could indicate that he was a proselyte to Judaism which means he knows the God of Israel. An angel appeared to Cornelius to tell him to send for Peter who was then at Joppa. Interesting that Cornelius dispatched his servant who also knew God, to get Peter.

Meanwhile Peter had a dream at Joppa in which the Lord told Peter to get the animals and eat. Peter initially refused, because those animals should not be eaten according to Mosaic Law. But the Lord said that all of them are now clean. This would be to prepare Peter to enter the house of Cornelius, since a Jew would not enter a Gentile's house in those days. Peter was also told by the Holy Spirit that three men will be coming and he should go with them.

When Peter met Cornelius, he explained to Cornelius that it is unlawful for him to be in Cornelius' house, and acknowledged that it was God who brought them together. Then Peter start to preach about Jesus starting from His baptism by John and all the way to the resurrection that can be confirmed by many witnesses. Peter explained that it is only through Christ that can forgive sins.

The gentiles in Cornelius household who heard Peter, received the Holy Spirit. Peter's companions were surprised as the Holy Spirit manifested on the Gentiles and they began to speak in tongues and magnified God. This shows them that the gentiles also share in the privilege and salvation of God through Christ.





Acts 10
Cornelius Sends a Delegation

1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, 2 a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always. 3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!”

4 And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it, lord?”

So he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. 5 Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. 6 He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.[a] He will tell you what you must do.” 7 And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually. 8 So when he had explained all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa.

Peter’s Vision

9 The next day, as they went on their journey and drew near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about the sixth hour. 10 Then he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they made ready, he fell into a trance 11 and saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. 13 And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.”

14 But Peter said, “Not so, Lord! For I have never eaten anything common or unclean.”

15 And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” 16 This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again.

Summoned to Caesarea

17 Now while Peter wondered within himself what this vision which he had seen meant, behold, the men who had been sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon’s house, and stood before the gate. 18 And they called and asked whether Simon, whose surname was Peter, was lodging there.

19 While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are seeking you. 20 Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.”

21 Then Peter went down to the men who had been sent to him from Cornelius,[b] and said, “Yes, I am he whom you seek. For what reason have you come?”

22 And they said, “Cornelius the centurion, a just man, one who fears God and has a good reputation among all the nation of the Jews, was divinely instructed by a holy angel to summon you to his house, and to hear words from you.” 23 Then he invited them in and lodged them.

On the next day Peter went away with them, and some brethren from Joppa accompanied him.

Peter Meets Cornelius

24 And the following day they entered Caesarea. Now Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 As Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I myself am also a man.” 27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many who had come together. 28 Then he said to them, “You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation. But God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore I came without objection as soon as I was sent for. I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me?”

30 So Cornelius said, “Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour[c] I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your alms are remembered in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa and call Simon here, whose surname is Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.[d] When he comes, he will speak to you.’ 33 So I sent to you immediately, and you have done well to come. Now therefore, we are all present before God, to hear all the things commanded you by God.”

Preaching to Cornelius’ Household

34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. 35 But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. 36 The word which God sent to the children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all— 37 that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they[e] killed by hanging on a tree. 40 Him God raised up on the third day, and showed Him openly, 41 not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose from the dead. 42 And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead. 43 To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.”

The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles

44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. 45 And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.

Then Peter answered, 47 “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.

And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied

Saul was fervent in his persecution of the following the Way, or Yshua's followers. He sought permission from the synagogues to extradite the believers who have fled to Damascus. On the way to Damascus, Jesus blinded Saul and gave him instructions. Jesus also instructed a believer named Ananias in Damascus to meet Saul and witness to him. Initially Ananias was surprised because of the reputation of Saul as a great persecutor of followers of Jesus. However God revealed to Ananias that Saul has been chosen to be a great witness of Jesus among gentiles, kings and other Israelites.  These events are both quite extraordinary for Saul (for meeting the Lord who was Jesus and whose followers he was attacking) and Ananias (for healing and ministering to a dangerous persecutor), however God's direct intervention ensured the process was quickly accepted.

Ananias healed Saul to recover his sight. Saul was baptized soon after. The disciples in Damascus received Saul, no doubt encouraged by the Holy Spirit. They also would have had great conversation about who Jesus really is. Very soon after this, Saul started preaching Jesus as the Son of God. Saul preached to the Israelites living in Damascus but they plotted to harm him.

Saul escaped Damascus and went to Jerusalem. Initially it was Barnabas who was willing to receive Saul since the other disciples were still too unsure about his conversion. Soon Paul also began to speak boldly in Jerusalem and argued with the Hellenists who then tried to harm him. Saul was sent to Tarsus for safety.

It is written that during this period, the churches from Judea, Galilee, and Samaria all had peace and were edified and their congregation multiplied. The two key things for this peace could be that they were walking in the Lord and were comforted by the Holy Spirit.

The last part of this chapter tells of the miraculous deeds of Peter. At Lydda, a man named Aeneas who was paralyzed, was healed by Peter calling on Jesus. Peter explained the healing was from Jesus and many people who knew about this became believers. Then at Joppa, a disciple named Dorcas or Tabitha died. But when Peter went there, he prayed, then commanded Tabitha to rise. So Tabitha was made alive again. Peter stayed a while with Simon the Tanner at Joppa.






Acts 9
The Damascus Road: Saul Converted

1 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

3 As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4 Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?”

5 And he said, “Who are You, Lord?”

Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.[a] It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”

6 So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”

Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

7 And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. 8 Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

Ananias Baptizes Saul

10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”

And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”

11 So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”

13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”

15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”

17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus,[b] who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.

19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus.

Saul Preaches Christ

20 Immediately he preached the Christ[c] in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God.

21 Then all who heard were amazed, and said, “Is this not he who destroyed those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?”

22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.

Saul Escapes Death

23 Now after many days were past, the Jews plotted to kill him. 24 But their plot became known to Saul. And they watched the gates day and night, to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.

Saul at Jerusalem

26 And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. 29 And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. 30 When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.

The Church Prospers

31 Then the churches[d] throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.

Aeneas Healed

32 Now it came to pass, as Peter went through all parts of the country, that he also came down to the saints who dwelt in Lydda. 33 There he found a certain man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years and was paralyzed. 34 And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.” Then he arose immediately. 35 So all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.

Dorcas Restored to Life

36 At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. 37 But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. 43 So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner.

And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken

Peter and John were having great influence from their teaching and the number of people who converted reached five thousand. The authorities including the priests, Sadducees and temple authorities arrested Peter and John as they preached the gospel and the resurrection of Jesus. When they were brought before the Sanhedrin to be judged, Peter again spoke boldly, filled with the Holy Spirit. His speech followed the same pattern as before, that the miracles such as healing were done in the name of Jesus. He reminded them that it was them who crucified Jesus, and that God resurrected Jesus and all this had been prophesied in the Scriptures before. Finally he declares that it is only through Jesus that salvation can be given.

The authorities were amazed that Peter and John spoke so well regarding Scriptures since they were also uneducated. They remembered that Peter and John had indeed been close followers of Jesus. They could not find a valid reason to arrest Peter and John because the evidence of the miracles such as the healed man can be seen by everyone. So they threatened Peter and John to not teach and preach about Jesus, but they both replied they would follow God, rather than the authorities.

Peter and John returned to their companions and they stood together in powerful prayer led by the Holy Spirit. This prayer could be an example to us. They asked for boldness to speak the Gospel, this is not because of their own shyness or embarrassment but rather their lives were in danger when they spoke about Jesus and the Gospel. They clearly asked for miraculous wonders to follow their preaching including healing. Such was the power of their prayer that the manifestation of the Holy Spirit was evidenced by the shaking of the room.

We are also given a glimpse of the lifestyle of these original believers. Those who had possessions sold them and gave them to the apostles for the church. The believers lived together in a community and there was no one lacking among them. Barnabas was also mentioned here as one of the early followers who sold his land and contributed to this early community.





Acts 4
Peter and John Arrested

1 Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees came upon them, 2 being greatly disturbed that they taught the people and preached in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. 4 However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand.


Addressing the Sanhedrin

5 And it came to pass, on the next day, that their rulers, elders, and scribes, 6 as well as Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, “By what power or by what name have you done this?”

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders of Israel: 9 If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well, 10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. 11 This is the ‘stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.’[a] 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”


The Name of Jesus Forbidden

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus. 14 And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it. 15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 saying, “What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 17 But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name.”

18 So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” 21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done. 22 For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.


Prayer for Boldness

23 And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. 24 So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them, 25 who by the mouth of Your servant David[b] have said:

‘Why did the nations rage,
And the people plot vain things?
26 The kings of the earth took their stand,
And the rulers were gathered together
Against the Lord and against His Christ.’[c]
27 “For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together 28 to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. 29 Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, 30 by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus.”

31 And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.


Sharing in All Things

32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

36 And Joses,[d] who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37 having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.

Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord

There was a recorded incident before Jesus' crucifixion, that the disciples went out on ministry by themselves but failed to cast out demons. In the incident recorded in the present chapter, which is after Jesus' ascension, we see the remarkable difference where Peter and John healed the lame man at the temple gate with great authority. The main difference now is that they are empowered by the Holy Spirit, which also strengthens their faith, and faith is required for such spiritual work.

In front of the gathering crowd, Peter became the strong voice who explained to them the divinity of Jesus and how they crucified Him. He explains that God has glorified Jesus and that faith through His name has made these miracles possible. Peter offered them a chance for salvation, stating that although they called for Jesus to be crucified, they may be in ignorance. However, their sins can be blotted out if they repent and believe that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Peter explains the Jesus the Messiah has been promised according to the prophets from Moses to Samuel and many other prophets after that. Jesus is the seed promised to Abraham from which all families of the earth can be saved.






Acts 3
A Lame Man Healed

1 Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; 3 who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. 4 And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.” 5 So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. 6 Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” 7 And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them—walking, leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God. 10 Then they knew that it was he who sat begging alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Preaching in Solomon’s Portico

11 Now as the lame man who was healed held on to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the porch which is called Solomon’s, greatly amazed. 12 So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people: “Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk? 13 The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified His Servant Jesus, whom you delivered up and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go. 14 But you denied the Holy One and the Just, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, 15 and killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead, of which we are witnesses. 16 And His name, through faith in His name, has made this man strong, whom you see and know. Yes, the faith which comes through Him has given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

17 “Yet now, brethren, I know that you did it in ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18 But those things which God foretold by the mouth of all His prophets, that the Christ would suffer, He has thus fulfilled. 19 Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, 20 and that He may send Jesus Christ, who was preached to you before,[a] 21 whom heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things, which God has spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. 22 For Moses truly said to the fathers, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever He says to you. 23 And it shall be that every soul who will not hear that Prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.’[b] 24 Yes, and all the prophets, from Samuel and those who follow, as many as have spoken, have also foretold[c] these days. 25 You are sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’[d] 26 To you first, God, having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your iniquities.”