Acts (Written)

Capitol Building, Montpelier, Vermont

Saturday, 19 November 2022 

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. Acts 12:3

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

The previous verse noted the killing of James with the sword. Now, it continues, saying, “And because he saw that it pleased the Jews.” The meaning is clear. This doesn’t mean all the Jews collectively, but those who represented the nation. It is referring to the Jews who were in the powerful positions and whose favor would more fully establish his political relations with them, along with his own power within the realm. Because these leaders were happy that Agrippa had done away with one of the leading apostles, “he proceeded further to seize Peter also.”

The Greek is actually in the form of a Hebraism, saying, “he added to lay hold of Peter also.” It is a way of showing an increase in a proposition, whatever it may be. In this case, it is the proposition of eliminating the apostles for the sake of cementing political status and power.

The apostles had been a thorn in the side of the leadership for about ten years. Therefore, having the ruling governmental authority over them harass and destroy this group was a welcome occasion for the leading Jews. And because this pleased the Jews, while also solidifying his own position and power, Agrippa decided to continue with his attack against them. As Peter was a chief figure among them and one who had spoken boldly against the ruling council, he was probably personally called out by name by the Jews as the next suitable target. Ellicott agrees with this being a matter of politics, saying –

“This was throughout the ruling policy of the Herodian house. The persecution did not spring from any fanatic zeal against the new faith, but simply from motives of political expediency.”

Likewise, Cambridge further clarifies this relationship between the two by citing Josephus –

“This Josephus notices (Antiq. xix. 7. 3), for, comparing Agrippa with the Herod who ruled before him, he mentions that the latter ‘was more friendly to the Greeks than to the Jews,’ in which matter he says Agrippa ‘was not at all like him.’”

With the event explained, the timing of it is next provided, saying, “Now it was during the Days of Unleavened Bread.”

The meaning is that this is during the time of the Passover and the pilgrim feast of Unleavened Bread which accompanies it. Luke unites the two in one thought as he did in his gospel. This is evident because the Passover actually precedes and leads into Unleavened Bread. Notice, however, that Luke unites them using the commonly used terminology for both that had been adopted in Israel –

“Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread drew near, which is called Passover. ² And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might kill Him, for they feared the people.
³ Then Satan entered Judas, surnamed Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve. ⁴ So he went his way and conferred with the chief priests and captains, how he might betray Him to them. ⁵ And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. ⁶ So he promised and sought opportunity to betray Him to them in the absence of the multitude.
⁷ Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. ⁸ And He sent Peter and John, saying, ‘Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.’” Luke 22:1-8

As it is now the time of the Passover, it would be especially pleasing to the Jews. They had crucified Jesus at this time, and it was certainly welcome that Peter had been seized at the same time of year. However, one can see the backroom dealing of the Jews and Agrippa in the words of the coming verse which will be analyzed in the next commentary.

Life application: Some people refuse to talk to others about religion and politics. Some will talk about religion but not politics, or vice versa. The fact is that Christians are obligated to speak out about Jesus in order to be considered faithful servants of the Lord. This doesn’t mean that all must be evangelists and stand on the street corner, but we should be willing to speak about Jesus when the occasion arises or when questioned about our faith.

But it is also true that we live in a world where earthly governments rule. It is the policy of some sects, such as the Roman Catholic Church, to participate in the running of governments, dictating to them what should and should not be done. It is the policy of some sects and cults to never engage in any political activity at all, not even voting. This is the policy of the cult known as the Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Both approaches are flawed. Governments that are led by religion will inevitably become religiously tyrannical. Governments that have no representation of faithful Christians will become wholly immoral and destructive against any who are spiritually aligned with Christ.

As this is so, it is incumbent on faithful Christians to engage in voting and even in running for political office. By doing so, their views can be expressed and protected. Paul was a Roman citizen and he appealed to his citizenship unashamedly. He attempted to convert public officials, kings, and others in governmental positions. These things are undeniable as revealed in Scripture. Therefore, it is to the benefit of both the general population and the working of the government in which one lives to be active in both religious and governmental affairs.

Have a right balance in your thinking concerning these things. And above all, do not listen to those who claim an ultra-piety that says, “I am not of this world.” In this, they rip the words of Jesus (John 15:19) out of any proper context in order to absolve themselves of any responsibility for the events of life.

Rather, Paul clearly shows – both in his actions and in his writings – that we are in this world, and we must conduct our affairs in this world, but that we also have a better hope than this world. We cannot deny either without having an unbalanced approach to the lives that we live – in the here and now and in the hope of the future that lies ahead.

Lord God, how good it is to know that even though we are in this world and have lives to lead, we also have a hope that transcends this earthly life. Our true hope is not in a leader, a bank account, a form of government, or a retirement that provides a false sense of safety and security. None of these things can ever come close to the glory that lies ahead when Christ comes for His people. How we long for that day, and may that day be soon! Amen.

Truss bridge on Vermont state line.

Friday, 18 November 2022

Then he killed James the brother of John with the sword. Acts 12:2

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

Acts 12 opened with the note that Herod the king had stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. With that noted, it next says, “Then he killed James the brother of John.”

This is then James the son of Zebedee recorded in Matthew 4 –

“Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them, ²² and immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.” Matthew 4:21, 22

He is known in early writings as James the Greater. James the Less is James, the son of Alpheus noted in Matthew 10:3 when the apostles were designated by name. The only mention of him in Acts outside of this verse is that he is noted among the apostles after the ascension of the Lord –

“And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James.” Acts 1:13

No reason why he was selected to be killed is given, but it does show that he was prominent enough and outspoken enough to be noticed and brought forth. So, despite not having anything recorded concerning his apostolic work, it is certain he was faithful and productive. It is a good indication that Acts is structured around Peter and Paul for a reason. Even if the other apostles did a great deal of work, the ministries of Peter and Paul are given special attention, showing the shift from the Jewish people to the Gentiles. Of James, it notes that he was killed “with the sword.”

Because of this, it is certain that this was a Roman and civil execution. Like John the Baptist, there is an obvious political element to what occurred. Being death by a sword, it could be either decapitation or being thrust through. Either way, the description of his death comes down to two words. This is in complete contrast to Stephen who was given almost an entire chapter of the events surrounding his stoning.

As for his death, it appears that this is something hinted at by what Jesus said in Matthew 20 –

“Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Him with her sons, kneeling down and asking something from Him.
²¹ And He said to her, ‘What do you wish?’
She said to Him, ‘Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on the left, in Your kingdom.’
²² But Jesus answered and said, ‘You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?’
They said to Him, ‘We are able.’
²³ So He said to them, ‘You will indeed drink My cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father.’” Matthew 20:20-23

James certainly participated in the sufferings of Christ. But more, in a sense, the request was granted. James is noted as the first apostle to be martyred now in Acts. It is known that John was the last surviving apostle. Thus, the two sons of Zebedee were granted two positions of honor in their lives and deaths as chosen apostles of Jesus.

Life application: If the mother of James was alive at this time, she may have questioned God’s goodness in allowing her son, who had done so much in his ministry, to be killed in such an ignoble way. Or she may have understood that this was an honorable death in the eyes of the Lord. As tragic as it may be for someone to lose a family member, we cannot impute wrongdoing to God when it occurs.

The fact is that we are all going to die. Paul goes further and says –

“But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, ¹¹ persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. ¹² Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:10-12

We have been told this, it is included in God’s word, and therefore, it should not be a surprise to anyone when a faithful, godly believer is persecuted in some manner. This doesn’t mean God is uncaring. It means that God is receiving glory through the right conduct of His people. It is also a sign to those who engage in the persecution that His judgment upon them will be just and deserved when it comes.

We need to consider our earthly bodies less and look to what is promised. Our time now is in a fallen world where we can expect things to occur that may seem bad from our perspective. But in seeing how they fit into what lies ahead, they are not really “bad.” What God does, and what He allows in our lives, will always lead to what is good. Trust this as you consider the events of the world around you. Look at all things from an eternal perspective and you will be much better off as you trudge through this life of difficulty, trial, and woe.

Lord God, help us to maintain an eternal perspective on things and not get too caught up in the temporary, transitory things that will have their end. We know that good is promised for us, and so whatever happens now must be leading us to the good that lies ahead. Thank You that we can know this and cling to it while we are here in this life of difficulty. Amen.

Martin Bridge. Vermont.

Thursday, 17 November 2022

Now about that time Herod the king stretched out his hand to harass some from the church. Acts 12:1

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

Acts 11 ended with a note concerning Barnabas and Saul carrying the gift from Antioch to Jerusalem. Chapter 12 begins with, “Now about that time.”

The word translated as “time,” kairos, signifies a season or an occasion. It is not easy to determine if it means “about the time of the famine” mentioned toward the end of the chapter or “about the time that Barnabas and Paul traveled.” Either is possible, but the use of the word kairos, as well as the words of verse 12:20, seem to point to the time of the famine. Verse 12:20 refers to the food supplied to the people of Tyre and Sidon.

A time of famine would certainly bring about a trying situation between people that required attention, and so “about that time” may be referring to the time of famine. However, this is only speculation. Regardless of this, it is at some point connected to one of the two events that it next refers to “Herod the king.”

This is referring to Herod Agrippa I, also simply called Agrippa. He was the son of Aristobulus and the grandson of Herod the Great. Because these events shortly preceded his death, it is believed that this is AD43/44, about a decade after the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. Hence, the church has been functioning for about ten years at this point. It is at this time that Herod “stretched out his hand.” The word “hand” is plural, “hands.” Also, it more correctly reads that he “laid on his hands.”

The meaning is “to wield power or authority.” When one lays his hand upon someone or something, it is to accomplish a task. In the case of a king, he will work to a particular end on behalf of his kingdom, his subjects, alliances with other kings, and so on. His actions can be taken in a positive or negative light, depending on who he is laying his hands to, on, for, upon, or against. In this case, he has laid on his hands, “to harass some from the church.”

The reason for this will become clearer in the verses ahead, but Cambridge, citing Josephus, gives us an advanced note as to why he would do this. It was because the Jews were opposed to the message of Jesus the Messiah and Herod wanted to be considered a devout Jew. They say –

“Agrippa, according to Josephus (xix. 7. 3), was anxious to be esteemed a devout Jew: ‘He loved to live continually at Jerusalem, and was exactly careful in the observance of the laws of his country. He therefore kept himself entirely pure, nor did any day pass over his head without its appointed sacrifice.’ Such a man might easily be roused, by the Jews whom he was so anxious to please, to the perpetration of cruelties upon the Christians.”

Life application: When you read the Bible, think about what is being conveyed. In Matthew 26:50, it says, “Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took Him.” Likewise, in Luke 21:12, it says, “But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake.”

The same word used in both verses is used in Acts 12:1. The context shows us the meaning, even if we have not heard the expression before. But understanding the context and what is being conveyed is only a part of the words. In this context, we can know that to “lay hands on” signifies to manhandle, but we should also think about the word “hand.”

The hand is something that has a purpose. The hand has fingers (Exodus 8:19). The hand is at the end of the arm (Psalm 136:12). The hand grasps (Ecclesiastes 1:14). The hand rests upon others for healing (Luke 13:13). And so on.

As you read the Bible, don’t always just read it as a narrative before you. At times, stop and consider the individual things, like the hands, that are presented. Think of them in relation to other times they are similarly used. In doing this, you will get a better understanding of what is being conveyed. There is so much richness in the word. The more you contemplate it, the fuller your mind will be with the beauty of how it is presented. Take time to meditate on it. It is well worth your effort to do so.

Lord God, Your word is rich and wonderful and beautiful. Thank You for every detail. Our lives are enriched when we read it and contemplate all it presents. Thank You for this glorious word that You have given to us. Yes, thank You for this treasure of our hearts. Amen.

Covered bridge. Vermont.

Wednesday, 16 November 2022

This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. Acts 11:30

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

The previous verse noted that the disciples in Antioch determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. With that, it now says, “This they also did.”

As they determined, so they followed through with it. It is a complementary note concerning the matter. With that, it next says, “and sent it.”

Rather, it is an aorist participle without any preposition, “having sent it.” In other words, they determined to take the action, and then they did so, but the action of sending it leads into the rest of the words of the thought which says, “to the elders.”

This is the first time the word presbuteros, or “elder” is used in Acts in relation to the body of believers. It essentially signifies “a mature man having seasoned judgment (experience)” (HELPS Word Studies). However, for the Jewish nation and even the church, it is more fittingly applied to the office of a person in a trusted position. Today, we use the words elder, pastor, overseer, and so on to describe a person who is in such a position.

These people, whoever they were, were considered mature and competent to handle the gift properly and with due care. It may have been the apostles, or it may have simply been men of maturity who were selected for the task, somewhat like the deacons in Acts 6. Either way, the words “having sent” – see explanation of the aorist translation above – now connect with the final words of the verse, saying, “by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.”

These two were deemed of the highest integrity and were, therefore, chosen for the task of delivering this money to Jerusalem. As this is not a visit that was based upon a doctrinal matter, it is probably not a visit that Paul later refers to in Galatians 2. It seems that these two men simply took the money, delivered it, and then returned to Antioch as is recorded in Acts 12:25.

To understand several views on the matter of Paul’s visits to Jerusalem, the Pulpit Commentary on Acts 11:30 lays out the different possibilities quite well.

Life application: This verse in Acts refers to “elders.” As noted, this could be referring to the apostles. It could also be referring to others who were considered trustworthy. Paul will later give specific details concerning the offices within the church. This will be in 1 & 2 Timothy and in Titus. There he will use various terms to explain the offices.

It is not inappropriate to use terms such as pastor, deacon, elder, overseer, bishop, and so on. However, it is also acceptable for people who fill such positions to simply say, “Call me Tom.” We should not look down on those who accept the bestowal of a title, especially when it is referring to the position he fills. But it is also ok for a person who fills such a position to ask that he not be titled as such in regular conversation.

In the end, having a title is simply a part of the regular working of any company or organization. It helps identify who does what. But those who fill the position shouldn’t let it go to their head. We all have jobs to do and if we can do them without a lot of hoopla attached to them, that is a good thing. So, don’t get too legalistic either way on the matter. Allow people to use titles to honor others and allow people who hold such positions to decline being called by the title as well. In the end, adherence to the word and having a heart for the Lord is what is of the greatest importance.

Lord God, You have asked us to give double honor to those who deserve it because of the positions they fill. At the same time, help us to not exalt such people in a manner that is inappropriate. In the end, we are all servants. Help us to serve with hearts of humility and with a desire to exalt You above all else. Amen.

Vermont covered bridge.

Tuesday, 15 November 2022

Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. Acts 11:29

Note: You can listen to today’s commentary courtesy of our friends at “Bible in Ten” podcast. (Click Here to listen)

You can also read this commentary, with music, courtesy of our friends at “Discern the Bible” on YouTube. (Click Here to listen), or at Rumble (Click Here to listen).

The previous verse referred to the prophecy of the famine coming “throughout all the world” during the days of Claudius Caesar. With that noted, it now says, “Then the disciples.”

This is a united effort that is coming about by those who have been ministered to. Being disciples implies being trained by others. What these disciples will do is next stated as “each according to his ability.”

The verb is imperfect showing an ongoing state. Also, it more precisely says, “according to the prospering of each.” The word translated as “prospering” is found only here. It signifies “to be good for passing through,” and thus it speaks of ability. Today we might say, “Good to go!” It reflects the state of the individual in relation to his financial needs and abilities. Of those who were good to go, they “determined to send relief.”

This is more of a shortened paraphrase. The words literally read, “to send for ministry.” There will obviously be a need when the famine comes and because there is advanced warning of it, there is the ability to prepare for it in advance. This is not unlike what Joseph did for Pharaoh in Genesis. The ability presently exists, and it can be used for a need that will arise at a time when the ability to tend to it will no longer exist. With that understood, this charitable ministry is intended to go “to the brethren dwelling in Judea.”

It is not said why this ministry is being sent. It is possible that Agabus told them the need would be greater in Jerusalem. It may be that the apostles constantly expended themselves in the service of others and relied on others for their daily bread. It may be that there was already a fund in Jerusalem that existed, and which would be quickly used up in a time of famine.

Whatever the reason, it was understood that there was a need in Jerusalem and that the disciples felt the burden of helping them because of the blessing they had already received from the mother church, such as in the sending of Barnabas, Agabus, and others. Hence, the need is identified, and it is met according to the ability of the disciples.

Life application: What is said in this verse is not unlike what Paul says in 1 Corinthians –

“Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: ² On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. ³ And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem. ⁴ But if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.” 1 Corinthians 16:1-4

There was a need, promises were made, and Paul was ensuring that the promises would be kept by reminding those at Corinth of what was said. These were disciples that had obligated themselves to tend to the mother church in Jerusalem. And Paul explains why this was good to do in Romans 15 –

“For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem. ²⁷ It pleased them indeed, and they are their debtors. For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in material things.” Romans 15:26, 27

Those in Jerusalem had expended themselves on behalf of the church in spiritual matters. Paul was correct in saying that they should, therefore, be tended to in their material needs. Today, there are really only two verses for the care of those who tend spiritually to others, neither of which has a thing to do with “tithing.” That is an Old Covenant concept that should never be taught in the church. Rather, Paul says –

“Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.” Galatians 6:6

&

“But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. ⁷ So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:6, 7

That pretty much sums up the obligation of those who are ministered to by others. Share in the good you have and give freely but without compulsion. Rather, give according to your own purposes.

If you ever feel pressured to give, then you should wait until you don’t feel pressured. If you cannot give, then why would you? The Lord knows your heart. If you desire to give but are financially unable, then it makes no sense to do so. Instead of money, you can still offer prayer, encouragement, or help in the kitchen. Never feel compelled by others to do what is not coming from a cheerful and willing heart.

Lord God, thank You for those who tend to us in spiritual matters. Please bless them with a special blessing today. We are grateful for what they do, but we are also grateful to You for making it all possible. Thank You for Jesus who has led the way in all good things for us. Praises to You for what You have done, O God. Amen.