"Joseph before Pharaoh" – AI-generated image by Grok (xAI) “Are these things so?” the high priest asked Stephen (Acts 7:1).[1] False witnesses had accused him of speaking against “this holy place and the law,” alleging that Jesus of Nazareth would destroy the temple and change the customs handed down by Moses (Acts 6:13–14). Stephen now … Continue reading Stephen the First Martyr Part 2: The Faithfulness of the Word of the Lord to the Patriarchs
Acts 6:1-7: On the Appointment of Seven Servants in the Early Church
Luke tells of a second internal crisis within the fledgling church in Acts 6:1-7. The needs of certain widows were being neglected. The twelve resolved to appoint seven men to serve insuring that the needs of those women would be met. Let’s take a closer look at the passage to consider how the problem came … Continue reading Acts 6:1-7: On the Appointment of Seven Servants in the Early Church
Understanding God’s Judgment on Ananias and Sapphira
The tragic end of Ananias and Sapphira comes as an anticlimactic turn in the life of the fledgling church. Just prior to their demise, the community of believers were of “one heart and soul.” They shared their resources freely, and the apostles bore powerful witness “to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus” with “great grace…upon … Continue reading Understanding God’s Judgment on Ananias and Sapphira
The First Christians Respond to the Rage Against God and Christ in Acts 4:24-30
The first Christians faced an unparalleled crisis. Peter and John were ordered by the Sanhedrin to cease teaching in the name of Jesus (Acts 3:1-4:22).[1] This censuring from the court posed a significant dilemma upon the disciples as such present profound implications upon Christ assignment for them to be His witnesses from Jerusalem to the … Continue reading The First Christians Respond to the Rage Against God and Christ in Acts 4:24-30
Understanding Baptism for the Forgiveness of Sin in Acts 2:37-41
“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38). [1] The apostle Peter gave this call to those who heard the proclamation of the good news concerning the death, resurrection, and ascension … Continue reading Understanding Baptism for the Forgiveness of Sin in Acts 2:37-41