Bible Searchers: 2004
Table of Contents
John 18: January 2004
The Lord had often gone to the garden of Gethsemane in the Mount of Olives to pray and to be alone with His disciples. Judas knew this and was able to lead a large group of people to the place. They said that they were seeking Jesus of Nazareth. When Jesus answered “I am,” they went backward and fell to the ground. It was just a little display of God’s power, but it did not change their evil purpose. How often God gives us warnings that we are doing wrong!
The disciples saw that their Lord was about to be taken. Peter had a sword and was going to defend his Master. He swung his sword and cut off the right ear of the high priest’s servant, whose name was Malchus. Sometimes we can lose our temper and cut off a person’s ear with sharp words. Poor Peter was in a bad state of soul. Now he gets into the company of the ungodly. It wasn’t long before he even denied his Lord before the damsel who kept the door. A believer can become very cowardly when not in communion with Jesus. Do you not think that Jesus knew we would be such failures? He even told Peter beforehand that after he denied Jesus the third time, the cock would crow. Peter did deny Jesus, but the Lord still loved him, and He loves us too!
First they led Jesus to Annas and then to Caiaphas the high priest because it was still too early. Next they brought Him before Pilate, the ruler of the land. Pilate wanted to know what evil Jesus had done. Jesus said that He was a king but that He came into the world to bear witness to the truth and that everyone that was of the truth heard His voice. Do you think that Pilate really wanted to hear the truth of God? If so, he would have stayed in the presence of the Lord, but instead we read that “he went out” and delivered Jesus to be crucified.
1. When ____________ said “I am” to the people seeking Him, what happened? John 18:___
As
2. Who cut off the ____________ ear of the high priest’s servant?
John 18:___
Then
3. What answer did Peter give to the damsel who ____________ the door?
John 18:___
Then
4. When Peter ____________ the Lord the third time, what happened?
John 18:___
Peter
5. Why was the Lord born and for what cause did He come into the ____________ ? John 18:___
Pilate
Choices: January 2004
We make many choices every day. Most of our choices are routine - what we will wear or what we will eat. Other choices take a little bit more thought. “Shall I do this today, or tomorrow?” Sometimes we choose the wrong things or go to the wrong places and then sorrow comes. The Bible gives us instruction for the most important choices. It tells us of those who chose the wrong things and then what happened to them. This is recorded so that we will not make the same mistake. God wants His children to be happy and to avoid the sadness and regrets that a bad choice brings. There was one Person who always refused evil and chose the good (Isaiah 7:15). Do you know who it was? Some choices we make can affect our entire lives or, even more importantly, our eternal destiny.
As we begin each day, it is wise to bow in prayer and ask the Lord to help us make the right decisions. Then we should read the Scriptures to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. If we obey what we read in the Bible, we will have direction for the many choices we make each day.
1. Lot made a wrong choice. When he separated himself from Abram, what did he choose? Genesis 13:___
2. A certain time of the year, kings went forth to battle. Where did David choose to tarry, causing him to sin? 2 Samuel 11:___
3. After Orpah wept and kissed her mother-in-law, what choice did Ruth make? Ruth 1:___
4. Moses refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. Instead of this, what did he choose? Hebrews 11:___
5. Israel could choose between many false gods, but what was Joshua’s choice? Joshua 24:___
John 19: February 2004
How people felt towards Jesus now comes out. Pilate scourged Him; the soldiers platted a crown of thorns and put it on His head and put on Him a purple robe; the chief priests and officers said, “Crucify Him, crucify Him.” “The thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:35). At the cross, the heart of God, the heart of Satan, the hearts of men, the heart of the thief and the heart of Jesus were revealed.
Finally, Pilate yields to the crowds about the time of the preparation of the Passover, for that feast really speaks of the sacrifice of God’s Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:29). We read in 1 Corinthians 5:7 that “Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.”
Having crucified Jesus between two thieves, Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross. It was not an accusation, for there was none, but rather a statement of fact as to who He was. It was written in three languages so that all could read and understand.
After three hours of darkness during which Jesus suffered for our sins, He said, “It is finished: and He bowed His head, and gave up the ghost.” Man had one last act of wickedness to perform. A soldier came and with a spear pierced His side, and blood and water came out. That soldier had no idea that he was fulfilling Scripture in what he did.
Now, two who loved Jesus came forward to do honor to that blessed Person, Joseph of Arimathea, a secret disciple, and Nicodemus, who came to Jesus by night. Never again do wicked men touch or see the Lord before He ascends to heaven.
1. What else did the soldiers put on Jesus besides a ____________ robe?
John 19:___
And
2. At the ____________ of the Passover, about the sixth hour, what did Pilate say to the Jews? John 19:___
And
3. Pilate wrote a ____________ and put it on the cross. What was it?
John 19:___
And
4. When the soldier ____________ the side of Jesus with a spear, what happened? John 19:___
But
5. What is the name of the ____________ disciple of Jesus who came and took the body of Jesus? John 19:___
And
Mercy: February 2004
The dictionary defines mercy as an act of compassion, pity or kind forbearance towards one who has offended. The guilty person has been shown pity instead of getting what was deserved. Do you know that God is rich in mercy (Ephesians 2:4)? He has shown pity, loving-kindness and compassion on those who are guilty. God’s mercy is also plenteous (Psalm 86:5), great (Psalm 103:11) and tender (James 5:11). Do you not think that God would have us to be merciful to one another? Remember that the Lord Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). The Lord would rather have mercy than sacrifice (Matthew 9:13) - that is, to act as Christ did rather than give all our possessions and not love Him at all.
The Samaritan showed mercy to the poor man who was beaten and robbed by helping him. We can show mercy by helping to feed the hungry or give clothing to the poor. Perhaps we can also visit the sick or orphans and encourage widows.
If someone has done us a wrong, can we show mercy by refusing to take vengeance? Such great mercy has been shown to all those who are saved that we can certainly display mercy to those who do not yet know our merciful God.
1. If it is not by works of righteousness which we have done, how are we saved? Titus 3:___
2. What did the Apostle Paul desire for Timothy, his own son in the faith?
1 Timothy 1:___
3. What should we come to obtain at the throne of grace? Hebrews 4:___
4. Why should we give thanks to the God of heaven? Psalm 136:___
5. Why is it that the Gentiles should glorify God? Romans 15:___
John 20: March 2004
It was love for her Lord that brought Mary Magdalene to the sepulchre so early in the morning. When she got there, the stone had been taken away. She ran to tell Peter and the other disciple that the Lord had been taken out of the sepulchre. Is that what really happened? No, but that is what she thought! Simon Peter and the other disciple came and confirmed the fact that the Lord was not there and then returned to their homes. But what about poor Mary? Her heart was broken because the object of her affections was gone! Mary stood at the sepulchre weeping. Then she saw two angels and another man she thought was the gardener. It was really Jesus, and when He said her name, she recognized Him as her Master. She was told to “go to My brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto My Father and your Father; and to My God, and your God.”
Although the disciples were assembled in a room where the doors were shut, that did not hinder the Lord from entering. His words, “Peace be unto you,” calmed their fearful hearts and made them glad. Then He showed them His hands and His side. However, Thomas was not there, and he refused to believe the good news that the Lord was alive. After eight days the Lord appeared to them again and Thomas was there. Jesus reproved Thomas, because he would not believe until he had seen the Lord. Today, there are thousands of people who are blessed because they believe the Bible even though they have never seen the Lord Jesus with their eyes.
1. What message did Mary Magdalene deliver to Simon ____________ and the other disciple? John 20:___
Then
2. The disciples went away to their own home, but what did ____________ do? John 20:___
But
3. What did Jesus want Mary to go and say to His ____________ ?
John 20:___
Jesus
4. On the first day of the week when the disciples were ____________ , what did Jesus say to them? John 20:___
Then
5. Thomas ____________ because he saw. What did Jesus say about those that have not seen? John 20:___
Jesus
Time: March 2004
One of the most valuable things we have is time. Every day we each have the same amount of it - 24 hours. We take it for granted and yet marvel at how quickly it goes by. When we are young, it seems to go slowly and when we grow older, it seems to fly. Why is time so important? Because we don’t know how much more we have left. Who can tell if we will live another day? Friends that we grew up with are no longer alive. They certainly didn’t plan to die so young, but they did. That is why God wants us to make our most important decisions while we are young. Where will we spend eternity? This question can be settled early in life by confessing to the Lord Jesus that we are a sinner and receiving Him as our personal Saviour. We give priority to matters of importance and leave other things that don’t matter for later. The Bible tells us of decisions that should be taken care of immediately because we might not be here tomorrow. How foolish it is to waste our time on things of little value and leave the most important things for last. Our time on earth is very short, but eternity is so long that it cannot be measured. Be sure that you are ready for eternity while you still have time.
1. What does God say is the accepted time and the day of salvation?
2 Corinthians 6:___
2. Because the days are evil, what are we to do? Ephesians 5:___
3. If we know the time, why should we awake out of sleep? Romans 13:___
4. What did the angel sware by Him that lives forever and ever?
Revelation 10:___
5. When is the best time to remember your Creator? Ecclesiastes 12:___
John 21: April 2004
The Lord had told Peter, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). Do you think Peter forgot this when he said, “I go a fishing,” and entered into his boat? That night they didn’t catch any fish, because they were not doing what the Lord wanted them to do.
All the fish in the water are under His control, and when they cast the net where the Lord told them, the net was full of great fishes. What a great lesson He taught the disciples that day!
Now it was time for the Lord to have a few words with Peter. He had denied his Lord three times. Did he really love the Lord more than the others? How humbling it must have been to Peter for the Lord to ask him three times about his love for Him. In fact, Peter was grieved and finally said, “Lord, Thou knowest all things; Thou knowest that I love Thee.”
Then Peter was told how he would die. As an old man, his hands would be stretched out in crucifixion. In his death, Peter would glorify God.
The Lord Jesus performed many other miracles that are not recorded by John, but enough was written so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Perhaps the world itself could not contain the books if everything about Jesus were written.
1. Simon Peter and his friends worked all night. How many ____________ did they catch? John 21:___
Simon
2. After the net was cast on the right side, how many fish did they catch in the ____________ ? John 21:___
And
3. What reply did ____________ give when he was asked the third time, “Lovest thou Me?” John 21:___
He
4. Jesus said that when Peter was ____________ he would stretch forth his hands. What did this signify? John 21:___
This
5. Would it take many ____________ to write all the things that Jesus did?
John 21:___
And
Our Feet: April 2004
Often our feet take us to places we should not go and we get into trouble. The Bible tells us to “ponder the path of thy feet” (Proverbs 4:26) - that means consider well where we want to go. Is the path we are walking on leading to danger? It speaks of those that have “feet that be swift in running to mischief” (Proverbs 6:18). Obeying the Scriptures would lead us “in the paths of righteousness” (Psalm 23:3). Walking on these paths, many sorrows and difficulties are avoided. Often, we had to say, “I should not have gone there; I only got into trouble.”
Feet are remarkable members of the body. However, they can only take us where we want to go. We are responsible for our actions. God holds us accountable for what we do and where we go. When we pray, here is a verse to remember: “Show me Thy ways, O Lord; teach me Thy paths” (Psalm 25:4). If we are sincere, He will keep our feet from slipping and hold us up (Psalm 94:18). “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation” (Isaiah 52:7). The Lord Jesus did this. We can do the same (see Romans 10:15).
1. If the Lord is our confidence, what will He keep from being taken?
Proverbs 3:___
2. When the Lord takes vengeance, what will be the calamity of those that make haste? Deuteronomy 32:___
3. He that keeps us will not slumber. What will He do for our feet?
Psalm 121:___
4. The Lord Jesus Christ must reign. Where will all His enemies be put?
1 Corinthians 15:___
5. Mephibosheth ate continually at the king’s table. What does it say about his feet? 2 Samuel 9:___
Acts 1: May 2004
In the Book of Acts we see how God began to “gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad” (John 11:52). Comparing the first verse of Acts with Luke 1:3 leads us to believe the writer was Luke. Acts is the connecting link between the four Gospels and the Epistles. The latter part of this book takes up, almost exclusively, the labors of Paul, who was not one of the twelve original apostles. The Book of Acts shows us how the Lord built His church after the descent of the Holy Spirit. It is the great historical book of the New Testament.
After the Lord rose from the grave, He appeared to the disciples and gave many infallible proofs that He was indeed alive again. How this must have cheered their hearts! He told them to remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit came upon them. This took place only ten days after the Lord was taken up to heaven. The disciples saw Jesus ascend until a cloud received Him out of their sight. Then two angels told these men of Galilee that Jesus would come again as they had seen Him go.
Returning to Jerusalem, they continued with one accord in prayer, being about a hundred and twenty in number. Peter then stood up in their midst and said that someone must take Judas’ place as an apostle. It had to be a man who had been with them all the time that the Lord Jesus was among them. They prayed and cast lots and Matthias was chosen to be with the other apostles, bringing their number to twelve again.
1. How many days did the apostles see Jesus, receiving ____________ infallible proofs that He was alive again? Acts 1:___
To
2. The apostles could receive power after the Holy Spirit came ____________ them. Then where were they to witness for the Lord?
Acts 1:___
But
3. What did the two men in white apparel say to the ____________ of Galilee? Acts 1:___
Which
4. Who continued with one accord in ____________ with the apostles?
Acts 1:___
These
5. After they prayed and gave forth their ____________ , who was numbered with the eleven apostles? Acts 1:___
And
Preparation: May 2004
When we plan on doing something, we usually prepare in advance so that nothing will go wrong. When going on a trip, we may need a map, make reservations and take along some money. We prepare for school by doing our homework and laying out clothing for the next day. If we have to go to the grocery store, preparing a list of food items needed is helpful. We are constantly preparing for what we want to do next.
Do you know that God is also preparing things for us? Yes, sometimes we do not know what it is, but He does! Perhaps it is sickness or an accident. How do you prepare for that? The Father loves His children and will provide what is needed when the time comes. God also has a place for those who do not love Him. It was prepared for angels that sinned, but it will be shared by those who did not “prepare to meet [their] God.” How foolish it is to make every preparation for this life and yet not be prepared for the life to come. The Lord Jesus is preparing an eternal home above for all those who trust in Him.
1. What did David say the Lord would do for him in the presence of his enemies? Psalm 23:___
2. The Lord had prepared the place where they could eat the Passover. What was it? Mark 14:___
3. Has any man seen the things that God has prepared for them that love Him? 1 Corinthians 2:___
4. What did David request of the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel for the heart of His people? 1 Chronicles 29:___
5. What has God prepared for the people of faith who desired a better country? Hebrews 11:___
Acts 2: June 2004
The Lord Jesus had commanded the disciples to remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit was sent from heaven. They were there in one place on the day of Pentecost. Suddenly, a sound like a great wind filled the house where they were sitting and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they began to speak in other tongues, or languages, that they had never learned. What a remarkable thing this was! Men from many different nations were in Jerusalem to celebrate Pentecost, yet they heard these Galileans speak their language. How could this be possible? Some said they were drunk. However, Peter reminded them that the prophet Joel foretold of such a thing happening in the last days. Also, David, being a prophet, was told that a descendent of his, Christ, would sit on his throne. Israel would assuredly know that God has made Jesus both Lord and Christ. Many believed Peter’s word that day and were baptized, greatly increasing the number of the believers. What do you think they did then? We read that “they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” These are also good things to be doing in 2004.
1. When they were all ____________ with the Holy Spirit, what did they begin to do? Acts 2:___
And
2. Men from many different countries heard Galileans ____________ in their tongues. What were they speaking about? Acts 2:___
Cretes
3. What did God swear to the ____________ David with an oath?
Acts 2:___
Therefore
4. When Peter preached, how many received his ____________ and were baptized? Acts 2:___
Then
5. Those that were saved continued ____________ , in four things. What were they? Acts 2:___
And
The Same: June 2004
We live in a changing world. And it seems to be changing faster and faster. We think, “If only things would slow down a bit and stay the same as they were before.” Nations change their names, people change their address, friends in the neighborhood come and go, and as we grow older, we change too. Will it always be this way? Will nothing ever remain the same? Thank God, there are some things that will never change! The Bible says, “Jesus Christ [is] the same, yesterday, and today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Sometimes we sing the words, “All may change, but Jesus never; glory to His name.” Concerning the heavens, we read, “They shall perish, but Thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt Thou change them, and they shall be changed: but Thou art the same” (Psalm 102:26-27).
The fact that God is changeless has been a comfort to His people down through the ages. In our measure, we too should be stable, not vacillating and fickle. We are exhorted in 1 Corinthians 15:58 to be “steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” James 1:17 describes our God as “the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” God is always the same. He does not change in His essential being, His attributes or the principles by which He operates.
1. Why did not the Lord consume the sons of Jacob? Malachi 3:___
2. Although the heavens shall perish, wax old and be changed, what does it say about His years? Psalm 102:___
3. Who has wrought and done and called generations from the beginning?
Isaiah 41:___
4. The glory of God can never be corrupted, but what has man changed?
Romans 1:___
5. How is it that this Man (Jesus) has an unchangeable priesthood?
Hebrews 7:___
Acts 3: July 2004
In this third chapter of Acts we have Peter’s second recorded sermon. It is interesting to see how God chose to present the message of His grace through the apostles. Their theme was Christ crucified, risen and glorified. Peter and John meet a lame man, forty years old, at the gate called Beautiful. He is a picture of Israel with beautiful religious ceremonies but having no power to get the blessing. The apostles had neither silver nor gold, but they knew Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Do you know Him? It is the most important matter in life - to know Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. Sadly, Israel as a nation denied this Holy One and desired a murderer instead. They should have known better because they had the Old Testament. In it, God showed by the mouth of all His prophets that Christ would suffer for the sins of the people. Peter told them that even though they did this wicked deed, they could repent and be converted, and their sins would be blotted out. God loved His earthly people Israel and raised up His Son Jesus as the only sacrifice that could put away their iniquities.
1. Since Peter had neither silver nor ____________ , what could he give to the lame man? Acts 3:___
Then
2. The men of Israel desired a ____________ to be granted unto them. Who did they deny? Acts 3:___
But
3. What things did God show before by the ____________ of all His prophets? Acts 3:___
But
4. Had Israel repented and been ____________ , what would have happened? Acts 3:___
Repent
5. For what purpose did God raise up His Son ____________ and send Him to Israel first? Acts 3:___
Unto
Consider: July 2004
To consider is to think carefully about something, especially when we are going to make a decision. There are many things that God would have us consider. In Matthew 6:28 we are told to “consider the lilies of the field, how they grow.” They don’t work, and yet if we were to examine them carefully, they are more beautiful than Solomon in all his glory. Then we are to “consider the ravens” (Luke 12:24); “they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them.” In the Old Testament we are exhorted to go to the ant and “consider her ways, and be wise” (Proverbs 6:6). These little creatures work all summer right through harvest season so they will have enough food stored for the long, cold winter. What valuable lessons we can learn from that which God has made all around us! We should take time to carefully consider that which God would like to teach us. As we open our Bibles, we find that there are very important considerations. Some of them concern our eternal destiny!
1. Lest we be wearied and faint in our minds, what should we consider?
Hebrews 12:___
2. Those who forget God are called to consider. If they refuse, what will He do? Psalm 50:___
3. What did the Lord of hosts want the people to consider? Haggai 1:___
4. David was considering the work of God’s fingers. What were they?
Psalm 8:___
5. If we want the Lord to give us understanding in all things, what should we do? 2 Timothy 2:___
Acts 4: August 2004
Now we are coming to opposition from the leaders of the old religious system. The Sadducees denied that there is any resurrection after death, so they didn’t like what Peter was saying in the previous chapter. They laid hands on Peter and John and locked them up overnight. However, thousands of men had already heard and believed the word of God. Although His servants are in bonds, “the word of God is not bound” (2 Timothy 2:9). Before all the council, Peter boldly declared that it was by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth that the lame man could stand and be whole. Well, these religious leaders didn’t want to hear that, so they commanded them not to teach in the name of Jesus and further threatened them. The apostles answered that they had to speak about those things that they had seen and heard.
Being let go, they went to their own company, and what joy filled their hearts! They spoke to God concerning what all the people did to His holy child Jesus, who was anointed by God as King. What a praise and prayer meeting that was! Not only were they all filled with the Holy Ghost, but the place was shaken where they were. God’s eye was upon these early believers. His love and care for us is just the same today.
1. Even though Peter and John were put in hold, how many men had already heard and ____________ the word? Acts 4:___
Howbeit
2. By what name was the lame man made whole and able to ____________ ? Acts 4:___
Be
3. What things were Peter and John going to ____________ about?
Acts 4:___
For
4. Who were gathered together against the holy ____________ Jesus?
Acts 4:___
For
5. After they prayed, they were filled with the ____________ and spake the word of God with boldness. What happened to the place where they were assembled? Acts 4:___
And
The Faith: August 2004
Faith is confidence or trust in a person or thing. “The faith” includes all the teachings of Christianity. We believe it because God has said it, and we have it written down in the Bible. We are exhorted to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3). It wasn’t too long after the Lord Jesus went back to heaven that some had already “turned aside” from the faith (1 Timothy 1:6); others “made shipwreck” concerning the faith (1 Timothy 1:19); some would “depart from the faith” (1 Timothy 4:1); others may have “denied the faith” (1 Timothy 5:8); some “erred from the faith” (1 Timothy 6:10), and others “overthrow the faith” (2 Timothy 2:18), while those of corrupt minds are “reprobate concerning the faith” (2 Timothy 3:8).
If we are not careful, the enemy can easily turn us aside from holding “the faith” in our hearts. Therefore, we are encouraged to keep “the faith,” as we would guard a valuable treasure and to “fight the good fight of faith” until the Lord takes us home. Then faith will be replaced by sight and we will rest in His love forever.
1. Whether Paul came or was absent, what did he want to hear about their standing fast and striving together? Philippians 1:___
2. Now that the aged apostle had finished his course, what did he say about the faith? 2 Timothy 4:___
3. We will not all come into the unity of the faith until the Lord comes. Then, what will also be true of us? Ephesians 4:___
4. How will the patience and faith of the saints be tried in a coming day?
Revelation 13:___
5. When the devil comes against us as a roaring lion, how can we steadfastly resist him? 1 Peter 5:___
Acts 5: September 2004
In the prior chapter we saw how Jewish believers realized that they had a heavenly portion and they gave up their earthly possessions. This chapter begins with the word “But,” bringing in failure and decline. The enemy now begins to work within the flock of God. Ananias and Sapphira were lying to the Holy Spirit. Their death caused such fear among the people that no one would dare to join the apostles unless they were real believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Lord worked so mightily that multitudes were saved and healed. Even Peter’s shadow brought healing, and none who came left sick. Thus did blessing begin at Jerusalem and then spread out to neighboring cities.
This mighty work stirred up the envy and wrath of the religious people, so they put the apostles in prison. However, the angel of the Lord opened the prison and instructed them to continue speaking to the people. They were brought before the Sadducees and told not to speak about Jesus, but Peter and the other apostles answered and said, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” This is true even in 2004. The good news of forgiveness of sins was then preached to the council. But instead of receiving it, they wanted to kill the apostles. A Pharisee named Gamaliel stood up and reminded the council that in previous times there were other leaders and their followers who came to nothing. If this work was of men, it would likewise soon come to an end. But if this was all of God, they could not overthrow it, for they could not fight against God. Thus the apostles, after being beaten, were set free and continued their preaching about Jesus Christ in the temple and in every house. May we also count it a joy to suffer dishonor for His name.
1. Against whom was ____________ lying when he kept back part of the price of the land? Acts 5:___
But
2. Although the ____________ magnified the apostles, what did no unconverted man dare to do? Acts 5:___
And
3. Sick people and those who were vexed with unclean spirits were brought to the city of ____________ . How many of them were healed? Acts 5:___
There
4. What answer did ____________ and the other apostles give the council?
Acts 5:___
Then
5. If a work be of ____________ , you cannot overthrow it. If you try, who will you be fighting against? Acts 5:___
But
Love: September 2004
God loves you - not because of what you are, but because of what He is. God is love (1 John 4:16). We can see the love that parents have for their children because of all that they do for them. In like manner, God lavishes unbounded affection on all, giving good and perfect gifts. Why did He say, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee” (Jeremiah 31:3)? Was it because Israel was more lovable than others? Notice this verse: “God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). There was nothing lovable in us, but He loved us so much that He gave His only begotten Son to die for our sins. Such love is beyond comparison. We read, “God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us” (Ephesians 2:4). Love is God’s divine nature and so is light (1 John 1:5; 4:8). Perhaps you have observed a young man and a young woman who have a tender, passionate affection for each other and you rightly say, “They are in love.” But with God, His love was not drawn out by any virtues in us, but only by the goodness of the Giver. Therefore, if our sins are washed away in the blood of the Lord Jesus, should not our love go out to Him “who loved me, and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:20)? Our love should also go out to other Christians and to the lost throughout the world. His love should cause us to fall at His feet in worship.
1. What is the greatest manifestation of love a man can give for his friend?
John 15:___
2. After Goliath was slain, what do we read about Jonathan’s love for David?
1 Samuel 18:___
3. Before we are told about judgments, what does it say about the One who washed us from our sins in His own blood? Revelation 1:___
4. How will all men know that we are disciples of the Lord Jesus?
John 13:___
5. What does it say of any man who does not love the Lord Jesus Christ?
1 Corinthians 16:___
Acts 6: October 2004
In the prior chapter we read about lying. Now we hear about murmuring (grumbling). Wherever the Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit act in grace and power, the enemy comes and tries to spoil the work of God. Remember how Israel murmured in the book of Exodus? The flesh never changes, and only the Lord can help us to keep it from acting. The number of the disciples had greatly multiplied by now, and it must have been a tremendous task to feed so many widows. The apostles told the multitude of disciples to select seven men who were honest, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom. When this was done, the apostles prayed and showed their fellowship by laying their hands on them. One of the chosen men was Stephen. He was full of faith and power and did great wonders and miracles. He also spoke with such wisdom and spirit that the Jews became angry. They induced false witnesses to say that Stephen said blasphemous words against that holy place and the law. Well, the Lord vindicated His servant by making Stephen’s face shine. The one who was accused of reviling the law and Moses was given the same sign that Moses had. Their unbelief did not allow them to make the connection between the two. Do you not think that a young man named Saul, who was also there, saw Stephen’s face? It surely reflected the glory of heaven’s light!
1. What three things had to be true of the ____________ men that they chose? Acts 6:___
Wherefore
2. After the ____________ prayed for these seven men, what else did they do, showing fellowship with them? Acts 6:___
Whom
3. When Stephen ____________ , what was it that they were not able to resist? Acts 6:___
And
4. Against whom did they say that Stephen was speaking ____________ words? Acts 6:___
Then
5. Exodus 34:35 says that “Moses’ face shone.” When the council looked on Stephen’s ____________ , what did they see? Acts 6:___
And
Faithful: October 2004
Proverbs 20:6 asks a question: “But a faithful man who can find?” It must be a very rare quality! Nehemiah 7:2 said that Hanani was “a faithful man, and feared God above many.” Because this was true, he was given the charge over Jerusalem. We live in days of compromise, and it is difficult to always be faithful. Indeed, this was only absolutely true of the Lord Jesus. Nonetheless, we are often exhorted to faithfulness. The Apostle Paul said that Timothy was a “beloved son, and faithful in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 4:17) and that Onesimus was “a faithful and beloved brother” (Colossians 4:9). Do you know of any person who has a reputation for being faithful? The Lord Jesus said that “Antipas was my faithful martyr” (Revelation 2:13). Not even death would cause him to deny his Master! The truth of God is so precious that Paul told Timothy to commit it “to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2). Epaphras was a faithful minister who labored fervently in prayers (Colossians 1:7; 4:12). Are we faithful in prayer? It requires no gift, but a heart for others. Would it not be a great joy at the end of your life to hear the Lord say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”? May the Lord help us to be faithful to Him. He is so worthy!
1. Silvanus (Silas) wrote the epistle for Peter. What does the Apostle say about him? 1 Peter 5:___
2. The kisses of an enemy are deceitful. What about the wounds of a friend?
Proverbs 27:___
3. What was Gaius doing for the brethren and to strangers? 3 John ___
4. What is the requirement for a man who would be a steward?
1 Corinthians 4:___
5. Why was it that the presidents and princes could find none occasion or fault against Daniel concerning the kingdom? Daniel 6:___
Acts 7: November 2004
When Stephen makes his defense, he starts with Abraham. Abraham once served idols (Joshua 24:2), but before the law was given, he was justified and accounted righteous because he believed God (Romans 3:28; 4:3). As Stephen speaks, he presents a powerful testimony to the nation of Israel, as well as against it. The accused becomes the accuser.
Next he speaks of the patriarchs. They envied Joseph, just as these religious leaders envied the Lord Jesus (Matthew 27:18). But God was with Joseph and exalted him in Egypt. When the patriarchs came to buy food the second time, Joseph revealed that he was their brother. After a long time, Moses was born. Did his brethren understand that he would deliver them? No, they refused him. Nonetheless, God had pity on the people when He saw their affliction and heard their groaning. Israel’s entire history had been the rejection of God’s prophets, even putting some to death. Many of them had spoken beforehand of the coming of the Just One, the Lord Jesus, whom they had betrayed and murdered. When they heard these things, instead of confessing their guilt, they were very angry with Stephen. This fearless man was so full of the Holy Spirit that his eyes saw Jesus in the opened heaven and the glory of God. Stephen committed his spirit to the Lord Jesus and then prayed for his enemies. The Lord Jesus first prayed for his enemies and then committed His spirit (Luke 23:34,46). The nation had now fully rejected God’s gracious offer of Christ.
1. Even though the ____________ were envious and sold Joseph into Egypt, who was with him? Acts 7:___
And
2. At what time was ____________ made known to his brethren and his kindred to Pharaoh? Acts 7:___
And
3. The Lord saw the affliction and heard the ____________ of His people. Now what was He going to do for them? Acts 7:___
I
4. The prophets showed before of the ____________ of the Just One. What did they do to Him when He came? Acts 7:___
Which
5. When Stephen saw the ____________ opened, what did he say?
Acts 7:___
And
Waiting Patiently: November 2004
One of the most difficult things for us to do is wait for someone or something. It requires patience, of which some of us do not have much. We live in an age where we want things immediately, not tomorrow, or a year from now. And yet, how long has the Saviour been waiting? He stands at a person’s door seeking admission for a long time. Anyone else would have given up long ago and gone home. But the Saviour is long-suffering, not willing that any should perish. He patiently waits for the door to be opened and to be welcomed inside. It is not reasonable to refuse the Lord Jesus, for He does not come to your door to rob but rather to give, and to give such gifts as none other could give - eternal life and a home in heaven! The Lord has been waiting around 2000 years now, and He still says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20). We are given many admonitions in the Bible to wait patiently upon God for every detail of our lives. Granted, it is not always easy, but it is the happy path because His time is best. We ought not to run ahead, nor to lag behind. Read what it says about those “that wait upon the Lord” in Isaiah 40:31.
1. Why is the Lord not slack concerning His promise? 2 Peter 3:___
2. For what does the husbandman wait and have long patience?
James 5:___
3. David tells us to “wait on the Lord” twice in one verse. Why?
Psalm 27:___
4. Sometimes we run ahead of the Lord. Who do we have to wait for?
Psalm 33:___
5. The Lord would direct our hearts in two ways: One is into the love of God. What is the other? 2 Thessalonians 3:___
Acts 8: December 2004
The last offer to the nation of Israel had been completely rejected, so now the gospel is sent to the Gentiles. This is accomplished by allowing a great persecution against the believers in Jerusalem. As a result, they were scattered everywhere, taking the gospel with them. Now in the city of Samaria, there was a magician named Simon, who fooled all the people with his magic. From the least to the greatest, they thought that Simon was the great power of God. However, when Philip preached about God and Jesus Christ, Simon professed faith and was baptized. When the Lord was here, “many believed in His name, when they saw the miracles which He did.” They couldn’t deny the miracles, but they wouldn’t confess their sins and receive Jesus as their Lord and Saviour (John 2:23-25). It was so with Simon. He knew the miracles were real, but his heart was unrepentant. The Apostle Peter knew this and told Simon, “Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.” What God has to offer is “without money and without price.”
Next, Philip is told to speak to one individual in a desert. God knew that there was a seeking person who needed the Saviour. This Ethiopian man had great responsibilities, but there was a void in his heart. He had obtained a copy of the Scriptures and was reading Isaiah 53 when Philip joined his chariot. This chapter speaks of Jesus, and when it was explained to the eunuch, he believed it in his heart. The void he had was filled and he went on his way rejoicing. Philip’s mission in the desert was accomplished and he was caught away to serve the Lord elsewhere, before coming to his home in Cæsarea. How wonderfully the Lord directed and used this evangelist!
1. What did the disciples do when they were ____________ abroad everywhere? Acts 8:___
Therefore
2. From the least to the ____________ , what did the people of Samaria say about Simon? Acts 8:___
To
3. How did Simon think that he could obtain the ____________ of God?
Acts 8:___
But
4. Where was the Ethiopian eunuch reading when ____________ ran thither to him? Acts 8:___
And
5. After the eunuch was baptized and Philip was ____________ away, what did the eunuch do? Acts 8:___
And
Wisdom: December 2004
Wisdom is more than knowledge. It is the ability to use knowledge properly. All the works of God show His wisdom. The marvelous design of the human body gives proof of it. God’s wisdom is also seen in His wondrous plan of salvation. In it, we see how sin’s penalty is paid, how God’s justice is vindicated and how His mercy can now go forth righteously. The believer in the Lord Jesus Christ is better off than he would have been if Adam had never sinned. Now that we are saved, God deals with us in wisdom. Although He may pass us through things in life that are too hard for us to understand, we know that He has perfect wisdom and love. Our God has perfect insight and discernment and always makes the right decisions, not only for us, but about everything. Knowing that this is so, we can have full confidence in His direction because He knows the end from the beginning. He knows the path that will lead us into blessing because His way is perfect. The wisdom of God is mentioned throughout the Bible. “With Him is wisdom and strength, He hath counsel and understanding” (Job 12:13). “O Lord, how manifold are Thy works! In wisdom hast Thou made them all; the earth is full of Thy riches” (Psalm 104:24). “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever: for wisdom and might are His” (Daniel 2:20). “After that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21).
The Lord God wants us to grow in wisdom. We are to be wise to that which is good (Romans 16:19). We should walk circumspectly, as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:15-16). We should be wise as serpents and harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16).
1. If we lack wisdom, what are we to do? James 1:___
2. What does God think about the wisdom of this world?
1 Corinthians 3:___
3. Is the man who finds wisdom and gets understanding happy or sad?
Proverbs 3:___
4. What do we read about the wise and those who turn many to righteousness? Daniel 12:___
5. How are we to walk toward them that are without? Colossians 4:___