A New Voice of Freedom

The controlling theme of our Podcasts is that we are all children of God who is no respecter of persons. We are all created equal by God. The primary purpose of a democratic republic is to protect that equality, making all laws equal to all citizens all the time. We need to return to the vision of our forefathers that "certain truths are self evident, that among our inalienable rights are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If we are to survive as a republic, we must hold firm to the Constitution and Bill of rights, to the balance of power, and above all, we must, as a Christian nation, hold firm to our belief that it is God who protects our freedom, and it is truth that makes us free. We must protect freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of the press. All citizens must have the right to realize their own desires and pursue their own destiny.

A New Voice of Freedom is a religion podcast hosted by Ronald, with 1,000 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Ronald hosts A New Voice of Freedom, a religion show with 1,000 episodes published.

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  Episode #48

  Podcast 148, Acts, “Pt 10 B, Ch 10”

  Oct 1, 202610 minS7

  Podcast 148, Acts, “Pt 10 B, Ch 10” As Peter ponders the meaning of the vision described as “a certain vessel descending…as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners…Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air,” three gentiles sent by Cornelius appear at the gate. Part III (Verses 17-18) Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon’s house, and stood before the gate, And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, was lodged there. The Holy Spirit commanded Peter to go with the three men. This illustrates Peter’s enormous faith. He housed the men for the night and went with them in the morning. Part IV (Verses 19-23) While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them. Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come? And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him. Peter is still uncertain of the dream; but it becomes clear to him when he enters the house of Cornelius. Part V (Verses 24-29) And the morrow after they entered into Cæsarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends. And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me? We gain an insight also of the faith of Cornelius. Part VI (Verses 30-33) And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. It is at this moment that Peter receives a revelation from the Holy Spirit what the dream really meant. Part VII (Verses 34-43) Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. When Peter learned that God was no respecter of persons, it appeared to be new doctrine; however, it really wasn’t new but the Jews at the time were in such a state of apostasy they had forgotten fundamental principles taught in the Old Testament. For Example: Deuteronomy 10:17– "...which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward." 2 Chronicles 19:7 – "...for there is no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons..." Job 34:19 – "How much less to him that accepteth not the persons of princes, nor regardeth the rich more than the poor?" From that moment forward the doctrine was taught widely by the apostles as recorded in the New Testament. Acts 10:34 “...Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.” Romans 2:11 “For there is no respect of persons with God.” 1 Peter 1:17 “And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work...” The primary role of the apostles was to bear witness of Christ and to teach his doctrine. The New Testament contains their testimony which has been published throughout the world for several millennia. Acts 10:36-43 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judæa, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. It was then that the Holy Ghost fell upon all those who heard the word. Sometimes we may confuse “hearing the word” with “hearing through the ears.” It seldom means that. Many millions have heard the word in their ears but never felt it in their hearts. It is because they did not have the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is vital to our salvation but his primary role in the Holy Trinity is to bear witness of Jesus Christ. Part VIII (Verses 44-48) While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. Acts 10 records one of the great stories of the New Testament. It teaches the doctrine of Christ such as faith, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost with great clarity.

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  Episode #147

  Podcast 147, Acts, “Pt 10 A, Ch 10”

  Sep 30, 202612 minS7

  Podcast 147, Acts, “Pt 10 A, Ch 10” Acts 10 defines a turning point, not only in the story of Christianity, but also in the story of Abraham and his posterity. Before Acts 10 the seed of Abraham was considered to be only the direct descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, also known as The Twelve Tribes of Israel or The Chosen of the Lord. After Acts 10, the seed of Abraham embraces all, both Jew and Gentile, who come unto Christ. It is indeed the New Testament or New Covenant. Regardless of bloodline, those who come unto Christ, obey his commandments, follow his ordinances, are baptized by one having authority in his name, receive the Holy Ghost, and endure to the end shall be saved and live with Christ in the eternities. On the one hand, the vision of Peter in Acts 10 is very dramatic for the culture of the Children of Israel was 2000 years old. As Peter made clear to Cornelius, “Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation.” On the other hand, it is not as dramatic as it appears for it has always been so that only those who worshiped Jehovah and kept his commandments were the spiritually chosen. Jehovah of the Old Testament is Christ of the New Testament. In the Old Testament, Christ was a spirit. In the New Testament, Christ had a body of flesh and bones. He died, not just for the Jews. He died for the entire world. He suffered in Gethsemane where he took upon himself the sins of the world. He died on the Cross and rose the third day, thus bringing about the resurrection of all mankind. Everything in the Holy Bible was meant to bring us to Christ. The Holy Bible is one of the greatest accomplishments of the tribes of Israel. Their story is our story. Their law is our law, their God is our God. Their Bible is our Bible. The Ten Commandments have never expired. The Sermon on the Mount has never worn out. Acts 10 can be conveniently divided into 8 parts; therefore, let’s follow the chronology. Part I (Verses 1-8) There was a certain man in Cæsarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa. That, of course, is the effect of the Holy Ghost. The gift of the Holy Ghost is with Peter for we know that he has received it by the laying on of hands. However, here, we learn that the Holy Ghost has also whispered to Cornelius. What is the difference between the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of Hands and the prompting of the Holy Ghost to those who have not yet received the fullness of the gospel? First, the Holy Ghost is the Holy Ghost regardless; however, for those who do not have the gift of the Holy Ghost, it will not remain with them unless they act, as Cornelius did, to its promptings. All who have a testimony of Christ have testimony only because of the Holy Ghost. A wicked spirit drives out the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost gives revelation. Cornelius is a very worthy man who gives alms and prays in great faith. It is his faithful behavior that invited the Holy Ghost into his heart. He was a seeker of truth. Even before modern communications, one of the great miracles of God is communication over a distance. The distance between Cornelius and Peter was over 30 miles which was probably traveled on foot. The Holy Ghost speaks to both Cornelius and to Peter, bringing two complete strangers together. Much that we attribute to coincidence may indeed be orchestrated by the Lord, what I love to call ‘Divinely Orchestrated Coincidence.” Peter receives this remarkable vision just before his visitors arrive. Part II (Verses 9-16) On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven. It is interesting that it required three times for Peter to fully understand the importance of the vision. It wasn’t about food. It was about all the children of God who is no respecter of person. The image that Peter saw was brilliantly orchestrated to teach one of the most profound aspects of Christ’s true church. All Jews would have understood the vision for the Jews lived under a strict diet given to them by Moses. Leviticus 11:1-4 And the Lord spake unto Moses and to Aaron, saying unto them, Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, These are the beasts which ye shall eat among all the beasts that are on the earth. Whatsoever parteth the hoof, and is clovenfooted, and cheweth the cud, among the beasts, that shall ye eat. Nevertheless these shall ye not eat of them that chew the cud, or of them that divide the hoof: as the camel, because he cheweth the cud, but divideth not the hoof; he is unclean unto you. The List is rather long. The following is an abbreviation of things that were forbidden for them to eat. The ‘thou shalt not’s’ is much longer than the ‘thou shalts.’ See Leviticus 11:5-7, 10-31 The coney, the hare, the swine, all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, Whatsoever hath no fins nor scales in the waters, the eagle, the ossifrage, the ospray, the vulture, the kite after his kind, Every raven after his kind; the owl, the night hawk, the cuckow, the hawk after his kind, the little owl, the cormorant, the great owl, the swan, the pelican, the gier eagle, the stork, the heron after her kind, the lapwing, the bat, All fowls that creep, going upon all four, all other flying creeping things, which have four feet, whatsoever goeth upon his paws, among all manner of beasts that go on all four, the weasel, the mouse, the tortoise after his kind, the ferret, the chameleon, the lizard, the snail, and the mole. The following is a list of things they could eat. See Leviticus 11:9, 21-22 Whatsoever hath fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, every flying creeping thing that goeth upon all four, which have legs above their feet, to leap withal upon the earth; the locust after his kind, the bald locust after his kind, the beetle after his kind, and the grasshopper after his kind. The ban on what they could not eat at the time of Christ (who gave the band) was 1400 years old. Peter was an adult when Christ called him to the apostleship. He was a devout Jew and obeyed the traditions of his fathers. It is no wonder that he questioned the Lord. He said to the Lord, “I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.” The Lord did not immediately clarify the vision. The answer, however, was at that very moment calling at the gate. Now if you examine Peter’s answer, it could be interpreted as a test of his faith. He assures the Lord that he has never eaten anything common or unclean. It is ironic of course that Peter was actually waiting for dinner to be prepared, so we may assume he was very hungry. He is demonstrating his faith in the Lord by not obeying the Lord. Of course, Peter is unaware that this had nothing to do with dinner. This is the beginning of a new era for the church. Why was the vision given to Peter?—It was because Peter was the chief apostle appointed by God to lead the church. We all know when that appointment was given. Matthew 16:19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Please join us next time as we continue Acts 10.

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  Episode #146

  Podcast 146, Acts, “Pt 9 B, Ch 9”

  Sep 27, 202614 minS7

  Podcast 146, Acts, “Pt 9 B, Ch 9” In the previous podcast we covered Acts 9 verses 1-30. Here we shall pick up with verse 31. Acts 9:31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judæa and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. Well, for one thing, the churches throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had rest because Paul was no longer going from door to door wanting to kill them. The church is rapidly growing. Two phrases from the above are significant: “walking in the fear of the Lord: and “in the comfort of the Holy Ghost.” First, what does it mean to “walk in the fear of the Lord”? Variations of the phrase appear in the Bible over a hundred times. It is helpful to examine the context. Let’s first turn to Proverbs: Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. First of all, we cannot whitewash the term “fear” and pretend it means something other than what it says. From a logical standpoint, if we did not have any fear of anything, it is very likely that our humble lives would be very short. That makes the phrase, “fear is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom” quite meaningful. When we fear something, we tend to examine it very closely to avoid personal harm. Even wild animals have a high level of fear and spring into action upon the least threat. We call it instinct. “Fight or flight” is a familiar term to most everyone. One of the greatest protections we have in mortality is law and it is law that we must fear for law is absolute. Everything, whether temporal or spiritual, is based upon law. In the temporal world we refer to law as “the laws of nature.” In the spiritual world we refer to law as “the commandments of God.” The scriptures connect fear directly with keeping the commandments, Deuteronomy 5:29 “O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always…” 1 Samuel 12:14 “If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice…” Psalm 128:1 “Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways.” Ecclesiastes 12:13 “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” Paul associates fear of the Lord with perfection and holiness. 2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Fear of the law is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom because the law of obedience is our greatest protector and our greatest friend. We all know what happens when we violate the laws of nature. For example, without gravity earth would be uninhabitable; yet gravity has killed millions of careless people for it is unforgiving. As the temporal law of gravity is absolute so is the law of justice, which is spiritual, absolute. The law of justice, like the law of gravity, is not only absolute it is also unforgiving. Without justice God would cease to be God. The only reason we have the law of mercy is because that is the only way God could save us from the law of Justice. When Adam fell, we all fell with him under the iron law of justice. The law of justice is infinite; therefore, the law of mercy had to be infinite. If we did not have the law of mercy, the law of justice would condemn us forever for our sins, allowing no repentance, no redemption, no salvation. God must obey the law of justice, or he would cease to be God. The reason Christ was perfect is because he perfectly obeyed the law of justice. Because of the fall of Adam, we are all under the law of justice. Because of the atonement of Jesus Christ, we may all be saved from the law of justice but only if we choose to obey the commandments of Christ. That is why we must fear the law. Fortunately for all mankind, we also fall under the law of mercy. Sin is violation of law. Without law there is no sin. Because Christ atoned for our sins, he was able to institute the law of mercy. In other words, he alone has the power to forgive us for our sins. ‘Fear of the Lord’ means that we should honor his commandments. By keeping the commandments of Christ, repenting of our sins, and enduring to the end, we avoid the claims of the law of justice. That is our only salvation. Christ died that he might satisfy the law of justice thus freeing us from its awful grasp. Justice had no claim on Christ because he never violated the law of justice. However, unless we obey the commandments of Christ, the law of justice will claim its due on us and bind us to Satan forever. Next let’s look at the phrase, “the comfort of the Holy Ghost.” ‘Fear of law’ and ‘comfort of the Holy Ghost’ are nice companions. We are to walk “in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost.’ Christ said, John 14:15-18 If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. If we keep the commandments, the Holy Ghost will abide with us forever. When accompanied by the Holy Ghost fear takes on a higher meaning. It is one of the great paradoxes of Christianity that fear of God gives us comfort forever. Many of the commandments of God apply only to this life. For example, only in this life can we kill, steal, commit adultery, covet, lie, cheat, bear false witness, etc. Those are not choices we can make in the next life. This life determines the quality of life we have in the next. There is a haunting phrase in Hebrews. Hebrews 11:35 “Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection.” How does one obtain a better resurrection when all resurrected bodies are perfect? Physical perfection and spiritual perfection are entirely two separate things. A phrase even more haunting is found in the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. No one but Christ is perfect so how can we be perfect? The above scripture speaks only of the resurrection. We are made perfect through Christ. Without Christ none can be made perfect. That is what a ‘better resurrection’ means. Paul describes the resurrection this way. 1 Corinthians 15:40-42 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: Resurrections differ in light, glory, and power, not in physical perfection. That is why there is a first and second resurrection. Only those who come forth in the first resurrection can be made perfect even as our Father which is in heaven is perfect. All resurrections, however, are perfect in physical appearance, Also speaking of keeping the commandments, Christ said, John 14:21-27 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Miracles did not cease with the death of Christ. When miracles cease, that means that the spirit of the Lord is withdrawn. And if the spirit of the Lord is withdrawn, then the world is in tremendous trouble. What could be worse? Acts 9:32-33 And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Æneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy. And Peter said unto him, Æneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord. To perform a miracle, one must have faith in Jesus Christ. To recognize a miracle, one must have the Holy Ghost. The same kinds of miracles Christ performed were also performed in Christ’s name by his disciples.

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  Episode #145

  Podcast 145, Acts, “Pt 9, Ch 9”

  Sep 24, 202613 minS7

  Podcast 145, Acts, “Pt 9, Ch 9” Perhaps few miracles rival the conversion of Saul who was later named Paul. The contrast is astonishing. Saul, zealot Pharisee, actively sought permission to imprison Christians. The language used by Luke, who is the author of Acts, to describe Saul’s activities is rather ghastly. Acts 9:1-2 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. Saul guarded the garments of those who stoned Stephen who, during his martyrdom, saw Christ in vision. Luke uses terms such as “threatenings and slaughter against the disciples.” But like Stephen, Saul on the road to Damascus, also saw Christ. Acts 9:3-9 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink. Later Paul gives a first person account of his vision to King Agrippa. But first Paul recounts his own persecution of Christians. Acts 26:9-11 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities. Then Paul recounts his vision on the Road to Damascus. Acts 26:13-19 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me. And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision: The notorious Saul was well known to the Christians of Damascus, yet the Lord appeared in vision to the disciple Ananias and commanded him to heal the blind Paul. Again, this illustrates the tremendous faith of many of the early Christians. We also see how Jesus himself, though a resurrected being now living with his Father in Heaven, guided the church. In addition, we learn another great lesson. People are called of God through priesthood chains of authority to lead his church. They do not take it upon themselves. Acts 9:10-13 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. Patiently the Lord explains to Ananias why he has called Saul to the ministry. Acts 9:15-16 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake. Again, in harmony with the vision of Peter, we learn that the gospel is to be taught to both Jews and Gentiles for God is no respecter of persons and all are equal before him. Everyone who obeys the commandments of Christ and endures to the end become children of Abraham. Again, we see the great faith and noble heart of Ananias. Acts 9:17-19 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. One of the outstanding features of Saul’s character was that whatever he did, he did with the utmost energy, courage, and enthusiasm. From being the church’s greatest enemy, he became the church’s greatest missionary. The horrors of death he threatened against Christians were now threatened against him for converting to Christianity. One may only assume that the very Pharisees who threatened to kill Saul were also the same ones who once assisted Saul in persecuting Christians. Acts 9:20-25 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. Not all saints immediately accepted Saul. They were understandably skeptical. Acts 9:26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. Saul was introduced to the apostles by Barnabas, a very devout Christian. Later both became apostles and missionary companions. Acts 9:27-30 But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Cæsarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. Again, we are reminded of the necessity of priesthood authority. Christ appointed the apostles to govern the affairs of the church in his absence. We learn that when an apostle dies, another is chosen in his place. Let’s refer back to Acts 1. Acts 1:15-26 And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,) Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood. For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. Please join us next time as we continue with Acts Chapter 9.

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  Episode #144

  Podcast 144, Acts, “Pt 8, Ch 8”

  Sep 22, 202614 minS7

  Podcast 144, Acts, “Pt 8, Ch 8” Many miracles marked the origins of the early church following Christ’s crucifixion. Chapter eight focuses on the miracles of Philip the Evangelist, but first we get the conclusion of the stoning of Stephen and the role Saul played in the persecution of the early Christians. Acts 8:1-3 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judæa and Samaria, except the apostles. And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and hailing men and women committed them to prison. One thing that we are taught by the story of Saul, who later, after his conversion, became Paul, is that not all those who persecuted the Christians were hypocrites. Paul was a Zealot, that is to say he was passionate about upholding the law of Moses. We may only assume that he genuinely believed he was serving God. Ironically it was Paul, after he had been called to the apostleship, in a letter to Timothy, who wrote, speaking of the last days: 1 Timothy 4:1-3 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. When Saul learned the truth, he immediately repented and became as zealous for Christianity as he was once zealous against Christianity. Tradition has it that like Stephen, he gave his life for the church. That is a great lesson to all of us. Those who “speak lies in hypocrisy” close their minds to the truth and continue to fight against God, devoting their energies to a cause regardless of the truth. There is no place in their heart for the Holy Ghost. The Jews who crucified Christ allowed tradition rather than truth to guide their actions. From the beginning they used lies and false witnesses and nefarious means to persecute Christ and to later crucify him. They were protecting their status, not seeking truth. That is why Christ chose his apostles from lowly fishermen. The story of Philip is as intriguing as the story of Stephen. The spirit of missionary work was strong in Philip. He performed many miracles. Acts 8:4-8 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city. Through Philip we are introduced to a very strange character, Simon the sorcerer; Acts 8:9-13 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. However, when Simon’s followers left Simon and joined the church, Simon himself became converted, though not completely for his testimony was seriously flawed. Acts 8: 12-13 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. Simon, who was used to the spotlight, was intrigued by the miracles. Simon was more akin to Barnum and Baily than Philip. He wanted to perform miracles for show. He saw his opportunity and offered to pay money for the power. This is perhaps the first introduction to priestcraft. Priestcraft is the act of using the gospel to make money rather than to save souls. Simon obviously thought he could buy the power to perform miracles and once having that power perhaps he could sell miracles for money. First we learn how the Holy Ghost is given. Acts 8:14-17 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. First of all, the Holy Ghost was given freely. Second of all, after baptism, it was given by the laying on of hands only by those who had the authority. Simon did not understand those simple principles. Acts 8:18-19 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. Priestcraft is a serious sin. The apostle Peter is harsh in his condemnation of Simon. Acts 8:20-23 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity. To Simon’s credit, he does repent. Acts 8:24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me. The story of the conversion of the Eunuch is also very intriguing. The Eunuch clearly is in high authority being in charge of the Queen’s treasure. He is also well educated for he is reading Isaiah either in Greek or Hebrew. He is religious for he had come to Jerusalem to worship. Acts 8:25-27 And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans. And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, One has the impression that the Lord specifically sent Philip there to meet the Eunuch. The Eunuch is not reading the easiest book of the Bible. Acts 8:28-31 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. Philip immediately recognizes a teaching moment. The Eunuch is reading about Christ. Act 8:32-33 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And having the spirit with him, the Eunuch recognizes that the person spoken of by Isaiah is a prophet. Acts 8:34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? The Eunuch’s conversion is instantaneous. Acts 8:35-36 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. That gives us insight into the character of the Eunuch. First of all, he would not have been put over the Queen’s treasury if he were not meticulously honest and trustworthy. In addition, we may assume that because of his high authority, that he is highly educated, highly respected, highly trusted, and holds great power, yet he is a man of great humility. He is independent in his search for truth. Only the Holy Ghost could have witnessed to him that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. Acts 8:38-40 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. Unfortunately, we never hear of the Eunuch again; however, we may assume that a person of his stature carried the gospel with him back to Ethiopia. One may also assume that many in his country joined the church because of his true conversion to Jesus Christ. The Eunuch continue on his way and Philip continued his missionary journey.

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