Jeremy Dawson Sermons and Devos

<p>The first purpose of your life, or calling, is to let God love you. Pastor Jeremy explains that to understand your life purpose, you have to start with God because he created you. God is love, and he made you in his image. Learn this paradigm-shifting truth and what happens when you’re aware of God’s constant love.<br>.<br>This series is by Pastor Rick Warren from Saddleback Church. If you're a Pastor/ church leader etc and you'd like to use this material, drop us an email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>, we have the material in Hindi too. <br><br>Let me know your thoughts<br>.<br>CONNECT WITH Pastor Jeremy Dawson <br>YouTube: <a href="http://bit.ly/YouTube-JeremyDawsonOff.." rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/YouTube-JeremyDawsonOff..</a>.<br>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/</a><br>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawso.." rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawso..</a>.<br>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson</a></p>

<p>5 superpowers of Jesus<br>.<br>Welcome to Storytime with Pastor Jerry where talks to kids (but any age can hear it too ;) about stories of Jesus from the Bible. <br>.<br>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/</a><br>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/</a><br>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson</a><br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a><br><br>Music Credits: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/jasonrobertsonmusic" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/c/jasonrobertsonmusic</a></p>

<p>Today we are looking through the book of Jonah chapter 4: The Ultimatum Prophet.<br>A midweek bible exposition to encourage the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>Did Jesus disobey his mommy?<br>.<br>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/</a><br>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/</a><br>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson</a><br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a><br><br>Music Credits: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/jasonrobertsonmusic" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/c/jasonrobertsonmusic</a></p>

<p>When Jesus went underwater- The Baptism<br>.<br>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/</a><br>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/</a><br>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson</a><br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a><br><br>Music Credits: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSpgul2gwngmKhswFxEkJ0Q" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSpgul2gwngmKhswFxEkJ0Q</a></p>

<p>A midweek bible exposition to encourage the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.<br>Good evening and welcome to Thursday Mid Week Refuel with Pst. Jeremy. <br>Today we are looking through Gal 6:1-4.</p>

<p>We aren’t going through tough times all the time. For the most <a href="http://part...life" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">part...life</a> is good. We count our blessings and we are grateful for the many benefits. So then… how do we HOLD God’s hand when things are going well? What does it look like to walk with God – when there isn’t a crisis to solve, a problem to fix, or a wallet to fill? Will we still yearn his presence and seek his face?<br>.<br>We are in a series called: How to Hold God's Hand.<br>.<br>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/</a><br>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/</a><br>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson</a><br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a><br><br>Intro & Outro Music: <a href="https://www.bensound.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.bensound.com/</a></p>

<p>At the Temple.<br>.<br>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawsonofficial/</a><br>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/</a><br>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson</a><br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a><br><br>Music Credits: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSpgul2gwngmKhswFxEkJ0Q" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSpgul2gwngmKhswFxEkJ0Q</a></p>

<p>With all that's been going on... despair, suicide, racism and national border disputes... My heart compels me to address man's personal anchorage in God himself. How do we hold God's hand when people let go. By choice or by chance... people aren't permanent. They are loaned to us for the seasons of our lives. If we aren't anchored in God, we will not be able to process the pain of grief, despair, and abandonment.<br>People are valuable... but from being used to being abused, from being loved to being lost, from giving birth to grieving death... we must hold on to the one who is the only permanent partner in life. The one for whom we were purposed and designed.<br>In this sermon, Pastor Jeremy talks about How to hold God's hand when people let go.<br>.<br>Series name: How to hold God's hand.</p>

<p>Have you ever been through an experience in life where you’ve really needed to know that God is present?<br>Have you ever wondered how to practise the presence of God?<br>In this sermon, Pst. Jeremy talks about How to hold God's hand to sense His presence. <br>.<br>If you would like to talk to someone or want someone to pray for you today, WhatsApp or text: +91-9560137675 <br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a><br>Website: <a href="http://www.onlinewithcovenant.life" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.onlinewithcovenant.life</a></p>

<p>A midweek bible exposition to encourage the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.<br>Good evening and welcome to Thursday Mid Week Refuel with Pst. Jeremy. <br>Today we continue to look through the Book of Colossians 1&2 (ESV)<br>Share your thoughts with me at <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>A lot of us have been hurt by Abuse (verbal, emotional or physical),<br>And we begin to live life through those painful and hurtful memories, scarring ourselves and the people around us.<br>.<br>In this sermon, Pst. Jeremy talks to us about: How to hold God's hand as you heal from abuse. Please do share it with someone who needs to hear this.<br>.<br>If you would like to talk to someone today WhatsApp or text: +91-9560137675 <br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a><br>Website: <a href="http://www.onlinewithcovenant.life" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.onlinewithcovenant.life</a><br>.</p>

<p>A midweek bible exposition to encourage the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.<br>Good evening and welcome to Thursday Mid Week Refuel with Pst. Jeremy. <br>Today we continue to look through the Book of Colossians 1: 15 - 23 (ESV)<br>Share your thoughts with me at <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>A midweek bible exposition to encourage the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.<br>Good evening and welcome to Thursday Mid Week Refuel with Pst. Jeremy. <br>Today we look through the Book of Colossians 1: 1-14 (ESV)<br>Share your thoughts with me at <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>If you were being cheated or swayed down the wrong track, would you not wish to be warned or alerted at least? ESPECIALLY IN REGARD TO FAITH!!<br>Here is one of those cases where God has sent caution much in advance.<br>An exposition on the book of Jude from the Bible.</p>

<p>A midweek bible exposition to encourage the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.<br>Good evening and welcome to Thursday Mid Week Refuel with Pst. Jeremy. <br>Today we continue looking through the Book of Ephesians, chapter 3 (ESV)<br>Share your thoughts with me at: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>Have you ever sat down at your dining table and considered the significant difference it can make for the kingdom of God? Your dining table for the gospel, for the kingdom of God. <br>We are in a short letter series. And this letter of 3 John is a recommendation of John to a man named Gaius. Here is a recommendation of a man’s hospitality. <br>.<br>We must use our table as a ministry of hospitality. We should be hospitable to everyone. But more so to those who have left all to serve God<br>.<br>Comment or share your thoughts with me.<br>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawso.." rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jeremydawso..</a>.<br>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/jeremyadawson/</a><br>Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/JeremyADawson</a><br>Email: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>A midweek bible exposition to encourage the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.<br>Good evening and welcome to Thursday Mid Week Refuel with Pst. Jeremy. <br>Today we continue looking through the Book of Ephesians, chapter 2: 11-21 (ESV)</p>

<p>How do I cook a great meal for the best chef? How do I paint a picture for the best artist? Taken from the book of 2 John, in this sermon, Pst Jeremy talks about ' How do I love God who himself is love? '<br>.<br>Share your thoughts with me : <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>The Coming of the Lord<br><br>13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. 15 For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.</p>

<p>A Life Pleasing to God<br><br>Finally, then, brothers,we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. 2 For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. 3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; 4 that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, 5 not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6 that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. 7 For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. 8 Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.<br><br>9 Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, 10 for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more, 11 and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, 12 so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.</p>

<p>Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith, 3 that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. 4 For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know. 5 For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.<br><br>Timothy's Encouraging Report<br><br>6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you— 7 for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. 8 For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 10 as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith?<br><br>11 Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, 12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, 13 so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.</p>

<p>We live at a time where there is heightened polarisation and segregation. Majorities and minorities. The suspecting and the suspected. Reconciliation is hard. But it is NOT IMPOSSIBLE. What we need are MEDIATORS. PEACEMAKERS. Those who will be ‘Christ between us’. Today morning, Pastor Jeremy tells us 8 ways to be a Peace Maker, with references from the book of Philemon.</p>

<p>Paul's Ministry to the Thessalonians<br><br>2 For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain. 2 But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict. 3 For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, 4 but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. 5 For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. 8 So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.<br><br>9 For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers. 11 For you know how, like a father with his children, 12 we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.<br><br>13 And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers. 14 For you, brothers, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea. For you suffered the same things from your own countrymen as they did from the Jews, 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and drove us out, and displease God and oppose all mankind 16 by hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles that they might be saved—so as always to fill up the measure of their sins. But wrath has come upon them at last!<br><br>Paul's Longing to See Them Again<br><br>17 But since we were torn away from you, brothers, for a short time, in person not in heart, we endeavored the more eagerly and with great desire to see you face to face, 18 because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20 For you are our glory and joy.</p>

<p>Pst. Jeremy teaches through the book of Ephesians every Thursday 8:00 PM (IST) LIVE on Youtube. <br>YouTube Channel: Jeremy Dawson Official</p>

<p>Paul's Ministry to the Thessalonians<br><br>For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain. 2 But though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had boldness in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the midst of much conflict. 3 For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, 4 but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. 5 For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. 8 So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.<br><br>9 For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers. 11 For you know how, like a father with his children, 12 we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory.<br><br>13 And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers. 14 For you, brothers, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea. For you suffered the same things from your own countrymen as they did from the Jews, 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and drove us out, and displease God and oppose all mankind 16 by hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles that they might be saved—so as always to fill up the measure of their sins. But wrath has come upon them at last!</p>

<p>Greeting<br>Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy,<br>To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:<br><br>Grace to you and peace.<br><br>The Thessalonians' Faith and Example<br><br>2 We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. 6 And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, 7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8 For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. 9 For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.</p>

<p>The resurrection positions JESUS as the Lord over sin and death and all of creation. In this sermon, Pst. Jeremy walks us through the gospels – where Jesus gave us disciples the commission. <br>.<br>Write to me at <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>James Killed and Peter Imprisoned<br><br>About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. 2 He killed James the brother of John with the sword, 3 and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. This was during the days of Unleavened Bread. 4 And when he had seized him, he put him in prison, delivering him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people. 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.<br><br>Peter Is Rescued<br><br>6 Now when Herod was about to bring him out, on that very night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison. 7 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood next to him, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands. 8 And the angel said to him, “Dress yourself and put on your sandals.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” 9 And he went out and followed him. He did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. 10 When they had passed the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate leading into the city. It opened for them of its own accord, and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel left him. 11 When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.”<br><br>12 When he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying. 13 And when he knocked at the door of the gateway, a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer. 14 Recognizing Peter's voice, in her joy she did not open the gate but ran in and reported that Peter was standing at the gate. 15 They said to her, “You are out of your mind.” But she kept insisting that it was so, and they kept saying, “It is his angel!” 16 But Peter continued knocking, and when they opened, they saw him and were amazed. 17 But motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Tell these things to James and to the brothers.” Then he departed and went to another place.<br><br>18 Now when day came, there was no little disturbance among the soldiers over what had become of Peter. 19 And after Herod searched for him and did not find him, he examined the sentries and ordered that they should be put to death. Then he went down from Judea to Caesarea and spent time there.<br><br>The Death of Herod<br><br>20 Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they came to him with one accord, and having persuaded Blastus, the king's chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their country depended on the king's country for food. 21 On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. 22 And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” 23 Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.<br><br>24 But the word of God increased and multiplied.<br><br>25 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had completed their service, bringing with them John, whose other name was Mark.</p>

<p>The Church in Antioch<br><br>19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists[c] also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.<br><br>27 Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 And one of them named Agabus stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius). 29 So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. 30 And they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.</p>

<p>Acts 11 <br>Peter Reports to the Church<br><br>Now the apostles and the brother who were throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcision party criticized him, saying, 3 “You went to uncircumcised men and ate with them.” 4 But Peter began and explained it to them in order: 5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, something like a great sheet descending, being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to me. 6 Looking at it closely, I observed animals and beasts of prey and reptiles and birds of the air. 7 And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ 8 But I said, ‘By no means, Lord; for nothing common or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9 But the voice answered a second time from heaven, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.’ 10 This happened three times, and all was drawn up again into heaven. 11 And behold, at that very moment three men arrived at the house in which we were, sent to me from Caesarea. 12 And the Spirit told me to go with them, making no distinction. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man's house. 13 And he told us how he had seen the angel stand in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon who is called Peter; 14 he will declare to you a message by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ 15 As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God's way?” 18 When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.”</p>

<p>Gentiles Hear the Good News<br><br>34 So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), 37 you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, 40 but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear, 41 not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. 43 To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”<br><br>The Holy Spirit Falls on the Gentiles<br><br>44 While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45 And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.</p>

<p>Peter and Cornelius<br><br>At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, 2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. 3 About the ninth hour of the day[a] he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” 4 And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. 6 He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” 7 When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, 8 and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.<br><br>Peter's Vision<br><br>9 The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. 10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” 16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.<br><br>17 Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon's house, stood at the gate 18 and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there. 19 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” 21 And Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?” 22 And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” 23 So he invited them in to be his guests.<br><br>The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” 27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28 And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29 So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.”<br><br>30 And Cornelius said, “Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ 33 So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord.”</p>

<p>In this sermon, Pst. Jeremy talks about how a symbol of shame, the cross, has now become a symbol of Hope for us.<br>.<br>.<br>Share your thoughts with me: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>Saul Proclaims Jesus in Synagogues<br><br>For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. 20 And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” 21 And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?” 22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.<br><br>Saul Escapes from Damascus<br><br>23 When many days had passed, the Jews plotted to kill him, 24 but their plot became known to Saul. They were watching the gates day and night in order to kill him, 25 but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.<br><br>Saul in Jerusalem<br><br>26 And when he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples. And they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and declared to them how on the road he had seen the Lord, who spoke to him, and how at Damascus he had preached boldly in the name of Jesus. 28 So he went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 And he spoke and disputed against the Hellenists. But they were seeking to kill him. 30 And when the brothers learned this, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.<br><br>31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.<br><br>The Healing of Aeneas<br><br>32 Now as Peter went here and there among them all, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda. 33 There he found a man named Aeneas, bedridden for eight years, who was paralyzed. 34 And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; rise and make your bed.” And immediately he rose. 35 And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.<br><br>Dorcas Restored to Life<br><br>36 Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. 37 In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” 39 So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43 And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner.</p>

<p>Lyrcis to the song:<br><br>Wonderful, wonderful Jesus,<br>Who can compare with Thee!<br>Wonderful, wonderful Jesus,<br>Fairer than all art Thou to me!<br><br>Wonderful, wonderful Jesus,<br>O how my soul loves Thee!<br>Fairer than all the fairest,<br>Jesus, art Thou to me!</p>

<p>The Conversion of Saul<br><br>But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” 7 The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.<br><br>10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” 11 And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, 12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” 13 But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” 15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” 17 So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; 19 and taking food, he was strengthened.</p>

<p>The significance of Palm Sunday.<br>.<br>To share your thoughts write to me at <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>Simon the Magician Believes<br><br>9 But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” 11 And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed.<br><br>14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.” 24 And Simon answered, “Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.”<br><br>25 Now when they had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.<br><br>Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch<br><br>26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is a desert place. 27 And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship 28 and was returning, seated in his chariot, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and join this chariot.” 30 So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” 31 And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the passage of the Scripture that he was reading was this:<br><br>“Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter<br> and like a lamb before its shearer is silent,<br> so he opens not his mouth.<br>33 In his humiliation justice was denied him.<br> Who can describe his generation?<br>For his life is taken away from the earth.”<br><br>34 And the eunuch said to Philip, “About whom, I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?” 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. 36 And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?” 38 And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. 39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he preached the gospel to all the towns until he came to Caesarea.</p>

<p>Saul Ravages the Church<br>And Saul approved of his execution.<br>And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2 Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. 3 But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.<br><br>Philip Proclaims Christ in Samaria<br><br>4 Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. 5 Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. 6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was much joy in that city.</p>

<p>Stephen's Speech<br><br>And the high priest said, “Are these things so?” 2 And Stephen said:<br><br>“Brothers and fathers, hear me. The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, 3 and said to him, ‘Go out from your land and from your kindred and go into the land that I will show you.’ 4 Then he went out from the land of the Chaldeans and lived in Haran. And after his father died, God removed him from there into this land in which you are now living. 5 Yet he gave him no inheritance in it, not even a foot's length, but promised to give it to him as a possession and to his offspring after him, though he had no child. 6 And God spoke to this effect—that his offspring would be sojourners in a land belonging to others, who would enslave them and afflict them four hundred years. 7 ‘But I will judge the nation that they serve,’ said God, ‘and after that they shall come out and worship me in this place.’ 8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision. And so Abraham became the father of Isaac, and circumcised him on the eighth day, and Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob of the twelve patriarchs.<br><br>9 “And the patriarchs, jealous of Joseph, sold him into Egypt; but God was with him 10 and rescued him out of all his afflictions and gave him favor and wisdom before Pharaoh, king of Egypt, who made him ruler over Egypt and over all his household. 11 Now there came a famine throughout all Egypt and Canaan, and great affliction, and our fathers could find no food. 12 But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers on their first visit. 13 And on the second visit Joseph made himself known to his brothers, and Joseph's family became known to Pharaoh. 14 And Joseph sent and summoned Jacob his father and all his kindred, seventy-five persons in all. 15 And Jacob went down into Egypt, and he died, he and our fathers, 16 and they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham had bought for a sum of silver from the sons of Hamor in Shechem.<br><br>17 “But as the time of the promise drew near, which God had granted to Abraham, the people increased and multiplied in Egypt 18 until there arose over Egypt another king who did not know Joseph. 19 He dealt shrewdly with our race and forced our fathers to expose their infants, so that they would not be kept alive. 20 At this time Moses was born; and he was beautiful in God's sight. And he was brought up for three months in his father's house, 21 and when he was exposed, Pharaoh's daughter adopted him and brought him up as her own son. 22 And Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and he was mighty in his words and deeds.<br><br>23 “When he was forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brothers, the children of Israel. 24 And seeing one of them being wronged, he defended the oppressed man and avenged him by striking down the Egyptian. 25 He supposed that his brothers would understand that God was giving them salvation by his hand, but they did not understand. 26 And on the following day he appeared to them as they were quarreling and tried to reconcile them, saying, ‘Men, you are brothers. Why do you wrong each other?’ 27 But the man who was wronging his neighbor thrust him aside, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge over us? 28 Do you want to kill me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?’ 29 At this retort Moses fled and became an exile in the land of Midian, where he became the father of two sons.<br><br>30 “Now when forty years had passed, an angel appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai, in a flame of fire in a bush. 31 When Moses saw it, he was amazed at the sight, and as he drew near to look, there came the voice of the Lord: 32 ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob.’ And Moses trembled and did not dare to look. 33 Then the Lord said to him, ‘Take off the sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy ground. 34 I have surely seen the affliction of my people who are in Egypt, and have heard their groaning, and I have come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send you to Egypt.’<br><br>35 “This Moses, whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’—this man God sent as both ruler and redeemer by the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36 This man led them out, performing wonders and signs in Egypt and at the Red Sea and in the wilderness for forty years. 37 This is the Moses who said to the Israelites, ‘God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers.’ 38 This is the one who was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him at Mount Sinai, and with our fathers. He received living oracles to give to us. 39 Our fathers refused to obey him, but thrust him aside, and in their

<p>Stephen Is Seized<br>8 And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people. 9 Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen. 10 But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. 11 Then they secretly instigated men who said, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.” 12 And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him and seized him and brought him before the council, 13 and they set up false witnesses who said, “This man never ceases to speak words against this holy place and the law, 14 for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses delivered to us.” 15 And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.</p>

<p>Seven Chosen to Serve<br><br>6 Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. 2 And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” 5 And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. 6 These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.<br><br>7 And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.</p>

<p>In times of hopelessness, where should we look?<br>God uses times of hardship to bring his people back to himself.<br>In this sermon, Pst. Jeremy talks about how hope is given to us by God. It is a God-given assurance and we cannot assure ourselves or others about the future or savings or solutions. <br>.</p>

<p>The Apostles Arrested and Freed<br><br>17 But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy 18 they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison. 19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, 20 “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” 21 And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach.<br><br>Now when the high priest came, and those who were with him, they called together the council, all the senate of the people of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. 22 But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, 23 “We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them we found no one inside.” 24 Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. 25 And someone came and told them, “Look! The men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people.” 26 Then the captain with the officers went and brought them, but not by force, for they were afraid of being stoned by the people.<br><br>27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, 28 saying, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us.” 29 But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. 31 God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”<br><br>33 When they heard this, they were enraged and wanted to kill them. 34 But a Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in honor by all the people, stood up and gave orders to put the men outside for a little while. 35 And he said to them, “Men of Israel, take care what you are about to do with these men. 36 For before these days Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. 37 After him Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and drew away some of the people after him. He too perished, and all who followed him were scattered. 38 So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice, 40 and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. 42 And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.</p>

<p>Ananias and Sapphira<br><br>But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, 2 and with his wife's knowledge he kept back for himself some of the proceeds and brought only a part of it and laid it at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? 4 While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God.” 5 When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it. 6 The young men rose and wrapped him up and carried him out and buried him.<br><br>7 After an interval of about three hours his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter said to her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much.” And she said, “Yes, for so much.” 9 But Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 Immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. When the young men came in they found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 And great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard of these things.<br><br>Many Signs and Wonders Done<br><br>12 Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico. 13 None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem. 14 And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, 15 so that they even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. 16 The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed.</p>

<p>The Believers Pray for Boldness<br><br>23 When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them, 25 who through the mouth of our father David, your servant,[d] said by the Holy Spirit,<br><br>“‘Why did the Gentiles rage,<br> and the peoples plot in vain?<br>26 The kings of the earth set themselves,<br> and the rulers were gathered together,<br> against the Lord and against his Anointed’—<br><br>27 for truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, 28 to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. 29 And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, 30 while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.<br><br>They Had Everything in Common<br><br>32 Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. 33 And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. 34 There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold 35 and laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. 36 Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, 37 sold a field that belonged to him and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.</p>

<p>Sometimes in life, you find yourself surrounded, but alone. Sometimes long journeys, delays, locked ins or sometimes quarantined or even abandoned. <br>This period can become the best times of your life. <br>In this message, Pastor Jeremy talks about in such times, when God takes you aside for a Word in private.<br>.<br>.<br>.<br>If you have any questions, write to me at <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>We all struggle with our thoughts. Our wildest battles are waged in the recesses of our minds. And the mind is where Jesus promises to meet you! In this finale sermon, Pst Jeremy focuses on how God gives us the mind of Chris and how His Word revives, heals, instructs and enlightens the mind.<br>.<br>.<br>Write to me at <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>

<p>Part 6 of the sermon series: EVERYWORD. In this sermon, Pst. Jeremy talks about how to win over doubt, to deconstruct doubt and profile it thoroughly.<br>The opposite of Doubt is ASSURANCE. Both are active, they are both voluntary actions and they are both a choice. <br>.<br>Comment and share your thoughts below or write to me at: <a href="http://[email protected]" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">[email protected]</a></p>