Galatians 1

1. 1:1 Why should the Galatians listen to Paul?
   Class Answers: 1) Because he was appointed by God, not man. 2) Because he was an apostle; he had seen the risen Christ.
2. 1:2 Identify the churches of Galatia. (Acts 13, 14)
   Class Answers: Perga of Pamphyllia (Acts 13:13); Antioch of Pisidia (Acts 13:14); Iconium (Acts 13:51); Derbe and Lystra in Lycaonia (Acts 14:6-8). Paul was also in Attalia (Acts 14:24-26), which was a seaport, but there’s no indication that he started a church there.
3. 1:3-7 What is this “different gospel? Why is it really not a gospel? (What does “gospel” mean?)
   Class Answers: According to Acts 15:1, men from Judea were telling Antioch Christians, “You can’t be saved without circumcision.” In other words, Gentiles must submit to the Old Law before they can follow Christ. This is not a gospel – or good tidings – because it negates the cross of Christ, which made the Old Law unnecessary.
4. 1:8-9 What will be the consequence of preaching another gospel?
   Class Answers: KJV – Anathema. Other versions: Eternal condemnation – which makes teaching the gospel a serious responsibility.
   Note: The word anathema is oddly derived from a word that means “to consecrate or devote.” Anything devoted to God could not be redeemed and therefore would be destroyed. So the word came to mean “devoted to destruction.” Idols were “anathema,” or banned, in Deuteronomy 7:26. Where the NASV uses the word banned, the ASV calls it “a devoted thing”; the KJV translates it as “cursed thing”; and the NIV translates it “set apart for destruction.”
5. 1:10 What principle can we learn from verse 10?
   Class Answers: If our aim is to please men, we can’t also be servants (or slaves) of Christ.
6. 1:11 Paul calls the Galatians “brothers.” Why might this be significant, seeing they have “deserted” the gospel?
   Class Answers: 1) Even though they seem to be accepting false doctrine, they are still part of the spiritual family. 2) To demonstrate that he hadn’t deserted them. 3) The gospel is for all, received by grace.
   Note: According to John Stott’s The Message of Galatians, the Greek word translated deserting (v. 6) means to transfer one’s allegiance.
7. 1:12, 15-17 Why does Paul emphasize the lack of any man’s influence on him?
   Class Answers: In order for the Judaizers to discredit Paul’s message, they had to discredit him. His emphasis on his calling from God gave him the same credibility as the other apostles.
   More questions: How did Saul spend his time in Arabia? Did he receive private instruction directly from Christ at this time? Was he re-studying the Hebrew scriptures, viewing them in light of this new revelation? How could anyone know? It is interesting that the three years he spent before seeing Peter is the same time period the other apostles had spent in Jesus’ presence.
8. 1:13-14 Considering the consequences of his decision, how could Saul of Tarsus make such a radical change?
   Class Answers: Paul’s aim had always been to please God, not men. As soon as he knew the truth about Jesus, he was willing to change – and not privately – though, as pointed out in the previous question – he seemed to prepare for this for a long time. According to verse 16, he also knew from the beginning that God had a plan for him. Paul had the courage that comes from a sense of purpose. See also Acts 9:9-16.
9. 1:18-20 Why might Paul choose to visit Peter instead of one of the other apostles?
   Class Answers: 1) Peter was recognized as a leader in the early church. 2) Peter also had a great zeal for God. 3) Peter had been part of Jesus’ inner circle of apostles. 4) Paul had been called by God to preach to the Gentiles, but, as recorded in Acts 10, God had revealed the plan to Peter that the Gentiles were included in His plan.
10. 1:21-24 What was the response of the churches in Syria and Cilicia to Paul?
    Class Answers: The verses here don’t say. They do say that when the churches in Judea heard the report, they praised God because of Paul.
    Note: This question should have asked about the churches of Judea, not Syria and Cilicia. Also note: Cilicia was Paul’s home territory. I’m not sure if we read anywhere what their response was to his conversion.

Choose a verse from Chapter 1 to memorize.
Class Choices: 1:3; 1:6-7; 1:8; 1:10

Studies in Acts–Lesson 7

Read Acts 11:19 – 12:24

1. For what purpose was Barnabas sent to Antioch?
   Answer: The church in Jerusalem had heard that Hellenists were being converted in that area. (11:19-22) Comment: According to Lenski’s commentary on Acts (page 447), there were 25,000 Christians In Jerusalem at the time of Stephen’s death – before the dispersion of Acts 8:1. According to BibleHistory.com, “Josephus says that at the siege of Jerusalem the population was 3,000,000; but Tacitus’ statement that it was 600,000 is nearer the truth.” If 600,000 is the figure, then at one time, 4% of Jerusalem’s population were Christians. Other sources say it may have been as many as 100,000 during feast days.
2. Barnabas saw the grace of God had been extended to the Gentiles. (23)
3. Where did Barnabas go to find whom? How long did they stay in Antioch?
   Answer: To Tarsus to find Saul. They stayed one year. (25-26)
4. What significant thing happened in 11:26?
   Answer: The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Comment: This is one of three places in the New Testament where the word Christian is used. The other two are Acts 26:28 and 1 Peter 4:16. Also note that they were called Christians only after salvation in Christ was offered to the Gentiles.
5. What caused the disciples to send money to Judea? Who took it for them?
   Answer: Agabus prophesied a severe famine. Barnabas and Saul took it to the elders. (11:27-30) Comment: Note the trust involved here. They trusted in Agabus’s prophecy enough to give their money; they trusted Barnabas and Saul with the funds. This is one blessing of being a Christ–  the ability to trust others’ judgment and integrity.
6. Whom did Herod the king kill? Why?
   Answer: James, the brother of John, because he belonged to the church. (12:1-2)
7. Why did he also then arrest Peter?
   Answer: Because he saw that the death of James pleased the Jews. He would have executed him, too, but had to wait until after the Passover.
8. How was Peter secured in prison?
   Answer: With 4 squads (4 quaternions – 4 soldiers each), probably in 6-hour shifts for each squad. Comment: Note verse 5 – while he was in prison, the church prayed for him fervently.
9. Who was smitten on the side? By whom?
   Answer: An angel “smote” or “tapped” (NSRV) Peter on the side (12:7). Comment: Here it was the night before he was to be executed, and he was fast asleep.
10. How was Peter able to leave the prison?
    Answer: He followed the angel, and just walked out. The outside gate opened by itself. (12:8-10) Comment: Apparently, the guards were oblivious to what was happening, too.
11. What was Peter’s reaction when he was left by himself on the street?
    Answer: He emerged from what seemed like a dream and said, “I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me.” (12:11)
12. Where did Peter immediately go? Where else do you hear of this woman’s son?
    Answer: To the house of Mary, the mother of John Mark, who later accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first journey out of Antioch of Syria(12:25. See also Acts 15:37,38 and 2 Timothy 4:11). He also wrote the gospel of Mark. Comments: They were praying for Peter (v. 5), yet were astonished when their prayers were answered.
13. What humorous incident occurred next?
    Answer: Rhoda, a maid, answered Peter’s knock and was so overjoyed at seeing him she left him standing there. (12:13-17)
14. What happened to the guards back at the prison?
    Answer: After questioning them, Herod ordered that they be put to death. (12:19)
15. What happened to Herod?
    Answer: He was eaten by worms when he accepted praise as a god. (12:22-23). Comment: Don De Welt, in Acts Made Actual (pg. 164), quotes Josephus on this: “Herod was seized with violent pains in the bowels, and …lingered in great torture for five days.” According to this, it was an internal attack – maybe a bacterial infection?

Studies in Acts–Lesson 6

Read Acts 10:1 – 11:18

1. Who was Cornelius? What kind of man was he?
   Comments: A centurion of the Italian cohort. He was devout, feared God, led his household, was generous and prayerful (vv. 1,2). He also had a close connection with the Jews. (10:22)
2. Why did the angel appear? What time of day was it?
   Comments: The angel appeared because of Cornelius’s prayers and generosity. (v. 4) It was 3 p.m. (3) Also see 10:31.
3. For what purpose was Peter to speak to him? (11:14)
   Comments: Peter had a message that would save Cornelius and his household.
4. Who did Cornelius send?
   Comments: Two slaves and a devout soldier from the ranks (7). These were men were would have believed in Cornelius’s vision – part of Cornelius’s household who also feared God.
5. What time of day was it when Peter had his vision? Describe the vision. Did Peter understand it?
   Comments: It was noon (9). Something like a sheet came down from heaven, full of four-footed creatures, reptiles, and birds, with a voice saying “Get up, Peter, and eat.” But Peter refused. The voice said, “Don’t call profane what God has cleansed.” This was repeated two more times, leaving no room for misunderstanding.
   Peter was still puzzling about this when the men appeared at the gate. He certainly understood it later (10:28). Laws forbidding the eating of unclean foods are in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14.
6. What did the Spirit tell Peter to do?
   Comments: To go meet the men at the gate, for the Spirit had sent them (19). Peter’s impulsiveness was an asset here. He impulsively obeyed – didn’t stop to wonder or deny what had just happened.
   From Lenski’s Interpretation of the Acts of the Apostles, pg. 407:
   If God cleansed, Peter ought to be satisfied; if the Spirit said to go with these men, Peter ought to drop any misgivings about going. When we have God’s authority, any scruples on our part insult God. On God’s authority we must act even if we do not fully understand all that he commands or promises. Too often our trouble is that we invent his authority for what he does not want us to do; and when we do what he disapproves we refer it to him as having demanded it.
7. What did the men from Caesarea tell Peter?
   Comments: That an angel had told Cornelius to send for him (22).
8. Who accompanied Peter back to Caesarea? Why?
   Comments: Believers from Joppa (23). It doesn’t say here, so it could just have been curiosity. More likely, they went as witnesses. The witnesses mentioned in Matthew 18:16 aren’t gathered for the same reason, but the principle would apply.
9. What had Cornelius done in preparation for Peter’s arrival?
   Comments: He had gathered relatives and close friends (24).
10. What did Cornelius do as Peter arrived?
    Comments: Cornelius fell at Peter’s feet and worshiped him. Peter made him get up, saying “Stand up; I am only a mortal.” (10:25,26)
11. What did Peter tell Cornelius was unlawful for a Jew to do? Why then did Peter do it?
    Comments: To associate with or visit with a Gentile. Because God told him to. He did it because he was more than a Jew – he was a Christian (28).
12. When Peter asked Cornelius why he had sent for him, what did Cornelius reply?
    Comments: He had been instructed by an angel to do so (30-33).
13. Peter's sermon might be summarized as:
    The message of Jesus. (or birth, or power)
    The works of Jesus. (or death, or peace)
    The death and resurrection of Jesus. (or resurrection, or healing, or good news)
    Ordained to judge the living and the dead.
    Forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus as the Christ. (43)
    Comment: v. 36 – “You know the message.” The Gentiles had heard the gospel – the death, burial, and resurrection – before this.
14. When the Holy Spirit fell upon the Gentiles, what did Peter say and command?
    Comments: “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” And he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. (47,48)
    

     

True or False

1. The angel told Cornelius what he must do to be saved. False. (11:14; 10:22)
2. Peter sent the Gentile messengers to stay with another Gentile. False. (10:23)
3. The demonstration of the Spirit convinced Peter that the Gentiles were accepted. True. (10:47)
4. Peter said, "Nothing common or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.” True. (10:14)
5. Peter took three times as many witnesses as the Law of Moses required (Deut. 19: 15). True. (11:12)
6. Four days passed after Cornelius's vision before he talked with Peter. True. To the hour! (10:30)
7. Before Peter finished his sermon, the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentiles. True. (10:44)
8. Peter said, "Stand up; for I myself also am a man." True. (10:26)
9. In every nation, those who fear God are accepted of Him False. They must also do what is right. (v. 35).
10. It is said that Peter saw the heavens opened. True. (10:11)
11. The Spirit told Peter that three men sought him. True. (10:19, per the NRSV)
12. All the prophets gave witness of Jesus. True. (10:43)
13. Why was Peter questioned in Jerusalem?
    Comments: The apostles and believers in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. (11:1)
14. What charge was lodged against Peter?
    Comments: That he had eaten with uncircumcised men. (11:2,3)
15. How did Peter explain the matter to them?
    Comments: He told them the story from his point of view, step by step. (11:4-17) Note Peter’s thought process in 11:15-17.
16. When they heard all these things, what did they do?
    Comments: They were silenced for a minute or two. Then they praised God for giving the Gentiles “the repentance that leads to life.” (11:18)
    

Studies in Acts–Lesson 5

Read Acts 9; 22:3-16; 26:9-18

1. What is meant by “breathing threats and murder”?
   Comments: To threaten and kill those who called themselves Christians. Saul’s over-riding purpose was to rid the world of these blasphemers who claimed this man Jesus had not only risen from the dead by was the Messiah and Son of God. Note that he went to the high priests to get permission to round up these people. (9:1)
2. Whom did Saul want to arrest? Why?
   Comments: Men and women of the Way. They claimed that Jesus was the Son of God and that after he was crucified, he rose from the dead. Was Saul one of those who rose up with the Libertines against Stephen in Acts 6:9? He was, after all, from Cilicia. Note: The Way is the only proper collective noun used in Acts to refer to those who were disciples. At my count, it appears three times:,in Acts: 9:2, 22:4, and 24:14. (9:2)
3. Briefly describe the conversation between the Lord and Saul.
   Comments: After Saul falls to the ground from being struck by a bright light[was he walking, or on a horse?], Jesus asks Saul why he is persecuting Him. [To persecute Christ’s people is to persecute Him, the other side of Matthew 25:40, 45, where Jesus says that to do good to others – or to neglect others – is to do the same to Him.] Paul asks, “Who are you, Lord?” Jesus answers, “Jesus, whom you are persecuting. Go into Damascus and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:3-6)
4. Describe Saul’s condition in Damascus.
   Comments: He was blind and stunned into silence and prayer, having no food or drink. He is also repentant, as indicated by the new direction his life takes after this. In his writings, he never seems to forget what he did to the disciples of Christ. In 1 Timothy 1:15, he refers to himself as the “chief of sinners.” In Romans 1:14, he calls himself a “debtor, both to Greeks and Barbarians, the wise and the foolish.” We cited examples of those we know who, having been entrenched in sinful lifestyles, have a fervor for God not seen in some of us who did have to leave as much behind when we became Christians. (9:9)
5. What instructions did the Lord give Ananias?
   Comments: To go to a house on Straight Street, and find the man praying, to restore his sight, and to instruct him of the Lord’s will concerning him. (9:11; 22:14-16) Note: God uses men to teach his gospel. 1 Corinthians 1:21 refers to it as “the foolishness of preaching.”
6. Why was Saul baptized?
   Comments: To wash away his sins. (22:16)
7. What was Saul’s mission?
   Comments: To carry the gospel to Gentiles, kings, and sons of Israel, and to suffer for Jesus’ name sake (9:15). To be a witness to all men (26:16-18); To open men’s eyes to the light – for the forgiveness of their sins (26:19-20).
8. What did Saul immediately begin to do?
   Comments: Preach Christ as the Son of God. (9:20)
9. How was he received?
   Comments: With amazement, distrust, apprehension. The Jews plotted to kill him. (9:21-25). Note: It is thought that at the comma in verse 23 (“when many days had elapsed,”) Saul went away to Arabia and spent three years there before returning to Damascus and facing the persecution by the Jews. Is it a coincidence that he spent the same time in Arabia as the other apostles spent in the presence of Jesus? (See Galatians 1:15-24.)
10. How did he escape from Damascus?
    Comments: Paul’s disciples let him down in a basket through a hole in the city wall after nightfall. This is similar to the ways Rahab helped the spies escape (Joshua 2:15), and Michael helped David escape from those wanting to kill him (1 Samuel 19:12).
11. How did the disciples in Jerusalem receive Paul?
    Comments: With suspicion and fear. (9:26) Note from Don De Witt, in Acts Made Actual, pg. 127:
    “What were the thoughts of this humbled Pharisee as he approached the city of Jerusalem, as he looked upon the city wherein he had been trained, where he had so zealously labored for the Law? He would come face to face with many of his old friends. What would they think? But away with these thoughts of retrospect! He must make himself known to the disciples and above all he must meet the apostles.”
12. Who vouched for him in Jerusalem?
    Comments: Barnabas, so-called by the apostles because it means “Son of Encouragement.” (9:27, 4:36)
13. Where did the brethren take Saul, and where did they send him?
    Comments: To Caesarea, to catch a boat (assumed) back home to Tarsus. (9:30)

True or False

1. Saul asked for authority to kill all Christians he found. False
   He gathered them to be put into prisons (9:2; 22:5; 26:10,11). In 26:10, he confessed to casting his vote against them when they were being put to death. He also said that he tried to force them to blaspheme.
2. Saul was stricken by the light halfway between Jerusalem and Damascus. False
   He was almost to Damascus when the light struck him. (9:3)
3. The men with Saul heard the voice, but saw no man. True
   (9:7; 22:9)
4. Saul fasted and prayed without food but did take a little water. False
   He took neither food nor water. (9:9)
5. When the Lord spoke, Saul said, “Here am I, Lord.” False
   This was Ananias’s reply to God (9:5, 10) – in the NASV and ASV. Other versions merely read, “Yes, Lord.” The original Greek leaves out the words “Here am,” and merely says “I, Lord.”
6. Saul lodged in the house of Simon the tanner, by the sea. False
   Saul was in the house of Judas, on Straight Street in Damascus, when Ananias found him. (9:11). Peter stayed in the house of Simon the tanner (9:43).
7. Ananias said, "Brother Saul, arise and be baptized, for you are now saved." False
   Ananias said, “Brother Saul, receive your sight!” in 22:13. In 22:16, he said, “And now why do you delay? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on His name.”
8. When Ananias placed his hands on Saul, it was as if scales dropped from his eyes. True (9:18)
9. Saul confounded the Jews at Damascus. True (9:22). Other versions read “baffled.”
10. Saul slipped out of the gate at Damascus to escape his enemies. False. He was let out through a hole in the wall. (9:25)

Studies in Acts, Lesson 4

Read Acts 8.

True or False:

1. Opposition to the church takes a definite turn in procedure beginning with the eighth chapter.
   True – 8:1. No longer did the persecutors find the need to conduct a trial – even a bogus one. They just dragged the people off to jail. Note: The prophesy of Jesus Acts 1:8 is coming true: the gospel has been preached in Jerusalem and is now spreading through Judea and Samaria.
2. This change, or turn, was the fact that the Sadducees now took up the persecution whereas it was formerly the Pharisees.
   False – 8:3. Previously, the main opposition were the Sadducees, objecting to the teaching on the resurrection. Saul, however, was a Pharisee.
3. The book of Acts teaches us that this persecution was confined to Jerusalem.
   True – 8:3. This particular persecution does seem to be confined to Jerusalem, causing disciples to flee. Later on, it spreads to other areas, e.g. Saul on his way to Damascus to bring Christians back to Jerusalem.
4. There is a record of the apostles hiding themselves in Jerusalem, which is why they were able to stay in the city.
   False – 8:1. There’s no record of their hiding. In fact, later, Peter and John go to Samaria to help new Christians there.
5. "The word" they preached was preached everywhere.
   True – 8:4. To quote one preacher, “As they preached, they ran, and as they ran, they preached.” By now, you have thousands of “missionaries.” 4:4 – 5,000 men; 5:14 – multitudes of men and women added to their number; 6:7 – the number of disciples increased greatly. Many of them may have been returning to their homes, having gone to Jerusalem for the Passover and Pentecost, and staying there, enjoying their new-found freedom in Christ and fellowship with others.

Circle the letter of the correct word or phrase.

1. Philip went to Samaria and proclaimed unto them:
   a. The Messiah (New Living Translation)
   b. The Christ 8:5 (Most translations)
   c. Jesus
2. This Philip was:
   a. Philip the apostle
   b. Philip, one of the Seven in Jerusalem (6:5; 8:5. Acts 21:8 refers to him as “Philip the evangelist, “one of the seven”)
   c. Another Philip
3. Philip became an evangelist:
   a. When he was ordained by the apostles
   b. When he started evangelizing (8:5 – Like so many other disciples.)
   c. Later in Caesarea
4. Among the diseases healed by Philip was:
   a. Demon possession (8:7 – as well as the paralyzed and the lame)
   b. Blindness
   c. Deafness
5. As the result of the preaching and healing, there was much:
   a. Conviction
   b. Joy (8:8)
   c. Conflict in the city
6. The record states that Simon amazed the people by:
   a. Sorcery (8:9)
   b. Ventriloquism
   c. Both
7. All believed Simon from the least to the greatest, because:
   a. He had been doing it for such a long time (8:11)
   b. He was the mayor of the town
   c. He had an agreement with the leaders of the city.
8. They believed Philip instead of Simon because:
   a. Not all heard Simon
   b. Some never did believe in Simon
   c. Philip's message and work were superior to Simon's (8:12 – “but”; 8:13 – even Simon was amazed.)
9. Acts 8: 12 compares very well with:
   a. Acts 2:38
   b. Acts 3:19
   c. Mark 16: 15,16 – mentions both belief and baptism. Verse 17 also mentions casting out demons, which is what Philip had been doing.

Locate the following verses and answer the short question (Quoted from New King James Version):

1. Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. 8:14
   Why?
   Comments: So they could impart the gift of the Holy Spirit (verse 15), which apparently Philip could not do.  The believers had received the gift of the Holy Spirit at baptism (2:38), but not any kind of miraculous power (8:17-18). In verse 15, the apostles also prayed for them, and in verse 25, they preached to them.
2. “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! ... Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity." 8:22,23
   Was Simon a Christian?
   Comments: Some said No. Just because it says Simon believed doesn’t mean he was a Christian. James 2:19 – “Even the demons believe, and tremble.” Also, Peter tells him he is “in the gall of bitterness and in the bondage of iniquity.” Others – Yes. In context, James is talking about an empty faith not followed by action. Simon, however, followed up on his faith by submitting to baptism. Over time, his mercenary nature got the best of him, and he saw there was profit to be made in spiritual gifts. Peter told him there was a way he could be right with God again: repent and pray for forgiveness.
3. So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you are reading? And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” 8:36
   What two attitudes do you see in Philip and the eunuch that we might emulate?
   
   [Again, we didn’t finish in an hour. REST OF THE ANSWER NEXT WEEK!]
   
4. Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture, preached Jesus to him. Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?”
   From the context, what did "preaching Jesus” include?
5. Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went his way rejoicing. But Philip was found at Azotus.
   What did the two men do after the baptism? (See also 8:25.)

Studies in Acts, Lesson 3

Read Acts 5: 17 - 7:60

1. What caused the high priest and the Sadducees to “rise up”?
   Comments: Jealousy. They did not like all the attention Peter was getting. Note: Apparently, they jailed all the apostles. See 5:12 – All the apostles seemed to be at Solomon’s porch; 5:29 – It was more than just Peter and John.
2. How is the second arrest different from the first?
   Comments: 1) In verse 18, the high priest and his associates simply put them in a public jail. 2) In verses 26 and 27 – after the miraculous release of the apostles – the captain of the temple guard and officers went to the temple and brought them before the Council.
3. What two charges were made against the apostles? What was their response?
   Comments: 1) 5:28 – You have filled Jerusalem with your teaching; 2) You intend to bring this man’s blood on us. Note: The high priest was right! In 5:30, Peter and the apostles say just that. “The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you had put to death by hanging Him on the cross.”
4. What do the scriptures tell us of Gamaliel?
   Comments: 5:34 - He was a Pharisee, teacher of the Law, respected by the people. He may have been a member of the Council, since it says he “stood up in the Council.” It’s not clear whether or not there were some there outside the Council. Acts 22:3 tells us he also taught Saul of Tarsus.
5. What was Gamaliel’s advice to the Council?
   Comments: 5:28-39 – If this “plan or action” is not from God, it will be overthrown. If it is from God, you don’t want to oppose it. Note: How refreshing to hear these words of wisdom from a respected member of the community, to witness how he persuades them calmly, while appealing to their “better selves”: Surely you would not want to oppose God!
6. What shows the utter disregard of the apostles for the punishment from the Council?
   Comments: 5:41-42. They rejoiced that they had been worthy of suffering shame [and not shame alone, but a beating as well!]. They went right back teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ. They were content to leave the situation in God’s hands, as Gamaliel had suggested.
7. List two problems that arose in the church at this time. (6:1 –
   Comments: 1) 6:1-2 An accusation of discrimination from the Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jews, that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2) 6:9 Members of the synagogue of the Libertines (Freedmen, or freed slaves) began debating with Stephen.
8. Who selected the seven men? What were their qualifications?
   Comments: 6:3-13. The congregation of the disciples chose them. The men were to have good reputations and to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. Note: Another example of wisdom on the part of the apostles. According to their names, all the men were Hellenistic Jews. The apostles chose from their own number the men to take care of this responsibility.
9. What two-fold task did the apostles have in the Jerusalem church?
   Comments: Prayer and ministry of the word. Note: Prayer is mentioned first, and then ministry of the word.  Even if that has no significance, the two seem to be equal in importance.
10. What was the purpose of the laying on of hands?
    Comments: Endorsement, encouragement, ordaining their ministry. In this verse (6:6), the apostles seem to be the ones laying on the hands, for the purpose of ordination, setting these men apart for a particular service. Later, in 8:17, the apostles will lay hands on believers to pass on miraculous gifts of the Spirit. In 13:2-3, the church in Antioch will lay hands on Barnabas and Saul before sending them on a mission trip. Here, too, they are “set apart” for a particular work. Note: We do the same today when we hold a special ceremony before sending out missionaries. We “lay” our hands on them in hugs, pats, and handshakes as signs of our support and encouragement.
11. What are the thoughts conveyed in the phrase "obedient to the faith"? See also Jude 3 and Romans 6: 17-18.
    Comments: They turned (were converted) to Christ from Judaism. Jude 3 – “Contend earnestly for the faith…once for all delivered…” Romans 6:17-18 – Obedient to a form of teaching. When they obeyed the faith, they participated in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, they turned from sin to righteousness, from the old man to the new man.
12. Why do you think the Sanhedrin would be especially interested in the charge against Stephen?
    Comments: 6:11-13 – He was part of a movement, which preached Christ risen from the dead, which they hated, and couldn’t control (See 4:21-23). They perceived him as a threat to their way of life.
13. What was the specific charge made against Stephen?
    Comments: 6:13-15 He “spoke against this holy place”: Insurrection, blasphemy, wanting to destroy Jerusalem. They were afraid that Jesus would “destroy this place”? He was supposed to be dead!
14. Do you recall an incident similar to this? Describe the circumstances that are alike in the two incidents.
    Comments: The persecution and execution of Stephen resemble the trial and crucifixion of Christ:
    Matthew 26:61 and Acts 6:14 – Both were accused of destroying symbols of Jewish law. In Christ’s case it was the temple.
    Matthew 26:65,66 and Acts 6:11 – Both were accused of blasphemy.
    Matthew 26:67-68 and Acts 7:57-58 – Both suffered physical abuse.
    Matthew 27:20 and Acts 7:57 – Both were victims of a mob mentality
15. In chapter 7, Stephen gives a brief history of Israel's rejection of God's council. Make a list of the things Israel rejected which are mentioned here.
    Comments: 7:9 – Joseph; 7:25,39 – Moses; 7:51-52 – Prophets; 7:52 – the Messiah; 7:53 – God’s law
16. Which verses do you think best answer the charge that was made against Stephen?
    Comments: In 6:11, Stephen is accused of blasphemy. In 6:14, he is accused of plotting to destroy “this place.” Acts 7:55-56 may answer the first charge; Acts 7:47-50 answers the second: God does not dwell in a house made with hands. Men cannot destroy a house not made with hands.
17. Which of Stephen’s statements do you think caused the most anger in the council?
    Comments: Several answers on this one: 7:52 – “Your fathers killed the prophets”; 7:53 – You received the law but did not keep it;  and 7:56 – “I see the heavens opened….” Most likely, each statement brought them closer to the point of uncontrolled fury.
18. According to tradition, who probably cast the first stone?
    Comments: According to this passage, the witnesses were those who began to stone him. A good practice, if you think about it. If you’re the one who has to carry out the execution, you might think twice about making a false accusation – if you’re in your right mind. These men were not.
19. Was Saul a member of the council?
    Comments: It doesn’t say. The general consensus was that he was not – because 1) of his age – he was a young man.  2) In 9:14, he’s given authority by the chief priests to arrest Christians. Given his background (Philippians 3:4-6), however, he could have been.
20. Do Stephen's last words remind you of similar words spoken by another? What were they? Who else spoke them?
    Comments: Both Jesus and Stephen asked forgiveness for those who murdered them. Jesus, in Luke 23:34, cried "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." Here, in 7:60, Stephen cried, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!”

Studies in Acts, Lesson 2

Read Acts 3:1 – 5:16

True or False

1. The lame man was healed at the third hour. False – Some translators render this 3 p.m., but the original language says it was the 9th hour of the day. The Jewish calendar days began at 6 a.m. 3:1
2. This healing took place at the Temple Beautiful. False – It was the Temple Gate (or Door) called Beautiful. 3:2
3. The lame man spoke to Peter and John before they spoke to him. True – 3:3. (Providential?)
4. Peter told the lame man to arise and walk. False, if this is meant to be a quote. 3:6: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
   Comment: When the crowd gathers, Peter asks them why they marveled so much. Why look at Peter and John as if they had done something by their own power? This was done by the power of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God who glorified Jesus, and whom they had killed, sparing a murderer instead.
   Isn’t this true of us today sometimes? We’re surrounded everyday by the amazing evidence of the power of God, yet we’re still more attracted to the sensational.
5. Acts 3:19 and 2:38 compare favorably and generally teach the same thing. True. Both involve commandments to repent, and both give promises. 2:38 commands baptism, while 3:19 commands “turning again.” The promises in 2:38 are remission of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Promises in 3:19 are the blotting out of sins and seasons of refreshing.

Circle the letter of the most accurate word or phrase.

1. Moses said that:
   a) God would one day raise up the Messiah.
   b) God would one day raise up a prophet like himself. 3:22
   c) God would one day restore Israel.
   Comments: Note Peter’s readiness to preach. Surely this is a fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to His apostles in John 16:13: “The Spirit of Truth…will guide you into all truth.”
2. Peter appealed to the heart of the Jew in the conclusion of his sermon by telling them of:
   a) The advantages of being a Christian.
   b) The terrible death of their Messiah.
   c) The blessing that God promised them through Abraham that was now to be found in Christ. 3:25,26
   Comment: Note in 3:26, Peter tells them that Jesus has been sent to the Jews first – an indication of the time to come when the Gentiles would have access to the kingdom.
3. The real reason for Peter's and John's arrest was:
   a) They taught the people and proclaimed in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 4:2
   b) They disturbed the peace.
   c) They had too large a crowd.
   Comment: Notice that the Sadducees were among those who arrested Peter and John. Since they didn’t believe in a resurrection from the dead, they would be particularly offended. Also note that Annas was a Sadducee. (See Robertson’s Word Pictures.)
4. The official or appointed high priest was:
   a) Ananias.
   b) Caiaphas – according to the Romans (Robertson’s Word Pictures)
   c) Annas 4:6 – according to the Jews (Robertson’s Word Pictures)
5. The Sanhedrin asked the following question of Peter and John:
   a) What have you done?
   b) By what power or in what name have you done this? 4:7
   c) By what authority have you done this?
   Note: The text does not specifically say this was the Sanhedrin, but it consisted of the same groups of men. The Sanhedrin was composed of 70 men: 24 priests, 22 scribes, and 24 elders.

Locate the following verses (Quoted from the NASB):

1. Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John, and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were marveling, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus. 4:13
   Note: Despite what we may want to believe, the apostles taught that Christianity is the one true religion of the one true God.
2. But Peter and John answered and said to them. "Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking what we have seen and heard." 4:19,20. Note the boldness and confidence of the apostles. No matter the consequences, they preached what they knew to be true.
3. "He is the stone which was rejected by you, the builders, but which became the very corner stone." 4:11. See also Matthew 16:16-18; Isaiah 28:16; and Psalm 118:22.
4. "And now, Lord, take note of their threats, and grant that Thy bond-servants may speak Thy word with all confidence.” 4:29 A “secret” of their boldness, perhaps? They prayed for it.
5. And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own; but all things were common property to them. " 4:32-35. A model church, where love was primary midst the gratitude they felt for their salvation.

Correct any mistakes in the following:

1. Jacob, Joseph, called Barnabas, having a field, sold it and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet. 4:36
2. When Ananias and Sapphira laid the money at the feet of the apostles, they he lied to the apostles and the men of the church God. Comment: We may think we're lying only to men, but that’s not how God looks at it. Although Ananias spoke his lie to men, he was actually trying to deceive God by pretending to be more generous than he really was.
3. The sin of Ananias and Sapphira was two-fold: the love of self the desire for esteem in the eyes of men (a love of praise) and the love of money. Comment: They wanted to be seen as sacrificial without actually having to sacrifice.
4. About one hour three hours later Sapphira joined her husband in death. 5:7.
5. The scriptures say that even Peter's shadow healed some some carried their sick out into the streets, hoping Peter’s shadow would fall on them. 5:15

Reason together:

Is being added to the Lord the same as being added to the church? How do you know? Comments: The term “added to the Lord” appears in the the American Standard and King James Versions. Others (NIV and NASB) say that believers in the Lord were “added to their number.”

Acts 5:11 is the first use of the word “church” in Acts. Previously, Luke had referred to the collective body of the saved as “their number” (Acts 2:47); those who believed (Acts 4:4) “multitude of them that believed” (Acts 4:32). Acts 2:47 points out, too, that the Lord does the adding

Ephesians 1:22,23 refers to this body of the saved as the church, of which Christ is the head.

Studies in Acts, Lesson 1

Read Acts 1 and 2, Matthew 18:18-20; Mark 16:15; and Luke 1:3; 24:26, 27

1. Who wrote the book? Why do you think so? (See Luke 1:3.)
   Comments: Luke. Because the writer mentions writing a previous book, and both Luke and Acts are addressed to Theophilus. Acts seems to be a continuation of the gospel of Luke.
2. Is everything that Jesus taught recorded in the New Testament?
   Comments: Certainly not every word he said was recorded. According to John 21:25, all the books in the world could not have recorded all he did. That must be true of the things he said, too. We have to believe, however, that the gospel writers wrote down everything he wants us to know. Acts 20:35 mentions a teaching of Jesus that is not found in the gospels: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
3. What question did the apostles ask Jesus on His last day on earth? Do you think there is anything strange about this question?
   Comments: v. 6 – Are you going to restore the kingdom of Israel? After Jesus’ emphasis that his kingdom was not of this world, they were still looking for the restoration of David’s physical kingdom. After all, Jesus was his descendant.

True or False

1. The filling of the office of Judas happened while there were 120 present.
   True – 1:15
2. Isaiah said, "Let his habitation be made desolate, and let no man dwell herein, and his office let another take." False – 1:20. It was David, in Psalms.
3. Judas pointed Jesus out to His enemies by kissing Him. True – Luke 22:47-48; Acts 1:16
4. There was but one direct qualification given for an apostle. True – 1:21,22
5. The apostles knew even before Pentecost that they were to preach the resurrection of Christ. True – 1:22; Mark 16:15
6. God was the one who chose Matthias. True – 1:23-26

Short Answers

1. Be able to recite from memory the names of the twelve Apostles.
   Comments: From Matthew 10:2-4 – Simon Peter and Andrew; James and John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew; James the Son of Alphaeus and Thaddeus; Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot. In the list in Acts 12:13-14, Judas Iscariot is not mentioned, and Thaddeus is called Judas son of James.
2. Where do you think the apostles were on the Day of Pentecost?
   Comments: In a room in the temple. It seems reasonable that that’s where they would have gathered on Pentecost. It would also accommodate all the Jews that gathered around the apostles.
3. What miraculous manifestations occurred at this time?
   Comments:1) The sound of a mighty (violent) wind filled the house;
   2) What looked like divided tongues of fire rested on each of them.
   3) They began to speak in other languages. (2:2-3)
4. What kind of Jews were present at Pentecost? In general, where were they from?
   Comments: They were devout (God-fearing) Jews from “every nation under heaven.”
5. Were there mockers in the group? How did Peter answer them?
   Comments: v. 13 – They accused the apostles of having drunk too much wine. v. 13 – Peter answered that it couldn’t be so; it was only nine in the morning! One commentary mentioned that it was too early even to have broken the fast from the night before.
6. In your own words, state the four points that Peter gave in the opening words of his sermon (vss. 22-24).
   a) Jesus of Nazareth proved he was from God by his miracles, wonders, and signs.
   b) He was handed over to you, just as God had planned.
   c) You, helped by wicked men, crucified him.
   d) But God raised him from the dead.
7. Why did the words of 2:36 cause such an impact upon those who heard? What was their immediate reaction?
   Comments: They realized they had killed the Messiah. They were cut to the heart – it was a painful realization. They asked if there was anything they could do about it.
8. What was Peter’s instruction to these men?
   Comments: Repent and be baptized in the name of Christ for the forgiveness of sin. He also made the promise that they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, which could include not only being sealed by the Holy Spirit, as in Ephesians 1:13-14, but also the fruits of the Spirit, listed in Galatians 5:22-24.
9. What is meant by the expression “as many as received his word”?
   Comments: Those who accepted his message – believed him.
10. List five things that happened to a group of the devout Jews on Pentecost that were the direct result of Peter's sermon. (2:37-41)
    a) They were cut to the heart – v. 37
    b)They repented – v. 38
    c) They were baptized for the forgiveness of sins – vv. 38, 41
    d) They received the gift of the Holy Spirit – v. 38
    e) They were added to the apostles’ number – they became disciples.
11. Do any of the scriptures in the remainder of the lesson set or establish a pattern that we today should practice? If so, what? List them.
    Comments: v. 42 – They were devoted to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. vv. 44-45 – They shared what they had with each other; they were generous. v. 46 – They continued to meet together, praising God, and enjoying favor with the community.

Luke 21 and 22

1. 21:1-4 How can it be that two copper coins was more than what the rich men gave?
   Comments: As a percentage, it was much more than they gave. They gave out of their abundance; she gave all her livelihood. This does not necessarily mean she had no means of living in a culture that may not have depended upon currency as much as we do. Nevertheless, it was obvious that she gave not out of show but out of a desire to give. Like the Macedonians of 2 Corinthians 8:3-5, she first gave herself to the Lord. Note: What she gave equaled 1/16 of a denarius, which was a day’s wage.
2. 21:5-33 When Jesus spoke of “the end” in verse 9, of what was he speaking? (See vv. 6, 20.) Would anyone escape? (v. 21)
   Comments: The destruction of Jerusalem (in AD 70). Jesus told some how they could flee when they saw the approaching Roman armies. Note in verses 10-16 the persecution that some would undergo before that destruction, including betrayal by their families. In light of this, it’s no wonder Jesus told them in 14:26,27 that they might have to choose between him and their families. Note also that, even during these last days of his life, he was thinking not of himself but of his disciples’ safety some 40 years later.
3. 21:9, 12, 20, 32 When would these things happen?
   Comments: v. 9 – When they heard rumors of wars; v. 12 – after persecution of the disciples; v. 20 – when they saw Jerusalem surrounded by armies; v. 32 – in the present generation.
4. 21:34-36 What warning would be given for “that day,” and how much of the earth would it affect? (See also Matthew 24:36-44)
   Comments: There would be no warning; it would come on them like a trap and would affect the whole earth.
5. 21:37-38 How did Jesus spend His last days on earth?
   Comments: Teaching in the temple during the day, and resting at night on Mount Olivet. Even with just a few days left in his ministry, Jesus still saw the need to rest – a good example for us.
6. 22:1-6 What characteristics do you see in the chief priests, scribes, and Judas as they conspired to end Jesus’ life?
   Comments: Deceit, conniving, betrayal, even delight as Judas presented them a way to carry out their murderous plot – characteristics of Satan. They were also fearful of the people.
7. 22:7-23 What were Jesus’ instructions to His disciples concerning the bread and the cup?
   Comments: To eat the bread in his memory, because it is his body; to drink the cup, because it is the new covenant in His blood, shed for us.
   Discussion: If this is important, why is Luke the only gospel writer to mention it? By insisting we do it every Sunday, does it become a sacrament? It seemed to be important to the 1st century Christians, as indicated in Acts 20:7 and in Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 11:23-28. In these examples, taking it in community with others and as a means to remember the sacrifice of Christ was what was important, not the bread and wine themselves. None of the class members were sure about the definition, purpose, or traditional number of sacraments, a subject for further research.
   Notes on the Passover: According to Hendriksen’s commentary, the traditional Passover followed a certain order: 
   1) Prayer of thanksgiving by the household head; a cup of (diluted) wine.
   2) Eating of bitter herbs.
   3) The son’s inquiry: “Why is this night different?” and the father replying with the Passover story.
   4) Singing the first part of Hallel (Psalm 113 and 114), washing of hands, a 2nd cup of wine.
   5) Carving and eating the lamb and unleavened bread. 3rd cup of wine.
   6) Continuing to eat – always the last of the lamb.
   7) Singing the last part of Hallel (Psalm 115, 116, 117, 118). 4th cup of wine.
   Which Cup? 1 Corinthians 11:25 mentions the cup that Jesus took after supper as the symbol of the new covenant: the blood He shed on the cross.
8. 22:24-30 In the kingdom of Christ, who is the greatest?
   Comments: The one who is as the younger, and as one who serves. This dispute seems to be a progression from the previous section. They begin questioning who would betray Jesus and progress to a discussion of who was the best person among them. They discuss this while Jesus is preparing to undergo the ultimate humiliation: death on the cross. Note in Luke 9:46-48 they had the same dispute.
9. 22:31-46 What kind of concern did Jesus show for His disciples, even as He was preparing Himself to die?
   Comments: v. 32 - He prayed for Peter’s faith; vv. 35-38 - He was concerned for their physical sustenance and protection (the sword); vv. 40  – He told them to pray for protection from Satan. Note: v. 32 – Jesus knew that Peter would deny him; he also knew he would repent, “return” to him and be able to strengthen the brethren.
10. 22:47-53 What concern did Jesus show even for those who came to arrest Him?
    Comments: He healed the ear of the priest’s servant that Peter cut off (See John 18:10-11). The swords he permitted them to have weren’t intended to be used for this purpose.
11. 22:54-62 What happened just before Peter remembered Jesus’ prophecy of his denial?
    Comments: The rooster crowed, and Jesus turned and looked at Peter. It must have added to the Lord’s sorrows to watch Peter’s realization and the sorrow it caused him.
12. 22:63-71 What kind of treatment did Jesus receive after He was arrested?
    Comments: They mocked him, beat him, blindfolded him, struck him on the face, mocked him, and accused him of blasphemy.

Luke 5 and 6

1. 5:1-11 What was Peter’s reaction when they caught all the fish?
   Comments: He fell at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” Jesus’ response? “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” Peter became conscious of his sinfulness in the presence of a man he perceived must be God and therefore holy. Discussion: If they had not let down the nets, would they have caught any fish? Their obedience in letting down their nets demonstrated their trust in His ability to give them success in their endeavor. This is especially true if we want to be “fishers of men.”
2. 5:12-16 What instruction did Christ give to the man after He had healed him from leprosy?
   Comments: He told him to tell no one. However, according to Mark’s version (1:45),  the man “went out and proclaimed it freely.” Jesus also told him to show himself to a priest and to make an offering, according to the Law (Leviticus 14:1-4). This allowed him to regain his social standing in the community.
3. 5:17-26 How did Jesus prove to the crowd that He could forgive sins?
   Comments: This was actually a proof to the Pharisees and Scribes who had come from all over to challenge Jesus. In order to prove to them He had the power to forgive sins, He healed the paralytic.
   William Hendriksen breaks up the incident into five segments:
   1) Battle brewing (v. 17)
   2) Challenge (vv. 18-20)
   3) Attack (v. 21)
   4) Victory (vv. 22-25)
   5) Celebration (v. 26)
4. 5:27-32 Why did Jesus eat with Levi, knowing who he was and knowing He would be criticized for it? Comments: The purpose for which Christ came was to seek and save the lost. Levi (aka Matthew) had recognized his own sin. He had left all (v. 28), and he was giving his friends an opportunity to eat with his savior. Note that the Pharisees and scribes complained against the disciples. Perhaps they thought they would be vulnerable to the criticism. However, Jesus answered them. He knew who they were really criticizing.
5. 5:33-39 Why didn’t Jesus’ disciples fast? Comments: Fasting was (is) done when there’s a need, when one is mourning, or seeking to be more spiritual, or seeking an answer through prayer and fasting. When Jesus was with the disciples, they lacked nothing. When the bridegroom is with the wedding guests, it is a time of rejoicing, not mourning. William Hendriksen: “Jesus is bringing a message of faith and freedom, not fear and fasting.”
6. 6:1-11 What was Jesus’ attitude toward the Sabbath?
   Comments: He is Lord of the Sabbath. Using David’s eating of the showbread as an example, He teaches that necessity is more important than ceremonial law. Doing good is what is important. Note: Again, the Pharisees’ criticism was against the disciples, and again, Jesus answers them.
7. 6:12-16 What did Jesus do the night before He called twelve disciples to be His apostles?
   Comments: He prayed all night. No one understood Jesus like the Father did. In this example, He teaches us how important prayer is before we make important decisions.
8. 6:17-19 Out of all who came to Jesus to be healed, what percentage were healed?
   Comments: 100%. All some had to do was to touch Him. Healing power emanated from His body.
9. 6:20-26 Why would a person rejoice for being persecuted?
   Comments: Because they’re pleasing God, and they know that their reward will be much greater than their sacrifice. They have passed the testing of their faith! See also Romans 8:18 and 2 Corinthians 4:17,18.
10. 6:27-38 What is the reward for showing the proper love toward others?
    Comments: You will be children of the Most High. v. 38: “Give, and it will be given you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be poured into your lap.”
11. 6:39-45 What is the true measure of a man’s life?
    Comments: The fruit he bears. Know your shortcomings. Eventually, in periods of stress, your true heart will be displayed. If you “think on the things” listed in Philippians 4:8, you will not be ashamed of what is displayed.
12. 6:46-49 A person who hears the words of Christ and does them is compared to what?
    Comments: A house built on a rock. This follows naturally on verse 45. If we build our faith on what’s good, we are building on a rock which cannot be shaken. Consider: What value does “doing” have, practically speaking? Doing does not save us – the blood of Christ saves us. But doing shows our trust and strengthens our faith.

John 20 and 21

1. 20:1-10 From this passage, how would you answer someone who said that either the body was stolen, or that Jesus never really died? (Corresponding passages in the other gospels are Matthew 27:57 – 28:10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12.) Comments: 1) The men and women who came to the grave were amazed that Jesus’ body was gone. If anyone had stolen it, it would have been those who went on to preach His resurrection, i.e. Peter and John. 2) He had been buried with 100 pounds of spices and wrapped in linen cloths. If he had just swooned and woken up in the tomb, he would have had to tear open the weighted grave clothes and push away the heavy stone. 3) There was a guard at the tomb. 4) If the body had been stolen, the thieves would have either taken the wrappings or unwrapped the body. It’s not likely they would have carefully laid the wrapping back in place.
2. 20:11-18 What were Jesus’ instructions to Mary, once she recognized Him? Comments: 1) Do not cling to me. We weren’t sure whether this was a physical or emotional clinging or how it connected with his ascension. 2) Go tell my brethren and tell them I’m ascending to your Father and My Father and your God and My God.
3. 20:19-23 What blessings did Jesus give the disciples when He appeared to them? Comments: v. 19 – “Peace be with you.” v. 21 – “Peace to you.” v. 22 – He breathed on them, imparting the Holy Spirit, much like God breathed life into the first man, and made him a living spirit (Genesis 2:7). This is ultimately fulfilled in Acts 2, when the apostles received the Holy Spirit and began to speak in languages they’d never studied. Note: Jesus also gave them responsibilities with the blessings: v. 21 “As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
4. 20:24-31 What caused Thomas to believe? What is the source of our faith? Comments: Thomas saw the risen Lord for himself. We believe without seeing (verse 29). Verse 31 – These things are written, so that we might believe, which ties in with Romans 10:17: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.”
5. 21:1-6 Where did Jesus appear to some of the disciples? List the disciples. Comments: At the Sea of Tiberius, on the shore. Present there were Simon Peter, Nathanael, Thomas (the Twin), the sons of Zebedee (James and John), and two other disciples, unnamed.
6. 21:7-14 How did the disciple whom Jesus loved know it was Jesus on the shore? Comments: We can’t be sure, but he identified Him as Jesus after the man on the shore told them their fishing would be successful if they merely cast the nets on the other side of the boat. The catch was so abundant it had to be Jesus that had caused it. Note: Notice how – typical of their personalities -- John had the first insight, but it was Peter who took action.
7. 21:15-19 Is there any significance in Jesus asking Peter three times if he loved Him? What responsibility did Jesus give to Peter? Comments: It was the same number of times that Peter had denied him. He also gave Peter a responsibility, stated three different times in slightly different combinations of the same words: “Feed my lambs; tend my sheep; feed my sheep.” He also told Peter that his death would glorify Christ.
8. 21:20-25 In this account, what were Jesus’ last words to Peter? Comments: Simply, “Follow me.” Our concern should not be to judge the salvation, or even guess the future, of other disciples. Our duty is simply to “follow Him.”

John 13 and 14

1. 13:1-17 What did Jesus mean when he told Peter, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me” (vs. 8)? Multiple choice (from The Serendipity Bible):
   a. “I don’t want to share a room with anyone with dirty feet.”
   b. “To be part of me you have to learn to receive.”
   c. “You have to let my coming sacrifice cleanse you from your sin.”
   d. “As long as you live, you will need cleansing and forgiveness.”
   e. “Unless you’re a servant like I am, you can’t be my disciple.”

Class Comments: Most in the class picked “e” as one of their answers, with “b” and “c” as other choices. Note: Peter was very emphatic in his initial refusal. In the Greek, he uses a double negative [οὐ (never) μή (cannot)] for emphasis. The Serendipity Bible includes suggestions for small group studies. As is typical in the multiple questions they suggest, there is not just one right answer.

1. 13:18-30 Since “Satan entered him,” was Judas responsible for the action he was about to take? Class Comments: Yes, he was. Judas  allowed Satan to influence him, gave him an opening because of his own greed. James 1:14-15 teaches about the progression of sin, from lust to sin to death.
2. 13:31-35 How can others know we belong to Christ? How many others? How does this relate to 13:14-15? Class Comments:  Others know we belong to Christ when we love one another. All – both believers and unbelievers – will know we are of Christ. Love is demonstrated by our service. Both love and humble service are signs of discipleship. Note: According to Leviticus 19:18, even the Old Testament commanded love for neighbors. According to notes I took in a previous class, William Barclay called this a new commandment because it was “as I have loved you” – selflessly, sacrificially, with understanding and forgiveness.
3. 13:36-38 Do you think Peter understood that Jesus was speaking of His death, or just of a dangerous situation? Class Comments: He thought it would be just a dangerous situation. The disciples didn’t seem capable of understanding the nature of the kingdom of which Jesus spoke. They still looked for an earthly kingdom, free from Roman bondage. Note: Also from my FHU class notes: Peter was willing to meet a sharp dagger, but later couldn’t withstand the sharp tongue of a maiden (18:17). When Jesus told Peter he couldn’t follow Jesus, the general consensus was that Jesus was talking about the cross, although it could also include his ascension back to the Father.
4. 14:1-6 Is Jesus the only way, the only truth, the only access we have to life? What does that mean for those who follow other spiritual leaders? Class Comments: If we believe Jesus, we have to believe He is the only Way, the only Truth, the only Life. That means those following mere men  will not gain spiritual, eternal life. When they reject Christ, they reject the way, the truth, and the life. See also Acts 4:12.
5. 14:7-11 How does Philip’s question indicate his misunderstanding of who Jesus was? Class Comments: He wanted a physical showing of the Father. Since Jesus was a man and could show himself, couldn’t his father also do the same? He seemed to think that Jesus was merely an emissary of God, not the image of God himself. See also Hebrews 1:3.
6. 14:12-14 In context, what prayer requests is Jesus promising to fulfill? What is the purpose of such prayers? Class Comments: He promises to fulfill prayers asked in His name, according to His purpose, by His authority, for the purpose of glorifying his Father. Prayers for strength, peace, and the ability to carry out his will. Note the context: He is talking about works. He will fulfill the requests that are a continuation of His works.
7. 14:15-18 How much do the promises about the Holy Spirit in verses 16-18 depend on Jesus’ statement in verse 15? Class Comments: This promise is based on Jesus’ love for us, and our love for Jesus, which we show in our obedience. If Jesus’ love abides in us, we will obey Him; it will be part of our nature to do so. Note: The transliterated Greek word for Comforter in verse 16  is paraclete: one who is called to stand along beside, to help, to advocate on behalf of.
8. 14:19-24 How do we show Jesus that we love Him? What are the resulting blessings? Class Comments: By obeying him. The resulting blessings are that the Father will also love us, and both the Son and Father will make their abode with us. Question asked: But doesn’t the Father love all of us unconditionally, even those who don’t obey Him? I would answer that this doesn’t exclude God’s love for the whole world, but is an assurance to disciples that the Father will not only love them, but live in them through His Son – an assurance the unbelieving world cannot have.
9. 14:25-31 To whom was Jesus speaking in this passage? How would the Holy Spirit be a helper to them? Class Comments: He’s speaking to the disciples, those who ate supper with Him (the apostles, Luke 22:14). He would teach them all things, and bring to their remembrance all things – help they would need as they taught others in the first century without the aid of the written word we have. Question: Then would not all the promises he made be only to the apostles? As we briefly surveyed the chapter, it appeared that some of those promises were general in nature. For example, in 13:33-35, verse 33 would have to apply only to the apostles, whereas in 13:34-35 is a principle that would apply to all disciples of every time. A good study for another time!

Mark 7 and 8 Class Comments

1. 7:1-13    In the scribes’ and Pharisees’ minds, what was the benefit of keeping their traditions? What was at least one tradition that resulted in neglect of family responsibilities? Comments: They believed that by keeping certain external laws, they were pleasing God, even if their hearts weren’t right. Traditions are a source of comfort – the reason so many enjoy keeping family traditions. It helps you know where you’ve come from. In naming possessions as “Corban” (dedicating them to God while still retaining their use), they neglected one of the Ten Commandments, which was to honor their parents. “Corban” couldn’t be used to help their parents.
2. 7:14-23    Does verse 15 mean that there can be no harm from eating with unwashed hands? Comments: Jesus is talking about the heart being defiled, not the physical body. Unwashed hands can lead to the spread of disease, but the Pharisees and scribes were religious leaders, not doctors. Yet they seemed to be more concerned about physical than spiritual defilement. Complaining, gossiping, and negative talk harm both ourselves and those who listen to us.
3. 7:24-30    After debating with Jewish leaders about their traditions, where did Jesus go? Can you estimate by the map how far he traveled? Was it primarily a Jewish or Gentile region? [See Appendix 1, Geographical Notes.] Comments: Tyre was about 35 miles away, and Sidon a further 20 miles. When Jesus went back to the Sea of Galilee, He made a circuitous route, going southeast from Sidon down into Decapolis (region of 10 cities). Tyre and Sidon were primarily Gentile. He went up there, not wishing to be discovered, but the SyroPhoenician woman found Him anyway.
4. 7:31-37    What did Jesus do before he spoke the words that healed the man who was deaf and had a speech impediment? Comments: He 1) took the man aside, 2) put his fingers in the man’s ears, 3) spat [on his finger?], 4) touched the man’s tongue, 5) look up into heaven, and 6) sighed. Again, He instructed witnesses not to tell anyone, but “the more He commanded them, the more widely they proclaimed it.” They were all astonished.
5. 8:1-10    What were the only circumstances under which the crowd would leave? Comments: My original thought on this was that He had to send them away before they would go (verses 3,9), that physical food was not on their minds. Other comments were that they had to eat before they could leave, and Jesus provided that. Also, they stayed for healing, and maybe because they didn’t want to miss anything!
6. 8:13-21    With what tone of voice do you hear Jesus saying the words recorded in verses 17 through 21? What did the disciples not understand? Comments: He chided them, with the tone of voice that might say, “Just how dumb are you"? As their Savior, He was sad and exasperated. He was thinking about the bad influence of the Pharisees, and they were thinking about physical bread. Even though they had been eager to follow Jesus, they still had a cultural tradition of keeping the physical laws required by the Mosaic law, especially as it was taught by the religious leaders of the day..
7. 8:22-26    What is unique about the healing of the blind man of Bethsaida? Comments: It appears to happen gradually, unlike the deaf man in 7:31-37, who was immediately healed. One suggestion was that maybe the man’s faith needed to be increased gradually, since it was his friends that brought him to Jesus. Did the word steadfastly used in the American Standard Version have any bearing on this? Other translations translate it “looked intently,” “looked up,” and “his eyes were opened.” According to Strong’s Dictionary, the transliterated Greek word is diablepō, which means “to look through, penetrate by vision, to look fixedly, stare straight before one, to see clearly.”
8. 8:27-33    What connection might there be between verses 29 (Peter’s confession) and his rebuke (verse 32)? Comments: Peter was confused – and maybe also a little over-confident. How could someone he had just confessed as the Messiah be subject to the humiliation Jesus described? The side note in the Women’s Study Bible suggests that the reason Jesus cautioned His disciples not to tell anyone exactly who He was is because they still didn’t understand His mission..
9. 8:34-9:1    What does it mean to take up your cross? How do the verses that follow explain what it means? Comments: To take up a cross is to deny oneself, to be willing to give our lives, to not be ashamed of the gospel. To the people living at that time, the cross meant death. To take up your cross was to be on the road to crucifixion.
   

Mark 3 & 4 Class Comments

1. 3:1-6 In this account of a Sabbath healing, how does Jesus respond emotionally to the hardness of the Pharisees’ hearts? How does He respond physically? Comments: He is both angry and grieved at the hardness of their hearts, but He still heals the man’s hand. It is amazing that after seeing this miracle, the Pharisees and Herodians plot against Jesus to destroy Him.
2. 3:7-12 From what parts of Israel did the multitude come? Find the places on the map. Comments: The multitude came from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea (the southernmost region shown on our map), beyond the Jordan (probably Perea), Tyre, and Sidon (the northernmost city on the map.) According to our calculations, from Sidon to Idumea was about 160 miles. Sidon would be about 40 miles northwest of Capernaum; Jerusalem about 80 miles south.
3. 3:13-19 What did Jesus call the apostles to do? Which ones had He already called (as recorded in Mark 1:16-20 and 2:13-14)? Comments: Jesus called the apostles 1) to be with Him; 2) to preach; 3) to have power to heal sickness and to cast out demons. Mark 1:16-20 records His calling Simon, Andrew, James and John. Mark 2:13-14 records His calling Levi, the son of Alphaeus. Levi is called Matthew in Matthew 10:3. Coincidentally, in that list and here, James is called the son of Alphaeus. We concluded that their fathers had the same name. If they had been brothers, they would have been identified as such, like Peter and Andrew and James and John.
4. 3:20-30 Had the scribes blasphemed against the Holy Spirit? How? Comments: Yes. Jesus gives the warning about blasphemy because they had ascribed his casting out demons to Beelzebub rather than to the Holy Spirit. One of the definitions of blasphemy is “the act of claiming for oneself the attributes and rights of God.” We also noticed verse 21 in this section: “When his own people [family] heard about this, they went out to lay hold of Him, for they said, ‘He is out of His mind.’” We likened this to Jesus’ experience in his hometown (Mark 6:1-6), where they couldn’t recognize Him as being remarkable.
5. 3:31-35 What relationship do we have with Jesus when we do God’s will? Comments: We are His family – His mother, brothers and sisters. Note that He did not include a father here.  (Of course, his earthly father Joseph was not among those seeking him, either.) Hebrews 2:10-13 goes into detail about Christ as the captain of our salvation, One who is not ashamed to call us “brethren.” Another observation about this passage: Verse 21 indicates that Jesus’ family was concerned about His mental health (“He is beside himself,” or “He is out of His mind!”). In verse 31 His mother and brothers came to see Him. Might there be a connection between the two incidents?
6. 4:1-20 What keeps us from bearing fruit? Comments: We saw this from two different views: 1) We don’t bear fruit, because we don’t sow the seed. 2) We don’t bear fruit, because, as mentioned in verse 12, we see and hear but don’t perceive. Also noted was that like the rocky ground, we are too shallow, and like the thorny ground, we permit the cares of this world to keep us from bearing fruit. We may not die, but as Christians, we’re barren.
7. 4:21-25 What is the “lamp”? Comments: Several answers here, all connected. 1) The lamp is the Christian, because in Matthew 5:14 Jesus tells His disciples they are the “light of the world.” We are not to hide our lights. 2) The lamp are the actions that show we are Christians. 3) The lamp is the word of God, the lamp for our feet and the light for our paths (Psalm 119:105).
8. 4:26-29 What is the lesson of the Parable of the Growing Seed? How does it complement the Parable of the Sower? Comments: Again, several different but related thoughts. 1) Both parables show that the gospel contains its own power. Sometimes it grows in unexpected places, like a flower growing out of a rock. 2) Planting (and watering) is what we do; growing is what God does. 3) The Parable of the Sower describes what happens on earth as Christians sow the seed and produce fruit; the Growing Seed describes the final harvest, which is heaven.
9. 4:30-34 How do we plant the seed of the kingdom? How does it grow? (See also 1 Corinthians 3:5-7.) Comments: We teach the gospel to people, which, according to 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, is the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 3, to discourage sectarianism, Paul teaches that while he and Apollos may have sown and watered, God gave the increase.
10. 4:35-41 In this incident, how does Jesus both calm and cause fear? Comments: The disciples feared what the wind would do to them. Then – after Jesus calmed the sea, they saw that Jesus had more power than even the wind, and they “feared exceedingly,” asking “Who can this be?”