LISTEN TO ALL THE MEN’S BIBLE STUDIES ON THE BOOK OF ACTS

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.
• Phillip Walthall

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 1:1-26

SUBJECT:

• Luke was not yet with Jesus.
• The chosen are the 11.
• After Jesus was taken up, He did the commandments through the Holy Spirit.
• Gods kingdom will be over the whole Earth.
• When you get a handle that we are saved by grace, then you know thing can hold you against Christ.
• Having the 3 baptisms.
• When they baptised in the water it was in the name of the father and the Holy ghost.
• If your desire is to do the will of God, He will bless you in that.

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 2

SUBJECT:

• The apostles receiving the Holy Ghost on Pentecost.  They were all with one accord in one place.
• They received tongues, a sign to the unbeliever.
• Discussion of Peter before and after receiving the Holy Ghost, his boldness and courage as opposed to in the gospels when he denied Jesus.
• Discussion of Jonah and how he didn’t want to preach to the Ninevites, and the way the Lord changed his mind.  The Ninevites repented in sackcloth and ashes but 40 years later were destroyed because they turned back.
• Discussion of unjust weights and measures done by the United States being abomination according to the Word.
• The church today doesn’t have a proper fear of the Lord.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-03-26 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 3

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 3

SUBJECT:

• The story of Peter and John healing the man at the gate of the temple called Beautiful, another example of Peter’s boldness and certainty of faith after the receipt of the Holy Spirit.
• Every believer has that power.
• The courage and humility it takes to do this is attainable.  There is a subtle motive that keeps us from attaining this – we want to justify ourselves (and others) that we are a man of God .  We want to prove ourselves.  This is being a sign follower.
• Anyone can have the faith to be healed, but don’t confuse that with the gift of healing.
• It makes you look bad when someone isn’t healed, deal with it.
• Failure will humble you.  It is an aspect that allows you to grow.
• Pentecostals today have lost the power of God because they depend upon their own holiness, not God’s.
• Peter brings the men of Israel to account for what they have done, denying the Holy One and killing Him.
• God sent Jesus to turn us away from our iniquities and pride.  If he can turn them all, those who killed Him, away from pride, who can not be saved?
• It was hard for them to accept Jesus, that He was the Son of God, when he looked just like us and was from a family they knew.
• The scribes and pharisees’ targets were the common people, they were the sinners who were going to hell.  But the pharisees, scribes and lawyers were the good guys, who were going to heaven.  Jesus came along and preached a totally different message.  The common people that know they are sinners and ask for forgiveness, they are the ones going to heaven.
• Compare this with the church today:   what is their message?  All of you sinners out there are going to hell.  You prostitutes, whores, etc.  But we are the righteous ones who God loves.  Woe unto you church people who think you are holy and are not.  It’s you who have turned away and caused other people to fall.  Unto you in the street, you are forgiven if you repent.
• The churches are government controlled and state run.
• We need to get a handle on the Gospel:  You are saved by grace.  You are saved by the work and love of God, not anything you do makes you worthy.   If you say you are worthy in the flesh you are saying you are equal with God and He will not accept that.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-04-02 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 4

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 4

SUBJECT:

• In chapter 3 Peter had preached and healed the man lame from birth and the people where amazed.  His answer – it is not by our own power or holiness but by Jesus Christ whom you slew, this after the healing of the lame man.
• Who shows up? – the priests, the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came together (were in league together) on the heels of this.
• The Priesthood was a hereditary position.  They were expected to recognize who the anointing of God was on.  Instead they crucified Christ and sought to stop Peter and John.
• The priests believed in the resurrection, Sadducees did not.  Sadducees do not believe in angels either.  They take what they want from the Word and consider it ‘good teachings’ rather than the Word of God.
• God, through revelation to Luke, gave an accounting of the number of men who received the Gospel (5,000).  God keeps record, man should not like churches do today.
• After been imprisoned for the night the high priest and others (those who had paid the soldiers guarding the tomb to lie about the resurrection) came together with the others to stop Peter and John.  If they were to acknowledge this was of God they would have been found out to be liars.  It would have been utter humiliation for them to humble themselves and receive Christ as their Savior.
• Jesus had told them not to worry about what they would say when brought before rulers and magistrates but that the Holy Spirit would give it to them at that time.  Peter’s response was an example of this coming to pass.  His preaching was in stark contrast to the Peter who was fearful of the very same people just prior to Jesus’ death but now he was filled with the Holy Spirit.  This should give us hope to press on to do likewise.
• Peter said the same things as Jesus did, Isaiah said the same things.  The Spirit of God never changes, it always says the same thing, Old Testament and New Testament.
• You cannot be saved by the name of Allah or Krishna or Yeshua or Jehovah.  There is no other name other than Jesus by which man can be saved.  It is that simple.  If someone comes saying they have received a new revelation – it isn’t true.
• They could not reconcile that Peter and John, unlearned men, could speak with such boldness.  Unlearned today would be someone who did not go to seminary.
• Their boldness stopped the mouths of the gainsayers.  They were unable to say anything to Peter and John.
• The record of what occurred when the Priests and the other went aside was revealed to Luke by the Spirit of God.  God knew what they said and brought forth the accurate record.  He continues to work to this day so that our hope can rest in the power of God.  They knew it was the power of God.
• The priests and Sadducees were restrained from doing more than commanding Peter and John not to speak because of the people.  Since the baptism of the Holy Ghost at the day of Pentecost the church had increased by about 8,000.  They were salty and held back corruption.
• Peter and John had a similar testimony as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.  They did not know what was going to happen to them, we know what happened but they did not know.
• Peter and John did what Jesus did, that which his father told him.
• The healing of the lame man was an example of doing greater works than Jesus did as Jesus told them.  Peter’s shadow bringing healing is another example.
• When Peter and John returned to the fellowship and gave their report they all lifted up their voice with one accord.  If we don’t look up to God first we do wrong.  He is the one who establishes everything including the line of authority, blessings.
• When a group of people are in one accord they all are going in one direction, they have one goal, one direction and are all about the same thing.
• Everyone likes the benefits of the Lord but don’t want to do what he says.  This is the nature of man.
• Holy child gives testimony that Jesus was God’s only son and he was God’s anointed.
• The line of authority starts with Jesus and passes down to the 7 churches.  People think God gives them an anointing – no – you partake of one of the 7 annointings.
• Pilate and those who put Jesus to death performed that which God had determined to do.
• Those who believed saw things as being the Lord’s not their own.  If you see a brother in need and have what he needs you give it.  This is not to the unbeliever but rather to the believer.
• They still possessed things but did not consider them their own. If they had something they did not need they sold it.  An example of everyone pulling in the same direction.
• Great grace was upon them.  When you see the grace of God upon a people you see them walking in the benefits of God – healing, etc.
• You can give all that you have because you know the Lord will take care of your needs and you do not worry about tomorrow.
• A manifestation of being of one mind and of one accord was they did not judge those who had need but were happy to be a part of God’s service.
• You have to be willing to give and to receive.  People tend to gravitate to one place or the other.  If you are going to walk in humility you have to be willing to give and receive.  That is what is to be truly free.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-04-09 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 5

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 5

SUBJECT:

• Ananias & Sapphira did not have to give all the price of the land that  they sold but they brought it as though they had.  They lied not to man but to God and were struck dead.  It was a great point of pride in them – they wanted people to look up to them even as they looked up to the Apostles.
• Peter, by discernment of the Holy Spirit, spoke and called them to account for lying.  It was too late for Ananias & Sapphira to repent but fear came upon the others and they made a commitment to Christ.
• We need to give up our lives, it is only in that place that the fullness of the blessings of God can come upon you.
• As the Lord quickens the Church of Philadelphia we will see the same thing and people will be moved to great fear.
• To tempt is to not really have a fear of God, not really believing.
• He that endureth to the end shall be saved which is why we need to have the fear of the Lord for all eternity.  Fear of the Lord is to stand in terror of God.   Not enough people have it.
• Great fear fell upon even those outside the church, great growth occurred.   People get offended at that fear.  The children of Israel were offended when the earth swallowed up Korah, they blamed Moses.
• After Peter and John were imprisoned and were found not in the prison the next morning, though the doors were locked and the guards still guarding, rather than run, they were in the Temple preaching.  They were right in the chief priest’s faces, right in their ‘school’.
• No formula to serving God as at a later time they were not told to go back into the Temple.
• The priests wanted to keep their position and were afraid of being stoned themselves.
• Sadducees do not believe in the afterlife so why would they fear God.  They feared losing their position so they had to be careful.
• The Pharisees lacked fear of God because they thought they were righteous.
• They ignored the first commandment to love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, mind, soul and strength.  God has a right to be God and we have a right to please and serve him – not ourselves.
• Pharisees lacked faith in God.  They were supposed to know that judgment belonged to the Lord – they were concerned about his blood upon them but were more concerned about losing the people.  The people repented of crucifying Christ but they resisted.
• Sadducees thought it nonsense – God does not exist.
• Pharisees  thought why do we need a savior, we are perfect.
• Jesus gave the opportunity to repent.
• Apostles are witnesses and so is the Holy Ghost, which is given to them who obey God.
• They knew they were wrong but rather than repent they sought to slay the Apostles.  No chance for them to suggest that they did not know the Gospel was true.
• Gamaliel, who the Apostle Paul studied under, was the most esteemed doctor of the law in Israel.  He knew of God but did not know God.  He counseled the priests to leave the Apostles alone as if this thing was of God they did not want to be found fighting against God. He himself was in the valley of decision.
• My sheep know my voice, Gamaliel did not know the Lord because when Peter spoke he was the voice of God.
• Your flesh will never believe God.  We need to guard our hearts as though it is the prisoner who will rise up and slay you if given a chance.  It should provoke us to cleave unto God.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-04-16 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 6

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 6

SUBJECT:

• The murmuring of the people.  The Apostles response was to give up their authority to the congregation to placate the congregation.  This is in sharp contrast to Paul’s instructions to Titus and Timothy (see Titus and I & II Timothy) where Paul chooses them and sends them forth to set up churches choosing those who they discern as faithful.
• Not everything recorded in Acts was the right thing to do.  It is a record of what was done, right or wrong.
• Common error to think a full time minister is one who continually is in prayer and the Word.  We are to be ministers no matter what we are doing and in everything we are doing.
• The fact that the multitude was pleased does not mean it was right.  How seldom it is that the multitude is in agreement with what is right.
• The Lord honored the laying on of the Apostles hands.  Two of the seven we know went forth mightily.  Going forward like this is an act of faith.
• A fruit of Peter’s preaching was a great company of priests repented.
• Stephen, not an apostle, but was full of faith and power and did great wonders and miracles.  Many of the church intellectuals disputed with Stephen and being unable to resist the wisdom and spirit by which Stephen spoke paid others to lie about what he said.  This is the same thing that happened to Jesus and that we have seen happen to Peter and John earlier in Acts.  It is what will happen to those who do likewise.
• The disputers had no power over Stephen whose words were perfect.  Stephen gave evidence that He who was in him is greater than he who is in the world.
• Moses and the sacrifices were given looking toward the perfect sacrifice which would come – Jesus, the Lamb of God.
• Their own pride blinded them to the truth.  A willful act to lie.  All because they did not want to lose their money and position.
• Hopefully the testimony of Stephen lights a fire under us.
• After this they see Stephen’s face reflecting plainly God is with him.
• When God saved Paul all the other Pharisees were now without excuse.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-04-23 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 7

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 7

SUBJECT:

• Stephen’s sermon and the testimony of his face as an angel – shining as Moses’ did when he came down off the mountain.
• Stephen spoke by revelation giving facts not known.
• We see why Stephen’s face shone like an angel, to testify that he was speaking by the Holy Ghost.
• Moses’ low opinion of himself by the time God appeared to him in Midian.  This is in contrast to many who say he was a stutterer which he was not because we know he was mighty in word and deed.
• The Voice of the Lord which came to Moses in the wilderness was a title of Jesus.
• Angel – messenger – when Moses finds out who the angel is – Jesus – he could not look on him.
• Type and shadow – just like with Moses who came to his brethren when he was 40, was rejected but was who God sent to be their deliver later; Jesus came and was refused and crucified but will be the same one who is going to come back and deliver them at Armageddon.
• Stephen took the hearer to Moses showing both their refusal to obey God and that Moses had prophesied of Jesus.
• Type and shadow – when Moses went up the mountain the people said we don’t know what has become of him but he came down.  Same as Jesus, his death and resurrection, but he is coming back.
• Israelites rejoicing in the works of their own hands, same as Cain and Abel,  same as the church of today – there is nothing new under the sun.
• The true ministers of God are always rejected by the church.
• Saul of Tarsus, the Apostle Paul, was a recipient of Stephen’s prayer to God not to lay this sin upon them.
• Stephen’s death started phase 2 of God’s plan – to go into all the world and preach the Gospel.  The church came under persecution and was scattered throughout the Roman Empire.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-04-30 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 8

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 8

SUBJECT:

• Recap on Acts 7 – Stephen being brought before the San Hedrin.  Stephen being stoned.
• Saul of Tarsus, better known as the Apostle Paul, was consenting to the stoning of Stephen, which means he was pleased that Stephen was judged and put to death.
• Prior to Stephen’s trial the San Hedrin had been purged of those who believed Jesus was the Christ.
• Those remaining in the faith had an extraordinary testimony that Jesus was indeed the Christ and was raised from the dead.
• Acts 6 shows a departing from the faith when the disciples thought it beneath them to serve the people.
• The people who came to know Christ were scattered abroad.
• The apostles were not scattered at this time, perhaps because the other leaders feared the disciples but not the other Christians.
• Saul made havoc of the Church in order to stamp out Christianity.
• The reason the pilgrims came to the USA from England was because the King would literally go into their homes and break up meetings  being held in the privacy of their homes where they were discussing Jesus.  This is much like Saul did in his day and this didn’t just happen then, it happens throughout the ages around the world.
• Beware of the leaven of the pharisees and Herod.  The pharisees are false religious leaders and Herod is the government.
• Pharisees were most religious and looked the part of what people expect Christians to look like.
• Paul writes letters to the Romans, to a place he has never been but there are Christians there.  This is one of the ways the Lord spread the Word.
• Phillip is one of the seven, appointed as a deacon, not an apostle.  1 Timothy 3:13 talks of … Great boldness in the faith, a great reward.  “For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.”
• Phillip went to the city of Samaria, the capitol of the Kingdom of Israel, and preached the Gospel to them and they gave heed unto him.  They gave heed unto him because he spoke with power and there was great joy in that city.
• Simon the sorcerer used sorcery … sorcery in this instance comes from the word magic or magical arts.  Magicians are able to hold an audience spell bound because they are astounded by what they’re able to do.  These sorcerers rely on trickery to make us believe something is happening when indeed it is not.
• Simon holds himself out as a great man, in contrast to Jesus who says why callest thou me good (Matthew 19:17).  The pope is a great example of this, someone who is esteemed higher than Christ himself and he furthers that by promoting himself as the greatest of great ones.
• There is also a type of magic that is supernatural, not slight-of-hand.  Supernatural magic is very real and practiced in many arts like acupuncture and other healings.  The power behind that is the devil himself, that is why the person performing the magic is lifted up instead of Jesus Christ.  This is something satan likes, when the eyes of the people can be moved from the Lord to themselves.
• There was nothing special about Phillip or Stephen, what was special about them was the Lord Jesus Christ and the annointing that was upon them because of their obedience to the faith.  They also fully gave themselves over to the Gospel and believed God.
• It is universally believed that if a person has a ‘mental problem’ then a psychiatrist or psychologist should be the person treating them.  One generation ago this was not so, but now they are esteemed, the government even pays you to go and see them.  It is the same thoroughness with which Simon had held the people in bondage.  Now anyone can be accused of being ‘mentally ill’ and there is no question.  Anyone who does not agree with the government can be sent off.
• They believed and were baptized of blood at the time of receiving Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and the baptism of water.  Simon believed and was baptized and he wondered how Phillip was performing this ‘magic’.
• The Father baptizes with the blood, The son (Jesus) baptizes with Holy Ghost and The Holy Spirit baptizes into the body.  So you have water, blood and spirit baptisms, and each one, Father, Son and Holy Ghost are one of the ministry agents in that regardless of who is physically standing there.
• As much as Phillip had the power to heal the sick and perform miracles, he did not have the authority to impart the baptism of the Holy Spirit.  That is received by the laying on of hands of the Apostles, according to the Word.  This is when Simon wanted that ‘power’.
• Simon knew he could make more money if he had this power than he did when he was using sorcery.  He wanted to get back ‘on top’, however he would have to get rid of this before he could truly be saved.
• Peter calls Simon out on the fact that he wants the power for financial gain.  If Simon did not repent right here, he could have died.
• Just a few chapters previous to this we hear the story of Ananias and Sapphira.
• The gall of bitterness that Simon had is envy, the deepest and darkest depths of envy.
• It is possible that Simon recognized that he did not have the faith to pray for himself but if Peter prayed for him then he would be delivered, hence he asked Peter to pray for him.
• Peter and John as apostles, preached the Word and confirmed the same things Phillip had been preaching.  When Jesus was around they were offended that Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman, but now you can see evidence of what the Holy Spirit had done in them as they go around preaching the Gospel.
• The angel of the Lord spoke to Phillip and told him to go to Gaza, a desert.  He had just preached a revival and the people came together with one accord and now the angel calls him to go down to the desert.
• The Lord sent Phillip for one mans sake.  The man (an Ethiopian Eunuch) was in a chariot and if Phillip had not gone down immediately, he could have missed him.  It is important that when the Lord calls us, we go immediately or it may be a missed opportunity.
• The Ethiopian Eunuch, was a believer in the God of Abraham.  He was returning to his master and he was reading Esaias (Isaiah) the prophet.  He was reading a prophecy of Jesus going to the cross when Phillip came to him.
• Phillip ran to the chariot, that is the type of haste and forward mindedness that we should all have when the Lord calls us.
• The Ethiopian man was humble in his answering Phillips question asking if he understood what he was reading.
• Phillip preached Jesus unto him.
• Because of his humility the Ethiopian Eunuch recognized Phillip in the spirit .
• You have to fight for the faith, the Word says knock and it shall be opened unto you, seek and ye shall find.
• Phillip is willing to baptize the Ethiopian man, if he believes with all his heart.  The Ethiopian man says he believes and then he gets baptized.
• Just because you can be baptized in water, does not mean you have anything.  The baptism is done by the Holy Spirit and you receive it and walk in it by faith in Christ, not in man.
• Phillip is instantaneously moved from being with the Eunuch to being found in Azotus.
• Deacons operate under a line of authority.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-05-07 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 9

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 9

SUBJECT:

• Saul of Tarsus – on fire to stamp out Christianity – so much so that he was forward to get letters to go into other countries to bring back believers bound to Jerusalem.  Happens throughout history, even today, even in the U.S.
• Verse 5 –who art though, Lord?  Paul asked if it was the Lord, he did not know.
• Why persecutest thou me – speaking of the body of Christ – Saul was not a part of those who persecuted Christ while he walked the earth.
• Kick against the pricks – speaks of God’s ownership of Saul.  The pricks is a reference to a device used in the training of oxen.
• Trembling – Saul, who started out so certain of himself is now terrified – even to the point of not eating.
• Saul was to be told what he “must” do – the only choice Saul had was to obey Jesus or die.
• Ananias (in contrast to Saul) recognized Jesus’ voice went he spoke to him in a vision.
• Jesus laid out Paul’s commission to Ananias.  Ananias confirmed to Paul God’s call.  Paul received all three baptisms at the hand of Ananias by the operation of God.
• At Ananias’ word Paul received his sight.  Many believe incorrectly that Paul’s thorn in the flesh was problems with his eyes.  This disproves that, but also God said “my grace is sufficient” grace covers sin not sickness.  The thorn was a sin Paul could not overcome which kept him humble.
• That which Paul had done to believers was now going to happen to him – the one prepared him for the other.
• Paul immediately entered into fellowship – leaving those of his past, unless they accepted Christ.
• Paul immediately preached Christ in the synagogues proving Christ in both word and deed (in power).
• When people see the power of God it does not mean they will believe.  Few religious people will believe because it does not speak well of them.
• Paul’s knowledge of those lying in wait to kill him was part of God’s teaching Paul that he could trust him.
• Christians misunderstood why Paul was disliked and hated – they thought it testified against Paul.  It actually testified against them.
• Grecians – Greek Jews who had embraced Greek culture, mythology, philosophy.
• Peter gets out of Jerusalem – the result – you see the power of God move and the church grow. Peter getting out of Jerusalem was critical to rekindle his ministry.
• Alms deeds, alms can be money or deeds (servant).
• God is just looking today for some people who believe so he can do something.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-05-14 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 10

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 10

SUBJECT:

• Caesaria – city Jesus and His disciples had visited.
• Cornelius believed God and feared God.  He knew he was accountable which was why he gave alms and prayed always.
• God could have told Peter but told Cornelius to go to Peter in honor of his line of authority.
• Peter recognized God’s voice, thought he was being tested (not so Lord).  God gave 3 witnesses establishing this is something he wants Peter to know.
• Recognizing and obeying both God’s voice and God’s Spirit (see Acts 1:2).
• Peter did not yet understand but went, doubting nothing, and as events unfolded the understanding came.
• Cornelius’ servants faithful testimony of events to Peter.
• Extraordinary nature of Peter lodging the servants.
• Peter brought others with him, important to the strengthening of their faith.
• Sense of expectation of Cornelius, his kinsmen and close friends.  Cornelius is excited about what God has for him – it is unbelievable!
• Parallel faith of Peter and Cornelius.
• Cornelius sees Peter as someone to reverence.  Peter does not receive his reverence.
• Peter opens his mouth by faith – faith that God would give him that which Cornelius needed to hear.
• God will receive anyone from any nation who fear Him.
• ‘Worketh righteousness’ – work out those things pleasing to God – walk of faith – works of God cannot be done by man, can only be done through God.
• Peter’s testimony that Cornelius knew of the things which had happened.
• Jesus did the works of God in the same manner as Peter did them in the same manner as all who will believe do them.
• Peter’s testimony that the resurrected Jesus made himself known to certain men so they could testify of who he was, as all the prophets had testified.
• The Spirit baptism of Cornelius and his household overcame Peter’s, and the Jews who were with him, prejudices.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-05-21 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 11

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 11

SUBJECT:

• Looking back at chapter 10 to make clear the Holy Spirit baptism of Cornelius and his house (the Gentiles) was exactly the same as the Holy Spirit baptism which took place in Acts 2.  Both were the exact same way as when Jesus was baptized.  A dove comes in fast and noisy then hovers before it lights.  The Acts 2 description of it coming as a rushing, mighty wind – fast and noisy, then hovering – as tongues of fire.  Peter, in verse 15, gave testimony that the Holy Ghost fell on the Gentiles as on them at the beginning.
• When the Jews heard about what happened they thought Peter did something wrong.  How dare he break the law and eat with Gentiles – they had not gotten it yet, even though they had the testimony of faithful Gentiles in the Old Testament (Ruth, Rahab, Uriah).  They were still clinging to the law which became a big problem for them.
• Peter had anticipated their reaction and had rehearsed what occurred. The wisdom of his taking witnesses with him:  training, witnesses, protection, where two or more are gathered together in Jesus’ name there he is in the midst of them and the example of Jesus when he sent them out 2 by 2.
• They believed Peter’s testimony, Peter himself being a witness, recognizing it was of the Lord and praised God for it.
• Barnabas sent to Antioch, exhorted them that with purpose of heart – their soul choosing to cleave unto the Lord rather than this corrupt old man.
• Barnabas’ seeking out Paul and bringing him to Antioch to minister to the church there.
• The testimony of a properly functioning church can be seen working in Antioch and Jerusalem.  Not just one apostle, prophet, etc. but many.
• Agabus prophesied of the coming dearth and, at his word the disciples immediately determined to send relief.
• This testimony is different than that of most believers who do not act on the knowledge they have.  Each of us has a message of what God has done for us.  This testimony is the seed we are to scatter so that God can multiply it.  Instead we put it safely in our pouches and take it out and look at it periodically and smile and put it back in our pouch.
• The testimony of the man who knew a way to take seeds and plant them to bring forth trees but has not done so.  It is how we are.  Because of this we are not where we should be.  Thank God for his mercy and grace.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-05-28 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 12

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 12

SUBJECT:

• A look back at chapter 11 to clarify the Grecians in verse 20 were Greek speaking Jews.  Many Jews in Antioch believed the Gospel.
• This James was a son of Zebedee and was the first Apostle who was martyred.
• A short history of Easter – goes all the way back to Nimrod in Genesis pre-dating Abraham.  Not the same as the Passover – two different events.  Shows both the Passover and Easter taking place at the same time.
• Herod’s motivation to martyr Peter – James’ death pleased the Jews.
• Expectation of the Jews – showed the Jews wanted this to happen to Peter.  They were united with Herod against Christ.  A fulfillment of I Samuel 12: 14 & 15.
• Peter in prison wasn’t the least bit concerned.  Believers making intercession to God for him.  The extraordinary way in which he was delivered, being bound with chains between two guards:
  • Angel of the Lord – light shined – did not disturb anyone
  • Smote (hit) Peter – did not disturb anyone
  • Chains fell off Peter when he rose – did not disturb anyone
  • Peter put on his sandals at the command of the angel – did not disturb anyone
  • Iron gate opened of its own accord
• When Peter showed up at John Mark’s mother’s house, where they were praying for him, they did not believe he could actually be there.  Peter, who is probably wanting to get inside and not seen, is left standing outside.  An interesting picture of faith – spend all this time praying and then can’t believe when the prayer is answered.  How we are.
• The nature of miracles – they go beyond our understanding.  We limit God by trying to figure out how he will do something.
• Our God is an astonishment – he does exceedingly above all that we ask or think.  We need to learn to lift our expectations.
• Imagine the next day when the guards wake, the doors are closed and Peter is gone.  The guards were put to death.
• God’s judgment of Herod for his actions against Christians.  The last straw was the when he set a day, wrote a speech, arrayed himself in royal apparel, sat on a throne and made a great oration.  The people said (because they wanted what Herod gave them) it is the voice of a god not a man – God had had enough and Herod was smote because he did not give God the glory and worms ate him.
• The result of these happenings – people strengthened in their faith.  Word of God grew and multiplied.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-06-04 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 13

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 13

SUBJECT:

• The church in Antioch was a vital church.  They were gathered together serving the Lord and fasting for direction from the Lord and the Holy Ghost said to separate Barnabus and Saul for the work that they were called to.
• Hands were laid on them and they were sent away to their work.
• Some churches believe that Saul was not a minister until that laying on of hands took place in v. 3.  Saul was ministering mightily before that took place.   Verse 1 says that they were ministers before this.
• This is another example of when Jesus after his death and resurrection was with his disciples ministering in person for about 40 days and was taken up and then gave commandment to them by the Holy Ghost.  It is the equal of any commandment he gave to them when he was physically present.
• In Salamus they preached the Word in the synagogues of the Jews.  When they had gone through into Paphos, they found a sorcerer named Barjesus: sorcerer means in this instance a wise man, learned man who has insights from God.  He is a false prophet who turns people out of the way of the Lord.  He was a prudent man who seems to exercise good judgment.  He withstood them seeking to turn them away from the faith.
• Paul said that the hand of the Lord is upon him and made Barjesus blind for a season – so there was a possibility of repentance.  Jesus’s doctrine is with power.
• This type of doctrine of God, when performed today, is called to be of the devil by the people.
• There are churches that say that the things of God are of the devil in ignorance but the grace of God may cover them.  But in some cases that is blasphemy of the Holy Ghost.
• Because Paul stood, the man became blind instantaneously and demonstrated to the deputy that what Paul stood in was indeed the truth.
• The John in v. 13 is John Mark, the author of the Gospel of Mark.
• Exhortation in verse 15 means “Tell us what’s going on in the rest of the world”.
• The sermon that Paul shared laid a foundation of where are these people going to go?  He shows the example of Israel.  The ebb and flow of service to the Lord through the generations.  He also spoke of John the Baptist as the people had heard about him. Bringing it all to a head and asking them what are they going to do about it?
• Verse 39:  All that believe are justified from ALL things, that’s everything!!  All the self righteous churches that believe a divorced person can’t go to their church must have missed this verse!
• A message to all self righteous and self justifying : Jesus can forgive everything even though you can’t.
• You can be justified through the blood of Jesus Christ and be forgiven, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
• The Psalms are full of passages that say that God doesn’t depart from us.
• Despisers of the truth are always debating, never able to come solidly to the truth and they perish.  There are many like that today.
• When people say “God will have to show it to me”:  What they don’t realize when they say that, they are bypassing the mediator between us and God, the man Jesus Christ.  That is why they perish.
• The Gentiles were excited about Paul’s sermon.
• The Jews saw the multitudes, filled with envy, contradicting and blaspheming the Holy Ghost because they knew it was true.  The things that Paul were speaking were of the Holy Ghost.
• The middle wall of partition between Jews and Gentiles was broken down when Paul preached.  They are ready to enter in.
• Paul’s response is to wax bold and turn to the Gentiles because the Lord has commanded us.  (to be a light of the Gentiles.)
• V. 48:  Ordained – appointed to a position, given their commissions as in the military.  Not preordained!
• The Jews stirred up men and women to expel Paul and Barnabus out of their coast.  Paul and Barnabus didn’t care; just shook off the dust of their feet, and came to Iconium.  The disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Ghost.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-06-11 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 14

SPEAKERS:

• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 14

SUBJECT:

• The end of Paul and Barnabas’ first missionary journey.  (See notes & links below.)
• Continuing evidence of the Jews prejudice against the Gentiles.
• Paul and Barnabas’ habit of going into synagogues to preach.
• Unbelieving Jews spoke evil (lied, used any device they could to turn people from believing) of Paul and Barnabas.  Same thing happens today – nothing new under the sun.
• Signs and wonders important – so people could know it was the Word of God Paul and Barnabas preached so their faith would stand in the power of God and not in the wisdom of man.  Important due to the opposition they would have to stand against.
• Effort to stone (kill) Paul and Barnabas resulting from the fact that they polarized people.  Polarizing brings a person to the place where they have to make a choice.
• Testimony of the healing of the man who had never walked.  Paul’s discernment that the man had faith to be healed.  Paul recognizing this was provoked to command him to stand – faith (of Paul) meeting faith (of the man).
• The people thought Paul and Barnabas were gods because they had never seen the power of God before.
• When the priest of Jupiter acknowledged the power of God with Paul and Barnabas it doesn’t show a saving faith but is a tool by which he would be further established in his position.
• Barnabas and Paul’s reaction:  we are men just like you, turn from these vanities.
• Paul’s testimony of God as the creator of all things came against the lie of the theory of evolution which was believed by some even then.  Important to note as many believe it is a result of the “advancements” in science (so-called).
• God placed Israel where it was because it is a crossroad.  God has never wanted to exclude any people.  It has always been his desire that all men be saved.
• The stoning of Paul.
• Neither Paul nor Barnabas had ever done anything like this (missionary) journey before.  When they came back God’s testimony was they had done what God had wanted them to do.
• Their testimony of God opening the door of faith to the Gentiles.
• Returned to Antioch (where there was a very strong church of both Jews and Gentiles).  They rested and continued to do the work God had for them to do.
• The need to step out in faith for without faith it is impossible to please God.  A humbling thing – our need and dependence upon God.  It is a right desire to want God’s approval.

There are many maps laying out Paul’s first Missionary Journey as laid out in Acts 13 & 14.

• This link is to one that does a nice job of showing you the locations in reference to places that people probably know (i.e. Italy, Greece, Egypt and Jerusalem).
• This one shows you ancient roads and the provinces.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-06-18 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 15

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 15

SUBJECT:

• Coming after Paul & Barnabas’ first missionary journey men from Judah came down teaching the need for the Gentiles to be circumcised.  Paul and Barnabas, having just seen the conversion of Gentiles did not give this it place but stood hard against it.
• Many Pharisees too said the Gentiles needed to be circumcised.
• Same as today – a person goes up to be saved and is told all the things he has to do to be saved.  An aspect of pride. God has made the way which is we must wholly rely upon Him.
• God is the only one with the authority to judge.
• Adam was given one commandment – to not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.  As long as he obeyed the people on the earth had no sin.  When Eve ate the fruit nothing happened. Sin entered into the world when Adam at the fruit.  By one man sin came into the world so by one man sin can be taken away.  People who say otherwise say that what Jesus did is not good enough.
• If you teach laws and judge you set yourself in the place of God and God will not share that place.
• When Jesus died on the cross he took all the ordinances with him.
• We are all born with the knowledge between right and wrong, our conscience, but not with the knowledge between good and evil.  When we know we have done wrong we go to God and ask God’s forgiveness that we might live another day to serve Him.  This liberates us.
• The coming together of the Apostles and the elders to discuss this is like what the Sanhedrin did.  Knowing the Old Testament we know this is not how God does it.  Elders raised up to be equal with the Apostles.  Much disputing.
• Peter rose up and gave testimony of God having purified the Gentiles’ hearts even like them.  He gave testimony that by grace we are all saved.  Peter had the authority to settle the issue but his authority was not recognized.  His words did silence everyone allowing Paul and Barnabas to speak, who then gave their testimony of what God had done.
• James then steps up, not speaking in the same (Holy Ghost) authority but rather in a political authority.
• Everything in the Old Testament shadows things in the New Testament.  The tabernacle of David was the house God dwelt in – Jesus was that tabernacle.  Here it is talking about the body of Christ, which is still being built up today.
• Key that it is Jesus who is the tabernacle of David is “Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world”.  His works, not ours.
• James makes a distinction between Jews and Gentiles – Peter didn’t, Paul and Barnabas didn’t and God didn’t.
• This is why you do not hear from anyone else after this point except mainly Paul.  It is why the church at Jerusalem did poorly after this.
• For Paul’s purposes this was sufficient though later he withstood Peter to his face over this.
• Brethren were sent back with the epistle with Paul and Barnabas to show that Paul and Barnabas were accepted by the brethren.  God had already showed everyone Paul was of God.  The Jews still did not accept him.  Letters like this one actually strengthen the hands of those against the Gospel.
• Was received as good news by the Gentiles.
• Silas, seeing what was going on with Paul and what was going on back in Jerusalem decided to stay with Paul.  He was a prophet at this time who, under Paul, rose to be an Apostle, shows you can rise through the ranks.
• The contention over John Mark caused Paul and Barnabas to split.  Paul chose Silas to go with him.
• Easy to see how this happened to Barnabas.  He had come to the Lord before Paul, he was the one who gave the testimony that Paul was okay.  He struggled with Paul having passed him.  God himself established Paul to be the Apostle to the Gentiles.  Barnabas should have submitted himself to Paul.
• If you are going to walk under authority you need to submit yourself to that authority.
• John Mark had deserted Paul.  Paul probably did not think he was ready yet.  Making that judgment can often times be what spurs a person on.
• Steve’s testimony of submitting to Davy’s authority.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-06-25 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 16

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 16

SUBJECT:

• Timothy, a disciple, came under authority to grow in the Gospel and to become a minister.
• Paul’s circumcision of Timothy, shows Paul’s weakness, that he was human.
• Disciple – one who has turned their life over to the Lord, is under authority, seeking to walk it daily with the end to become a minister.
• Not necessarily a disciple because you accept the Lord.
• Went forth and immediately shared the decrees (of Chapter 15) to those who they had already ministered the Gospel to.  The churches were established in the Faith.
• Paul immediately went to Macedonia after the vision the Lord gave him.
• Luke now with Paul (the us in this chapter).  The extraordinary testimony of Luke who stuck with Paul through no matter what.
• Davy’s vision while in Florida which sent him to Maryland in answer to one man’s prayer.  The sad testimony of the churches because he was the closest one God could send.
• Testimony of Lydia who heard.
• Damsel with the spirit of divination – made her masters much money. Paul (unlike churches today) cast it out.  He spoke directly to the spirit.
• Masters, because of the loss of money, brought them to the magistrates and made false accusations.
• They were beaten and jailed.  Jailer taking seriously the command to keep them, putting them in the lowest (worse) part of the prison.
• Paul & Silas prayed and sang praises unto God – the prisoners heard them (not the jailer).
• Earthquake loosing every prisoner, a radical testimony that Paul & Silas were God’s men and that He was with them.
• Testimony of Silas, Luke and Timothy who stuck with Paul, did not judge him (went with him because of the vision and look what happened to them).  Contrast that with today.
• Hypocrisy – I trust in God then say why is this happening – if you trusted God you would be praising Him too.
• The jailer woke, went to kill himself, Paul stops him.  Paul in charge by the anointing  & power of God – stood in that authority.
• Jailer terrified of Paul, Silas and the Lord, being brought to a place of salvation.
• What must I do to be saved – Answer: to believe on (believe what He says) the Lord Jesus Christ.
• All this came about because Paul was obedient to the vision.
• Sent to let them go privily – the humble way to have dealt with it would have been to have left.  Paul acted in pride.
• Result –  there was a church that remained. Proof: Paul’s Epistle to the Philippians.
• God’s grace that keeps us – Silas, Timothy and Luke could see God was with Paul so wouldn’t go against Paul, no one else as noteworthy as these three men.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-07-09 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 17

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 17

SUBJECT:

• Paul’s preached in the synagogues of Thessalonica for three Sabbaths using their scriptures to preach Christ.
• The Jews’ expectation of Christ’s coming is like that of Christians today, not scriptural.
• The Jews, moved with envy because of those who believed the Gospel, bought the aid of lewd and base fellows to accuse Paul. Again, like the church today, moved with envy if the Gospel is preached in their town and people believe.
• The accusation that Paul was turning the world upside down and preaching that Jesus was King was spoken to prove that the Gospel was contrary to Caesar.  There intent was to one end but the statements are true in a way, Jesus has turned the world upside down and he is the King of kings.  The Gospel does not preach rebellion though.
• The government (then and now) do  not proclaim they are of God, those who preach false doctrine do.
• We should not do everything the government says to do, i.e. abortion.  The thief comes to kill, steal and destroy.  Jesus came to give life and that abundantly.  If you are pro choice you are in agreement with the thief.
• The Jews in Berea were more honorable. They searched the scriptures to see if what Paul said was true.
• In Athens, Paul’s spirit was stirred within him because the city was wholly given to idolatry and superstition.
• Goes not only into the synagogue but into the marketplace, putting himself where the people were, was able to speak with the people.
• Epicureans – like modern secular humanists – if they cannot perceive it with their natural eyes it doesn’t exist. Medicine today falls into this group.
• Stoics – like new age people – “if that works for you that is fine.”  They speak from a high and lofty position tolerating believers’ ‘stupidity’ – like college professors and political leaders today.
• Saw Paul’s doctrine as a new thing – outside the box, and the Greeks loved something new which stemmed from pride and self importance. God is the same yesterday, today and forever.
• Greeks were superstitious – offensive to them as they thought everyone else was, not them.
• Unknown God – they wanted God to be mysterious and far away.
• Paul called them ignorant, gave them no wiggle room.
• Paul came against their idolatry, bringing it low, so they could know the Gospel.
• God made the world and all things therein.  They believed in evolution, evolution is not a new idea.  Paul was dealing with people like scientists today and their evolutionary theories.
• Are you really that stupid – you are going to make something with your hands and God is going to come down and dwell in it.  Athens was self important – God so thankful that they built a place for him to dwell.  Similar to America today.
• God bless America – a demand.  How about saying please God bless America – asking.  People approach God like he is a second rate servant.  We are His servants.
• He has made us all one blood – no one is better than another.
• God isn’t limited by us.  We need him, he does not need us.
• They were blind, groping – in darkness yet they think they know everything.
• Richard was like Paul was to the Greeks to Steve, he gave him no inch.
• Christ is life, God is life.  Where there is no life there is no God.
• This ignorance God winked at in the past.  But now God commands people to repent.  The assurance he gave was that Jesus was resurrected from the dead.
• Repent because He is going to judge the world and he is going to be right when he judges the world.
• No other faith preaches the resurrection of the dead.  Many mocked them for this doctrine but some said they would hear them again.  There is no record of them having another chance.  Seek the Lord while he may be found – may not get another chance – now is the time.
• No evidence of a significant church established in Athens because of their idolatry and pride.  A few did praise God.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-07-16 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 18

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 18

SUBJECT:

• Never wait until tomorrow to act on what the Lord shows you.  We do not have a promise of more time or another opportunity.
• The lying testimony of ministers who say, “I will be back tomorrow” but never show back up.
• Corinth, an important city in the Roman Empire (located in modern day Greece). Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla there.  Tent makers like Paul who stayed with them and made tents with them.
• Silas and Timotheus arrive in Corinth, in obedience to Paul’s request – a kind of reinforcement, afterwhich Paul goes and speaks with great boldness.  A testimony of where two or more are gathered together in Jesus’ name, there he is in the midst of them – of like mind.
• Jews opposed themselves, blaspheming Paul.  Like today church people reject the ministers who preach the true Gospel.  Like then, God’s ministers go into the highways and byways.
• Jews were angry at Paul’s going to the Gentiles.  Proves they are not against error, but against the truth, and Jesus is the Truth.  Same as what happens today.
• Experience in Corinth is in striking contrast to those places Paul had been to before.  God spoke to Paul in a vision telling him to remain because He (God) had much people in that city.  Paul remained a year and six months.
• A living testimony when Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed the Gospel Paul preached.  His house was right next to the synagogue (“thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies”, Psalm 23: 5)
• People aren’t yours, they are the Lord’s. Responsibility is to minister to them faithfully.
• Jews made insurrection against Paul and brought him to the Roman deputy who refused to hear them.  Their accusation was that Paul taught contrary to Jewish law.  The Greeks response to this was to beat the ruler of the synagogue.
• When Paul took his leave of Corinth, Aquila and Priscilla went with him, joined themselves to Paul.
• Went to Ephesus.  They desired Paul to tarry longer but Paul would not as he had made a vow to the Lord.  He did not leave them without witness but left Aquila and Priscilla with them.
• Paul went to Caesarea, Antioch, and then back to Galatia and Phrygia to strengthen all the disciples.  That was his job as an Apostle, to perfect the saints and to set things in order.
• Apollos the first Baptist preacher.  Knew only the baptism of John.  John the Baptist was not a Christian preacher, he was an Old Testament prophet.
• Water baptism in the New Testament is not the baptism of repentance but is the baptism into the body of Christ.  The baptism of repentance is the baptism of blood.  The baptism of the Spirit is the baptism of the power.
• Aquila and Priscilla took Apollos aside and taught him more perfectly.
• Baptists today are zealous to a point and then stop, like stopping at the water’s edge and not going further.
• Important point that if you have received the Gospel from an Apostle and do not change it, but hold to how you were taught, you can minister the Word more perfectly to others.
• Apollos became a person of note.  He was received by the brethren in Achaia.  They accepted him which is what Christians are supposed to do.

Links mentioned during this Bible Study:

• The Apostle Paul’s second missionary journey map. 

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-07-23 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 19

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 19, Proverbs 14:4, Hebrews 13:7, Hebrews 13:13, John 16:33, Romans 5:3

SUBJECT:

• Paul comes back to Ephesus and finds some of Apollos’ disciples.  Apollos preached Jesus Christ but had not known the three baptisms.  All they know is the baptism of John.  Paul testifies to them of Jesus and of the Holy Ghost.
• These Ephesians, in contrast to Baptists today who only believe in the baptism of repentance, believed Paul and where baptized again in water in the name of Jesus in accordance with scripture (the truth) and then Paul laid hands on them and they received the Holy Ghost.  Three baptisms: the Father baptizes in the blood, the Holy Spirit into Christ’s body and Jesus in power in the Holy Ghost.  Each have a part in baptism.
• Contrast between the Ephesians and those Paul preached to on Mars Hill, God honored the Ephesians sending Paul back to them.
• Paul goes into the synagogue to preach for 3 months.  You see the grace of God come upon them but once rejected he departs from them and separates those who received and who had come into obedience.
• Purpose of separating the disciples is because they were new believers.  If Paul had left them they would have fallen away.
• Paul moves from the synagogue to the school of one Tyrannus, staying for 2 years.  All Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus Christ.
• God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul who took handkerchiefs and aprons, prayed over them and sent them out.  People were healed and delivered by touching them.  All of this was to lift up the name of Jesus and to confirm the word Paul spoke.
• Certain vagabond (traveling) Jews rather than learning from Paul sought to incorporate what they have heard (testifies to everyone knowing what Paul preached).  The example of the seven sons of Sceva being overtaken by one possessed man.
• The demonic spirit knew Jesus and it knew Paul,  How many demonic spirits know you, that you are such a threat that the devil and demons know your name?  If you are going to be a powerful man or woman of God that he can use to further his kingdom you will have to go through tribulation.  The Christian world teaches not to rock the boat.
• Proverbs 14:4 – in laymen’s terms: if you have an ox (the Holy Spirit), you’re going to have to clean up after it.  Not a smooth sail.  People will try to shut you up.  If you want to be powerful you’re going to have to not care what others think, only what Jesus Christ thinks and those he has set over you.  Will even experience persecution from them in your fellowship.
• Need to learn how to use the weapons of our warfare.  Discipleship is a part of this.
• Before God can use you pride has to come under control. The only way this can be done is through submitting yourself in discipleship and to those in authority over you (Hebrews 13: 7 & 13).  This brings humility.
• The result of what happened to the 7 sons of Sceva, a lot more people heard Paul.  Many came, showed their deeds, burned their  books.  Shows how whole-heartedly the shift was that occurred.
• Take what you hear and do it.  Questions will come up as a consequence.
• Paul sent Timotheus and Erastus ahead of him to Macedonia to prepare the people.
• Paul purposed in (his own) spirit what he was going to do.  Notice the Holy Spirit is always a capital S.
• Demetrius made a lot of money making idols to sell.  The temple of Dianna in Ephesus was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.  He moved the people to an uproar against ‘this Paul’.
• Paul just preached the truth.
• When you go forth and preach the truth in power people will come against you personally, not against the truth because they can’t, but against you, making up lies.
• City in confusion – “Great is Dianna” kind of like the Patriot movement “great is the U.S.”
• Brought them into the theater, drew Alexander out but would not hear the truth.
• Town clerk restrains the people.  Nothing has happened to warrant this behavior, can use the law if there is anything, danger of being called into question for the uproar.
• John 16:33 and Romans 5:3 – testifies of tribulation that you will have.  It is how you become effective as a minister in Jesus Christ, how you learn to trust in the Lord is by tribulation.
• Straight is the gate and narrow (pressed upon) is the way – forces you to prayer where knowing the Lord is all you want.  Most people want to exit stage left.
• If you don’t experience this stuff you’re not going to grow in the Lord – passing through the eye of the needle.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-07-30 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 20

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 20

SUBJECT:

• Paul returns to Macedonia to strengthen the disciples.
• Jews laid in wait for Paul.  Doesn’t say Paul knew, God’s protection on Paul to have him go another way.
• Paul’s journeys were not easy, but they did serve God’s plan.
• By nature people compromise, not profitable, a slippery slope.
• An example for us to be willing to do what is necessary for the Gospel’s sake.
• All sin has to be accounted for. Many people believe that because they believe in Jesus they will not be accountable.  It is like if you have a bucket of paint it does not do you any good unless you take a paint brush and apply it.  Same with the Lord. An example of how you do it:  if you forgive those who sin against you, return evil with love, you are applying the blood of Christ to your sins.  You have to stay in a place of forgiveness and grace to others.
• Celebrate the first day of the week so you can be oriented to serve Christ the rest of the week.  Like seeking him first thing in the morning, etc.  Christ put away the law making a New Covenant.
• Paul’s raising of Eutychus from the dead.  Went right on fellowshipping afterwards. People comforted in the faith, seeing what God can do.
• Paul sends the disciples before him, like Jesus did.  Followed behind.
• Did not want to stop at Ephesus so he called the elders of the church at Ephesus to him.  Gave his testimony, his record (like Moses, Samuel and others did).He had not held back from delivering all the counsel of God.  Warns them of what was to come.  It was now up to them to do the same.  Blow a sure trumpet.  (See links below)
• Bonds and afflictions abide him if he goes to Jerusalem.  Nothing would stop Paul, not even the Holy Spirit.  Paul thought he was the only one qualified to convert the Jews, which ultimately ended up getting him killed.  The Jewish church was assigned to Peter and others.  The Gentile church was assigned to Paul.  God had not told Paul to go to Jerusalem.
• The fact that Paul did this, God in his grace made use of Paul and redeemed it all giving us a mighty example of being saved by grace.  If we can receive this it will help us to stop judging.
• Paul fought threw temptation: hatred for example – so many Christians fall into hatred nullifying the blood of Christ.  Another common temptation is to justify yourselves.
• Paul, no matter what the season or what was going on testified of the Gospel, was not moved.
• Elders were chosen by God, those who God told Paul to put in that position.
• In times past the milkman brought whole milk, the real thing.  Now whole milk in stores is not whole milk but watered down, just like the Word in the church today.
• It is not ‘my church’ or ‘my people’ but God’s church purchase by the blood of Jesus Christ.
• Grievous wolves, don’t come in and say lets follow other gods.  They come in trying to put you under the law, to serve God with the flesh (like Cain) and not in the Spirit (like Abel).
• Watch – remember – take heed.  I made it perfectly clear to you.
• Sanctified – to be set aside for God’s service.
• Paul worked to provide for himself and those with him.
• Support the weak – those weak in the faith.  He stood for them in the hope that they would get strong.

Links:

• Ezekiel – Watchman Part 1
• Ezekiel – Watchman Part 2 

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-08-06 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 21

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 21

SUBJECT:

• Paul having said goodbye to the elders of Ephesus heading to Syria on his way to Jerusalem.
• Finds disciples in Tyre so tarries.  They testified to Paul by the Spirit that he not go to Jerusalem.  This is the same thing he has heard before.  Not a result of communication among the brethren but rather they all spoke by the same Spirit.
• Came unto Caesarea where Jesus had spent much time.
• Agabus too prophecies giving Paul clear testimony not to go up. Those who traveled with Paul stayed with him though he continued onto Jerusalem.  Many would consider such a thing worthless rather than a privilege which is how these men considered it.  People will take occasion due to their own sin, it is used as an excuse to depart.
• God was with Paul.  Though he was in pride his motives were not that far off.  He didn’t see, he was blinded.  Even so it did not nullify that he was an apostle.
• God used what Paul did mightily.  Because of it we have his letters, he was still walking in the faith.
• You see in the early church a properly functioning church with Apostles, prophets, evangelists.
• Paul testifies to James, the Lord’s brother, and the elders.  James accuses Paul of teaching the Jews to forsake Moses.  James is concerned he is going to lose people.  A common struggle – one we have to struggle through.
• Tells Paul to take a vow to prove he is orderly and make an offering.  When Paul participates in this he is denying Jesus on the cross.
• He is stopped from completing it which is evidence of God’s grace to Paul.
• Paul recognizes very much his humanity and his knowledge of his sin. Shows people they can do it – because Paul had to do it.
• Paul is given license to speak by the chief captain once he knows Paul is from Tarsus.  You see Paul’s desire for the Jews to be saved – even when they are trying to kill him.
• This was to Paul’s good.  Had he continued those seven days and given the sacrifice he would not have recovered.  Ways in our own lives when we come close to doing the same.  If you have fallen and think God cannot forgive you, you are denying Christ.  Believe, receive and rejoice in the forgiveness he gives you.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-08-13 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 22

SPEAKERS:

• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 22, Psalm 25, John 3:19

SUBJECT:

• These people were beating Paul up to kill him, their intention was not to hurt him, but to kill him.
• The only reason Paul was not dead was because the chief Captain came to his rescue, not because he was on Paul’s side but because it was his job to ‘keep the peace’.
• Don’t miss the extraordinary nature of what Paul does here and the commitment he has to the Lord and love he has to the people.  Because after all of this, he desires to share the Gospel with them.
• I am a Jew.  Brought up at the feet of Gamaliel, who was the top teacher of Jerusalem in this day and age and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers.
• They persecuted this way refers to Christianity.  They did not discriminate between men and women in the persecution.
• If we were to stand up in a Church like a Catholic Church they might have stuck with us until we said what is in verse 6 of Acts 22.
• When you have a man like Paul standing before you telling you that this thing happened and you have never heard of it before from anyone else, people would respond by leaving the Church.
• This is how people respond even today.  Nothing has changed … when you shine the light of how the Lord has miraculously moved in your life or others in your presence and people do not want to hear it or receive it.
• Hearing of someone being raised from the dead is so far beyond what we can imagine to believe and if we choose to believe we have to see how far we fall from believing.
• Paul is talking as someone who has been there and done that, not as one standing in judgment as if he has not done the same thing.
• Jesus Christ is still alive.  How many people (even in the Church world) believe Jesus is still alive?  Why do we treat Him like He isn’t alive?
• The voice was not a voice of a man, the voice in vs 7 was the voice of God Himself speaking to man, just as the entire scripture that they looked to for their salvation was brought forth by God speaking to man.
• God now speaks to a man and people say he’s crazy.  Not because Paul presents himself as a crazy person, but he was formidable.  They had tried everything they could to kill him and had been foiled at every turn.
• Paul’s presence demanded respect even from people who disagreed with him.
• We may offend or do wrong to one another.  Paul learns the lesson of why persecutest thou me?  Paul recognizes that this is no ordinary person he is talking to.
• When Jesus tells Paul he is Jesus of Nazareth that makes it clear which Jesus He was.
• This message is about extending grace and mercy to those who will receive it.
• In verse 9 it was rather miraculous that these people who were with Paul did not hear Jesus speaking to him.
• People get offended at the idea that God would talk to someone other than them because people think they are worthy of being spoken to.  Then you are required to hear what the Lord told that person and if they don’t then it means they haven’t received the Lord.
• They did not have ears to hear and therefore did not receive.
• You cannot receive the Lord and not receive those ordained by Him.  You cannot say I will hear from the Lord if you will not hear from Paul or John or anyone else ordained of God.
• God doesn’t change, we change.  We start to think we are better than we are, we forget who we are.
• The Lord chooses the base things of this world to confound the wise.
• The rich man has to be ready to be made low.  If he is unwilling to be made low, then he will never enter in.  Rich not only in financial means, but in education, power, esteem, friends or whatever this world puts stock in.
• If you are not willing to lower yourself and God in His grace chooses to lower you and you get offended, you have missed the point.
• Luke wrote some of the Gospels not because he was a witness but because he would not be shaken and as a consequence he received the revealed Word through Paul and was given the commission to write 2 of the most important books in the Bible.  But he had to lower himself, be humble, and to know God and salvation.
• What shall I do Lord?  (v10)  The Lord didn’t make it difficult and give him a list of things to do, he said arise, and go into Damascus;  and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do.
• Ananias was a devout man according to the law of Moses as all the Jewish Christians sought to do.
• Ananias did what the Lord told him to do.
• Paul is having to receive a word from a man, not Jesus coming to him but an ordinary yet devout Christian man who is obeying the Lord and giving Paul the message from the Lord.
• Ananias prays for Saul to receive his sight.
• Ananias is bringing the message which is coming to Saul from the Lord through the Holy Spirit being spoken by a man.
• If you will choose Him, then what we read about happening here about Saul whom God chose, the same can be your experience.
• The saying “God works in mysterious ways” is not true.  Paul understood Gods will.  We should be able to partake of that as well, none of that should be a mystery to us.
• Just like the school education level has been lowered because people no longer meet the requirements, does not mean that is right.  You should raise the standard so people have to aim higher.  The same thing has happened in the Church today, if we think God works in mysterious ways, what are we doing to know and understand His ways?  The truth is we have to diligently seek Him … this is work, we don’t want to work.  If we zealously seek Him and His ways, He is a righteous and faithful God and if we humble ourselves before Him, diligently seek Him and His ways, He will show us the way.
• If you are interested in pre-destination (which this chapter raises that Paul is pre-destined, not everyone is pre-destined), then listen to the Bible Studies on the book of Ephesians and you will see it come up a lot there.
• There are 3 seeds which helps understanding pre-destination:  The Elect Seed (i.e. Paul), The Seed of satan (Judas), The Seed of Adam (not pre-destinated but has a choice as to whether or not they will hear and accept the Gospel).
• He is going to be a witness of things seen.  Pauls testimony is one of things he has seen and heard and not come up with on his own, but rather about things that are sure.
• Paul was baptized with 3 baptisms.  Blood baptism was for sins being washed away; Water baptism as he was submerged under water dying to the old man;  Holy Spirit baptism as he was empowered to go forward as Gods chosen vessel.
• They were not going to receive Paul and his testimony.
• Jesus tells him he will send him to the Gentiles… this is an offense since the Jews are His chosen people.  It is only an offense to those who are trying to justify themselves, not to those who want to hear the truth.
• Jesus is the truth and will always bear witness of that truth.
• Paul has not said anything that would justify his having to be killed, yet in verse 22 they say “Away with such a fellow from the earth:  for it is not fit that he should live”.  He hurt their pride.  People who do not like the truth will do all manner of things to keep from secrets being revealed.  This is what they were doing.  Accusing those who want to get to the truth.
• People say things to try and make the truth more palatable and makes us feel comfortable.  If you don’t like the truth, it doesn’t matter who it is who gives it to you, you will find an excuse to reject the truth.  John 3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
• Paul knew the answer to the question in v25.  A Roman was entitled to the same rights.
• Paul says “I was free born”.
• The last verse sets up what the next chapter is going to be about.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-08-20 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 23

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 23

SUBJECT:

• Paul, when he gives the true testimony of his life having been lived in all good conscience before God, is smitten on the mouth at the command of the High Priest.
• Paul is always on the offensive – here he is 1 against 70 – he is never on the defensive, always moving forward.  We, too, should never be on the defensive, if we are we are wrong.
• God gave us power to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy.
• Revilest thou God’s high priest?  Made an idol out of the position.  High Priest was wrong – Paul was right – and they knew it.  Paul wished he did not have to speak to him as he did.  He didn’t speak evil – just called him out for doing wrong.
• Paul leveraged the situation when he knew they were both Pharisees and Sadducees.  Pharisees believed in the resurrection, Sadducees do not.  He was being called into question for his testimony of the resurrection from the dead.  An example of Paul having the mustard seed of faith, always looking for a way to preach the Gospel.  He did exactly what was needed, it was of the Lord, not of Paul.
• Paul was delivered by the chief captain.
• Jesus stood by Paul, who found himself in an extraordinary situation.  Paul zealously serving the Lord and the Lord came and stood by him.
• Nothing would prevent Paul from going to Rome.
• Plot to kill Paul was heard by Paul’s nephew who told Paul who sent him to the chief captain.
• When it comes to walking in the anointing so called Christians are the most offended.  All comes down to pride.
• Plan to kill Paul gets thwarted.  Chief captain takes the threat seriously and sends Paul under cover of darkness with 470 soldiers to Felix the governor (political leader).
• No Roman citizen (which Paul was) would be worthy of death by going against Jewish law.  If so, even they could be put to death.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-08-27 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 24

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 24

SUBJECT:

• A recap of what went before:  Paul called before the counsel (Sanhedrin), the chief captain took him out, Paul’s nephew overheard a plot to kill Paul, Paul was taken out by night to Felix the governor.
• High Priest and elders came down with a hired orator who begins with flattery (lies) trying to win favor with the governor.
• Accuses Paul of being a troublemaker and of trying to overthrow Roman rule (sedition), and of profaning the temple, none of which Paul ever did.  The High Priest and elders stood behind what he was saying.
• Said Paul was a ringleader of the sect of Nazarenes – a reference to Jesus and his followers.
• Even  Lysias, the chief captain, was accused of being violent.  The Jews were the violent ones, they were saying they were the ones behaving themselves.
• Paul, when he spoke, recognizes that Felix has been governor and witness to the Jews’ religion many years.
• Paul lays it out simply:  I didn’t dispute with anyone in the temple.  Then he turns to what is true, the way they (the Jews) call heresy, I worship.  He is being called into question for the resurrection of the dead and states that his accusers also know there will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and of the unjust.
• If you are ministering the Word in truth and love and people are offended, they are not offended at you but at God.  They cannot take it out on God so they take it out on you.
• He has done nothing to deserve the accusations.
• Felix understands Judaism – ‘the way’.
• Felix will await Lysias’ arrival to get the full story.
• Felix gave Paul liberty due to his Roman citizenship.
• Felix – curious about Jesus and Christianity.
• When Paul ministers to him the Gospel, Felix comes under heavy conviction, trembling.  He put off receiving Christ – why the Bible says “Today of you can hear my voice harden not your hearts”.
• Felix likely thought he would not be governor anymore if he were to accept Christ.  He resisted rather than yielding.
• Don’t think knowing something is satisfactory, you have to make a decision.
• Felix wanted a bribe from Paul.
• When Portius Festus took Felix’s place, Felix left Paul bound to please the Jews – like throwing them a bone.
• Because Paul went to Jerusalem and was imprisoned, he preached the Word to many who would have otherwise never heard.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-09-03 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 25

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 25

SUBJECT:

• Festus is the new Roman governor replacing Felix.
• High priest and chief Jews continue to be hot to kill Paul though a matter of years have past.  Same attitude the jihadists have towards the Jews today.
• Festus would not bring Paul to Jerusalem at the Jews’ request.  He tells them to come to Caesarea. You see God’s protection on Paul.
• The day following his arrival he hears Paul.  This is an aspect of Festus seeking to please the Jews.
• The high priest and chief Jews knew they could not prove their case which is why they wanted Paul to be brought to Jerusalem where they could kill him on the way there.
• Paul answers with a clear conscience.
• Festus, wanting to do the Jews a favor, asks Paul if he is willing to go to Jerusalem.
• Paul knows none of this is about seeking justice or the truth.
• In a natural (logical) sense Paul’s judgment to appeal to Caesar makes sense.  He may have not thought God could protect him if he went back to Jerusalem.
• Paul’s statement, “where I ought to be judged” – if there is anything to be judged of it is by Caesar, the Jews complaints were groundless.
• King Agrippa and Bernice (his sister) were the children of the Herod who was eaten up by worms in Acts 12.
• Agrippa was a superior to Festus.
• Festus is faced with an important political question so tells Agrippa what is going on.
• Paul, as a Roman citizen, had a right to appeal unto Caesar.
• Paul brought before Agrippa at Agrippa’s request.  Chief captains and principal men of the city also came to hear Paul.
• Festus lays out his perspective.  He needs to explain to Caesar what crimes Paul is being accused of.  At this point in time he has nothing.  He is hoping, after Agrippa hears him, to have something to say to Caesar.
• The stage is set for Paul’s very interesting testimony to Agrippa.
• God never departed from Paul despite his mistakes. An aspect of grace.
• Paul did get to witness to many powerful and important people.  Agrees with what Jesus told his disciples when he said they would be brought before rulers.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-09-10 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 26

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 26, 1 Corinthians 9:22, 1 Corinthians 1:23

SUBJECT:

• King Agrippa, the fourth and last in the line of Herods, the great grandson of Herod the Great.  He would have known a lot about the Jew’s history and customs.
• Paul starts with a quick background, the Jews knew he was of the straightest (the only right one) sect of the Pharisees.
• At the time Paul is speaking the Jews had a great hope that God’s promise was doing to be fulfilled.  Not unlike today and the knowledge of Christ’s coming.
• Paul testifies, again something the Jews know, is that he had done the same things to Christians that they are doing to him.  He had been so zealous in it that Christians feared him.
• Paul testifies to the light and voice which he saw and heard on the way to Damascus, “why persecutest thou me.”  Testifies to the persecution of those in the Body of Christ is in fact the persecution of Christ.
• Paul’s answer, “who art thou, Lord?  He did not know who it is who spoke to him, a question spoken in shock and amazement.
• Answer: “I am Jesus.”
• Paul had no merit of his own that God may make it clear it is not of works but of grace.
• Jesus made Paul a minister, entirely the work of God, not the work of Paul.  This is true for all who will submit unto God, accomplished by God through our faith in God.  He allowed God to make him into whatever God wanted him to be (see 1 Corinthians 9:22).
• Jesus made him a witness, which Paul is doing here, speaking of his experience.
• Jesus would appear to him, which there is testimony of in the Bible.
• Jesus would deliver him, spoke it because most people say they want the Lord but they want the Lord to do what they want and for others to serve them.  Jesus said the greatest among you will be servant of all.
• When God calls a deed evil he is not just looking at the deed but at the motives.
• To open their eyes and to turn them from the power of Satan to the power of God – a slap in their face.
• Paul is ministering in the hope they will hear and receive forgiveness of sins.
• ‘I’m not perfect’ used as a tool to justify oneself.  ‘Only Jesus was perfect’, they forget that Jesus was born a man, he was every bit a man.  He was conceived of the Holy Ghost so the blood cell was God’s but it leaves everyone without excuse.
• Need to fall on our face and confess we are sinners and undeserving but his love is so great and far reaching he will give us his righteousness if we will believe him.
• Jesus came to forgive us our sins and to give us an inheritance in the Kingdom of God.
• Those that are sanctified by the faith that Jesus has- we, through the power of God can receive.
• If you want to know the faith to raise the dead, heal the sick, multiply bread, it is not your faith but Jesus’ faith in you.
• Paul was obedient to the heavenly vision, everywhere he went he preached with force.
• Works meet for repentance – if you have an encounter with Jesus you are not going to look the same.
• Faith without works is dead – you cannot do the works of God without God.  These signs shall  follow them that believe, so that those who don’t believe can believe.  If you are not doing them what evidence is there that you believe?
• Like gas gauge in car, we depend on it to tell us when we need gas.  Throughout scripture we see that God has given us ways to see where we are.
• Because of Paul’s message of doing works meet for repentance they wanted to kill him, as they did the apostles and prophets.
• They couldn’t kill him because of the help of God.
• Paul witnessed to both small and great, saying that which the prophets had said, all that Paul is saying is right out of scripture.
• Festus, what Paul preached was foolishness (see 1 Corinthians 1:23), “Paul, thou art mad.”
• Paul was not concerned about the outcome.  Most people are more concerned about what people will think of them than about what God would have them do.
• Paul knows king Agrippa is aware of Jesus and his crucifixion, knows he believes the prophets.
• Paul’s desire is that the hearer would partake of the good things of God, be set free.
• A final note, the conversation at the end of the chapter between the king, the governor and Bernice was private, revealed to the writer by God proving the Bible is not the word of men but the word of God.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-09-17 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 27

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 27

SUBJECT:

• After having appealed to Caesar (Augustus), Paul is now a prisoner on a ship to Rome.
• Aristarchus – a Christian who was  part of Paul’s ministry, now traveling with Paul and Luke – two who clave to Paul even thou Paul was cast into prison and endured other tribulations.  Many used his tribulations to reject Paul.
• Paul had found favor with the Centurion, his prison guard.
• Wind against them made traveling hard.
• Paul’s counsel  to not leave was not taken . The Centurion believed the ship owner.
• A soft wind – they left thinking they could make it to a good port – then a tempestuous wind came up:
  • They let the wind take the boat where it would.
  • Boat having problems.
  • Started throwing things overboard, even the equipment.
  • The wind continued many days, all hope was taken away and they thought they were going to die (would appear to include even Luke).
• Paul stood up, after abstaining from food and (primarily) speaking and spoke (nothing in the physical had changed).
  • The ship will be destroyed.
  • The people will be safe.
  • Because God would save Paul, everyone else was saved.
  • People stripped of everything but their lives.  God had brought them to a place where they could hear.
  • They would be cast upon an island.
• One of the purposes of prophecy is comfort.  This was supposed to bring comfort.
• The shipmen, workers on the ship, were going to flee.
• Paul told the Centurion and the soldiers that unless these men abide in the ship you (the Centurion and soldiers) cannot be saved.
• Soldiers cut off the ‘life’ boat.
• Paul told them to eat.
• Paul turning the people’s sights unto the Lord
• Color – means fake, that which looks like something but is not.
• Soldiers were going to kill the prisoners but the Centurion would not let them because he wanted to save Paul.
• All made it safe to shore.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-09-24 Men’s Bible Study on Acts 28

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• Acts 28

SUBJECT:

• Next week we will have an open discussion about the book of Acts and we hope to have it set up so you can call in to ask questions or add to the discussion.
• Island of Melita (Malta), barbarous people meaning not Greek speaking.  They received these 276 cold and wet people with kindness even though they included prisoners and Roman soldiers.
• A viper, poisonous snake, fastened onto Paul (did not just strike, bite).  Would have hurt tremendously.  Due to their understanding this was misinterpreted and they assumed Paul was a murderer who though he escaped the shipwreck he now was bitten by this viper.
• Paul felt no harm, he was walking in the Lord.  He didn’t have to say, “Oh Lord, your Word says……..”  Just natural for him to shake it off.
• A perfect example of Mark 16: 15-18.  Should not be taken out of context.  Remember when Jesus was tempted of Satan he said, “Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.”  Paul did not take a snake and wrap it around his head, he did not make it happen.
• If we are walking in the Lord as we should be the signs following will set up plenty of opportunity to minister and witness to people that they may believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  But people just running around flapping their ‘tator traps’ doesn’t mean much.
• The people turned from judging Paul to thinking he was a god.  Shows how the carnal mind is at enmity with God, either way you turn you got it wrong.
• Paul’s authority plainly seen.  Now things changed and peopled wanted to take care of them.
• Chief man of the island lodged them.  His father was sick, Paul lays his hands on him and he heals him (Mark 16 again).  People came as prisoners and leave with honor.  No way you could do this on your own, an act of God.
• What an extraordinary blessing to have been on that ship and to have been on that island.
• It all began with one man who God appointed an Apostle who went out with zeal.  He didn’t do everything right but God redeemed and made use of everything.  It didn’t matter that Paul was a prisoner – “as you go into all the world preach the Gospel.”
• People gave what they needed to make the rest of the trip, not a wealthy people.
• Paul permitted to tarry in Puteoli because of the brethren who came out to meet him.
• Paul took courage – he had just been through a number of extraordinary things.  Paul still a prisoner.  It was like a glass of fresh water when the brethren came out to see him – it refreshed Paul.
• Got to Rome, the other prisoners delivered to the captain of the guard.  Paul was allowed to have a place of his own with a soldier.  Paul had been a prisoner for about 3 years time.  Had to be a peculiar and extraordinary blessing to Paul and he was thankful.
• Paul called the chief of the Jews together.  Paul hit things head on, taking the initiative.  When they came he explained why he was there.  He did not have aught against his nation, they had aught against him.  He was bound because of the hope of Israel, Jesus the Messiah.
• The Jews had not heard anything of Paul but desired to hear of this sect (cult) of those who followed Jesus.
• Paul on the offense, not the defense, and God moves.
• The Jews appointed a day when they came to hear Paul.  Paul spoke of the Kingdom of God, not religion but the spiritual realm.  Noah, Abraham, Moses, etc. had operated in the Kingdom of God.  The Kingdom of God is alive and well and available for all through Jesus.
• Result, some Jews believed, some did not.  No evidence that those who believed continued in it, that it caused them to turn and continue in Christ.  They disputed and were satisfied, not satisfactory to the Lord.  Like today people agree to disagree.
• When someone stands up for the truth they are accused of not having any love.
• They departed from Paul when he quoted Isaiah.  Jesus, too, spoke the same thing.  They hear but don’t understand, see but don’t see.
• Why? Because their hearts have waxed gross – to render the soul dull or calloused.  Pride makes your heart insensitive to what God is doing.  They were okay because they were Jews, they followed the law and the prophets.  Truth is they didn’t believe the law and the prophets, if they had they would have believed Paul.  Again, the difference between religion and the Kingdom of God.
• Even when people hear and believe they don’t walk in it because they do not want to lose the admiration of the people.  Why the scripture speaks of the fear of God.  We are no different and when we realize this we fall on our knees before God because we don’t want to fall after the same example of unbelief.  The seed and the sower, those among the thorns, they are cut off.
• Examine your motives, why did I do, think, say that?  If you’re going to really look at it you are going to see some things that are unpleasant but now you can get free of these things.  The truth will set you free.  Truth is unpleasant, people don’t want to hear they are not good.
• Converted – turn around.  If they had been willing to be converted they would have turned and God would have healed them.  “Preacher, you rub me the wrong way. No, you are just turned the wrong way.”  Those who are true and faithful are going to hear.  Those who aren’t are going to hate you.
• Salvation of God which was for you, your birthright, is going to be taken away and given to the Gentiles who will hear.
• They reasoned among themselves on their way to hell feeling righteous all the time.
• Book of Acts, a chronicle written by Luke.  Has not ended, still being written.  Interesting to note many today try to change the name of the book from The Acts of the Apostles to The Acts of the Holy Spirit because they do not want to believe that there are Apostles today due to pride.
• This book is still being written today and will continue until Jesus comes.  You see that those who weren’t apostles but submitted to the Apostles walked in great power and confidence.
• Only 7 anointings.  Many walk in a counterfeit anointing.
• Confidence – Paul’s word was sharp and correct.  He did not equivocate.

Service Notes For Tuesday 2013-10-01 Men’s Bible Study RECAP on Acts

SPEAKERS:

• Richard Eutsler, Sr.
• Steven Atherton
• Paul Muller
• Charles Hocker
• Richard Eutsler, Jr.

SCRIPTURES USED:

• RECAP on the Book of Acts

SUBJECT:

• Luke begins by referring back to The Gospel of Luke of all that Jesus began both to do and teach.  Jesus, through the Holy Ghost, gave commandment to his disciples when he walked with them and they did what he told them to do.  Jesus did only what his father, the Holy Ghost, told him to do.  He taught them how to hear the Holy Spirit.
• The difference in them before the day of Pentecost vs. after, like Peter who preached and healed the sick in the Holy Spirit.  This is how discipleship is supposed to work: hear and do while with them.  Then you can do it when they are not with you.  The eleven were the fruit of Jesus’ work discipling them.
• The struggle Peter and the others, through fear, had to not give heed to the law and the traditions of the Jews.
• Paul and those who ministered to the Gentiles, by contrast, went forth mightily.
• The children of Israel never understood that the destruction of Jerusalem was their fault.
• The U.S. court decision that a corporation has no freedom of religion.
• Early Christians in Rome were persecuted because they would not acknowledge Caesar as their head.  Same as in China today where there is a public ‘free’ church and a persecuted unincorporated church.
• Indoctrination starts in the schools, the leaven of Herod.  Shows the need to study to show yourself approved, a workman not needing to be ashamed.  How can you recognize the lie if you don’t know the truth?
• How do you learn to walk in the Holy Spirit like Jesus walked in the Holy Spirit?  Through discipleship.  You saw it in Stephen and Philip who learned from Peter and John.  Saw it in Luke with Paul.
• You wouldn’t take off in an airplane without an instrument panel yet most Christians do just that and they will crash and burn.  God has given us the instrument panel but you have to choose to believe it.
• Book of Acts shows us the instrument panel – How can anybody go through life without any of the signs following and think they are okay?
• The whole Book of Acts is a demonstration of what God said would happen.  Healing, raising the dead, people translated.
• You clearly see in the Book of Acts those who would humble themselves He lifts up to positions in the Kingdom of God.
• It is time to do it, get rid of all the garbage and do what God wants us to do.  Those who come to the convention will have the opportunity to be filled with the Holy Spirit in a way they have never known before.
• A man does what a man wants to do.  We often don’t do what God has for us because of fear of what others will think.
• We have to be willing to be the victim so God can show his power.  An example is Paul and Silas in prison.  The prison guard would not have heard if they were not there.
• All goes back to motives and faith.  God is the one who doesn’t skip a beat.
• Prodigal son story is like the Jews (the elder brother), jealous, and the Gentiles (the prodigal son).  The elder brother thought his brother was a sinner and not like himself who was ‘righteous’.
• Don’t try to hold another back.  People take someone who is on fire for the Lord and throw a bucket of cold water on them and put the fire out.
• Got to get rid of the inhibitions, fear and concerns.  God is faithful even when we screw up.
• Paul defected from the Sanhedrin, they were vicious toward him.  Paul, who had been more zealous than them all, left them without excuse.
• The Book of Acts is a book of possibilities. If we commit ourselves to the Lord and do what he asks us to do it is open to us all.
• In the time of the latter rain the Lord is going to bring together the Old Testament and the New Testament saints.
• Let’s be like Elisha was with Elijah, “I want a double portion.”  It is okay to be greedy of the things of the Lord.
• The testimony of the message on Sunday (September 29^th) in the Texas service, the clearest explanation of baptism.  This service is available on this website under the New Audio tab.  There is also a good teaching on baptism under the teaching tab of this website.