May 20, 2011…Oops! Missed chapters 5, 6 and 7 of Acts
Why is it that the signs and wonders were done only by the apostles? Think of the importance of having that massive outpouring of miracles it was to the growth of the new church.
I am really pondering this for some reason, it really struck me this morning, “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” Acts 5:20 (ESV)
All the words of THIS LIFE...the fact that there is no "life" outside of God's plan. John 6:63, John 6:68, Philippians 2:16, Acts 3:15, Acts 11:18. What are the words of life? The chapter later give an outline:
The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree.
God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” Acts 5:30-32 (ESV)
There it is in a nutshell. It is missing the part about the fact that God created everything for Himself and the creation rejected His right to rule so the plan was executed to connect man back to the creator - there is no life outside of Him - For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. Colossians 1:16 (ESV)
But the Jews would have already known and believed that part. They knew the whole story but rejected Christ as the One who would put it all back together the way it was intended.
I love Gamaliel's wisdom. I should remember it when I think there is something funky going on in the Christian church which can not be identified as sin (if that were the case I would have to speak the truth) but just doesn't sit right.
...for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God! Acts 5:38-39 (ESV)
New Mermaid: She needs to be tidied up today.
