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Search Me, O God

Barefoot and sun-kissed, we crowded onto the couches and floors in the houseboat’s tiny front room. Sitting on faded linoleum as someone strummed a guitar, I joined the heartfelt voices of my fellow camp counselors worshiping the Lord. A growing understanding of God’s holiness had transformed the way I praised Him during those pure and powerful worship sessions.

I had arrived at Houseboats a few weeks earlier and was glad to be serving at a Christian camp instead of joining my friends for graduation festivities in Mexico. I’d been stretched and humbled but had also experienced deep joy in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Praising God for His transcendent attributes and meditating on His character gave me a clearer perspective of His worthiness and my weakness. Awestruck by His perfection and holiness, a surprising awareness of my own sinfulness also came to light. I knew I needed to confess it and come clean before Him. Like David in Psalm 139:19-22, I was beginning to recoil from sin as I understood how much the Lord hates it. 

My experience was personal, but not unique. Through the prompting and conviction of the Holy Spirit, many believers pray as David did: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.” (Psalm 139, 23-24, CSB) 

After accepting Christ, we are cleansed by His blood and receive eternal salvation, but we still struggle with sin. So, we need to examine our hearts and actions consistently and confess where we’ve fallen short of His standards. The prophet Isaiah explains how sin hinders our communication with God: “Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.” (Isaiah 59:1-2, NIV) 

David expresses an understanding of this in Psalm 51: “Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (Psalm 51:9-12, NIV)

Responding to the Lord’s loving forgiveness, we then repent and allow Him to transform our thoughts, attitudes, and actions once again. We turn back towards God and away from whatever dishonors Him; repentance is about surrender—welcoming the conviction of the Holy Spirit and seeking God’s help to do things differently.

With that in mind, let’s consider several reasons we’d be wise to let the Lord search our hearts and shine light on unconfessed sin. 

–Unconfessed sin is a burden that weighs us down:  In another psalm, David says, “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me, my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.” (Psalm 32:3-7, NIV)

Guilt warns us we’ve done something wrong, but when feeling guilty becomes a a permanent state of mind, that’s condemnation–which isn’t from God. Jesus was condemned to die on the cross to pay for our guilt! Instead, the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin so that we can confess it and be restored to close connection with the Lord. Here are a few differences between guilt that leads to condemnation and holy conviction that leads to restoration:

CondemnationConviction
Comes from the enemyComes from the Holy Spirit
Points us back to ourselvesPoints us back to God
Causes shame, regret & self-loathingCauses humility, repentance & change
Causes us to dwell on failuresCauses remorse for sin
Leads us to feel helpless & hopelessLeads us to spiritual maturity

–Unconfessed sin hinders us from growing spiritually: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2, NIV, italics added) It’s a struggle to move forward in our faith and accomplish God’s will and plans when we’re entangled by sin. It holds us back from experiencing deep, intimate fellowship with God. It also dulls our spiritual senses, weakens our ability to persevere, and takes our eyes off Jesus.

–Unconfessed sin limits opportunities to be used by God and steals our joy: David offered these wise words for his son, Solomon, shortly before his death: “I am about to go the way of all the earth…So be strong, act like a man, and observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in obedience to him, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and regulations, as written in the Law of Moses. Do this so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go.’“ (1 Kings 2:1-3, NIV italics added)

Jesus also emphasizes how obedience enables closeness to God when He says, “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” (John 15:10-11, NIV, italics added)

Paul elaborates further: “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness… Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” (Ephesians 4:22-24 5:15-17, NIV, italics added)

Although confession and repentance may feel difficult, or even scary at times, Scripture explains the benefits: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” (Acts 3:19, NIV, italics added) 

Consider inviting God to search your heart today. Let adoration of Him lead you to confess sins that are keeping you from becoming the person He’s made you to be. Experience refreshment and joy by removing any barriers to connection with Him

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

Inspired by When You Pray: A Study of Six Prayers in the Bible, Session 4, Kelly Minter, Jackie Hill Perry, Jen Wilkin, Jennifer Rothschild, Jada Edwards, Kristi McClelland, Lifeway Press, 2023.

Petitioning God

Most of us think of prayer as an opportunity to ask the Lord for what we need or want. In Session 3 of When You Pray, contributing author Jackie Hill Perry opens by inviting us to read several Scriptures about making requests of God. By cherry picking verses from these passages, we could make some inaccurate assumptions about prayers of petition, especially in our culture that values instant gratification. Consider these phrases:

  • “Ask and it will be given to you.” (Matt 7:7a)
  • “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” (Matt 21:22)
  • “Whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.” (1 John 5:15b)

Without context, we could misinterpret these passages and see God as a spiritual wish-granter. Prayer could seem transactional like a vending machine–we insert a prayer; God gives the answer. We might come to Scripture focusing on what sounds good to us while filtering out what’s uncomfortable or difficult to understand. Jackie Hill Perry suggests examining a list of verses that help us to understand the importance of seeking the will of God in our petitions (When You Pray page 51). Let’s see what we can learn from them:

Psalm 145:18 “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” Regardless of how or when He answers our prayers, we can rest assured that the Lord is present when we cry out to Him with authenticity. We don’t need to use fancy words—we can be honest and vulnerable in our prayers and take comfort in God’s nearness to us.

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” One commentary explains, “When we allow God to make our paths straight, we are aligning our will with His. This requires humility and a willingness to surrender our plans and desires to the sovereign will of God. It is also a recognition that our finite understanding cannot lead us in the right direction and that true fulfillment comes from following the path that God sets for us.”1

Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” The Lord values justice, mercy, and humility. When our prayers focus on bringing more of these three things to our lives and the world, we know they are within the parameters of His will.

John 15:7 “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” When we walk closely with Jesus, our hearts are drawn to what He wants. When we pray about things that align with what He teaches, we can trust that He will respond.

John 16:23-24 “In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” When we pray “in Jesus name” we are declaring that our requests align with what He would want. Praying in His name isn’t a way to sign off on our prayers before saying “amen” but to affirm that we’re seeking what we know He would desire. Abiding closely with Jesus enables us to experience deep joy when we see His will accomplished through our prayers.

Romans 8:27-28 “And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” The Holy Spirit searches our hearts and prays on our behalf to the Father (which is great news when we don’t know what to pray!) God works for our good according to His purposes, not our plans.

Hebrews 13:20-21 “Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”  God equips us with everything good for carrying out His will so that we can do what is pleasing to Him. All of this is not for our comfort or convenience but His glory.

James 4:2-3 “You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” God knows our motives and does not grant selfish desires or give what is not in accordance with His will.

2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” We live in a culture that demands instant gratification, but God rarely answers according to our timelines. We need to pray for patience and let God’s plans unfold in His perfect timing.

God wants us to ask for things, but Scripture also calls us to align with His will. So, let’s strive to be more concerned with His glory than our personal gain. Jackie Hill Perry closes by asking “How can we cultivate a heart that loves the Giver more than the gift?” Here are a few ideas:

  • Each time you pray, consider previous requests you’ve made. Thank God for the prayers He has answered and notice the ways He may have responded differently (or better) than you anticipated.
  • Thank God for things you might take for granted normally: your health, your home, your relationships, your community of faith, etc.
  • Thank God for the gifts He’s given you and the opportunities you’ve had to use them to bless others, build His church, and advance His kingdom on earth.
  • Ask the Lord to help you want His will more than yours. Ask Him to change your heart and to show where you’re clinging to your personal agenda instead of trusting Him.

Want to learn more about aligning with God’s will in your life and prayers? Consider reading Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

Inspired by When You Pray: A Study of Six Prayers in the Bible, Kelly Minter, Jackie Hill Perry, Jen Wilkin, Jennifer Rothschild, Jada Edwards, Kristi McClelland, Lifeway Press, 2023.

  1. GotQuestions.org “What does it mean that He will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:6)?”

Your Kingdom Come

Almost every morning I start the day reading the Bible and praying. Typically, I end my time by asking the Lord to use me to bless others, to build His kingdom, and to bring Him glory. Some days it’s obvious when He’s answering this prayer, but it isn’t always convenient or comfortable. 

In the first chapter of the Bible study When You Pray, contributing author Kelly Minter says, “Whether we pray to be noticed or don’t pray so we aren’t noticed, both have to do with fear of people instead of reverence for God.”1 She then asks us to consider settings where we might avoid prayer out of concern for what others think.

A recent memory came to mind when God answered my morning prayer with an unexpected prompting. It was one of those times when my heart started pounding because I knew what He wanted me to do, but I didn’t want to do it. I was enjoying a fun morning playing Pickle Ball with a large group of women. Some I knew well, but many were new to me. Some were followers of Jesus, others weren’t. I’d joined the group hoping to meet people and have opportunities to show God’s love, but hadn’t envisioned Him leading me to be quite so bold.

On this particular day, a woman I barely knew arrived late and sat waiting to play as others chatted around her. Although typically soft-spoken, she seemed more subdued than usual. As the group began to disperse she remained planted in her spot; even when another friend and I were the only ones left, she seemed in no rush to leave. Without a fourth person to play a game, we laid our paddles aside. But instead of saying goodbye, we asked if she was okay and then sat in the shade listening as she opened up about frustrations and struggles that were overwhelming her. 

Brushing away the tears from her cheeks, she apologized for being emotional and picked up her paddle to leave. Although she’d come to play Pickle Ball, it seemed clear what she really needed was support and encouragement. My heartbeat quickened as the Holy Spirit reminded me of my prayer that morning. After a few minutes of mental grappling, I couldn’t ignore the pounding of my heart any longer. The prompting of the Holy Spirit overrode my fear and, having no idea how she’d react, I heard myself saying, “This might sound weird, but can we pray for you before you leave?” To my surprise, she agreed without hesitation. Eying my friend who sat listening with me, I took another risk and asked, “Do you mind if we lay our hands on you?” Nodding yes, she bowed her head as we scooted in closer to rest our palms on her shoulders.

I don’t remember exactly what I prayed, but my fear about what she would think vanished. I asked God for His intervention with her specific circumstances, but I remember praying more that she would feel His peace, love, comfort, and presence.  After saying “amen” we chatted for a few more minutes with no trace of awkwardness or discomfort between us.  She thanked us and moved on with the day seeming lighter than she’d come.

A few weeks went by before I saw her again and had the chance to ask how she was doing. Between games I sought her out. With the background noise of women chatting and the ball popping against paddles, we stood on the sidelines as she recounted how each issue had resolved. Pausing mid-sentence, she interrupted herself and said, “Wow, now that I think about it, I guess your prayers were answered.” 

I had asked God to use me that morning and He teed up an opportunity. Imagine what my new friend and I would’ve missed if I’d ignored the Spirit’s prompting instead of risking to pray for her. I wish I could say I’m always that bold, but I’d be lying. However each time I’ve responded to the Spirit’s gentle but insistent nudging, my faith has grown and someone else has been blessed in the process.

The Disciples’ Prayer (also known as the Lord’s Prayer) taught by Jesus starts with “Our Father in heaven, your name be honored as holy. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:9b-10, CSB) I used to think the phrase “your kingdom come” was all about the future when Christ returns. I didn’t understand that every follower of Jesus has the opportunity to bring God’s kingdom to earth every day. Theologian Dallas Willard explains, “The kingdom of God is the range of his effective will: That is, it is the domain where what he prefers is actually what happens.”2

So, when we obey the promptings of the Spirit we’re carrying out His will–we’re bringing a little bit more of His kingdom to earth at that very moment. Shining His light into the darkness, we’re taking back territory from the enemy. That’s one of the many powerful ways prayer works.

I’ve been learning how to pray and practicing it for all of my adult life. Scripture gives us the keys to unlock understanding God’s will so that we can pray with boldness and confidence. When we’re aligned with His Spirit, we have access to His unlimited power. Tapping into that power requires us to try engaging God in new ways, stepping out of our comfort zones, and trusting Him. Prayer isn’t so much about asking the Lord to do what we want as it is about opening an ongoing dialogue with Him. As we draw near to Him and align our hearts with His, He speaks to us in a variety of ways. It may be through the Bible, circumstances, other people, His creation, silence, or song lyrics, to name a few. (You can learn more about this by reading How to Hear God: A Simple Guide for Normal People by Pete Greig.)

Over the next few months we’ll delve into the deep wisdom of six teachers who will help us unpack prayers in the Bible that can transform the way we engage with God. During this season, consider choosing one practice to add to your daily rhythm that will expand your experience with prayer. Here are few ideas:

  • Commit to practicing the prayer prompts in When You Pray instead of skipping over them to save time or mental energy.
  • Start your day with a few minutes of silence and becoming attuned to God’s presence. Invite Him to speak to you throughout your day.
  • Start and/or end your day with a time of meditation on God’s Word and quiet prayer. If you’re not sure what to do, try using an app like Lectio 365 (created by Pete Greig– the author mentioned above).

I can’t wait to see what the Lord has in store to grow us deeper in our walks with Him.

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

  1. Kelly Minter, When You Pray, Lifeway Press 2023, 18.
  2. Dallas Willard, The Divine Conspiracy, Harper Collins-Books, 399.

Wrapping Up Acts

We’ve been camped out in the book of Acts for quite a while (7 months and 19 previous posts, to be exact.) This pivotal narrative has revealed the fulfillment of prophecy from the Old Testament. It has also provided crucial context for understanding the astounding changes in Jesus’ disciples and the rapid expansion of the gospel. Really, Acts is the bridge between the first four books of the New Testament and the twenty-two that come after it.

Some of you reading this have been part of the Focused Living Bible study that has studied diligently and met weekly to delve into Scripture using Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Parts 1 & 2 by the Village Church. Along with our small group discussions, we’ve also had twelve gifted teachers lead us through the twenty-eight chapters of this incredible book. So, as we wrap up, I’ve included a brief compilation of my notes along with a link to each teaching (the notes really don’t do the teachings justice). As you read (and watch), you’ll notice some powerful repeating themes. My hope and prayer is that the head knowledge you’ve gained studying Acts becomes heart knowledge you’re living on a daily basis.

Acts Introduction:  Pattie Cox

  • You need the backstory to write your story. 
  • General themes in Acts: the Gospel, opposition and persecution, history of the early church, the Holy Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit is the person who fuels your story.
  • Anything is possible empowered by the Holy Spirit.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

Acts 1: “The Ascension” Heather Congo

  • We need to wait AND walk as Jesus’ witnesses.
  • Stand on the proof of Jesus.
  • Lean into the power of the Holy Spirit.
  • Pray continually and in community.

To watch Heather’s teaching click here.

Acts 2: “Pentecost” Amethyst Thomas

  • Bold faith saves lives.
  • When you are confused, ask questions (don’t criticize).
  • When you are confused about the Holy Spirit, turn to the Holy Scriptures 
  • Who will you pray about boldly sharing your faith with?
  • What if someone had not shared the Gospel with you?

To watch Amethyst’s teaching click here.

Acts 3:1-4:31 “A Healing, a Sermon, and a Prison” Vanessa Lepisi

  • Faith says it’s possible, but hope says it’s possible for me.
  • Don’t walk past a hurting world and pretend you’re helpless when you have the Helper living inside you!
  • The Spirit stirs in you and then empowers you to speak words of life!

To watch Vanessa’s teaching click here.

Acts 4:32-5:42 “Church Formation” Marybeth McCullum

Pleasing people may have value for a moment but pleasing God has value for eternity.

Temporary Value: Eternal Value:
Being generous to receive praise from othersBeing generous for the glory of God
Focusing on your personal agendaFocusing on God’s agenda
Deceiving others with hypocrisyDemonstrating integrity & honesty
Hollow gestures for showSpirit-led actions to bless others

                                                     

  • Where is your fear of discomfort holding you back from growing spiritually and encountering the Lord in new ways?
  • If we’re intent on pleasing people more than obeying God, we’re missing out on all the ways God may want to use us to bring more of His kingdom to earth.

To watch Marybeth’s teaching click here.

Acts 6:1-8:3 “Stephen” Lisa Van Randwyk

  • One faithful believer can have profound impact through a faithful God.
  • Stephen’s story shows the impact of one life, one voice, and one tragedy.
  • God’s resumé is a story of faithfulness from generation to generation.
  • You have a story of God’s faithfulness in your life; a story with telling!
  • Don’t underestimate the impact of what the Spirit can do through you!
Pattern of GodPattern of Man
Promise KeeperDisobedient
Covenant MakerIdolatrous
RescuerWorships Self
Giver of Wisdom and FavorForgetful

To watch Lisa’s teaching click here.

Acts 8:4-40  “Simon and Philip” Pattie Cox

  • The Gospel goes out in invitation and warning; be “Gospel Invitation” people!
  • God uses ordinary people like you and me.
  • All are invited to Jesus, not to an organization or a program.
  • The Gospel goes out in words and deeds and results in joy.
  • We can have unity even in diversity—“In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity.”
  • The Gospel goes out in warning: Don’t be amazed by the wrong invitation or fooled by those who misuse it.
  • God is the great pursuer, those previously excluded (Gentiles) are now welcomed.
  • God uses obedient believers to explain the Gospel to seeking souls.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

Acts 9:1-31 “Saul’s Conversion” Tracey Shepherd

We are God’s instruments, chosen to play a part in His masterpiece. 

Chosen Instruments:
Surrender to Jesus as The Way
Obey the ways of Jesus
Rise and Go
Play a part in opening the eyes of others
Come alongside other chosen instruments realizing they have one part to play in God’s greater masterpiece.

To watch Tracey’s teaching click here.

Acts 9:32-11:18 “Peter’s Ministry” Lindsay Hanover

  • The Gospel is for everyone. God does not show favoritism. And neither should we.
  • When we hear the Lord’s voice, are we quick to obey?
  • What are the areas in your life that need changing or softening?
  • When faced with criticism do we let the Holy Spirit defend us?
  • Are you open and willing to go where God is calling you, even if it’s out of your comfort zone?

To watch Lindsay’s teaching click here.

Acts 11:19-12:25 “Expansion and Opposition” Kelly Holbrook

God has the final say:
in the gospel spreading despite persecution
in the church’s hearts by giving them hope
over earthly kings 
in the faith of the church
over sin

“The chapter opens with James dead, Peter in prison and Herod triumphing. It closes with Herod dead, Peter free and the word of God triumphing. Such is the power of God to overthrow human plans and to establish his own in their place.” -John Stott

To watch Kelly’s teaching click here.

Acts 13 “Paul and Barnabas” Temtem Armonious

  • The Good Kind of FOMO urges us not to miss out on enjoying the gift of the Holy Spirit and all He can do through us. (FOMO= “Fear of Missing Out.”)
  • In the presence of the real light, the fake light does not stand a chance. 
  • When in doubt, step back into the real light. (Ephesians 5:8)
  • When you step into the action, the Holy Spirit equips.
  • Don’t count your losses and missed opportunities just yet! The Holy Spirit prevails over human failure.
  • Be relatable to the world without conforming to the ways of the world. (1 Cor 9:20-23)
  • We too have a share in the gospel. Do you want it?
  • Transformation is the job of the Holy Spirit. Full joy comes when we are full of the Holy Spirit.

To watch Temtem’s teaching click here.

Acts 14- Acts 15:35 “The Jerusalem Council” Wendy Hagen

  • We are all made to worship something. What do you worship?
  • We are made to give and receive encouragement.
  • What do you go to for comfort instead of turning to God?
  • Idols aren’t always bad things, except when they become “ultimate.”
  • People aren’t meant to be worshiped.

To watch Wendy’s teaching click here.

Acts 15:36-16:40 “Paul’s Second Missionary Journey”  Vanessa Lepisi

  • Is opposition a sign we ought not to proceed?
  • When men divide, God multiplies.
  • Putting our egos aside puts Jesus on the pedestal and makes us willing servants of all.
  • A season of suffering may be a small price to pay for God’s greater glory. Suffering you’re enduring may not be about you at all! Keep enduring in faith and hold onto hope. God wastes nothing, not even our pain!
  • When faced with opposition consider your methods, giftings, and motivations to see if you’re aligned with God’s will.
How do you know WHEN to “become all things, to all people”? Ask yourself:
Is it ultimately MY choice & no one is forcing me?
Does it call into question my character or integrity before God?
Does it contradict the word of God?
Does it keep me safely inside my comfort zone?
Does it cause more unity than division or strife?

To watch Vanessa’s teaching click here.

Acts 17:1-18:21 “No Longer an Unknown God” Pattie Cox

  • Be women who turn the world upside down for Jesus.
  • Be women who KNOW Scripture, God’s Word.
  • Be women willing to DIALOGUE with people.
  • Be women who LIVE AS JESUS IS THEIR KING.
  • Be women whose spirit is provoked by seeing the culture from God’s eyes. 
  • Be women who can enter into the false stories of the culture and tell them the true story of Jesus.
  • Your suffering gives an opportunity to turn the world upside down.
  • Invite people into the community of believers.
  • Tell the world about your personal God.
  • Introduce the world to the presence and promises of God.
  • Be women who persevere and who are courageous despite suffering.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

Acts 18:22-19:41 “Paul’s Third Missionary Journey” Heather Congo

  • What we believe matters. We must improve our accuracy, reason boldly, turn away from idols and to the one true God.
  • Who can help you toward greater accuracy?
  • How might you need to be open to correction?
  • What idols do you need to turn from?
  • How can we challenge ideas and industries that propagate evil while also maintaining a good standing in our society?

To watch Heather’s teaching click here.

Acts 20-21:36 “Paul in Jerusalem” Lisa Van Randwyk

  • Follow the Spirit’s current. Invite Him to partner with you every day.
  • The Spirit’s current sometimes leads in a surprising direction.
  • The Spirit’s current gives direction, encouragement, and warning.
  • The Spirit’s current keeps us steady in dangerous waters.
  • Currents diminish in intensity the deeper they go; as we’re grounded in the Word, we won’t be so easily thrown off by our culture.

To watch Lisa’s teaching click here.

Acts 21:37-23:35 “Accusation and Arrest” Dana Van Egdom

  • God is good, even when things don’t go according to plan.
  • God is always working on your behalf.
  • Live your life like you’ve been saved!
  • Stay connected to the TRUE vine. (John 15)
  • God is the good in our testimony!
  • God uses ALL of our story for His glory.
  • We can take courage because God is with us.

To watch Dana’s teaching click here.

Acts 24-26 “Appeal to Caesar” Kelly Holbrook

  • God doesn’t waste anything. He uses our gifts, experiences and circumstances to bring His glory.
  • Paul’s calm demeanor → earned an audience
  • Paul’s speaking abilities & knowledge → persuaded Roman officials
  • Paul’s circumstances → shared Jesus 
  • Paul’s citizenship → got him to Rome to preach the gospel
  • Paul’s story → testified to the truth that Jesus is Lord!
  • How do you respond to unfair or false accusations?
  • What gifts has God given you to glorify Him?
  • How has God used the story He’s written in your life to bring Him glory?

To watch Kelly’s teaching click here.

Acts 27:1-28-31 “Paul in Rome” Pattie Cox

  • The Gospel is progressing then and now.
  • Your faith in God can spill over to encourage others around you.
  • Trust God to do all the He has promised.
  • Make the most of every opportunity.
  • The Gospel is for everyone.
  • The Gospel always confronts people with a choice.
  • Persecution brought a greater harvest.
  • Ordinary people do extraordinary things by the power of the Holy Spirit.
  • The story is to be continued in you – move it forward!
  • God has a zero margin of error, guaranteed 100% achievement rate. He cannot fail.

To watch Pattie’s teaching click here.

At the beginning of Acts Jesus told His disciples “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, ESV) Like His followers then, we are called to be witnesses to what He’s done in our lives now. We aren’t called to be attorneys arguing our case or judges making rulings– we are called to walk with Jesus and to tell others how that makes all the difference. Be inspired by all you’ve learned studying Acts and invite the Spirit to continue His work in and through your life daily.

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All Roads Lead to Rome

“All roads lead to Rome” is a saying that refers back to when the Eternal City was the hub of the world’s largest empire. Straight roads with solid foundations fanned out from it in all directions. People traveling through traded not only goods and news but also ideas and beliefs.1 Paul’s longing to reach this vibrant city culminates in the final chapter of Acts after a harrowing sea voyage that includes a violent storm, a shipwreck, and a snake bite. By the time he arrives in Rome under the watchful eye of his centurion guard, Julius, Paul has traveled 2000 miles as a prisoner bent on making his defense before Caesar. Let’s examine a few key moments on this final journey recorded in Acts 27 & 28.

The Storm at Sea: A risky decision by the ship’s pilot to keep sailing deep into the fall months leads to a tumultuous journey from Caesarea to Rome for Paul and his companions. Over a series of days, their “violently storm-tossed” vessel rolls and pitches over angry seas while the ship’s crew fights to keep it afloat. When they’ve taken every safety measure possible and have no sun or stars by which to navigate, our narrator, Luke, explains, “all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned.” (Acts 27:20, ESV)

At this point Paul, a mere prisoner and passenger on the battered vessel, speaks up: “Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and incurred this injury and loss. Yet now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship.” (Acts 27:21-22, ESV) While this may sound like a spiteful “I told you so,” Paul is actually reminding them that through God’s guidance, he predicted the disastrous voyage (27:10).2 With his credibility established, everyone on board listens this time as he describes a vision he’s had from an angel promising he will make it to Rome and everyone on the ship will survive. Paul finishes by encouraging them: “So take heart, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told.” (Acts 27:25, ESV)

While it’s unlikely you’ve been in Paul’s exact circumstances, there’s a good chance you’ve weathered a storm in the past or will in the future: a cancer diagnosis or chronic illness, a job loss or financial ruin, a tragic accident or unwelcome surprise, mental illness, anxiety, depression, divorce, loneliness, rejection (you get the idea). When storms blow through your life or the lives of those you love, do you take heart and have faith in God? Do you encourage others with His promises? As followers of Jesus, there is never a reason to sink into utter despair because our hope isn’t in our circumstances, but in Him.

The Shipwreck: After two weeks of taking a thrashing from the violent storm, Paul and his companions break bread together at his urging and give thanks to God. Just as Paul foretold, the ship runs aground on a reef, but all 276 passengers safely make it to land (with the help of the Centurion, Julius, who refuses to allow the Roman soldiers to kill the captives in their care.) Once ashore, Paul miraculously survives a venomous snake bite while building a fire on the beach with his companions. The waterlogged survivors soon learn they’re on the island of Malta, just south of Sicily and less than 700 miles from Rome.

So, in the midst of the two-week storm with no ability to navigate or control the ship’s direction, Paul and the rest of the travelers discover they were being drawn to Rome the whole time. God’s sovereign hand spared their lives and guided them through hurricane force winds and treacherous seas.3 Surely Luke must have been remembering the story he penned in his gospel about Jesus calming a storm. On a boat crossing the Sea of Galilee Jesus’ distressed disciples awaken Him from a nap during a fierce storm. Jesus rebukes the wind and the raging waves; the storm ceases and there is immediate calm. The disciples marvel at this, saying to one another: “Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?” (Luke 8:25, ESV)

When you’re in the midst of a storm, do you trust in the sovereignty of God? Do you rely on the Lord’s strength to guide you? Even when you feel out of control and can’t see how the storm is going to end, do you have faith that the Lord is at work?

The Arrival in Rome: Three months after landing in Malta, Paul and his companions begin the final leg of their journey. Luke describes the culmination of their travels with minimal fanfare saying simply, “And so we came to Rome.” (Acts 28:14b, ESV) However, he follows this with a touching interaction between Paul and a group of Roman believers: “And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage.” (Acts 28:15, ESV) Followers of Jesus travel between 35 & 43 miles south of Rome to greet Paul despite the fact they’ve never met him. 

Imagine Paul’s utter exhaustion after such an arduous journey. How encouraging it must’ve been to be greeted warmly by a group of believers who valued his teaching and shared his deep love of God. Maybe seeing their joy and devotion to the Lord reminded him all the effort was worth the tremendous challenges he’d faced. Even giants of the faith get depleted and need to be cheered on every so often. Do you know people who serve tirelessly for the sake of the gospel? Consider praying and asking God to show you how you can encourage someone who has spurred on your spiritual growth.

The Wait for a Trial: After arriving in Rome Paul spends two years under house arrest awaiting his trial before Caesar. During that time, he writes letters to the Ephesians, Colossians, and Philippians as well as a personal letter to Philemon. Whether traveling or staying in one place, free or in chains, Paul preaches and teaches the gospel with passion and conviction to those near and far. The Holy Spirit produces an abundance of fruit through his faithful obedience that we are still benefiting from today. 

Although Acts 28 marks the end of Luke’s chronicles of the Holy Spirit being poured out on followers of Jesus, it closes without a sense of finality. Perhaps that’s because it’s meant to be only the birth story of the Church. Paul, Peter and the other believers were just the beginning. The narrative has continued to be written in all the years since then through the lives of all who have received the power of the Holy Spirit and have sought to be witnesses of Jesus “in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8, ESV)

  • 1. Jen Wilkin, Week 10 video, Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Part 2, The Village Church.
  • 2. NIV Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan, p. 2018
  • 3. Jen Wilkin, Week 10 video, Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Part 2, The Village Church.

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True and Rational Words

Following Paul on his continued journey through the Roman legal system, Acts 24 begins with his appearance before Governor Felix in Caesarea. Paul makes his defense against the accusations of the Jews, refuting all claims while leveraging the opportunity to share the gospel in court:

“But this I confess to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, having a hope in God, which these men themselves accept, that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust.” (Acts 24:14-15 ESV)

Governor Felix keeps Paul imprisoned and summons him often for conversation: “And as [Paul] reasoned about righteousness and self-control and the coming judgment, Felix was alarmed and said, ‘Go away for the present. When I get an opportunity I will summon you.’“ (Acts 24:25 ESV) Felix holds Paul for two years, speaking with him regularly but never coming to a personal decision about the truth of  Jesus that Paul teaches, despite feeling convicted by his words. Felix likely believes Paul isn’t guilty but wants to retain the favor of the Jews and hopes Paul will offer him a bribe to get released.1 He puts off making a decision about Paul’s legal situation long enough that he’s eventually replaced by a new Governor named Festus.

Contrasting Felix’s indecision and slowness to act, Festus hears Paul’s case immediately and grants his request for an appeal to Caesar. However, before sending Paul up the chain of command, Festus consults with his friend, King Agrippa on what charges to bring against Paul. (Fun fact: King Agrippa is the son of Herod Agrippa who was eaten by worms and died in Acts 12). In his speech before Festus and Agrippa, Paul shares the story of his conversion on the road to Damascus and adds a few details not mentioned previously, specifically quoting the words spoken to him by Jesus:

“I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads…I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles—to whom I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’” (Acts Acts 26:14-18, ESV)

Paul continues his testimony by explaining, “To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass: that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.” (Acts 26:22-23, ESV)

Interrupting Paul’s impassioned testimony, Festus exclaims: “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” To which Paul replies without hesitation: “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words.” (Acts 26:24-25, ESV) 

Undeterred by Festus’ criticism, Paul goes a step further by addressing the other distinguished listener in the audience: “’King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.’ And Agrippa said to Paul, ‘In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?’ And Paul said, ‘I would to God that not only you but all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.’” (26:27 & 29, ESV)

Paul uses intellectual reasoning, deep knowledge of Scripture, and personal experience to persuade these three influential men to believe his claims about Jesus. Despite his thoughtful testimony, each of them rejects the truth he offers. Felix avoids it by remaining perpetually undecided, Festus dismisses it by calling Paul crazy, and Agrippa balks at it with cynicism. Although they respond negatively, Paul never wavers in his passion “to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God.” (Acts 26:18, ESV)

If you’ve ever shared your faith in Jesus, it’s likely you’ve experienced at least one of these responses. Maybe you’ve known people like Felix, who pause when they hear preaching on God’s judgement but remain perpetually undecided about putting their faith in Jesus; or like Festus, who dismiss followers of Jesus as “crazy” because they don’t want to bother thinking deeply about faith; or like Agrippa, who hide behind cynicism and condescension to make themselves feel smart instead of humbly considering Jesus’ offer of forgiveness. Felix, Festus, and Agrippa were worldly rulers with political power and prestige but lost in spiritual darkness. Perhaps as Paul addressed them he was thinking of what he’d written to the church at Corinth. If you’ve been rebuffed while sharing your faith, take heart by reading Paul’s words:.

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God…For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength… But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: ‘Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.’” (1 Corinthians 1:18, 25, 27-31, NIV) 

Friends, the world may mock us as fools, but our faith in Jesus is “true and rational” (Acts 26:25). Some may dismiss it, but let’s remain steadfast like Paul–walking in the light of God’s truth and inviting others to turn from darkness and receive the forgiveness of Christ.

1. Jen Wilkin, week 9 video of Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Part 2 by the Village Church.

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Leveraging Your Credibility

Pushing off the ground, the teeter totter sailed upward until my feet no longer touched the ground. With his longer legs and firmly planted feet, my son sent me plummeting downwards with one swift movement. His size, power, and position gave him all the leverage in that moment. Perhaps you’re familiar with the concept of leverage—whether it’s physical (like the teeter totter) or financial (like borrowing against an asset). There’s a third kind of leverage, however, that’s more subtle but incredibly powerful: the ability to influence others.

We establish credibility when we have knowledge, connections, and experiences that are relevant to others’ circumstances. This gives weight to our words and increases our leverage. For example, when I speak to moms of young kids, I gain leverage by sharing relatable personal stories about my parenting journey. Once I’ve established my credibility, they lean in as I tell them about biblical truth that steadied me in young motherhood. This is one example of emulating what Paul describes: “Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law.” (1 Corinthians 9:19-20, NIV)

Paul leverages his credibility as he interacts with both Jews and Gentiles on our continuing journey through the book of Acts. In chapter 22, zealous Jews begin rioting and beating Paul after making a false assumption about him (Acts 21:29). Roman authorities must extract him from the upheaval by carrying him up the steps to the barracks. Before going inside, Paul leverages his credibility with the soldiers by speaking their language (Greek) and revealing he’s from the highly respected city of Tarsus. Because of this, they allow him to address the crowd:

“`Brothers and fathers, hear the defense that I now make before you.’ And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even more quiet. And he said: ‘I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day.’” (Acts 22:1-3, ESV)

Note how Paul builds rapport with the Jewish crowd. First, he addresses them respectfully as a peer, calling them “brothers and fathers.” Despite the teaching about Jesus, he shows he’s still one of them—“Christianity is simply a loyal extension of Judaism.”1 He also speaks in the common language among Palestinian Jews (called Hebrew in ESV and Aramaic in NIV). “He used Aramaic not only to communicate in the language of his listeners, but also to show that he was a devout Jew and had respect for the Jewish laws and customs.”2 His choice of language catches the attention of the crowd and quiets them enough to hear more.

He continues to leverage his credibility by explaining his background and connections: “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city. I studied under Gamaliel and was thoroughly trained in the law of our ancestors. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today… I even obtained letters from [the high priest and the Council] to their associates in Damascus, and went there to bring these people as prisoners to Jerusalem to be punished.” (Acts 22:3 & 5, NIV) Paul increases his credibility by mentioning he was the student of Gamaliel, who was the most influential educator of pharisees at that time. On top of that, Paul knew the high priest well enough to ask him to write letters on his behalf. He mentions these ties not to brag, but to reveal the access he’s had to prominent people the crowd respects. Additionally, he shows he has deep knowledge of Jewish laws so they’ll understand that his proclamation of Jesus as Messiah isn’t heresy—it’s a fulfillment of what they’ve been awaiting for generations. He identifies with the people, finds common ground, and builds from there.3

Unfortunately, after Paul shares the incredible story of his conversion on the road to Damascus, the unruly mob moves beyond the ability to reason. In an uproar, they call for his execution. Removing him from the vicious crowd, the Roman soldiers take him into the barracks to be flogged and questioned. Again, Paul leverages his credibility by sharing another significant piece of personal information: “But when they had stretched him out for the whips, Paul said to the centurion who was standing by, ‘Is it lawful for you to flog a man who is a Roman citizen and uncondemned?’” (Acts 22:25, ESV) 

By revealing his Roman citizenship and knowledge of Roman law, Paul changes his situation dramatically: “When the centurion heard this, he went to the tribune and said to him, ‘What are you about to do? For this man is a Roman citizen’…The tribune answered, ‘I bought this citizenship for a large sum.’ Paul said, ‘But I am a citizen by birth.’ So those who were about to examine him withdrew from him immediately, and the tribune also was afraid, for he realized that Paul was a Roman citizen and that he had bound him.” (Acts 22:26, 28-29, ESV) The Roman tribune cancels the flogging and shows fearful respect for Paul after learning of his status as a natural born Roman citizen. 

With both Jews and Gentiles, Paul knows which aspects of his biography to leverage. He uses his credentials when necessary, but they don’t define his identity. In Philippians he writes, “If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.” (Philippians 3:4-7, NIV)

Paul knew his credentials and recognized when and how to use them, but he wasn’t unique in that. All of us have life experience, connections, family, education, skills, resources, and hardships that give us credibility with different types of people. We can invite the Spirit to use those things as leverage so that we can lead them to reconciliation with the Lord: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” (2 Corinthians 5:18-20, NIV)

What aspects of your life experience can be leveraged for God’s kingdom? Why not invite the Holy Spirit to show you where and with whom you can capitalize on your credibility to build rapport and share the gospel?

  • 1. Elizabeth Woodson, week 8 video of Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Part 2 by the Village Church.
  • 2. NIV Study Bible, Zondervan p. 2008
  • 3. Elizabeth Woodson, week 8 video of Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Part 2 by the Village Church.

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The Whole Counsel of God

Wrapping up his third and final missionary journey, Paul takes a farewell tour. Traveling throughout regions where he preached the gospel, he says goodbye to many of the believers he’s poured into over roughly 15 years. One of the most meaningful farewells takes place in Acts 20 with the elders from the church in Ephesus. They travel 63 arduous miles for the opportunity to see Paul one last time in Miletus. The mutual affection between Paul and these believers shines through in the text as they weep, embrace, and pray together for the last time.

In addition to highlighting the tenderness between Paul and the Ephesians, Luke also records Paul’s final reminders and instructions to the church leaders: “testifying both to Jews and to Greeks of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Acts 20:21, ESV). Although he uses different tactics and approaches depending upon his audience, Paul always emphasizes the same thing: “turning away from sin and turning to Christ by faith.”1 He also reminds the Ephesian elders that he “did not shrink from declaring to [them] the whole counsel of God.” (Acts 20:27, ESV) He then warns them to be alert, saying “after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.” (Acts 20:29-30, ESV)

Let’s take a closer look at these three significant statements Paul includes in his final remarks to his beloved Ephesian elders:

Repentance and Faith: In the Greek the words repentance and faith are joined together by one article.2 They go hand in hand. Faith in Jesus prompts us to repent and turn away from sin; obedience is how we show our love for God (John 14:15). Are you ever tempted to focus solely on God’s love and to leave out the discomfort of confessing sin and choosing to repent? While we may not enjoy admitting it, Jesus came to save us from our sin, so turning from it is a crucial element in following Him.

I’ll never forget mentoring a young woman who was caught and arrested for committing a crime. When she told me about it, I responded first by telling her what she’d done was wrong. Surprised, she admitted she’d expected me to reassure her of God’s grace and forgiveness instead of addressing her poor choice. We had a long conversation about the importance of understanding the gravity of our sin so that we can grasp the magnitude of God’s grace. When we skip over confession and repentance, we cheapen Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf.

The Whole Counsel of God: Like Paul, we must be careful to learn and share everything God says to us through His Word. One commentary explains, “the whole counsel of God includes some things that are difficult to hear—the fact that we are dead in sin and deserving of God’s wrath (Ephesians 2:1–3) and the fact that we cannot save ourselves through works (Ephesians 2:8–9). The gospel is a call to repentance and faith. Believers will face persecution (John 16:33) and likely be considered foolish. But none of these things can dissuade us…Paul did not share half-truths or only parts of the gospel; rather, he shared all of what God has revealed. We must do the same.”3 Rather than avoiding portions of Scripture that make us uncomfortable or that feel confusing, we need to seek greater understanding. Grappling with hard topics in prayer, study, and discussion ultimately deepens and matures our faith as we grow in wisdom.

False Teachers (Fierce Wolves): Paul warns the elders that false teachers will infiltrate their ranks and distort the gospel by speaking “twisted things” that will draw some believers away. We, too, must be knowledgeable about Scripture so we can recognize faulty teaching. With the easy access we have to a multitude of teachers online, this is more important than ever. There are many leaders and influencers who mix a little bit of Scripture with a lot of worldly wisdom. False teachers use Christian language in ways that it was never intended. Often, they are winsome, appealing, and compassionate. They make us feel good by avoiding or re-framing truth.

A close friend asked me about an influencer she followed on social media that she found confusing. The influencer was relatable, funny, and reassuring. She claimed to be a Christian but was encouraging her followers to live and think in ways that were contrary to God’s Word. Her vulnerability and appeal to her followers’ emotions was captivating. After I read a book by this influencer, my friend and I had several conversations about the fallacies of her claims. I’m so glad the Spirit nudged her to start a conversation with me and exposed this false teacher’s deception.

If you hear a wildly different interpretation of Scripture that seems to affirm ideas contrary to anything else you’ve learned, don’t be quick to embrace it as truth— search the Scriptures and seek wise, godly people you know and trust for clarification. Peter echoes Paul when he writes: “there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.” (2 Peter 2:1b-2, NIV)

Where are you prone to skipping over the whole counsel of God? Do you tend to focus on what feels good and ignore the harder aspects of our faith? If so, you’re not alone. Take some time to ponder and pray about this. Remember God loves you deeply, wants what’s best for you, and works for your good. Ask the Lord to realign your heart and mind with the truth of His Word. Consider learning more about these issues by reading one of these books:

Live Your Truth (and Other Lies) Exposing Popular Deceptions that Make Us Anxious, Exhausted and Self-Obsessed by Alisa Childers

Live No Lies: Recognize and Resist the Three Enemies that Sabotage Your Peace by John Mark Comer

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Post inspired by Jen Wilkin’s teaching in Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Part 2, Week 7 (Acts 20:1-21:36).

  • 1. Life Application Study Bible, Tyndale/Zondervan, 1991, p. 2004
  • 2. Walvoord and Zuck, Bible Knowledge Commentary, SP Publishers, 1982, p. 4133
  • 3. Got Questions, “The Whole Counsel of God”

Miracles and Magic

A thriving metropolis on the Mediterranean Sea becomes a memorable stop on Paul’s third and final missionary journey. Ephesus was a central trade hub and the capital of the Roman province of Asia (present-day Turkey) on par with Antioch in Syria and Alexandria in Egypt.1 Paul teaches and preaches there “for two years, so that all the residents of Asia heard the word of the Lord, both Jews and Greeks.” (Acts 19:10, ESV). During his time in Ephesus “God was doing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were carried away to the sick and their diseases left them and the evil spirits came out of them.” (Acts 19:11, ESV)

Seeing the miracles occuring through Paul, “some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists undertook to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, ‘I adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.’ Seven sons of a Jewish high priest named Sceva were doing this. But the evil spirit answered them, ‘Jesus I know, and Paul I recognize, but who are you?’ And the man in whom was the evil spirit leaped on them, mastered all of them and overpowered them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.” (Acts 19:13-16. ESV)

The seven sons of Sceva are reminiscent of Simon the sorcerer in Acts 8 who offers to pay Peter for the ability to lay hands on people to receive the Holy Spirit. These men attempt to access the power of the name of Jesus as another incantation in their bag of magic tricks. Based on what happens to them, it’s clear the power of God cannot be manipulated for personal gain. 

The incident with the sons of Sceva prompts a drastic response among the Ephesian believers: “And fear fell upon them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was extolled. Also many of those who were now believers came, confessing and divulging their practices. And a number of those who had practiced magic arts brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted the value of them and found it came to fifty thousand pieces of silver. So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily.” (Acts 19:17-20, ESV)

It appears that some of the believers had continued practicing magic even after receiving the gospel. However, after hearing about the interaction between the demon and the sons of Sceva, they repent. Once the eyes of their hearts open to God’s unmatched power, they realize they can no longer mix the spiritual darkness of the occult with the spiritual light of the one true God. Despite significant financial cost and likely social ridicule, they burn their magic scrolls, making a public statement that they are turning away from the sinful practices of the dark arts. 

Paul reflects on this ten years later when he writes to the believers in Ephesus: “At one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.” (Ephesians 5:8-11, ESV)

Although practicing the occult may feel like something we only see in movies or shows, it is on the rise in our culture today. A friend recently told me about attending a party where the hostess had hired a Tarot card reader to entertain the guests. Another friend shared that her ten-year-old daughter received a set of children’s Tarot cards, and some healing crystals for her birthday not long ago. These “fun” activities make spiritual darkness seem harmless, but nothing could be further from the truth.

More and more people are mixing a jumble of spiritual practices together with no discernment or consideration for their sources. An article on the modern rise of the occult explains: “Suspicious of institutions, authorities, and creeds, this demographic is less likely to attend a house of worship, but more likely to…‘mix and match’ spiritual, ritualistic, and religious practices from a range of traditions, divorced from their original institutional context. A member of this ‘remixed’ generation, for example, might attend yoga classes, practice Buddhist meditation, read Tarot cards, cleanse their apartment with sage, and also attend Christmas carol concerts or Shabbat dinners…The underpinnings of religious life—meaning, purpose, community, and ritual—are more likely than ever to come from diffuse traditions, or indeed no tradition at all.”2

Friends, make no mistake: any spiritual practices not rooted completely in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are connected to spiritual darkness and rooted in the enemy. There is no neutral ground. Let’s not be deceived thinking we can access anything good in the spiritual realm apart from the Trinity. Why would we waste our time dabbling with darkness when Scripture tells us: “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder”? (James 2:19, NIV) Don’t be fooled; remember Paul’s warning: “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:14b, NIV)

While some of us may feel far removed from occultic practices, we aren’t so different from the Ephesians; we still try holding onto mindsets and actions that dishonor Jesus even after we’ve invited Him into our lives. When we ignore sins that need to be confessed, we miss out on the cleansing and healing that repentance brings. Ultimately, that’s what compelled the believers in Ephesus to admit their sin, burn their scrolls, and publicly turn away from practicing magic. 

Will you pause to consider where you may be layering beliefs and behaviors that dishonor Jesus on top of your faith in Him? Be bold like the Ephesians by confessing and bringing into the light what may be lurking in the darkness. As you do this, you’re allowing the Word of the Lord “to increase and prevail mightily” in your life. (Acts 19:20, ESV)

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  • 1. Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan, p. 2000
  • 2. Tara Isabella Burton, The American Interest, “The Rise of Progressive Occultism,” 2019. Article link.

Receiving the Word

Several years ago, my family embarked on a grand adventure that included six stops in three countries over sixteen days. Staying two or three nights in each place, we traveled by planes, trains, and automobiles. We packed and unpacked multiple times while acclimating to different languages, foods, and cultures in each country. There were magical moments and major meltdowns, but in the end, it was worth all of the inconvenience to experience a different part of the world together.

Although the duration and purpose of the trip was different, I thought of how it feels to be on the move frequently as I read about Paul’s second missionary journey in Acts 16-18:17. He and his companions cover more than 1500 miles, likely traveling on foot or hitching rides on carts to preach the gospel in Syria, Cilicia, Derbe, Lystra, Phyrgia, Galatia, Troas, Samothrace, Neopolis, Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth. They not only endure the hardships of travel (without all the modern conveniences my family had), they also experience hostile crowds, false accusations, brutal beatings, imprisonment, and, to top it off, mocking intellectuals. 

Beginning in chapter 17, Paul follows a consistent pattern in each place he visits, starting by reasoning with Jewish people in the synagogues, then going out to preach among the Gentiles. “Since it was customary for the synagogue leader to invite visiting rabbis to speak, Paul…usually had an open door.”1 However, in Thessalonica “the Jews were jealous, and taking some wicked men of the rabble, they formed a mob, [and] set the city in an uproar.” (Acts 17:5a, ESV) Envious of the itinerant preacher’s’ popularity, “their motives for causing the riot were rooted in personal jealously, not doctrinal purity.”2 So, rather than rejoicing at the incredible news that Jesus was the Messiah, the Jewish leaders felt threatened by Paul’s captivating preaching and ran him out of town.

By contrast, the Jews in Berea “received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” (Acts 17:11b, ESV ) The Bereans studied the Word for themselves and compared it to what they heard from Paul. They must have been reading the Scriptures diligently long before Paul arrived, so when he told them about Jesus, they saw He was the fulfillment of the prophecies they already knew.

Do you see the two aspects of faith the Bereans practiced? They heard and they studied. They gathered consistently to listen to teaching in the synagogue, which provided guidance for them, but they also read the Scriptures on their own to gain wisdom and discover personal conviction. In the same way, reading the Bible independently grounds us in truth while studying it in community brings clarity, direction, and deeper understanding. 

This past year I watched this play out in the lives of four teenage girls I had the privilege of mentoring. All of them loved the Christ-centered community they experienced on youth group trips but hungered for a deeper knowledge of God and the Bible. So, we spent their senior year of high school studying Scripture weekly before school in a quiet corner of a local bagel shop. Since all four were headed off to college, we often talked about the challenges of pursuing Jesus consistently once they left the comfort of home and the familiarity of our church community.

Over Christmas break the five of us met at the bagel shop and sat at “our” table to download about their first semester in college. It had been more challenging for some than others, but they all agreed that they’d arrived at school grounded and confident in their faith because they’d spent consistent time in God’s Word prior to going. At college, all of them prioritized seeking out communities of believers who would continue to spur on their faith. One of them commented, “I loved meeting together last year, but didn’t realize how important it was until I left home. I’m so grateful for the foundation I had before I went to college.” Like the Bereans, these girls studied Scripture privately and sought spiritual growth in community. 

Which is more natural for you: gathering with others to hear the Word, or spending time on your own to study? If you’re more prone to hearing God’s Word through others in group gatherings, you may be missing building your own personal connection to Jesus. You also may not be experiencing the power of conviction that comes from reading the Bible for yourself. And if you’re more of a Lone Ranger who loves to study solo, you may be missing out on receiving guidance, encouragement, and wisdom from others.

For those of us who have regular exposure to the Bible, church, sermons, podcasts, books, and all other biblical content, we can become apathetic or take for granted what’s familiar and easy to access. We may hear without responding, feeling no passion or sense of urgency to apply it or share it with others. We don’t “receive the word with eagerness” like the Bereans. This apathy robs us of experiencing “life that is truly life,” as Paul says. (1 Timothy 6:19b)

Knowing the Bible grounds us; it keeps us rooted in truth that sustains us through every season of life. One of my favorite passages provides a vivid example of this:  “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jeremiah 17:7-8, NIV) (Go back and look at the top of this post– the photo I took was inspired by this passage several months ago.)

Let’s prioritize both hearing good teaching with others and studying Scripture independently so we can take Paul’s wise words to heart: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Tim 2:15, NIV)

Was this forwarded to you? You can receive new posts automatically in your inbox by going to www.marybethmccullum.com, entering your e-mail address and clicking “subscribe.”

  • 1. Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan Publishing House, p. 1980
  • 2. Life Application Study Bible, Zondervan Publishing House, p. 1994
  • Comments on the church at Berea inspired by the video teaching from the Village Church- Acts: The Gospel Goes Out Part 2, week 5.