The Gospel Includes the Gentiles

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 10:1-23

 

Acts 1:8

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be ^[a]witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

(NKJV)

 

 

In this text, two men receive angelic visions from the Lord, one a Gentile Roman official and one Peter, an apostle of Christ. The two visions will lead to a divinely arranged meeting of the two men in Caesarea. This meeting will be a turning point for the Church, leading to the gospel going out from Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria to the uttermost parts of the earth (Acts 1:8).

 

A devout Roman official, Cornelius, a man who feared God and gave generously to those in need, and who prayed to God always received an angelic vision (Acts 10:1-3). After asking the Lord what He wants, the Lord tells him his generosity and prayers have come before the Lord as a memorial (Acts 10:4). The Lord instructs Cornelius to send men to Joppa, sending for Peter, who is lodging with Simon, a tanner in a home by the sea, where Peter will tell him what he must do (Acts 10:5-6). Cornelius is obedient to the Lord and sends two servants and a devout soldier to Joppa after explaining everything to them (Acts 10:7-8).

 

The next day the men depart for Joppa and about the sixth hour Peter who is in Joppa goes up on the housetop to pray (Acts 10:9). Peter was hungry and while they prepared a meal for him, he fell into a trance (Acts 10:10). While in the trance, Peter sees a vision of a great sheet coming down, containing all kinds of four-footed animals, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds with a voice telling him to kill and eat (Acts 10:11-13). Peter responds to the voice by saying he has never eaten anything common or unclean (Acts 10:14). The voice answered Peter, telling him that what God has cleansed is not common (Acts 10:15). This happened three times, with the sheet going back up to heaven (Acts 10:16).

 

While Peter was wondering what the vision meant, the men sent by Cornelius arrived at the house and were standing at the gate, asking if Peter was staying there (Acts 10:17-18). While Peter continued to contemplate the meaning of his vision, the Spirit told him that three men were asking for him and to go, doubting nothing because they had been sent by God (Acts 10:19-20). Peter meets the men and asks why they have come, and it is told that Cornelius has had an angelic vision and is to invite Peter to his house to hear words from him (Acts 10:21-22). Peter asks the men to stay with him for the night and leaves with them for Caesarea the next day (Acts 10:23).

 

In Acts 1:8, the disciples are asked to take the gospel to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth. At this point, the church is predominantly Jewish, but the visions given to Cornelius and Peter are going to change this. Since Jews and Gentiles seldom got together to discuss their belief in God, Cornelius was most likely hesitant to call for one of the apostles to teach him. However, an angelic visit that tells him to call for Peter and bring him to Caesarea changed that. Peter was also hesitant to be seen going to the house of an unclean Gentile, that is, until an angelic vision changed what he viewed as unclean. The divinely arranged meeting of Peter and Cornelius will become a turning point in the Church, laying the foundation for taking the gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth.

 

When a church becomes like a social club or self-help organization, it can begin to cater only to a niche group of individuals with similar interests and demographics. This is not what Jesus had in mind with the great commission (Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). The Lord delays his return so that the church has time to take the message of the Gospel to everyone, giving them a choice of where they will spend eternity (2 Peter 3:9). The church is not a social club or a self-help organization, but a lighthouse shining with the light of Jesus Christ to a dark and fallen world. For revival to come, each of us must serve as ambassadors for Christ, lifting Him up wherever we go (2 Corinthians 5:20; John 12:32).

 

Jesus Christ is certainly coming back with those choosing to make Him their savior, spending eternity with Him. If you are reading this and have never prayed to ask for the forgiveness of your sins and to make Jesus Christ your savior, I invite you to do so now by praying with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not some magical prayer, but must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth that teaches from the Bible and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

Praise to God

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Psalm 66-67

 

Psalm 67:5

Let the peoples praise You, O God;
Let all the peoples praise You.

(NKJV)

 

In a world full of struggles and troubles, one can become bogged down in these struggles. For those who do not have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, the only places to turn are the things of the world, government, work, sex, drugs, or alcohol, all of which will disappoint us. However, those with a personal relationship with God through Christ can remember what he has done and the promise of his second coming to set the record straight. This makes it possible to offer praise to God.

 

In Psalm 66, the Psalmist begins by telling the people to make a joyful shout to God, singing out the honor of His name (Psalm 66:1-2). The praise offered is praise for the Lord’s awesome works done by the greatness of His power that causes His enemies to submit to Him (Psalm 66:3). This will lead to the whole earth praising and worshipping the Lord (Psalm 66:4). The psalmist then invites the people to remember the awesome works of God to the sons of men, reminding them of what He did at the Red Sea (Psalm 66:5-6). God rules by His power forever with his eyes observing the nations, with the psalmist asking God not to let the rebellious exalt themselves (Psalm 66:7).

 

The psalmist continues by telling the people to bless their God and to let His praises be heard because it is He who keeps their souls among the living and does not let their feet be moved (Psalm 66:8-9). God has tested His people, bringing them through many afflictions, but He has brought them out to rich fulfillment (Psalm 66:10-12). Therefore, the psalmist will go into the House of the Lord with burnt offerings, paying his vows to the Lord (Psalm 66:13-14). His offerings will be fat animals, with the sweet aroma of rams, along with bulls and goats (Psalm 66:15).

 

The psalmist then invites all who fear the Lord to declare what He has done for their souls (Psalm 66:16). The psalmist will cry to the Lord with his mouth and extoll Him with his tongue (Psalm 66:17). The psalmist knows that if there is iniquity in his heart, the Lord will not hear him but also knows God has heard him and addressed his prayer (Psalm 66:18-19). The psalmist concludes by offering blessings to God, who has not turned away from his prayer, nor turned His mercy from him (Psalm 66:20).

 

In Psalm 67, the psalmist offers an invocation and doxology of praise unto the Lord. It begins with the psalmist asking God to be merciful and bless the people, making his face to shine upon them (Psalm 67:1). Through this demonstration of mercy, the way of the Lord and His salvation are known among all nations (Psalm 67:2). The psalmist wants all the peoples to praise God and to let the nations be glad and sing for joy because the Lord judges the people righteously and governs all the nations (Psalm 67:3-4). Again, the psalmist urges all the peoples to praise God so the earth shall yield its increase, and God can bless His people (Psalm 67:5-6). The psalmist concludes by saying God shall bless His people and all the ends of the earth shall fear Him (Psalm 67:7).

 

This unknown psalmist has no doubt experienced some of the troubles and struggles of the nation of Israel. However, rather than focusing on troubles, the psalmist offers praise to God.

• Psalm 66, praise to God for His awesome works – As a reminder of the Lord’s awesome works, the psalmist reminds us of how God parted the Red Sea, allowing the people of Israel to cross on dry land while drowning the Egyptians pursuing them (Exodus 14:1-31). The crossing of the Red Sea is a reminder of how God rescues his people by His power. The people of Israel are not to remain silent about the good works done by the Lord, but are to declare these good works and make offerings to the Lord. The psalmist also has confidence that the Lord will hear his prayer and have mercy on him.
• Psalm 67, an invocation and doxology – This psalm begins with the psalmist asking God to be merciful and bless His people, causing his face to shine upon them. This will demonstrate to the whole earth the way of salvation from the Lord. Again, the psalmist urges the people not to remain silent about the mercy and blessing of God but to be vocal. This vocal declaration of the mercy and salvation of God will cause the ends of the earth to praise the Lord.

 

We live in a fallen world, just like the psalmist in these psalms, and can become bogged down in the struggles of life, leading to depression and even despair. These psalms are a reminder to focus on the goodness of God during these times. While we can still look back at how God delivered the people of Israel by parting the Red Sea, we can also look back at the work of Jesus on the cross and his resurrection from the dead (Matthew 28:1-10). Just as the psalmist told the people of Israel not to be silent about the good works of God, Jesus commissioned His Church not to be silent but to let the world know (Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). Jesus also told his disciples that if they lift Him up, He will draw men unto Him (John 12:32). For revival to come, this is the message the Church must focus upon.

 

If you are reading this and have never prayed to accept God’s gift of salvation, believing in faith that Jesus died to atone for your sins, I encourage you to do so now by praying with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

If you meant what you just prayed, know God has forgiven all your sins and that you now have a relationship with God and are a child of God (Romans 8:16). Like any relationship, it grows as we get to know each other. While God already knows all about us, we must study the Bible, the word of God, to learn more about Him. If you just prayed, I encourage you to find a Church that teaches the truth of the Bible so you can learn more about the Lord. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

Saul’s Ministry Begins, the Church Prospers, and Peter Goes to Joppa

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 9:20-43

 

Acts 9:31

Then the ^[c]churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified.^[d] And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied.

(NKJV)

 

Saul has had a dramatic conversion from persecutor of the Church to one converted to Christ. The believers in Damascus remain skeptical, fearing this may be a scheme to gather them in one place so Saul can arrest them. However, as Saul begins to preach Christ and suffers persecution himself, he finds acceptance. When others begin to see the change in our lives after accepting Jesus as our savior, some may want to know what has happened in our lives, allowing us to share Christ with them.

 

Immediately after his conversion, Saul began preaching about Jesus, preaching that He is the Son of God (Acts 9:20). All who heard Saul preach were amazed because they remembered he had come to Damascus to round up Christians and arrest them (Acts 9:21). Saul became stronger with his teaching confounding the Jews by proving Jesus is the Christ, leading to plotting by the Jews to kill him (Acts 9:22-23). The Jews plotting to kill Saul would wait day and night at the gates to kill him, but Saul learns of their plot and is let down by night through the wall in a large basket (Acts 9:24-25).

 

Saul then goes to Jerusalem and tries to join with the disciples there, but he meets with resistance because they did not believe his conversion was genuine (Acts 9:26). Barnabas then takes Saul to the apostles and tells them how Saul had seen the Lord on the road to Damascus and preached boldly about Jesus in Damascus (Acts 9:27). After this, Saul was able to come and go with the disciples in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of Jesus, disputing with the Hellenists who tried to kill him (Acts 9:28-29). The brethren then sent Saul out to Caesarea and then out to Tarsus (Acts 9:30). The church has peace and multiplies, with the disciples walking in the fear of the Lord and comfort of the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:31).

 

The scene now shifts to Peter who is going through all parts of the country, going down to the saints in Lydda (Acts 9:32). When in Lydda, Peter found a man named Aeneas who had been bedridden eight years and who was paralyzed (Acts 9:33). Peter told Aeneas that Jesus the Christ heals him and told him to arise and make his bed, which he did immediately (Acts 9:34). When those living in Lydda and Sharon saw Aeneas, they turned to the Lord (Acts 9:35).

 

Meanwhile, in Joppa, a disciple named Tabitha, a woman who did many good works and charitable deeds, became sick and died (Acts 9:36-37). Since Lydda was near Joppa, they sent men to get Peter, telling him not to delay in coming to Joppa (Acts 9:38). Peter immediately arose and went to Joppa and was taken to the room where they had laid Tabitha (Acts 9:39). Peter told the widows mourning her death to leave, knelt down, and prayed, and then told Tabitha to arise with her opening her eyes and sitting up (Acts 9:40). Peter then took her and presented her alive to the saints and widows (Acts 9:41). When this miracle became known, many believed on the Lord and Peter remained in Joppa for many days, staying with Simon, a tanner (Acts 9:42-43).

 

Many are skeptical of Saul's conversion, but as he begins to preach about Jesus, he finds acceptance. Understandably, the believers would be skeptical at first because Saul had a history of persecuting Christians. His sudden conversion could have been viewed as a deception designed to bring everyone together so he could round them up and take them to Jerusalem. However, as he began to preach about Jesus (Acts 9:21-22) and confounded the Jews, causing them to plot to kill him (Acts 9:23), they began to believe his conversion was genuine and rescued him (Acts 9:24-25). Peter also thrived in his ministry, performing miracles of healing (Acts 9:32-35) and even raising the dead (Acts 9:40). Peter is now in Joppa, where he will receive a vision from the Lord, and the gospel will go out to the Gentiles (Acts 9:43).

 

While the message of the gospel is life-transforming, not everyone who hears it will be receptive, but we must not allow that to hinder our carrying out the mission (Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19-20). As the time of Christ’s return nears, Jesus told us there would be deception, wars, rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes (Matthew 24:3-8). Since God does not want any to perish (2 Peter 3:9), it is even more vital that the church stay on its mission of spreading the Gospel so more people come to Christ and do not perish.

 

Each person reading this post has a decision to make: do I reject the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ and continue in my life of sin, or do I do as Paul did and accept Christ? If you are reading this and choose to follow Jesus Christ in your life and turn from your sins, I invite you to pray with me now.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not a magical prayer, but must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth that teaches from the Bible and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

Oppressed Yet Rejoicing in the Lord

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Psalm 64-65

 

Psalm 65:4

Blessed is the man You choose,
And cause to approach You,
That he may dwell in Your courts.
We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house,
Of Your holy temple.

(NKJV)

 

In a troubled world, we will have struggles and need to find a way to get through them. These psalms give us a glimpse into how David got through the many struggles in his life. Although oppressed by many enemies, David rejoiced in the Lord, knowing He was the source of his salvation and provision. We must also learn to rejoice in the Lord in times of oppression, praising Him as our source of salvation through Christ, our source of provision.

 

Psalm 64 begins with David asking God to hear his voice in his meditation, preserving him from the fear of the enemy (Psalm 64:1). He gets specific, asking the Lord to hide him from the secret plots of the wicked workers of iniquity who sharpen their tongues like a sword and shoot arrows of bitter words (Psalm 64:2-3). These evil workers of iniquity shoot in secret at the blameless without fear (Psalm 64:4). They find encouragement in secretly laying snares, believing none will see them, and devise iniquities through the shrewd schemes of their evil hearts (Psalm 64:5-6).

 

However, God will suddenly wound them when He shoots them with an arrow that causes them to stumble over their own tongue, causing all who see them to flee (Psalm 64:7-8). Seeing this will cause all men to fear and declare the work of God, wisely considering His doing (Psalm 64:9). In the end, the righteous shall be glad in the Lord and trust in Him with all the upright in heart giving Him glory (Psalm 64:10).

 

Praise is awaiting God in Zion with vows made to Him performed with all flesh coming to God who hears prayer (Psalm 65:1-2). Iniquities prevail against David, but his transgression will be atoned for by the Lord (Psalm 65:3). A man chosen by God and caused to approach Him is blessed with him dwelling in the courts of the Lord and finding satisfaction in the goodness of His holy temple (Psalm 65:4). God answers us through awesome deeds in righteousness and is the confidence of the ends of the earth and far-off seas. (Psalm 65:5). The Lord establishes the mountains by His strength, stills the noise of the seas and the tumult of the people, with all dwelling in the farthest parts afraid of His signs (Psalm 65:6-8).

 

The Lord visits and waters the earth, with the earth enriched so it can prepare grain (Psalm 65:9). The Lord waters the ridges of the earth, settling its furrows, making it soft with showers, and blessing its growth (Psalm 65:10). The Lord crowns the year with His goodness with His paths dripping with abundance that drops on the pastures of the wilderness with the little hills rejoicing on every side (Psalm 65:11-12). The pastures are clothed with flocks, and the valleys are covered with grain, singing and shouting for joy (Psalm 65:13).

 

David can rejoice in the Lord even though he is oppressed by the wicked. He also praises God for His salvation and providence, giving us a glimpse into the heart of a man after God’s own heart.

• Psalm 64: Rejoicing in oppression – David cries out to God, asking Him to hide him from the secret plots of the wicked and workers of iniquity. While their plans are devised in secret using a sharp tongue and bitter words, God will suddenly wound them with an arrow of His own (Psalm 64:2, 7). God will cause David’s enemies to stumble over their own words or use their own weapons against them. This will cause all who see the enemy to flee and demonstrate the work of God. The righteous will see this and be glad and place their trust in the Lord.
• Psalm 65: Praise to God for salvation and provision – Despite his many enemies who wanted to kill him, David had a heart of praise to God for salvation and providence. David understood that the source of his salvation was the Lord, who provided atonement for sins. David also knew God was the source of his provision, for it is God who controls and enriches the earth (Psalm 65:9-10). God is the provider of our salvation and provision, and it is He who deserves our praise.

 

Jesus warned us that in this world we would experience trouble with the promise that He has overcome the world (John 16:33). However, when times of trouble come, will we buckle under pressure or be like David, who was able to rejoice in the Lord and praise Him for His salvation and provision? While David looked forward to salvation from God symbolized by the annual sacrifice of a spotless lamb at Passover, we can look back at the provision of salvation through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). However, since we have never met Jesus face-to-face, we need faith that what Jesus did for us is true (Hebrews 11:6). Jesus said He was the way, not a way to salvation so I challenge everyone reading this to ask themselves if they have faith to believe Jesus provided salvation from sin with his death, burial, and resurrection (John 14:6; Romans 10:9-10).

 

If you are reading this and have never prayed to accept God’s gift of salvation, believing in faith that Jesus died to atone for your sins, I encourage you to do so now by praying with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

If you meant what you just prayed, know God has forgiven all your sins and that you now have a relationship with God and are a child of God (Romans 8:16). Like any relationship, it grows as we get to know each other. While God already knows all about us, we must study the Bible, the word of God, to learn more about Him. If you just prayed, I encourage you to find a Church that teaches the truth of the Bible so you can learn more about the Lord. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

Saul Changes Sides

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 9:1-19

 

Jeremiah 29:11

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

(NKJV)

 

Saul has great plans for his life and is emboldened by letters from the chief priests to round up and arrest disciples of Jesus in Damascus. However, God has other plans for Saul and encounters him on his way to Damascus. This encounter with the Lord Jesus causes Paul to change sides, from a persecutor of Jesus' disciples to an advocate for Christ to Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. I pray that each person reading this will choose to follow Jesus when they have an encounter with Him.

 

Emboldened by the scattering of Christ's disciples following Stephen's martyrdom, Saul goes to the high priest and asks for letters granting him authority to arrest disciples in Damascus (Acts 9:1-2). However, on his way to Damascus, Saul encounters a light from heaven and hears a voice asking him why he is persecuting Him (Acts 9:3-4). Saul asks the logical question, asking who is speaking with him and is told it is Jesus (Acts 9:5). Trembling and astonished at what has happened, Saul asks the Lord what He wants him to do and is told to go into the city where he will be told what to do (Acts 9:6). Those traveling with Saul are speechless because they hear a voice but see no one (Acts 9:7). Saul gets up and since he is blind, must be led by those with him to Damascus where he remained three days without sight, eating and drinking nothing (Acts 9:8-9).

 

While this is happening to Saul, a disciple of Jesus in Damascus, Ananias, has a vision from the Lord (Acts 9:10). The Lord tells Ananias to get up and go to the house of Judas on the street named Stright and ask for Saul of Tarsus who is praying (Acts 9:11). The Lord continues and tells Ananias that Saul has seen a vision of a man named Ananias coming to him to lay hands upon him so he may receive his sight (Acts 9:12). Ananias is hesitant having heard how Saul has harmed the saints in Jerusalem and is coming with letters from the chief priests to do the same in Damascus (Acts 9:13-14).

 

The Lord tells Ananias to go because Saul is a chosen vessel of the Lord who will take the name of Jesus to Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel, and that he will suffer many things for the name of Jesus (Acts 9:15-16). Ananias obeys the Lord and goes to the house of Judas, telling Paul that the Lord has sent him to pray that he receives his sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:17). Immediately what appeared like scales fall from Saul’s eyes and he can see and is baptized (Acts 9:18). Saul receives food, is strengthened, and spends time with the disciples in Damascus (Acts 9:19).

 

Saul has plans and the authority to go to Damascus to round up disciples, arresting them and bringing them to Jerusalem, but God has other plans for him. I imagine Saul is excited about his mission, believing he may put an end to this blasphemy and be promoted within the sect of the Pharisees, perhaps even being named high priest. God’s plans for Saul are different and involve him taking the Gospel to the Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel (Acts 9:15). Ananias obediently obeys the Lord and prays for Saul to receive his sight, not knowing if he might be the first disciple arrested. Saul is baptized and spends time with the disciples in Damascus, the ones he intended to arrest, learning more about Jesus (Acts 9:17-19).

 

We may believe we have God’s plans for us figured out, but God may have other plans for us and need to confront us in a manner that gets our attention. As sinners, and we all are (Romans 3:23), we plan to continue our life of sin, but experience the light of the Holy Spirit, convicting us of our sin. When we are convicted of our sin, we have a choice: do I continue to walk blinded by my sin, or do I find salvation in Christ (Romans 10:9-10). Each individual must choose which way to go in life once convicted of his or her sin and consider the consequences of their decision. To remain in a life of sin results in death, but God offers us the gift of eternal life, a gift offered by the grace of God and not our own effort (Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 6:23).

 

Each person reading this post has a decision to make: do I reject the conviction of the Holy Spirit and continue in my life of sin, or do I do as Paul did and accept Christ? If you are reading this and choose to follow Jesus Christ in your life and turn from your sins, I invite you to pray with me now.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not some magical prayer, but must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth that teaches from the Bible and is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

God’s Protection, Salvation, and the Joy of Fellowship with God

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Psalm 61-63

 

Psalm 23:4

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

(NKJV)

 

Like many of the psalms written by David, these three psalms come from times of great struggle in his life. When God chose David as King of Israel, he was seeking a man after his heart (1 Samuel 13:14). These three psalms give us a glimpse into the heart of David and how he trusted God for his protection, salvation, and found joy in fellowship with God even in trouble. I hope looking into these psalms will give everyone peace in a chaotic world.

 

David starts Psalm 61 by asking God to hear his cry and listen to his prayer, offered because his heart is overwhelmed, asking God to lead him to the rock that is higher than him (Psalm 61:1-2). God has been a shelter and tower of defense for David throughout his life, with him vowing to abide in God’s tabernacle forever, trusting in the shelter of God’s protection (Psalm 61:3-4). David knows God hears his vows and that he has the heritage of those fearing the name of the Lord (Psalm 61:5). God will prolong the life of King David, as David abides before the Lord forever in His mercy and truth (Psalm 61:6-7). David concludes by vowing to praise the name of the Lord forever as he performs his vows daily (Psalm 61:8).

 

Psalm 62 starts with David saying he waits for God because salvation comes from Him (Psalm 62:1). David knows God is his rock, salvation, and defense, knowing he shall not be moved (Psalm 62:2). David’s enemies attack but will be slain like a leaning wall or tottering fence because they delight in lies, blessing with their mouths while cursing inwardly (Psalm 62:3-4). David continues to wait silently for God with expectation of salvation and defense, providing a rock of stability from which he will not be moved (Psalm 62:5-7). David urges the people to always trust in God, pouring out their hearts before Him for He is a refuge for us (Psalm 62:8). David issues a warning to men of low and high degree who are lighter than a vapor, weighed on the scales (Psalm 62:9). David also warns against trusting in oppression, hoping in robbery, or setting our heart on riches if they increase (Psalm 62:10). David has twice heard that power and mercy belong to God and that God will render or reward each person according to their work (Psalm 62:11-12).

 

Psalm 63 begins with David praising God as his God, vowing to seek him because his soul thirsts and his flesh longs for Him in a dry and thirsty land with no water (Psalm 63:1). David seeks to see God’s power and glory in the sanctuary (Psalm 63:2). David vows to praise God, lift his hands to Him, and find satisfaction in Him (Psalm 63:3-5). Because God has been his help, David remembers Him on his bed and meditates on Him in the night watches, rejoicing in the shadow of God’s wings, with his soul following close behind as God’s right hand upholds him (Psalm 63:6-8). Those seeking to destroy David will go into the lower parts of the earth, falling by the sword, becoming food for jackals (Psalm 63:9-10). David vows to rejoice in the Lord (Psalm 63:11).

 

Saul’s kingdom has failed, with God seeking a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), with David anointed as king (1 Samuel 16:1-13). These three psalms of David give us a glimpse into the heart of David, showing us,

• David’s assurance of God’s eternal protection (Psalm 61) – David finds a source of eternal protection in the Lord, which is why he cries out to God when overwhelmed, finding shelter under the wings of the Lord. In Psalm 91, the psalmist elaborates on the safety we find by abiding in the presence of God.
• David’s resolve to wait for the salvation of God (Psalm 62) – When this psalm was written, Jesus had not been born, died, or resurrected from the dead to provide salvation. However, David was familiar with the many prophecies regarding the coming Messiah (Genesis 3:15). David also had God's promise that he would eternally be on the throne of Israel and knew that it would not be him personally, but an heir. This psalm expresses David’s faith and expectation of salvation from God (Psalm 62:5).
• David’s joy in fellowship with God (Psalm 63) – At the time of writing this psalm, David is in the wilderness of Judah with King Saul trying to hunt him down and kill him. He may have been alone, fearing for his life, and believing everyone had deserted him. In this psalm, David finds joy in knowing that he has fellowship with God night and day (Psalm 63:6-8).

 

Romans 12:2 reminds us that we are to have hearts not conformed to the world, but to experience transformation through the renewing of our minds. Like David, we can know that we have,

• Eternal protection – Like David, we can have peace in a chaotic and evil world by trusting in God’s protection. Fear is an enemy of faith and a tool used by Satan to paralyze us, which does not come from God (2 Timothy 1:7). Fear also causes worry, bringing doubt that God will provide and protect us, and something Jesus told us not to do (Matthew 6:25-34).
• Salvation from God – Unlike David, who was waiting for salvation, salvation is available for us through God’s grace and the work of Jesus on the cross (2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:8-9). We do not need to look forward to salvation like David did but can look back at what Jesus did on the cross. Salvation is a gift we receive when we genuinely confess our heartfelt belief in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 10:9-10).
• Have joy in fellowship with God – The joy of the Lord is our strength, and what greater joy can there be than knowing we will be with Jesus for eternity (Nehemiah 8:10). David found joy in knowing he had fellowship with God night and day when in the wilderness of Judah (Psalm 63:6-8). Our joy is not only knowing we have fellowship with God night and day, but that we will be with God for eternity (1 Thessalonians 4:17).

 

If you are reading this and have never prayed to accept God’s gift of salvation, bringing protection, salvation, and eternal fellowship with God, I encourage you to do so now by praying with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

If you meant what you just prayed, know God has forgiven all your sins and that you now have a relationship with God and are a child of God (Romans 8:16). Like any relationship, it grows as we get to know each other. While God already knows all about us, we must study the Bible, the word of God, to learn more about Him. If you just prayed, I encourage you to find a Church that teaches the truth of the Bible so you can learn more about the Lord. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post. 

Guided by the Spirit and the Word of God

 By: Dr. Dale Weckbacher

 

Text: Acts 8:26-40

 

Acts 8:26-27a

Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is ^[a]desert. ²⁷ So he arose and went. 

(NKJV)

 

Life is full of appointments and meetings. We have work appointments, meetings, and doctor's appointments. We meet friends and even strangers as we go about our daily routine. However, in this passage, we see Philip having a divine meeting arranged by the Holy Spirit. Philip is prepared for this meeting because of his knowledge of the Word of God. We must ask ourselves if we are living lives led by the Holy Spirit and prepared for such divine meetings.

 

An angel of the Lord speaks to Philip and tells him to rise and go down from Jerusalem to Gaza, a desert (Acts 8:26). Philip is obedient and goes, while an Ethiopian eunuch of great authority who had charge of the queen's treasury is also in Jerusalem worshipping (Acts 8:27). The Ethiopian man is returning and sitting in his chariot reading from Isaiah the prophet when the Spirit of God tells Philip to go near and overtake the Ethiopian’s chariot (Acts 8:28-29).

 

Philip runs to the man, and discovers he is reading from Isaiah, asking him if he understands what he is reading (Acts 8:30). The man tells Philip he needs someone to guide him in his reading and invites Philip to come and sit with him (Acts 8:31). Philip discovers the man is reading from Isaiah 53:7-8, foretelling the crucifixion of Jesus (Acts 8:32-33). The question the Ethiopian man has for Philip is whether the prophet speaks of himself or someone else (Acts 8:34). Philip begins with this passage of Scripture and shares Jesus with the man (Acts 8:35).

 

As they continue down the road, they come to a body of water, and the man asks Philip if anything is hindering him from being baptized (Acts 8:36). Philip then asks the man if he believes in his heart that Jesus is the Son of God, and he says he does (Acts 8:37). The Ethiopian man commands the chariot to stand still while both he and Philip go into the water where Philip baptizes the man (Acts 8:38). After they came out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord takes Philip away, and the Eunuch never sees him again and goes away rejoicing (Acts 8:39). Meanwhile, Philip is found at Azotus and passes through preaching in all the cities until arriving at Caesarea (Acts 8:40).

 

As believers scatter after the death of Stephen, Philip is led by the Spirit to an Ethiopian eunuch, a Gentile, and has an opportunity to share Jesus with him. In this text, we see,

• Philips Obedience (Acts 8:26-27) – Philip is one of those who did not flee from Jerusalem and is told by the Holy Spirit to go to Gaza. Philip has no idea why the Spirit has told him to go, but he goes in obedience to the Spirit's leading. We learn in Acts 8:27 that an Ethiopian eunuch is also there, setting up a divine meeting.
• Philip understands the Word and shares it (Acts 8:35) – After confronting the eunuch, Philip finds out he is reading from Isaiah 53:7-8 and that he wants someone to explain who the passage is referring to (Acts 8:30-34). Because of his knowledge of the Word, Philip can explain the passage to the eunuch. Philip is not only obedient to the Spirit's leading but is also armed with knowledge of the Word of God and who is referred to in Isaiah 53.
• No hesitation to be baptized (Acts 8:36-38) – Philip and the eunuch continue on their way and come to a body of water. The eunuch points out that there is water and asks Philip if anything is hindering him from being baptized. Philip confirms that the eunuch has come to believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and they go down to the water where Philip baptizes him.
• The Holy Spirit leads Philip to other ministry opportunities (Acts 8:39-40) – Instead of being able to stay with the eunuch or even accompany him to Ethiopia, the Spirit catches Philip up and takes him to Azotus, where he preaches in all the cities until arriving in Caesarea. The Eunuch goes on his way rejoicing, leaving us to wonder if he was not influential in bringing the Gospel to Ethiopia, with Philip continuing his ministry in Israel.

 

As we live our lives guided by the Spirit of God, God will lead us to opportunities to share Christ with others. Philip gives us an example of how to act when these opportunities arise.

• Let the Word and the Spirit guide (Psalm 119:105; Romans 8:14) – Believers in the Church must be like Philip and obediently follow the leading of the Spirit of God. When we do, God will arrange meetings with people who need to hear the truth of the Word of God. These are not chance meetings, but divinely appointed meetings like the one Philip had with the Eunuch.
• Know the Word of God (Acts 17:11; John 8:32) – In preparation for these divine meetings, we must be diligent students of the Bible like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, so we are prepared to be used by God. The truth of God’s word not only sets us free but will set others free as we share it.
• Do not allow fear to cause hesitation (Matthew 28:19-20) – The Church has a divine mission to take the Gospel to all the world. As part of the Church, every believer must live their lives led by the Holy Spirit and not allow fear to prevent us from sharing the Gospel with those God places in our lives.

 

If you are reading this and have never prayed to receive forgiveness of your sins and make Jesus the Lord of your life, I encourage you to do so now by praying with me.

 

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I have sinned (Romans 3:23) and know that the penalty for my sin is death (Romans 6:23). I ask you to forgive me of my sin and cleanse me as you promise in your Word (1 John 1:9). I believe you died, spent three days in the grave, and resurrected from the dead and now declare you Lord of my life.

 

This prayer is not some magical prayer, but must be a genuine expression of your heart. If that is why you prayed, rest assured, your sins are completely forgiven, and you have eternal life. I now encourage you to let someone know of your decision. I also urge you to find a church of truth, teaching from the Bible that is empowered by the Holy Spirit, so you can grow in your faith. May God convict, challenge, and bless everyone reading this post.