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Dr. Paul G. Caram

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Dr. Paul Caram writes an inspirational commentary on the book of Acts, showing how it is a divine account of a new move of God.  The Lord had come to give life to those who were new wine skins and built His church upon the foundation of the Apostles of the Lamb. Dr. Caram also describes how we as believers are to be a part of the move of God in establishing His Kingdom here on earth and how it is Christ's church that will do the "greater works" because He has gone to His Father and sent us His Holy Spirit.

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ACTS

A Focus on the Center of God's Fire

"ACTS: A Focus on the Center of God's Fire"

© 1999 Paul G. Caram

Version 1.0

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means without written permission from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations in articles or reviews.

All Scripture quotations in this book are taken from the King James Version Bible unless otherwise stated.

Published by Zion Christian Publishers as an e-book in 2023

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The Book of Acts

INTRODUCTION

The Beginning of the Church

Acts is a historical account of the beginning of the Church. When Christ declared, “I will build my church” (Mt.16:18), He started by preparing twelve foundation stones during his three-and-a-half year ministry. Jesus poured his life and message into the twelve apostles. These men would become the role models and writers of the New Testament. Our faith and indeed our very lives are based upon the eternal Scriptures which they and the prophets inscribed. The Apostle Paul confirmed this truth when he said we are “built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone” (Eph. 2:20).

Unworthy Foundation Stones Removed

Christ does not build his Church upon anything faulty. His foundation stones are "tried" stones. Before the new move of the Spirit in Acts, God weeded out all of those who had a treacherous spirit. Virtually half of chapter one concerns the replacement of Judas the traitor. In Acts 1:15-26, there is a shuffling of positions and offices. Today we see the same process going on in the Church. God is about to move again. Therefore, He is revealing who is who. All those who are traitors like Judas, usurpers like Absalom, Korah, and Adonijah, and all those who are unrepentant as Cain are being exposed and removed from leadership. Everyone is being tested today to see whether they will be worthy to have a part in the next move of God.

A Time of Transition

Acts is a divine account of a new move of God. The brethren had never walked this way before. It was not like anything they experienced in the past. Therefore, on the day of Pentecost, everyone was amazed and confounded. The emphasis of the Holy Spirit had changed. The winds of God were blowing in another direction. For Israel, it was a time of transition from the Old Covenant to the New. There was a new message and a totally different order. Many in the old regime refused to flow with the new move, being "old wine skins" who wanted to remain in their old traditions. Most of all, they resented seeing God bless the Gentiles whom they deemed quite inferior to themselves. Vexed with jealousy, Israel became the biggest opponents of what God was doing in their generation.

The twelve apostles themselves were also hampered during the transition. Even the chief leaders of the revival still had elements of prejudice and bigotry in their hearts. Ten years had passed since Pentecost and still they had preached Christ only to fellow-Israelites and Gentile proselytes who attended their synagogues. Evangelism to the Gentile world had been greatly impeded because of bias. After a notable vision from heaven (Acts 10:1 - 11:19), Peter and the apostles clearly under- stood that God had welcomed unreservedly all the Gentiles into His kingdom. Later, in chapter 15, a public statement was made at the Jerusalem Council clearly delineating which laws the Gentiles should observe, and which ones were unnecessary. This came about after "no small dissension." We can see, then, that the newborn Church was imperfect in her infancy stage as she was learning to walk in the unfamiliar paths of the new covenant.

A Focus on the Center of the Fire

Acts focuses on the center of the fire. By this we mean the center of what God was doing. When fire-fighters are trying to determine the source of a fire, they look for the hottest spot. In Acts, the fire started on Mount Zion in the upper room, especially with Peter and the eleven apostles. Peter and the eleven were the center of the fire in chapters 1-12. Then the fire spread to Paul and the church of Antioch in chapters 13-28. Many were added to the center of what God was doing, while others dropped out.

After Barnabas was offended and separated himself from Paul, we see that he vanished totally from the narrative of Acts. Therefore, he left the center of God's move to labor on the perimeter of God's vineyard. Silas came into the center of the fire, and so did Timothy and Luke. We should guard our hearts very carefully so that we always stay in the middle of what God is doing. Every one of us is going to be tested by offenses. Will we also be offended and leave? Remember, there is always a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense in Zion because Zion is God's hottest spot (Isa. 4:4, 33:14). It is the place of holy devouring fire, the habitation of God's presence (Psa.132:13,14). Who is able to dwell among everlasting burnings?

The Two Main Leaders

In chapters 1-12, Peter was in the forefront of the new move of God. He ministered primarily to the Jews (the circumcision). In chapters 13-28, Paul emerged as the main leader. He brought the Gospel to the Gentiles (the uncircumcision). It is interesting to note that both leaders of the new move of God had major failures in their past, which should be a comfort to us.

Formerly, Paul had persecuted the Church. During that time he considered himself "blameless" with respect to the [ceremonial] law (Phil. 3:6). He never violated a sabbath or missed a feast day, yet his heart was full of hardness and controversy. Paul had relied on his own righteousness, but he utterly failed. Peter also was confident in the flesh, boasting, "Though all men forsake thee, I will never." In actual fact, only dependent men and women are protected by God from temptation. People remove themselves from God's protection when they make proud, boastful statements. Peter was left unprotected because of his lofty assertions and became an open target of the enemy. What was the result of his pride? Fear overtook him and he ended up cursing and swearing, and denying the Lord. Yet, God extended grace and retrieved both Peter and Paul from their failures. Both of these men became the main leaders of the revival.

The Two Main Mission Bases

Jerusalem was the main headquarters for the Jewish Church. James the Lord's brother was the presiding elder of the Jerusalem Church. As a young man, James himself wavered in his faith and was double-minded (Jn. 7:5, Jas.1:6-8). He did not believe his older brother was the Messiah until after the resurrection when Jesus appeared to James causing a profound conversion (1 Cor.15:7).

Antioch in Syria was the headquarters of the Gentile Church. There were fifteen Antiochs in the world at that time, but it was here in Antioch, Syria that believers were first called Christians (11:26). Before that, they were called "disciples." Antioch became Paul's home base, and it was from here that Paul was launched into all of his missionary journeys, and he always returned there.

Summary of the Book of Acts:

• Acts records the beginning of the Church (the birth and infancy of the Church).

• Jesus started building his Church by preparing the foundation stones during his ministry.

• The foundation stones were his twelve apostles. Christ Himself is the Chief Cornerstone.

• The apostles gave us the New Testament Scriptures upon which we base our lives and faith.

• God first removed unworthy foundation stones like Judas before he built his Church.

• The Lord did not allow treacherous men to have a part in the new move. It is the same today.

• Acts is an account of a fresh, new move of God. It was unlike anything in the past.

• Every new move of God is unpredictable. It staggers the mind like on the day of Pentecost.

• Many people did not flow with the new move because of their love of tradition.

• Acts was a transition time from the old covenant to the new. It required many adjustments.

• Many Israelites hated the new message; They resented seeing God bless those who received it.

• Jealousy is a curse that infects those who spurn God and refuse what He is saying.

• The greatest opponents of a new move often are those who were in the center of a previous one.

• The twelve apostles still had prejudice and bigotry in their hearts.

• Evangelism to the Gentiles was impeded because of bias.

• The vision to Peter (Acts 10:1-11:19) persuaded the Jews that God had accepted the Gentiles.

• The Jews had numerous "disputations" about what standards the Gentiles had to observe.

• The Church needed clarification in her infancy stage as she began walking in the new covenant.

• It took a number of years after Pentecost to properly understand the true tenets of faith.

• Acts focuses on the center of the fire. The apostles were in the center—the hot spot.

• Some people remained in the center of the fire, but some like Barnabas left it.

• Others were brought into the center of the fire like Silas, Timothy, and Luke.

• Zion is the center of the devouring fire. There are many stumbling blocks in Zion.

• We will be given every excuse to be offended and quit if we are in or near the center of the fire.

• In chapters 1-12, Peter was the main leader of the new move of God to the Jews.

• In chapters 13-28, Paul was the main leader of the new move of God to the Gentiles.

• Jerusalem was the main missionary base for the Jewish Church.

• Antioch was the main missionary base for the Gentile Church.

• Acts is a book of rain—the outpouring of the Spirit.

• In Acts we see the early rain—a light rain for softening ground and planting.

(The Church was planted and germinated in the first century.)

• In the last days there will be the latter rain—a heavy rain to bring God's Church to maturity.

• The miracles we see in Acts will be mightily intensified in our days.

• The apostolic, prophetic and teaching ministries will be very prominent, just as in Acts 13:1-2.

• Judgment will begin in the house of the Lord, as it did with Ananias and Sapphira.

• People will be transported as was Philip. They will be taken bodily from one place to another.

• The greatest opposition to the new move will come from Bible-quoting believers who have not moved on with God. Jealousy will be the greatest problem, even as it was in the first century.

Luke - The Writer of Acts

Luke was a traveling companion of the Apostle Paul. Paul's reference to Luke as "the beloved physician" indicates his sweetness of character (cf. Col.4:14). He was a loyal friend to the finish (cf. 2 Tim. 4:11). Luke had a great capacity for research. He was an accurate and able historian, and possessed a polished vernacular that no New Testament writer could excel. Besides his medical knowledge, he had interest in ships as well as experience at sea. This is evidenced in his narratives in Acts. In Acts 16:10, he joined Paul on his missionary travels and continued in close contact with him until Paul's death. He never discloses his name in the Acts narrative but includes himself inconspicuously, saying we or us (16:10-17, 20:5, 21:18, 27:l - 28:16). This signifies humility.

Acts—A Continuation of Luke's Gospel

Luke's two literary masterpieces (The Gospel of Luke / The Book of Acts) could be considered volume one and volume two of one work. The Book of Acts continues where his Gospel leaves off (compare Luke 24:47-53 / Acts 1:1-14). Probably Acts was written shortly after his Gospel. (The Gospel perhaps in A.D. 62, Acts in 63). Both books were written to a high ranking Greek nobleman named Theophilus and those surrounding him. Luke entitles him, "Most Excellent Theophilus" (Lk.1:3, Acts 1:1). Thus, Luke was writing to a cultured Greek society. His presentation of the Gospel was to the educated, the thinkers, and those who appreciated beautiful speech and intricate details. The Book of Acts appears to be in chronological order from start to finish.

Date

The Book of Acts opens with the resurrection and ascension of Christ (April / May, A.D. 30). The resurrection was in April, the ascension in late May, and the day of Pentecost was ten days later in early June. The final chapter concludes with Paul being released from prison in Rome in the early part of A.D. 63. Paul had been under house arrest for two full years (61-63). He stood before the emperor Nero in early 63 A.D. and was acquitted. The Book of Acts covers a total of 33 years— (from the resurrection in April, A.D. 30 to Paul's release in the early spring of A.D. 63).

The beloved physician obviously could not have completed writing Acts before spring, 63. Since Luke's Gospel and Acts were written consecutively and probably close to each other, our dates seem safe. (Luke's Gospel in 62, and Acts in later 63). While Paul was in prison, his faithful traveling companion probably had the time to collect his material and finish his Gospel, and have the resources for his Acts narrative well under way.

Luke's Sources for Writing

For many years, Luke had close contact with Paul and numerous Christian leaders such as Philip, Timothy, Silas, Mark, Barnabas, James the Lord's brother, the twelve apostles, and many of the five hundred brethren who had witnessed Christ's resurrection (cf. 1 Cor.15:6). As a result of being in Jerusalem (Acts 21:17), Caesarea, and other places where Christ and his apostles ministered, Luke had splendid opportunities to obtain firsthand knowledge regarding our Lord, his teachings, his miracles, and the beginnings of the Church.

Chapter One

THE TEN DAYS

The Former Treatise - Luke's Gospel

1:1-3 "The former treatise [or account] have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach. Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: To whom also he showed himself alive after his [death] by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God."

"The former treatise" is a reference to Luke's Gospel. A short time earlier, Luke had written a detailed account to Theophilus concerning "all that Jesus began, both to do and teach, until the day in which he was taken up." Acts continues where Luke's Gospel ended. Luke 24:49-53 concluded with Christ's ascension back into heaven after a solemn charge to "tarry in Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high."

Many Infallible Proofs - Numerous Appearances After His Resurrection

"To whom also he showed himself alive after his [death] by many infallible proofs." Christ made numerous appearances after his resurrection. On one occasion, he appeared to over five hundred brethren at once (1 Cor.15:6). There are ten or more appearances recorded in sacred Scripture:

To Mary Magdalene (Jn. 20:14-18, Mk.16:9-11)

To the Other Women (Mt. 28:8-10)

To Peter (Lk. 24:34, 1 Cor.15:5)

To the Two Emmaeus Disciples (Lk. 24:13-33, Mk.16:12-13)

To the Apostles, Thomas Absent (Mk.16:14, Lk. 24:34-43, Jn. 20:19-25)

To the Apostles, Thomas Present (Jn. 20:26-31)

To Seven Disciples by the Sea of Tiberias (Jn. 21:1-23). Here, Peter was recommissioned.

To Over Five Hundred Brethren and the Apostles (1 Cor.15:6)

To James the Lord's Brother (1 Cor.15:7). After this, James never wavered.

To the Disciples to Open the Scriptures (Lk. 24:44-49)

To Make His Final Appearance, and His Ascension (Acts 1:9-12, Mk.16:19-20, Lk. 24:50-53)

"Being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God." The resurrected Christ showed himself alive for forty days. During those forty days, Christ opened the Scriptures to the apostles (Lk. 24:44-45) and explained to them his purposes for the Church. He was already building his Church, but his focus was upon the foundation stones—the apostles.

The Promise of the Father—The Baptism in the Holy Spirit

1:4 "And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father..." What was this "promise of the Father" that the disciples were commanded to wait for in Jerusalem? It was and is the baptism in the Holy Ghost, an experience they received ten days later on the Day of Pentecost. This is something that is totally separate from the new birth. The disciples had already received new birth from Christ when he "breathed" upon them several weeks earlier (Jn. 20:22). The baptism in the Holy Spirit is different. It is another experience and is absolutely essential for our spiritual growth and perfection. It is an integral part of our redemption. Consider the following.

The Baptism in the Holy Spirit:

• Brings greater strength in the inner man to help us bear up under pressure.

• Gives added power to overcome sins, habits, and other bondages.

• Helps conquer self-pity and persecution complexes because of joy and strength.

• Sharpens our vision of what God is doing today.

• Makes us more sensitive to spiritual matters and the spirit realm.

• Opens our understanding of the Scriptures.

• Helps us pray more effectively.

• Gives greater power over Satan.

• Enhances the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. 

• Endues us with the nine gifts of the Spirit.

• Brings many other blessings.

Men in the Old Testament like Elijah and John the Baptist collapsed from the pressure because they did not have strength in the inner man. Others like David and Samson could not rule their passions because of the lack of inner strength. Today, this power for inner strength is made available to us. Many people cannot break the power of alcohol or drugs without being baptized in the Holy Spirit. It is very rare for people to have an end-time vision for revival without being baptized in the Holy Spirit. For many people, the extent of their vision is only that the world will get worse and worse until the rapture. In actual fact, it is a tragedy to reject the baptism in the Holy Spirit because by doing so, it retards one's spiritual growth in every area. How tragic indeed, when God has provided a means for victory, to ignore or reject it.

The Holy Spirit Was Promised:

• By the Father to the Son: "I will pour my Spirit upon thy seed" (Isa. 44:3).

• By Joel: "I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh" (Joe. 2:28, Acts 2:16-17).

• By Isaiah: "With stammering lips and an unknown tongue...yet they would not hear" (Isa. 28:11,12).

• By John the Baptist: "He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire" (Mt. 3:11-12).

• By Christ repeatedly: "I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter" (Jn.14:16).

• "He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you" (Jn.14:17).

• "I send the promise of my Father upon you..." (Lk. 24:49) (Jn.14:26, 15:26, 16:7, 16:12-15).

• "Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence" (Acts 1:4,5, 1:8).

• When the promise finally came on the Day of Pentecost—they all spoke in tongues.

1:5 "For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." Christ did not tell them exactly how many days they would have to wait, only that it would be "not many days hence." Therefore, it was a test. If this command to tarry in Jerusalem extended to the 500 brethren (1 Cor.15:6), then only 120 fully obeyed. Only one of every four waited till the Spirit came. The promise arrived ten days later on the Day of Pentecost. Ten days signifies "a period of trial" (cf. Dan.1:12, Rev. 2:10, Jer. 42:7). Everyone was being tried. Those who waited to the end received more powerful baptisms. God is testing our hearts today, too. Are we preparing our hearts for a new outpouring? Many believe we are in that ten day waiting period now.

Ten Days

How do we know for certain that the disciples waited ten days? It never explicitly says so. The only way we can determine the number of days is by the feasts. Let's consider the chart below:

• On the Feast of Passover - Christ was crucified. He was the perfect Lamb of God.

• On the Feast of Firstfruits - Christ rose from the dead. He was the Firstfruits of those who slept.

• On the Feast of Pentecost - Christ sent the promised Holy Spirit. Another was sent in his place.

• Christ ascended to heaven 40 days after the feast of Firstfruits. This left 10 days to Pentecost.

• Thus, the disciples tarried in Jerusalem for ten days until the Promised Holy Spirit was given.

When, Lord?

1:6 "When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?" All of Israel cherished the restoration of a physical kingdom. Even in the minds of the disciples there was still a restoration for Israel that had not yet taken place. The Lord did not rebuke the disciples for asking. He simply said that the time for Israel's restoration was known only to the Father. (It will take place in the Millennium, at Christ's Second Coming.)

1:7 "And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power." God did not want them to know when. The question of "when" is a problem for many Christians. Dates and details are information that God often does not want to divulge. It is so human to want to know everything beforehand. However, there is great wisdom when God does not tell us future dates. Faith could not develop if we knew the outcome of everything. Knowing the precise date of Christ's coming could totally disrupt and immobilize our lives. What effect would it have had upon the disciples if Christ had told them that Israel's restoration would be two thousand years later? They were thinking in terms of Israel's return to a great world power again. Instead, for now, Christ was thinking about an inward, spiritual kingdom. Vs. 8 "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses..."

1:8 "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." This promise of power was made to devout men and women. Some baptisms today are very shallow and contain very little power. If one's vessel is ninety percent filled with clutter, only ten percent of their capacity can receive an impartation from God. Sometimes God waits for people to empty themselves of much carnality before He fills them. Then they are able to receive more.

"And ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." The revival would start in Jerusalem. It would spread throughout Judaea, then Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the world. Verse 8 helps us dissect the Book.

• Chapters 1-7 - Jerusalem / Judaea (This was the hub, the home base.)

• Chapters 8-10 - Samaria (Nearby Samaria was a mixture of godliness and paganism.)

• Chapters 11-28 - The uttermost parts of the earth (The heathen who had no knowledge of God.)

1:9 "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight." After his parting words, Christ ascended back into heaven from the Mount of Olives (cf. 1:12). This is an important fact because Christ not only ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives, He will also return there (cf. Zech.14:4). This is confirmed in verses 10,11. He will descend upon the Mount of Olives in the same way he ascended to heaven.

1:10-11 "And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."

Two men in white apparel appeared to the disciples as Christ ascended up into heaven. From the description of their apparel they were heavenly messengers. Possibly these were Moses and Elijah, the two companions who accompanied Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration. Since they are "the two anointed ones who stand before the God of the whole earth" (Zech. 4:14, Rev.11:4), it would seem credible that these should escort him on such occasions. They could also have been the same messengers who appeared at Christ's empty tomb (cf. Lk. 24:4-7).

"Ye men of Galilee." The disciples of Christ were not from Judaea, but Galilee (cf. 2:7). They were eighty miles from home. Galilee was to the north, Judaea to the south (see map - p. 6). God bypassed many who were born and raised in Judaea, probably because they were so entrenched in tradition. Christ had a new message and new order to proclaim. He would only select pliable men to represent him. Therefore, he chose Galileans who were known for being innovative. The Galileans possessed great openness of spirit, a quality always needed for a new move of God. It is unfortunate that God has to bypass so many today because they want to stay in their traditions. Let's be new wineskins.

1:12 "Then they returned unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey." Christ ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives, just opposite Bethany (Lk. 24:50). After the ascension, the disciples returned to nearby Jerusalem which was "a sabbath day's journey." A sabbath day's journey, according to Jewish tradition, was about 5/8 of a mile.

1:13-14 "And when they were come in, they went up into [the] upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren."

After Christ ascended into heaven, the disciples departed from Olivet, being filled with great joy (Lk. 24:51-52), and walked a short distance into Jerusalem. Here the eleven apostles entered the upper room. The upper room is believed to be on Mount Zion, the same building where Christ served the last supper. During designated prayer hours (9:00 am, 12:00 noon, 3:00 pm), the apostles and disciples worshipped in the temple (Lk. 24:53, Acts 3:1).

The eleven apostles made the upper room their residence during those days. Also, joining them in prayer were Mary the mother of Jesus, his brethren, and certain devout women. There were a number of pious women mentioned in the upper room who were important figures in the establishment of the early Church. The Lord's brethren would certainly include his brothers, James and Jude.

Peter Rises Again

1:15 "In those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said..." From the beginning, Peter had always been the natural spokesman of the twelve apostles. Then Peter suffered a serious setback when he denied the Lord with cursing and swearing. It was a bitter failure for Peter, but Christ had prayed that his faith would not fail (Lk. 22:32). Peter needed to be converted. The truths he had learned while being with Christ had to be more than just head knowledge and information. Usually it takes much weeping and pain to become our message. After Christ publicly restored Peter in the presence of his brethren (Jn. 21:14-17), Peter took courage and began to recover from the shame of his failure. When Christ told him three times, "Feed my Sheep," he was reassuring him that the call of God would surely be fulfilled in his life. Therefore, only seven weeks after his failure, Peter stood up again among his brethren in the upper room and issued prophetic direction and counsel to the 120.

The Replacement of Judas

Virtually half of chapter one is dedicated to the replacement of Judas (1:15-26). Before a new move of the Spirit, God must sift out treacherous men like Judas from the groups He will use in revival. God is trying to tell us something in the introduction to the Book of Acts. During those ten days in the upper room, everyone was being tested before a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit. There had to be a sorting out. Over 500 brethren knew that the Promised Holy Spirit was about to be sent from heaven, yet Scripture only records 120 being present and eagerly awaiting His arrival.

God not only separates the mediocre from the diligent, He also separates the treacherous from the loyal before He moves. There can never be unity as long as Judas is in the group. Judas caused a lot of trouble among the brethren. When the disciples had indignation against Mary of Bethany for pouring expensive ointment upon Jesus, it was Judas who infected the others (Mk.14:4,5, Jn.12:3-6). He complained that the ointment could have been sold for three hundred pence and given to the poor. Then the others also started murmuring against this good woman. Judas was like a cancer cell that spread through the whole body. It is also interesting to note that Christ did not preach on unity and loving one another until Judas had left the group. Later, Judas betrayed not only the Lord but his eleven brethren (Jn.18:1-8).

Judas Was Foretold in Scripture

1:15-17 "And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,) Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus. For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

Many verses from David's Psalms foretell the life of Judas. During the last supper Jesus quoted Psalm 41:9: "He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me" (Jn.13:18). Although this was a reference to the betrayal of Ahithophel, a close confidant of David's, it looked ahead to the treacherous act of Judas against the Savior. David was a profound type of Christ. Many of his experiences were similar to Christ's. Psalm 69:25 is applied by the Holy Spirit to Judas: "Let [his] habitation be desolate." Psalm 109:1-19 is attributed to the life of Judas. Peter quotes 109:8: "Let his days be few; and let another take his office." Judas was a major apostle. He was one of the twelve. He could have sat with the eleven, ruling the twelve tribes of Israel (Mt.19:28, Lk. 22:30). What a high calling! Instead, he was the guide of those who sought to kill Jesus and had the impudence to appear at the forefront of the mob that seized him (Mt. 26:47, Lk. 22:47, Jn. 18:2-3).

Suicide of Judas

1:18-19 "Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out." 19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood."

At a convenient time and in the absence of the multitude, Judas had bargained with the religious leaders to betray Jesus (Mt. 26:14-16, Lk. 22:3-6). Judas accepted their offer of thirty pieces of silver, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 11:12-13. Later Judas was remorseful and brought back the money but it was too late. He had crossed a line and there was no recourse. In despair, he threw the coins into the temple, went out, and committed suicide (Mt. 27:3-10). Judas died by hanging or suffocation, which made him swell until he burst. All his entrails gushed out, as Doctor Luke would describe. The fate of Judas was known to all of Jerusalem. It was headline news as a remarkable judgment of God upon him who had betrayed his Master. The thirty pieces of silver (which Peter calls "the reward of iniquity") was used to purchase the potter's field and became known as "the field of blood."

Qualifications for Judas' Replacement

1:20-23 "For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his [office] let another take" (cf. Psa. 69:25, Psa.109:8). Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias."

At the direction of the Holy Spirit, Peter made a motion that three necessary stipulations be required of the man who would replace the fallen Judas. He had to be:

1.) A man who had companied with the twelve all the time Jesus went in and out among them.

2.) Beginning from the baptism of John (i. e. from the commencement of Christ's ministry).

3.) Unto the same day Jesus was taken up (i. e. an eye-witness of the resurrection).

Therefore, it could not have been the Apostle Paul, since he met none of these descriptions.

What man could fit these requirements? Undoubtedly, the man who took the place of Judas was one of the seventy, a notable group of men who were constant hearers of Christ's doctrine and witnesses of His miracles (Lk.10:1,17). The candidate had to be actively involved among them from the time of John's baptism until the ascension. He had to be an eye-witness of the resurrected Christ. Two men who met these conditions were selected and set apart; they were Joseph (Barsabas), and Matthias.

Matthias Chosen

1:24-26 "And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, show whether of these two thou hast chosen, 25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. [That place was hell.] 26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles."

This is a very important prayer: "Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, show whether of these two thou hast chosen." Only God knows the heart of a person (1 Kg. 8:39). People can appear to be one thing today but what will they be like in five years, ten years, or twenty years? Only God knows what is really in the heart. When you are selecting a lifelong companion, ask God to help you. He alone understands the motives of men (1 Chron. 28:9), and ultimately how they will end up.

By faith, the apostles appealed to the Most High to reveal which of the two candidates he had chosen. Therefore, they drew lots, a custom practiced frequently in the Old Testament. The matter was done prayerfully and sacredly before the Lord, and Matthias was selected. Proverbs 16:33 indicates that even in "chance" situations such as the drawing of lots, God has the final say. I might add, however, that when people become overly involved in such things, it can lead to divination.

Summary of Judas

Judas was a major apostle. He had been with the Master for three years, hearing the finest teachings and observing the greatest role model of all time. Judas was anointed with the mighty Spirit of the Lord. He had performed many miracles—healing the sick and cleansing the lepers. He had preached the kingdom of God, just as his eleven brethren had done. Judas helped feed the five thousand, the bread multiplying in his hands as he gave it to the multitudes. He was in the ship when the Lord commanded the violent winds and waves to be still. He saw Peter walk on water. Judas even saw the dead raised. Yet, in spite of all these things, he did not go to heaven. He sold his soul for money. He never allowed God to cleanse his heart. Judas held the truth in unrighteousness. He did many wonderful works, but on Judgment Day the Lord will sadly say: "Depart from me, you who practices lawlessness, I never [was allowed to become acquainted with you]" (Mt. 7:22-23). Remember, a great ministry and anointing does not save us. We must live right. Actually, we prove that we do not love the Lord when we break his commandments (Jn.14:15, 24).

Judas:

• Was a major apostle, a minister.

• Had the mighty Spirit of God upon him.

• Performed many miracles.

• Cast out demons, healed the sick, cleansed the lepers.

• Preached the Kingdom of God and repentance

• Fed five thousand, the bread multiplying in his hands as he gave it.

• Heard the finest teachings from the greatest Teacher.

• Had the privilege of walking and interacting with the Messiah himself.

• Saw Peter walk on water.

• Heard Christ command the sea and wind to be still.

• Saw Christ raise the dead.

• Appeared to be just like all his eleven brethren.

• Beheld the majesty and glory of the Lord.

• Never let his real heart be known. (He kept himself well covered.) A hypocrite, pretender.

• Heard but would not obey the words of the Lord (Mt. 7:26,27). Built his house upon sand.

• Full of covetousness, a thief. (He never allowed Christ's Words to cleanse and change him.)

• Was a subtle sower of discord among his brethren.

• Loved cursing (Psa.109:17).

• Delighted not in blessing (Psa.109:17). He counted the sacred things of God a light thing.

• Had a seared conscience, a condition resulting from hearing but not doing the Word (Jas.1:22).

• Was not ashamed to boldly lead a mob unto Christ and his eleven brothers to betray them.

• Judas was a traitor, a devil. It would have been better if he were never born.

• He went through all the motions and appeared to be just like the rest, yet he was not sincere.

• Held the truth in unrighteousness. He knew the truth well and preached it, but would not live it.

• He is in the category of Matthew 7:21-23. He was used of God, but not approved of God.

• He was the servant of sin and did not abide in the house, and was cast out (Jn. 8:34-35).

• He was a branch that did not abide in the Vine. Withered, cut off, and cast into the fire (Jn.15:6).

There will be many believers in hell! Judas was a believer, a minister. Having a great ministry, anointing, and unusual gifts does not save us. The only thing that saves us is Jesus' blood and righteousness. Just because we believe in Jesus does not necessarily save us! Satan is the greatest believer of all but he is not going to heaven. The replacement of Judas occupies half of Acts chapter one. Men like Judas must be removed from the group before God moves in a new way.

Does being a believer guarantee that we are going to heaven? No, it does not! Even Satan be- lieves, and so do all the demons and fallen angels (Jas. 2:19-20). Cain was a believer. He knew the voice of God but thought nothing of lying to Him. Wicked Ahab was certainly a believer. He believed in the God of Abraham. When he wanted direction he looked to the spirit of prophecy for direction. His life depicts that of a backslidden Pentecostal minister. King Saul was anointed by God, yet he ended up attacking David and murdering eighty priests of the Lord. When Saul was in dire need of direction, even in his backslidden state he inquired of the Lord, but God would not answer him. Then he enquired of a witch. God had removed his mercy from him (2 Sam. 7:15). It is not enough just to believe in Jesus, and then live a life of apostasy and rebellion. If we are counting on making it to heaven, we must continue to walk with God and obey his voice.

Chapter Two

THE DAY OF PENTECOST

Christ made numerous appearances to his disciples for forty days after the resurrection. Just prior to his ascension back into heaven, He charged them to tarry in Jerusalem until the arrival of the promised Holy Spirit. Christ said, "Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence" (Acts 1:5). He did not tell them exactly how many days they would have to wait. To them it could have been thirty days, or maybe seventy. Therefore, it was a test. The disciples were Galileans, and were a long way from home. Probably it was not convenient to stay in Jerusalem.

During those ten days between the ascension and Pentecost, God was testing the dedication of his followers. There was a sifting. God was removing men who were not loyal. Judas was replaced by Matthias. Others like Peter came to the forefront. The focus came upon 120 devout men and women who waited eagerly in the upper room. It was now early in the morning, perhaps around 6:00 a.m. The Day of Pentecost had fully come.

God's Set Time

2:1 "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place." God has a set time in which He moves. The Day of Pentecost had "fully come." It was now fifty days since the resurrection. Fifty is the number of jubilee, restoration, and liberty. All of these are blessings associated with the baptism in the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit Himself is mentioned over fifty times in the Book of Acts.

In One Accord

"They were all with one accord in one place." To see the brethren in unity was a miracle in itself. Only fifty-four days earlier the disciples were arguing around the Lord's table about who would be the greatest (Lk. 22:24). There was jealousy, ambition, and boasting among themselves, even after three years of teaching. What brought the disciples to brokenness of spirit, humility, and unity? It was failure! Every one of the apostles suffered the humiliation of failure. All of them had fled when their Lord was taken in the garden (cf. Mt. 26:31, 56). Furthermore, their hearts were broken to see their Savior so brutally beaten and slain upon the cross. After that, no one cared anymore who was the greatest. In addition to this, Judas, the discord-sower was gone.

Tongues of Fire

2:2-4 "And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." The time had come; the promise of the Father had arrived. The Holy Spirit came suddenly like a mighty wind and filled the room where the 120 were sitting. The wind turned to fire. Fire appeared, and when the fire parted and rested on each of them, their tongues became like fire (cf. Psa. 29:7). And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other languages, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Speaking in Tongues

The Scriptural Way of Being Baptized in the Holy Spirit

There were many promises that the Holy Spirit would come, (see Isa. 28:11,12, 44:3, Joel 2:28, Mt. 3:11,12, Lk. 24:49, Jn.14:17,26), but when He finally did arrive that Pentecost morning, they all spoke in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. This is the Scriptural way of being baptized in the Holy Ghost. This is the way the apostles received the Holy Ghost, including Paul and all of the early Church.

The Holy Spirit has not changed since the first century. The Biblical way of being baptized in the Holy Ghost is an experience evidenced by speaking with other tongues. Speaking in tongues is literally speaking another language. These were not just sounds, noises, or gibberish. The apostles had tongues of fire and they were all speaking in many foreign languages.

My life was utterly transformed after I was baptized in the Holy Spirit on October 12, 1966. It was a landmark experience. I was uncomfortable for a whole year as the fire of God consumed the dross in my life. My experience of the Holy Spirit was based upon Scripture. I received the Holy Ghost the way they did on the Day of Pentecost. I am glad I am not at the mercy of a theory. When people claim they are filled with the Spirit, but not according to Acts 2:4, they are hoping in a theory.

Foreign-born Jews Hear the Phenomena

2:5 "And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven." What were these devout foreign-born Jews doing in Jerusalem at this particular time? They had come from faraway countries to celebrate the feast of Pentecost. They were obeying the command of Deuteronomy 16:16 to observe the three major feasts of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles in Jerusalem. It was a great sacrifice of time and money to make this journey. They had to leave their occupations for a long time and incur high travel expenses. These were devout men with spiritual hunger who had come to Jerusalem to honor the Lord at Pentecost.

The 120 had just been baptized in the Holy Ghost earlier than morning. By 9:00 a.m. (being the third hour of the morning), the excitement and action had spread and caused a great stir in the city. Therefore, many of these devout, foreign-born Jews gathered around the scene. They were awe- struck as these "Galileans" were all speaking in their own native languages. Not only were they speaking in their own native languages, they were speaking "the wonderful works of God." These Galileans were speaking the mysteries of God. They were prophesying and revealing the ways and purposes of God, all in languages the Galileans themselves did not understand. The episode was entirely supernatural and it confounded everyone.

2:6-11 "Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God."

What were they saying in other tongues? They were declaring "the wonderful works of God," the mysteries of God—and they were speaking them all in foreign languages. This is why we should never take "speaking in tongues" lightly. The curious spectators were hearing marvellous prophetic utterances and revelations of God's ways and plans, all in their own languages. However, the most amazing thing of all was the fact that the 120 Galilean disciples did not understand one word of it.

Everyone Was Confounded

2:12-13 - "And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? 13 Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine." The new move baffled everyone. Some were amazed and others mocked. Every new move of God is like that. It is different from anything known in the past but draws the same reactions. Some stand in awe while others mock. Every battle recorded in Scripture had a different stratagem. Even so, every revival has a different emphasis and manifestation. It comes with a distinct sign. It is hard to predict exactly how God will move again. He has an appointed time to move, and often it is with great suddenness and surprise.

Notwithstanding, God always has men he has prepared for the next move. God needs men and women who can explain what the new move is all about. This explanation is needed, not only in the world but in the Church as well. At this point we see Peter and the eleven standing up. They were heading the new move, and Peter in particular is going to explain to the bewildered multitudes what God is doing. Think of it! Just fifty-four days before, Peter was cursing and swearing, and denying the Lord. Christ reinstated him and now he has become the main spokesman of the new revival. How gracious of our Lord and Savior!

Peter Explains the New Move of God

2:14-16 "But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: 15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day (9:00 a.m.). 16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel."

While some were mocking the new manifestation of the Holy Spirit, Peter stood up to speak. Unfortunately, opposition to what God is doing does not come only from the world. There are humanistic minds even within the Church who would also mock. For example, some would say that the baptism of the Holy Ghost and speaking in other tongues is of the flesh or of the devil.

The new move of God from Pentecost onward was opposed and challenged most by men who were closest to the truth. We would think it should be the opposite. The greatest opposition did not come from the Romans or from the heathen but from Bible-believing, Bible-quoting Israelites. They were vexed with jealousy. They felt they owned a monopoly on spiritual matters and highly resented anyone else being blessed besides themselves. The greatest opposition to any new move of God is always from those who have been touched by God in a previous visitation but have not moved on with God. History bears this out repeatedly. Such was the case throughout the Book of Acts.

In Peter's sermon (verses 15-36), ten verses are quotes from the Old Testament. Peter is now going to explain (in v.16-21) that the present move of the Holy Spirit was promised by the prophet Joel.

The Outpouring of Rain

2:16-21 "But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved." Verses 17-21 are quotes from Joel 2:28-32.

In these passages Peter is quoting from Joel 2:28-32. The subject is rain. "I will pour out my Spirit." Rain was clearly understood to be symbolic of the Holy Spirit. What would be the result of this outpouring of rain upon "all flesh?" The spirit of prophecy would come upon male and female alike and they would prophesy. The Holy Spirit would not be limited by social boundaries. Not only the sons and daughters, but the servants and handmaidens would prophesy. The young men would see visions, and the old men dream dreams. Male and female, young and old, servants and handmaidens alike would all be touched by the outpouring of this rain. This happened at Pentecost.

You would think from the way Peter was preaching that Christ's coming was imminent in the first century. Obviously, Christ did not return in the first century. Thus, Joel's prophecy only had a partial fulfillment in the early Church. Certainly, there were signs and wonders in the earth at that time also, but the truest and greatest fulfillment will be in our days. What happened at Pentecost was only a small sample, a type of what God will do in the last days, at the time just prior to His coming.

Joel 2:28-32 is more for our days because it includes Christ's coming. Although Peter quoted Joel at Pentecost, it only had a partial fulfillment then. At Pentecost, they only experienced "the early rain."

Two Rains—The Early and Latter Rain

The Book of Acts is a book of rain—an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. There were two rains in Israel, the early rain and the latter rain. We must understand the geography of Israel to appreciate these truths. In November / December, there fell the early rain. This early rain was light and it softened the earth and prepared the ground for sowing. Then in April / May came the latter rain which was heavy. When Israel tried to cross the Jordan River in the first month (April), the river had overflowed its banks because of the latter rain (cf. Josh. 3:15, 4:19). This was the rain that brought the crop (wheat / barley) to ripeness and prepared it for harvest.

In actual fact, the spiritual rain that fell on the Day of Pentecost was only the early rain. This outpouring was a light rain that prepared the ground for planting. The Church was planted and germinated at the time of Pentecost. A much heavier rain in the last days (the latter rain) will bring the Church to maturity. Then the harvest will be ready. When James 5:7 speaks of "the precious fruit of the earth," it is a reference to His people. The Church will not come to maturity until it has experienced the former and latter rain. See James 5:7. Christ the Husbandman has shown long patience in waiting for His people (His bride) to come to maturity. It will take the latter rain (a heavy outpouring of the Spirit in the last days) to bring the Church to complete ripeness.

The Book of Acts, therefore, is a record only of the early rain. It is a small sample, a foretaste, an "earnest" of something much greater that is coming in the last days. Joel 2:28-32 will have its fullest fulfillment in our times. It was only fulfilled in part in Peter's time on the Day of Pentecost. This truth is further illustrated in the chart below:

 

• These two rains have a natural and a spiritual meaning.

• A light rain fell in November / December for planting a crop.

• A heavy rain fell in April / May to ripen the crop and make it ready for harvest.

• Jordan overflowed its banks at the time of the latter rain (Josh. 3:15, 4:19).

• Ruth was gleaning barley after the latter rain.

• In the first century, the early rain fell. It was for the planting of the Church.

• In the end times, the heavy latter rain will bring the Church to maturity.

• Christ cannot come for a perfected harvest until the Church has had both rains (Jas. 5:7).

• The Lord is a Husbandman. He eagerly awaits "the precious fruit of the earth."

• Remember, we are "the planting of the Lord." (Isa. 61:3). We are His garden (1 Cor. 3:6-9).

• Peter's quote from Joel 2:28-32 was only partially fulfilled in the first century.

• Joel 2:28-32 will have its ultimate fulfillment in our time, then the Lord will come.

• What happened at Pentecost was only a sample of something much bigger and better to come.

• The latter rain will be characterized by the spirit of prophecy coming upon the whole Church.

Let's resume now with Peter's sermon. The sign that the Holy Ghost had come was the speaking in other tongues. It was something they saw and heard. "Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear" (2:33). What did they see and hear—they saw and heard them speaking in other tongues. This was evidence of the resurrected Christ. In the remainder of Peter's sermon (v.22-36), he explains four major tenets of the Christian faith to his bewildered audience:

- That the Messiah was ordained to die, in the purposes of God. v.23

- That the Messiah was ordained to rise from the dead. v.24-31

- That the Messiah would ascend into heaven, and be exalted at the Father's right hand. v.32-35

- That the Messiah is Jesus Christ, and He is both Lord and Christ. v.36

"The evidence of this," said Peter, "is what you are now seeing and hearing" — The resurrected Christ has poured out His Spirit upon his believers and they are speaking in other tongues. v.33

Jesus—a Man Approved of God

2:22 "Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know." Jesus performed many signs and miracles. This was well known; it was the talk of all Israel. He healed multitudes, walked on water, and even raised the dead. There are many tests to pass in order to receive such power. God cannot give power to everyone, for it requires great discipline to have power. We will have to pass through intense heat and pressure to obtain the power of God. Jesus was a man approved of God.