Acts

BOOK OF ACTS – CHRONOLOGY OF PAUL AND HIS EPISTLES

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This second book of Luke's is a record of how these first apostles and Christians began their work.

Christ's helpers. Those who were called upon to be leaders in spreading knowledge of the Resurrected Christ.

A few of these 'helpers' are recorded by name in the book of Acts.

Priscilla and Aquila. Apollos, Sopater of Berea, Aristarchus, Secudus, Gaius of Derbe, Timotheus, Tychicus, Torphimus, Lydia, Mnason of Cyprus and Onesiphorous.

These first apostles and helpers were always in constant opposition by Jews.

Shortly after the persecution and death of Stephen, a number of Yahshua's followers, including Joseph of Arimathea, left Palestine for Britain, settling at Glastonbury, where they erected the first church building above ground.

Paul taught fulfillment theology, not replacement theology.

It records a transition from the rituals of Moses to the Faith in Christ, and from the sacrificial rituals and ordinances of the Levitical priesthood to the reconciliation of dispersed Israel through the gospel. The statements concerning the promises “to our fathers” and the hope of “our twelve tribes” makes it evident that the one area where there was absolutely no transition is that the covenants and promises remain exclusively for the genetic children of Israel. The dispersed Israelites were uncircumcised pagans, and that is the reason why Peter had his vision, so that he would know to bring the gospel to such people. The Romans too, had sprung from Israel, as Paul demonstrates in his epistle to them, and Cornelius, the first converted so-called “Gentile”, was one of them.

The KJV translators were selective to their cause when they translated certain words to “Gentile”.

The “churches” ignorantly teach that the Jews are Israel and that True Israel (the Anglo-Saxon race) are just mere 'Gentiles'. And that through a Jewish Jesus, we scum of the earth Gentiles will be “saved”.

The word 'Gentile' is a Latin word 'gentilis' and simply means a nation, a people, tribe and race.

The Greek word is 'ethnos'. It has the same meaning, a nation, etc.

The Greek word 'Hellen' (hellane) which is a Greek speaking person or inhabitant of Greece is another word which Gentiles replaces.

The Hebrew word for 'nations' is 'goyim' which means people, nations.

One verse alone will disprove the whole “Gentile” deception.

Genesis 25:23 ​​ And Yahweh said unto her, Two nations (H1471- goyim) are in your womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from your bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger.

If Rebekah were a Jew, how could she possibly have two Gentiles in her womb?

Book of Acts was written by Luke.

Paul tells us that Luke was with him at his imprisonment (Philemon 24), and from Acts we see that Luke was there when this happened (Acts 27:1). Luke was with Paul, at the least, from Acts 16:10-17, 20:5-21:18, and 27:1-28:16 (to the end of the book).

Luke was not a Judaean. He was a Greek. Paul's statements in Colossians chapter 4 indeed reveal that Luke was not a Judaean, Possibly born in Antioch. Acts could have been called “2 Luke”

Acts is a book of transition.

It records a transition of the legitimate faith in Yahweh God, as decreed by His Word, from the tenets of Hebraism to the constructs of Christianity; from the rituals of the laws of the Old Covenant to a faith in the Word of God in Christ which was promised by the prophets of the Old Covenant, and which was recorded in the Gospel of the New Covenant.

It records a transition of the primary subject of the Word of God from the remnant of Jerusalem to the dispersion of the children of Israel, the “lost sheep” of the ancient dispersions. That is what the New Testament is, it is the record of the Gospel of the New Covenant between Yahweh God and His people Israel, which was explicitly promised in the prophets at Jeremiah 31:31, Ezekiel 37:26 and Daniel 9:27.

The events recorded in Acts cover 30 years. From Christ's ascension to Paul's arrest and eventual execution.

The original Greek will be shown to bring to light innocent mistakes as well as deliberate deception.

Acts Chapter 1 ​​ 

Yahshua's ascension.

Peter casts lots to fill #12 apostle, Matthias was numbered with the eleven.

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

Acts 1:1 ​​ The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus , of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,

This was not an individual, it is a greeting, like 'Dear reader', it means Lover of Yahweh.

The 'former treatise' may refer to the book of Luke. (Luk 1:1-3)

​​ 1:2 ​​ Until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Spirit had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen:

1Timothy 3:16 ​​ And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Nations, believed on in the world (society), received up into glory (honor).

In Acts 1:2 and 1Timothy 3:16, the words taken and received are from the Greek word analambano, which does not mean up as in floating or lifting upwards. Rather, it means to take in, accept or to receive.

​​ 1:3 ​​ To whom also He shewed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: ​​ (Mark 16:14)

Not pertaining to “personal salvation” as the “churches” teach. The scriptures do not teach “personal salvation”, it teaches kingdom theology.

​​ 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, which, saith He, you have heard of Me. ​​ (Luke 24:43, 49; Joh 14:16, 26)

​​ 1:5 ​​ For John truly baptized with water; but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days hence. ​​ (Matt 3:11; Mar 1:8; Luk 3:16; Joh 1:33)

This is the first transition explained in Acts. John baptized with water, because he was a Levitical Priest, and the last one. The priests washed and cleansed the sacrifices. After Christ died, these ordinances and rituals were done away with because He was the last sacrifice.

John's baptism with water was different than the baptism, or immersion of the word, or Holy Spirit. In other words, bathing in the truth with understanding.

The Ascension of Yahshua

​​ 1:6 ​​ When they therefore were come together, they asked of Him, saying, Prince, wilt You at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? ​​ (Matt 24:3; Luk 1:33)

​​ 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. ​​ (1 Thes 5:1)

​​ 1:8 ​​ But you (His disciples) shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you: and you shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.  ​​​​ (Mat 28:19; Mar 16:15; Luk 24:47-48)

​​ 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. ​​ (Mar 16:19; Luk 24:50-51)

'Cloud' refers to a group, meaning a group of heavenly hosts.

​​ 1:10 ​​ And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men (divine messengers) stood by them in white apparel; ​​ (Mat 28:3, Mar 16:5, Luk 24:4)

​​ 1:11 ​​ Which also said, Ye men of Galilee (Benjaminites), why stand you gazing up into heaven (the sky)? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as you have seen Him go into heaven (the sky).  ​​​​ (Zec 14:4)

Matthias Chosen to Replace Judas

​​ 1:12 ​​ Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey. ​​ (Luke 24:52)

​​ 1:13 ​​ And when they were come in, they went up into an 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.  ​​​​ (Mat 10:2-4; Mar 3:16-19; Luk 6:14-16)

​​ 1:14 ​​ These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brethren.

'with' is not in the manuscripts. It should read “...and his brethren.” All these people are His kinsman. The seed of Abraham.

His own brothers did not believe Him at first, now they do (John 7:3-6).

​​ 1:15 ​​ 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,)

Revelation 3:4 ​​ Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy.

The qualification for an apostle was that they must have been an eyewitness of 'all the time the Prince Yahshua went in and out with them' and of His resurrection.

​​ 1:16 ​​ Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.

Judas Iscariot. Who was an Edomite Jew. Who sold Christ for 30 pieces of silver.

Psalm 41:9 ​​ Yea, Mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of My bread, hath lifted up his heel against Me.

​​ 1:17 ​​ For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry. ​​ (Matt 10:4)

​​ 1:18 ​​ Now this man (Judas) purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.

​​ 1:19 ​​ 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.  ​​​​ (Mat 27:3-8)

​​ 1:20 ​​ For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick (office) let another take.

Psalm 69:25 ​​ Let their habitation be desolate; and let none dwell in their tents.

109:6 ​​ Set you a wicked man over him: and let Satan stand at his right hand.

109:7 ​​ When he shall be judged, let him be condemned: and let his prayer become sin.

109:8 ​​ Let his days be few; and let another take his office.

​​ 1:21 ​​ Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Prince Jesus went in and out among us,

​​ 1:22 ​​ 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. ​​ (Mat 3:16; Mar 1:8, 16:19; Luk 3:21, 24:51; Joh 15:27)

​​ 1:23 ​​ And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. ​​ 

​​ 1:24 ​​ And they prayed, and said, You, Yahweh, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two You hast chosen,

1Samuel 16:7 ​​ But Yahweh said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but Yahweh looketh on the heart.

​​ 1:25 ​​ That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.

​​ 1:26 ​​ And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

Acts Chapter 2

The outpouring of the Spirit which occurred at this first Pentecost was in fulfillment of the prophecy found in Joel chapter 2.

Peter's sermon. The gospel of Christ. The promise to Israel. Repent, for being ignorant Judaeans, they were part of Christ's death. Many received his word.

Acts is a record of how Christ affected men and redirected their thinking and their loyalties. Because of Christ's powerful influence, men's spirits changed from seeking idols to seeking truth.

The Coming of the Holy Spirit

Acts 2:1 ​​ And when the day of Pentecost (50th day from Passover and the crucifixion) was fully come, they were all with one accord (together) in one place.

​​ 2:2 ​​ And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.

​​ 2:3 ​​ And there appeared unto them cloven tongues (languages spreading) like as of fire, and it sat (came) upon each of them.

​​ 2:4 ​​ And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

​​ 2:5 ​​ And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Judaeans, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.

This is 'every nation' of Israel. Of the 12 tribes. There were no blacks, Asians, or Mexicans dwelling in the Roman Empire. As a matter of fact, there are archaeological evidence of signs posted on the Temple warning that any non-Israelite who entered was put to death. We have to understand that this Bible is by, to, for and about the generations of Adam and the seed of Abraham. This is our history, not the world's races.

​​ 2:6 ​​ Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.

Heard with understanding. Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek, etc. were understood simultaneously.

​​ 2:7 ​​ And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?

​​ 2:8 ​​ And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?

​​ 2:9 ​​ Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,

​​ 2:10 ​​ Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Judaeans and proselytes,

​​ 2:11 ​​ Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.

If you know history, all these nations were white nations and kinsmen. Of course they spoke different languages, they were from different areas. The Middle East today is a melting pot of mixed races.

​​ 2:12 ​​ And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?

​​ 2:13 ​​ Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine (drunk).

Peter Addresses the Crowd

​​ 2:14 ​​ But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all you that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:

​​ 2:15 ​​ For these are not drunken, as you suppose, seeing it is but the third hour (9am) of the day.

​​ 2:16 ​​ But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;

​​ 2:17 ​​ 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:

Isaiah 44:3 ​​ For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour My spirit upon your (Jacob's) seed, and My blessing upon your offspring:

Joel 2:28 ​​ And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:

Exclusive to the seed of Jacob.

​​ 2:18 ​​ And on My servants and on My handmaidens I will pour out in those days of My Spirit; and they shall prophesy:

1Corinthians 12:10 ​​ To another the working of miracles; to another interpretation of prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another sorts of languages; to another the interpretation of languages:

​​ 2:19 ​​ And I will shew wonders in heaven (the sky) above, and signs in the earth (land) beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:

​​ 2:20 ​​ The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of Yahaweh come: ​​ (Matt 24:29, Mark 13:24, Luke 21:25)

​​ 2:21 ​​ And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of Yahshua shall be saved (preserved). ​​ (Rom 10:13)

'whosoever' in the context of the Bible, is the seed of Abraham. And 'saved' means preserved. It's an ongoing thing, not “once saved always saved”. Christ came only for the lost sheep of the House of Israel, not just anyone who says “I believe”. Note the context in the next verse.

​​ 2:22 ​​ Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved (appointed for you) of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by Him in the midst of you, as you yourselves also know:

​​ 2:23 ​​ Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, you have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: ​​ (Matt 26:24, Luke 22:22)

The very kinsmen of Christ that were influenced by the ruling religious sects of the scribes, Sadducees and Pharisees, participated in His death.

​​ 2:24 ​​ Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of it.

Romans 8:11 ​​ But if the Spirit (DNA) of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit (DNA) that dwelleth in you.

1Corinthians 6:14 ​​ And God hath both raised up the Prince, and will also raise up us by His own power.

2Corinthians 4:14 ​​ Because knowing that He who raised Prince Yahshua, also will raise up with Yahshua, and will be present with you.

​​ 2:25 ​​ For David speaketh concerning Him, I foresaw the Prince always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:

​​ 2:26 ​​ Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:

​​ 2:27 ​​ Because You wilt not leave my soul in hell (the grave), neither wilt You suffer Your Holy One (Lovingly-commited One) to see corruption.

​​ 2:28 ​​ You hast made known to me the ways of life; You shalt make me full of joy with Your countenance.

Verses 25-28 are from Psalm 16:8-11.

​​ 2:29 ​​ Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.

'and' is added by the translators. It separates men and brothers and used to support universalism. It should read, “Men, brothers...”

​​ 2:30 ​​ Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;

More confirmation that we are talking about a family, a race of people from Adam to Abraham to David to Christ. And even Queen Elizabeth II, who is not a Jew.

2Samuel 7:12 ​​ And when your days be fulfilled, and you shalt sleep with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, which shall proceed out of your bowels, and I will establish his kingdom.

Psalm 132:11 ​​ Yahweh hath sworn in truth unto David; He will not turn from it; Of the fruit of your body will I set upon your throne.

​​ 2:31 ​​ He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that His soul was not left in hell (the grave), neither His is flesh did see corruption.

​​ 2:32 ​​ This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.

​​ 2:33 ​​ Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit hath shed forth this, which you now see and hear.

Philippians 2:9 ​​ Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name:

​​ 2:34 ​​ For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, Yahweh said unto my Master, Sit you on my right hand,

​​ 2:35 ​​ Until I make your foes your footstool. ​​ (Psa 110:1)

David is still in hell (the grave). Just like everyone else who has died. Hell, as in a burning place of Satan, is a concoction of Catholicism.

​​ 2:36 ​​ Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Yahshua, whom you have crucified, both His Master and Christ.

The First Converts

​​ 2:37 ​​ Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren (Men, brothers), what shall we do? ​​ (Luke 3:10)

Zechariah 12:10 ​​ And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace (favor) ​​ and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for Him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.

The Jews of Judaea got what they wanted, for now, they killed God. But the Israelites of Judaea that were deceived by the Edomite priesthood ignorantly participated in the death of Christ. Yahweh's spirit of mercy filled some of the Israelites and they asked “what shall we do?”.

​​ 2:38 ​​ Then Peter said unto them, Repent (meaning 'change your way'), and be baptized (immersed) every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission (of the penalty) of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. ​​ (Luke 24:47)

The Levitical priesthood had expired at Christ's death. Water and a man can do nothing for you. Being immersed in knowledge and understanding is true baptism.

​​ 2:39 ​​ For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as Yahweh our God shall call.

Joel 2:28 ​​ And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:

​​ 2:40 ​​ And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward (crooked) generation (race). ​​ (Jer 51:6; Php 2:15; Rev 18:4)

The context of this sermon of Peter is talking about the corrupt religious sects who agitated the people to join in with them and crucify Christ. They must be saved from the enemies of Christ and the wicked people of their own race.

​​ 2:41 ​​ Then they that gladly received his word were baptized (immersed in the truth): and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

​​ 2:42 ​​ And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Life Among the Believers

​​ 2:43 ​​ And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.

​​ 2:44 ​​ And all that believed were together, and had all things common;

​​ 2:45 ​​ And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. (Jos War 2.7.4 119-127; see also Ant 18.2.5 18-22)

Isaiah 58:7 ​​ Is it not to deal your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor that are cast out to your house? when you seest the naked, that you cover him; and that you hide not yourself from your own flesh (race, kinsmen)?

​​ 2:46 ​​ And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,

​​ 2:47 ​​ Praising God, and having favour with (Divine influence toward) all the people. And the Prince added to the church (assembly) daily such as should be saved (preserved).

The KJV translators were instructed to change the Greek word 'ecclesia' to “church” every time.

Ecclesia means a 'called out' body, a gathering of 'saints'. According to scripture these would be the children of Israel. The descendants of race of Adam. That would be the Anglo-Saxon peoples of the world today. Us. The “church” in scripture NEVER means a building or the clerical hierarchy of Judaism that it has become.

Acts Chapter 3

Peter heals a lame man. People were filled with wonder and amazement. Peter answers them. He gives Christ the praise for this, and tells them that they denied him. Now repent, and act like God's children.

Peter Heals a Crippled Beggar

Acts 3:1 ​​ Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.

​​ 3:2 ​​ And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms (charity) of them that entered into the temple;

​​ 3:3 ​​ Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms.

​​ 3:4 ​​ And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us.

​​ 3:5 ​​ And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.

​​ 3:6 ​​ Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I you: In the name of Jesus (Yahshua) Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

​​ 3:7 ​​ And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.

​​ 3:8 ​​ And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.

Isaiah 35:6 ​​ Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.

​​ 3:9 ​​ And all the people saw him walking and praising God:

​​ 3:10 ​​ And they knew that it was he which sat for alms (charity) at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. ​​ (John 9:8)

Peter Speaks in Solomon's Portico

​​ 3:11 ​​ And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.

​​ 3:12 ​​ And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye ​​ men of Israel, why marvel you at this? or why look you so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness (reverence) we had made this man to walk?

The “churches” teach that the “church” takes the place of Israel in the NT. The scriptures do not teach this, the context is always the children of Israel.

​​ 3:13 ​​ The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified His Son Jesus; whom you delivered up, and denied Him in the presence of Pilate, when He was determined to let Him go. ​​ (Exo 3:6, 13, 15; Joh 12:16)

It doesn't say 'the God of everybody'. The message is always exclusive to Israel.

​​ 3:14 ​​ But you denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a (man, a) murderer (Barabas) to be granted (surrendered as a favor) unto you;

​​ 3:15 ​​ And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.

Why did the translators choose to correctly use the word 'Prince' here instead of 'Lord'? It should say Prince, Master, or Teacher in every place that they changed it to 'Lord' in the NT. Lord comes from Baal. When you call on the name of 'Lord', you are calling on Satan.

​​ 3:16 ​​ And His name through faith (The Belief) in His name (Yahshua – God Saves) hath made this man strong, whom you see and know: yea, the faith (The Belief) which is by Him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.

​​ 3:17 ​​ And now, brethren, I wot (know) that through ignorance you did it, as did also your rulers.

​​ 3:18 ​​ But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all His prophets, that Christ should suffer, He hath so fulfilled. ​​ (Luke 24:44)

​​ 3:19 ​​ Repent (G3340- Think differently) you therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Master;

Note that the apostles are still teaching that we must obey Yahweh's laws, even after Christ's death. So the law was NOT “done away with”, only the sacrificial rituals and ordinances expired.

​​ 3:20 ​​ And He shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:

​​ 3:21 ​​ Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution (restoration) of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began (since of old).

​​ 3:22 ​​ For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall Yahweh your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall you hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you.

​​ 3:23 ​​ And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. ​​ (Deut 18:15-19)

​​ 3:24 ​​ Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.

​​ 3:25 ​​ Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in your seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. ​​ (Gen 12:3, 22:18, 26:4)

This verse is loaded with explicit exclusivity. The Bible is for the race of Adam. Don't take my word for it. Read the scriptures.

Romans 9:4 ​​ Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the 'placement into position of sons', and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;

9:8 ​​ That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.

The descendants of Jacob are the children of the promises.

The children of the flesh are those not of the posterity of Abraham, Isaac, and through Jacob.

Romans 15:8 ​​ Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:

​​ 3:26 ​​ Unto you first God, having raised up His Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

The circumcision was those of the house of Judah, the Israelites of Judaea that Christ came to minister to first. But He also came for the “lost” sheep, the uncircumcised or dispersed nations of Israel, that were outside of Judaea that forgot their heritage. Paul was specifically chosen to reconcile them. If “Gentiles” were a valid bible word (which it is not), then these dispersed of Israel would fit. But the word means 'Nations', and in the context of the gospel, the message was to the “lost” kinsmen of the Judaean Israelites.

Iniquities comes from disobeying the law, which was given only to Israel, on Mt Sinai. The other races of the world were not there.

Acts Chapter 4

Peter and John arrested.

The Sadducees did not like them teaching of Jesus and the resurrection.

They commanded them not to teach in Christ's name anymore, and let them go, and the apostles joined their own company. For this they prayed and were filled with the Holy Spirit. Many sold their possessions and let the apostles distribute according to need.

Peter and John Before the Council

Acts 4:1 ​​ And as they (the disciples) spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,

​​ 4:2 ​​ Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

Why did the religious sects grieve about the apostles teaching truth? Because they were of the serpent seed. John 8:44

​​ 4:3 ​​ And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide.

​​ 4:4 ​​ Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.

Wow, 5000. They sure were hurting the business of the Sadduccees.

The “churches” like to use verses like this and others to push their “just believe” doctrine. It is evident throughout scripture that He wants us to obey as well. And our actions are proof.

​​ 4:5 ​​ And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,

​​ 4:6 ​​ And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

These kindred are defined by Christ Himself as the seed of the wicked one. He is referring to Satan's children. These priests (Edomites/Canaanites) infiltrated the religious sects of Judaea when the children of Israel were in Babylonian captivity, outside of Judaea. When they came back, after the Medes and Persians defeated the Babylonians, they had to clean house (see Ezra and Nehemiah). But obviously the “thorns” were always in our sides. Our government and leadership today has been infiltrated just like back then with these Edomite/Canaanites. 75% of our politicians and lawmakers are Jews! Ruling over us just like back then.

​​ 4:7 ​​ And when they (Edomite priests) ​​ had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have you done this?

Luke 12:11 ​​ And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take you no thought how or what thing you shall answer, or what you shall say:

12:12 ​​ For the Holy Spirit shall teach you in the same hour what you ought to say.

​​ 4:8 ​​ Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

​​ 4:9 ​​ If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

​​ 4:10 ​​ Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus (Yahshua) Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole.

So Peter was having a very powerful sermon, healing the lame man, etc. and the Edomite rulers were getting jealous. Now Peter is addressing two groups, group one, the rulers and those deceived Israelites following the rulers, and group two, the Israelites who kept the true faith.

​​ 4:11 ​​ This is the stone (Christ) which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. ​​ (Psa 118:22; Isa 28:16)

​​ 4:12 ​​ Neither is there salvation (deliverance) in any other: for there is none other name under heaven (the sky) given among men, whereby we must be saved (preserved). ​​ (Matt 1:21)

​​ 4:13 ​​ Now when they (Edomite rulers) saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they (Edomite rulers) were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them (the apostles), that they had been with Jesus.  ​​​​ (4Mac 10:5)

Matthew 11:25 ​​ At that time Yahshua answered and said, I thank You, O Father, Sovereign of the sky and the land, because You hast hid these things from the wise (conceited) and prudent (pious), and hast revealed them unto babes (disciples).

​​ 4:14 ​​ And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they (Edomite rulers) could say nothing against it.

​​ 4:15 ​​ But when they (Edomite rulers) had commanded them (apostles) to go aside out of the council, they (Edomite rulers) conferred among themselves,

​​ 4:16 ​​ Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them (Israelites) that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.

​​ 4:17 ​​ But that it spread no further among the people (Israelites), let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name (Yahshua Messiah).

​​ 4:18 ​​ And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus (Yahshua).

​​ 4:19 ​​ But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge you (you decide).

​​ 4:20 ​​ For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

​​ 4:21 ​​ So when they (Edomite rulers) had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.

​​ 4:22 ​​ For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.

The Believers Pray for Boldness

​​ 4:23 ​​ And being let go, they (apostles) went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.

The apostles left the company of the Edomite priestly rulers and 'went to their own company', Israelites.

​​ 4:24 ​​ And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Master, You art God, which hast made heaven (the sky), and earth (the land), and the sea, and all that in them is: ​​ (Exo 20:11; 2 Ki 19:15; Neh 9:6; Psa 146:6)

​​ 4:25 ​​ Who by the mouth of Your servant David hast said, Why did the heathen (nations) rage, and the people imagine vain things?

​​ 4:26 ​​ The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against Yahweh, and against His Christ. ​​ (Psa 2:1-2)

'and against His Anointed'.

Christ does not always refer to Him. It often is a reference to the group, the 'called out' seed of Jacob/Israel, the Anointed people.

​​ 4:27 ​​ For of a truth against Your holy child Jesus, whom You hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,

The Greek: 27 For in truth they gathered in this city against Your holy servant Yahshua, whom You anointed, both Herodas and Pontios Pilatos with the Nations and peoples of Israel,

Everyone was guilty of Christ's death. The Edomites, the Romans, and even ignorant Israelites.

Gentiles does not mean non-Jew.

​​ 4:28 ​​ For to do whatsoever Your hand and Your counsel determined before to be done.

​​ 4:29 ​​ And now, Yahweh, behold their threatenings: and grant unto Your servants, that with all boldness they may speak Your word,

​​ 4:30 ​​ By stretching forth Your hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of Your holy child Jesus (Your Set-Apart Servant Yahshua).

​​ 4:31 ​​ And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spake the word of God with boldness (frankness).

The translators couldn't fit the word 'church' in this verse this time. Why? Because in those days there were no 'churches' yet. The scriptures never used the word “church”, nor ever intended the “church” to become the clerical order it is today. Find out if your “church” is 501-C3. The “churches” use the mistranslated word ecclesia for 'church' in the Bible. The word 'ecclesia' means a calling out, a meeting or assembly of 'the called'. Those of the children of Israel whom Yahweh chooses. Many are called, few are chosen.

The Believers Share Their Possessions

​​ 4:32 ​​ And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.

​​ 4:33 ​​ And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Master Yahshua: and great grace (Divine influence) was upon them all.

​​ 4:34 ​​ Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,

​​ 4:35 ​​ And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.

This sounds like these Israelites were doing more than “just believing”.

​​ 4:36 ​​ And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus,

​​ 4:37 ​​ Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

Acts Chapter 5

Ananias and Sapphira lie about their donation and are struck dead.

Many were healed and many followers were added to the Prince.

The Sadducees arrest the apostles and put them in prison. A messenger of Yahweh opens the prison doors and commands them to speak in the temple to the people the words of this life.

The captain with the officers bring them before the council.

Peter says we will obey Yahweh and not men.

The council of Gamaliel, lenient with the apostles, beat them and let them go.

Twelve members of a certain family, all of them of the sect of the Sadducees, had held the high priesthood for most of the time – perhaps as much as three-quarters of it, from about 6 AD up to the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. This was the family of Annas and his son-in-law, Caiaphas, who were the Edomite Jew high priests known from the accounts of the Gospel.

Ananias and Sapphira

Acts 5:1 ​​ But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,

​​ 5:2 ​​ And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

​​ 5:3 ​​ But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

​​ 5:4 ​​ Whiles it remained, was it not your own? and after it was sold, was it not in your own power? why hast you conceived this thing in your heart? you hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

Numbers 30:2 ​​ If a man vow a vow unto Yahweh, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.

​​ 5:5 ​​ And Ananias hearing these words fell down (died), and gave up the ghost (expired): and great fear came on all them that heard these things. ​​ (Susanna 55/Dan 13:55)

​​ 5:6 ​​ And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.

​​ 5:7 ​​ And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in.

​​ 5:8 ​​ And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether you sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much.

​​ 5:9 ​​ Then Peter said unto her, How is it that you have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Master? behold, the feet of them which have buried your husband are at the door, and shall carry you out.

​​ 5:10 ​​ Then fell she down (died) straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost (expired): and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband.

​​ 5:11 ​​ And great fear came upon all the church (assembly), and upon as many as heard these things.

The Apostles Heal Many

​​ 5:12 ​​ And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch. ​​ (Rom 15:19)

​​ 5:13 ​​ And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.

​​ 5:14 ​​ And believers (followers, doers) were the more added to the Prince, multitudes both of men and women.)

​​ 5:15 ​​ Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them.

​​ 5:16 ​​ There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

The Apostles Are Persecuted

​​ 5:17 ​​ Then the high priest (Annas, an Edomite Jew) rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation (jealousy), ​​ (Jos Ant. 18.2.4 16-17; see also War 2.8.14 162-166)

​​ 5:18 ​​ And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. ​​ (Luke 21:12)

​​ 5:19 ​​ But the angel (messenger) of Yahweh by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,

​​ 5:20 ​​ Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. ​​ (John 6:68, 17:3)

​​ 5:21 ​​ And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

​​ 5:22 ​​ But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,

​​ 5:23 ​​ Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.

​​ 5:24 ​​ Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.

​​ 5:25 ​​ Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.

​​ 5:26 ​​ Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.

​​ 5:27 ​​ And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,

​​ 5:28 ​​ Saying, Did not we straitly command you that you should not teach in this name (Christ Yahshua)? and, behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

The Edomite Sadducees were accusing the apostles of the doctrine of Christ!?! This alone proves that the Sadducees and Pharisees doctrine was NOT the doctrine of Christ. And the Sadducees and Pharisees WERE responsible for Christ's death. ​​ Did they not cry? Matthew 27:25 ​​ Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children. ​​ They agitated the people and instigated these riots.

​​ 5:29 ​​ Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

​​ 5:30 ​​ The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you slew and hanged on a tree.  ​​​​ (Exo 3:15; Deut 21:22-23)

​​ 5:31 ​​ Him hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance (a change of mind, compunction) to Israel, and forgiveness (of the penalty) of sins. ​​ (Psa 110:1)

Forgiveness to repentant Israel. Specific.

​​ 5:32 ​​ And we are His witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Spirit, whom God hath given to them that obey Him. ​​ (John 15:26-27; 1Joh 3:24)

The 'we' and the 'them' are Israelites. The 'so is' is in italics, meaning added by the translators. We are Christ's and the Holy Spirit's witnesses.

​​ 5:33 ​​ When they (Sadducees) heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them (apostles).

​​ 5:34 ​​ Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;

​​ 5:35 ​​ And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what you intend to do as touching (what you are about to do to) these men.

According to the “churches” the NT replaces the OT Israelites with the “church”. Why is Israel still addressed, specifically, ​​ in the NT, 75 times? Because the OT and NT are about the same people.

​​ 5:36 ​​ (Gamaliel still speaking) For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.

​​ 5:37 ​​ After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.

​​ 5:38 ​​ And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:

Proverbs 21:30 ​​ There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against Yahweh.

Gamaliel basically was telling them that by their fruits you shall know them. The examples of verses 36-37 were of bad fruit.

​​ 5:39 ​​ But if it be of God, you cannot overthrow it; lest haply you be found even to fight against God.

2Maccabees 7:19 ​​ But think not you, that takest in hand to strive against God, that you shalt escape unpunished.

Luke 21:15 ​​ For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.

1Corinthians 1:25 ​​ Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

​​ 5:40 ​​ And to him (Gamaliel) they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus (Yahshua), and let them go.

​​ 5:41 ​​ And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. ​​ (Matt 5:12)

​​ 5:42 ​​ And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

Acts Chapter 6

The number of disciples multiplies.

Seven chosen: Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas.

Certain of the synagogue stirred up the people, and Stephen is brought before the council.

Seven Chosen to Serve

Acts 6:1 ​​ And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

​​ 6:2 ​​ Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

​​ 6:3 ​​ Wherefore, brethren, look you out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

Deuteronomy 1:13 ​​ Take you wise men, and understanding, and known among your tribes, and I will make them rulers (heads) over you.

​​ 6:4 ​​ But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

​​ 6:5 ​​ And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith (belief, conviction) and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

​​ 6:6 ​​ Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

​​ 6:7 ​​ And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith (The Belief).

The Arrest of Stephen

​​ 6:8 ​​ And Stephen, full of faith (conviction) and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

​​ 6:9 ​​ Then there arose certain (Jews) of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.

​​ 6:10 ​​ And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.

​​ 6:11 ​​ Then they suborned men, which said, We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God.

​​ 6:12 ​​ And they (religious rulers) stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him, and caught him, and brought him to the council,

​​ 6:13 ​​ And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place, and the law:

1Kings 21:13 ​​ And there came in two men, children of Belial (Satan), and sat before him (Naboth): and the men of Belial witnessed against him, even against Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, Naboth did blaspheme God and the king. Then they carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him with stones, that he died.

Naboth owned a vineyard and it was usurped by Canaanites. Even a 1000 years before Christ, these children of Satan infiltrated our society and practiced the same evil against the children of Israel.

​​ 6:14 ​​ For we (Edomite priests) have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us.

​​ 6:15 ​​ And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his (Stephen's) ​​ face as it had been the face of an angel.

4 AD

Augustus (27 BC- 14 AD)

Augustus adopts Tiberius and recognizes him as the successor

5 AD PAUL

Born—an Israelite—in Tarsus of Cilicia (Acts 22:3; Phil 3:5)

7 AD

Judea becomes a Roman Imperial province

14 AD

Census of Caesar and Tiberius

Lyvia poisons Augustus; Tiberius comes into power

Tiberius (14-37 AD)

15-20 AD

Paul attends the school of Gamaliel, Jerusalem (Acts 22:3)

A Pharisee (Phil 3:5)

26 AD

Pilate begins serving as procurator of Judea

28 AD

John the Baptist executed by Herod Antipas

Crucifixion of Christ

First Pentecost

32-33 AD

Acts Chapter 7

We see Stephen make an appeal to his fellow countrymen in defense of the new Christian creed. His appeal was based on the life of Moses, who was at this time, presumably next to Yahweh God Himself, the most venerated figure in the history of Israel. Stephen's appeal included a description which explains the reason why Moses was chosen for the mission which God provided him: because he displayed a greater care for the people of his own race than he did for his high station in life which was provided by the Egyptians.

Stephen calls the Jew priests stiffnecked and that they persecuted the prophets, and kept not the law.

They cast him out of the city and stoned him.

Paul (Saul) was the young man who held their garments during the stoning. (v58)

Stephen's Speech to the Council

Acts 7:1 ​​ Then said the high priest, Are these things so?

​​ 7:2 ​​ And he (Stephen) said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,

Stephen is addressing kinsmen of the seed of Abraham.

​​ 7:3 ​​ And said unto him, Get you out of your country, and from your kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew you. ​​ (Gen 12:1)

Abraham's father Terah was a pagan who worshiped other gods, as did most of the people back then, and now as a matter of fact. Yahweh instructed Abraham to get away from his pagan kindred.

​​ 7:4 ​​ Then came he out of the land of the Chaldaeans, and dwelt in Charran: and from thence, when his father was dead, he removed him into this land, wherein you now dwell. ​​ (Gen 11:31, 12:4-5)

​​ 7:5 ​​ And He gave him none inheritance in it, no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet He promised that He would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child. ​​ (Gen 12:7,13,15, 15:4,7,18-21, 17:8, 24:7, 48:4; Deut 2:5)

The promise to Abraham's seed was made before he had Isaac.

​​ 7:6 ​​ And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land (Egypt); and that they (Egyptians) should bring them (Israelites) into bondage, and entreat them evil four hundred years.

​​ 7:7 ​​ And the nation (Egypt) to whom they (children of Israel) shall be in bondage will I judge, said God: and after that shall they (children of Israel) come forth, and serve Me in this place (the Promised Land).

Exodus 3:12 ​​ And He said, Certainly I will be with you; and this shall be a token unto you, that I have sent you: When you hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God upon this mountain.

​​ 7:8 ​​ And He gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs (12 tribes).

Genesis 17:9 ​​ And God said unto Abraham, You shalt keep My covenant therefore, you, and your seed after you in their generations (posterity).

17:10 ​​ This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your seed after you; Every man child among you shall be circumcised.

17:11 ​​ And you shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of the covenant betwixt Me and you. ​​ (Gen 21:2-4)

​​ 7:9 ​​ And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him, ​​ (Gen 37:4,11,28; Psa 105:17)

Remember Joseph was Jacob's first through Rachel, and also dreamed that the other 11 would bow to him.

​​ 7:10 ​​ And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. ​​ (Gen 41:37)

Genesis 42:6 ​​ And Joseph was the governor over the land, and he it was that sold to all the people of the land: and Joseph's brethren came, and bowed down themselves before him with their faces to the earth.

​​ 7:11 ​​ Now there came a dearth over all the land of Egypt and Chanaan, and great affliction: and our fathers found no sustenance. ​​ (Gen 41:54)

​​ 7:12 ​​ But when Jacob heard that there was corn (grain) in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.

​​ 7:13 ​​ And at the second time Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh. ​​ (Gen 45:4,16)

The Egyptians at that time were descendants of Ham and Shem. Egypt was a white nation up until about the 700's BC when it's Pharoah died and the general of the army seized power. Blacks from Africa were the main sum of soldiers at that time and it only took 70 years to change the race and culture of Egypt into the mixed, dark race it is now. The word “Arab' means mixed, or to grow dark.

​​ 7:14 ​​ Then sent Joseph, and called his father Jacob to him, and all his kindred, threescore and fifteen (75) souls. ​​ (Gen 45:9,27)

​​ 7:15 ​​ So Jacob went down into Egypt, and died, he, and our fathers, ​​ (Gen 46:5,49:33; Exo 1:6)

​​ 7:16 ​​ And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem. ​​ (Exo 13:19; Josh 24:32)

​​ 7:17 ​​ But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt, ​​ (Gen 15:13)

​​ 7:18 ​​ Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph. ​​ (Exo 1:8)

When Joseph was second in command in Egypt, the Pharoah was Hamite or Shemite. Of the same race as Joseph. About 3 generations later, the Pharoah was a product of miscegenation, ​​ race mixed with Canaanite blood. Hence, knew not Joseph, or his people.

​​ 7:19 ​​ The same (Pharoah) ​​ dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.

Exodus 1:22 ​​ And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born (of Hebrew women) you shall cast into the river, and every daughter you shall save alive.

​​ 7:20 ​​ In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair (white), and nourished up in his father's house three months:  ​​​​ (Exo 2:2)

​​ 7:21 ​​ And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him for her own son.

Exodus 2:3-10. 'Moses' was an Egyptian name. Moses was an Israelite born of the tribe of Levi.

​​ 7:22 ​​ And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.

​​ 7:23 ​​ And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren the children of Israel.

​​ 7:24 ​​ And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:

​​ 7:25 ​​ For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hand would deliver them: but they understood not.

​​ 7:26 ​​ And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again, saying, Sirs, you are brethren; why do you wrong one to another?

​​ 7:27 ​​ But he that did his neighbour (kinsman) wrong thrust him away, saying, Who made you a ruler and a judge over us?

​​ 7:28 ​​ Wilt you kill me, as you diddest the Egyptian yesterday?

​​ 7:29 ​​ Then fled Moses at this saying, and was a stranger (sojourner) in the land of Madian, where he begat two sons.  ​​​​ (Exo 2:11-15)

The “churches” teach that Moses married a black woman.

Midian is a son of Abraham and Keturah. Moses married a daughter of a Priest of Midian (Exo 2:15,22, 3:1, 4:18,20, Num 12:1) Because Zipporah was called an Ethiopian, the “churches” think of black Ethiopia today and say “see”. Ethiopian's are descendants of Cush, Ham's grandson. Ethiopian means 'sun burnt face'. They were called 'Kushiym'. If Moses married someone outside his race, then Yahweh is a liar, because He demands we remain pure, unmixed.

​​ 7:30 ​​ And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sinai an angel (a messenger) of Yahweh in a flame of fire in a bush.

Exodus 3:2 ​​ And the messenger of Yahweh appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed.

This would be a similar fire to what is known as St. Elmo's fire. a phenomenon in which a luminous electrical discharge appears on a ship or aircraft during a storm.

​​ 7:31 ​​ When Moses saw it, he wondered at the sight: and as he drew near to behold it, the voice of Yahweh came unto him,

​​ 7:32 ​​ Saying, I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Then Moses trembled, and durst not behold (did not have the courage to look).

​​ 7:33 ​​ Then said Yahweh to him, Put off your shoes from your feet: for the place where you standest is holy ground.

​​ 7:34 ​​ I have seen, I have seen the affliction of My people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come, I will send you into Egypt. ​​ (Exo 3:7)

​​ 7:35 ​​ This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made you a ruler and a judge? the same did God send to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the angel (messenger) which appeared to him in the bush. ​​ (Exo 14:19)

​​ 7:36 ​​ He brought them out, after that He had shewed wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red sea (Sea of Reeds), and in the wilderness forty years.  ​​​​ (Exo 7:3, 14:21; Num 14:33)

​​ 7:37 ​​ This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A Prophet shall Yahweh your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall you hear.  ​​​​ (Deut 18:15,18)

​​ 7:38 ​​ This is he, that was in the church (assembly, group) in the wilderness with the angel (messenger) which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:  ​​​​ (Exo 19:1-20:17; Deut 5:1-33)

Busted! There were no “churches” in Christ's time, and definitely none at Moses time. The KJV translators were ordered to replace the word 'ecclesia' with “church” every time. They slipped here. See how the perverters of scripture try to make scripture fit their doctrine? By enforcing the idea of a clerical 501-C3 order subservient to government.

​​ 7:39 ​​ To whom our fathers would not obey, but thrust him from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt,

​​ 7:40 ​​ Saying unto Aaron, Make us gods to go before us: for as for this Moses, which brought us out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.

Exodus 32:1 ​​ And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.

​​ 7:41 ​​ And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands. ​​ (Exo 32:2-6; Deut 9:16; Psa 106:19)

​​ 7:42 ​​ Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O you house of Israel, have you offered to Me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness?  ​​​​ (Deut 4:19, 17:3; 2Ki 23:5)

​​ 7:43 ​​ Yea, you took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures (symbols, statues, signs) which you made to worship them: and (therefore) I will carry you away beyond Babylon. ​​ (Amo 5:25-27)

The star of David is NOT the Jewish six pointed star. The Jewish six pointed star is actually the Seal of Solomon, because in his latter days, Solomon had many wives of strange flesh and worshiped their gods, Moloch was Baal worship, Babylonian, and Satanic. Six is the number of man, and 666 is Satanic.

​​ 7:44 ​​ Our fathers had the tabernacle of witness in the wilderness, as He had appointed, speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.

​​ 7:45 ​​ Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles (nations), whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;

Since 'gentile' means only: race, kin, or nation, and not 'non-Israelite' as the “churches” teach, here it refers to the other races, kin, or nations outside the race, kin, and nation of the children of Israel.

Since Yahshua is the same name as Joshua in the Greek from Hebrew, the translators missed this one and recorded 'Jesus', when it should be Joshua (the son of Nun). Joshua was a 'type' of Christ.

And now the references for verse 45:

Joshua 3:14 ​​ And it came to pass, when the people removed from their tents, to pass over Jordan, and the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people;

Nehemiah 9:24 ​​ So the children went in and possessed the land, and You subduedst before them the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, and gavest them into their hands, with their kings, and the people of the land, that they might do with them as they would.

Psalm 44:2 ​​ How You didst drive out the heathen with Your hand, and plantedst them; how You didst afflict the people, and cast them out.

The things which are impossible with men are possible with Yahweh.

The Greek:

45 ​​ Which also our fathers who succeeded brought in with Joshua into the possession of the nations which Yahweh expelled before the face of our fathers until the days of David,

​​ 7:46 ​​ Who found favour before God, and desired to find a tabernacle for the God of Jacob. ​​ (2Sam 7:1-16)

​​ 7:47 ​​ But Solomon built Him an house. ​​ (1Ki 6:1-38, 8:20)

​​ 7:48 ​​ Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,

1Kings 8:27 ​​ But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have builded?

2Chronicles 2:6 ​​ But who is able to build Him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain Him? who am I then, that I should build Him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before Him?

When we abide in His allegiance (faith), He will abide in us. Our bodies are His temple, when we are actively keeping it clean.

​​ 7:49 ​​ Heaven is My throne, and earth is My footstool: what house will you build Me? saith Yahweh: or what is the place of My rest? ​​ (Isa 66:1-2, Matt 5:34)

​​ 7:50 ​​ Hath not My hand made all these things?

​​ 7:51 ​​ Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you do always resist the Holy Spirit: as your fathers did, so do you. ​​ (Jer 6:10)

Exodus 32:9 ​​ And Yahweh said unto Moses, I have seen this people (us), and, behold, it is a stiffnecked people: 33:3-5

Leviticus 26:41 ​​ And that I (Yahweh) also have walked contrary unto them (us), and have brought them into the land of their enemies (these days the enemies come into our land); if then their uncircumcised hearts be humbled, and they then accept of the punishment of their iniquity (lawlessness):

Deuteronomy 10:16 ​​ Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.

This is still Stephen talking, proclaiming the Truth.

​​ 7:52 ​​ Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom you have been now the betrayers and murderers:

​​ 7:53 ​​ Who have received the law by the disposition of angels (messengers), and have not kept it.

The Stoning of Stephen

​​ 7:54 ​​ When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.

​​ 7:55 ​​ But he, being full of the Holy Spirit, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

4Maccabees 6:6 ​​ But raising his eyes on high to the sky, the old man's flesh was stripped off by the scourges, and his blood streamed down, and his sides were pierced through.

​​ 7:56 ​​ And said, Behold, I see the heavens (skies) opened, and the Son of man (Adam) standing on the right hand of God. ​​ (Psa 110:1)

​​ 7:57 ​​ Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,

​​ 7:58 ​​ And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.

Paul was a young man and present at Stephen's stoning.

​​ 7:59 ​​ And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Master Yahshua, receive my spirit.

Psalm 31:5 ​​ Into Your hand I commit my spirit: You hast redeemed me, O Yahweh God of truth. ​​ 

​​ 7:60 ​​ And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Prince, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Stephen knew that his own people who were stoning him were following the Sadducee Jews in ignorance.

Just like Christ cried on the cross for the people of His own kin, saying ”Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”

Paul was a persecutor of the Christians (Acts 8:1-3; Phil 3:6)

Philip preaches in Samaria, healing and calling out unclean spirits.

A certain man, Simon, a sorcerer, offered money for the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter rebukes him.

A messenger of Yahweh tells Philip to go south, down from Jerusalem unto Gaza. He comes to an Ethiopian eunuch (Kushite) reading Isaiah (53:7-8). Speaking of Yahshua.

Philip was then found in Azotus preaching in all the cities until he came to Caesarea.

Saul Persecutes the Assembly

Acts 8:1 ​​ And Saul was consenting unto his (Stephen's) death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church (assembly) which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.

How can a “church” scatter? The word is 'ecclesia', an assembly, a congregation, people.

​​ 8:2 ​​ And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.

​​ 8:3 ​​ As for Saul, he made havock of the church (assembly), entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. ​​ (Act 22:4-5, 26:9-11; 1 Cor 15:9)

Philip Preaches in Samaria

​​ 8:4 ​​ Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.

​​ 8:5 ​​ Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.

​​ 8:6 ​​ And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.

​​ 8:7 ​​ For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. ​​ (Mark 16:17)

​​ 8:8 ​​ And there was great joy in that city.

​​ 8:9 ​​ But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:

​​ 8:10 ​​ To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. ​​ 

Sounds like Joel Osteen, Billy Graham (Franks) and other televangelists. Preaching “personal salvation”.

​​ 8:11 ​​ And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.

​​ 8:12 ​​ But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

​​ 8:13 ​​ Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

​​ 8:14 ​​ Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:

​​ 8:15 ​​ Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit:

​​ 8:16 ​​ (For as yet He was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Prince Jesus.)

They were baptized but did not receive the Spirit yet. Showing that it is not the water that cleanses but the immersion in the knowledge and understanding of the Spirit.

This will become more evident as the transition from the Old Covenant to the New is revealed.

​​ 8:17 ​​ Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

​​ 8:18 ​​ And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money,

​​ 8:19 ​​ Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit.

​​ 8:20 ​​ But Peter said unto him, Your money perish with you, because you hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

​​ 8:21 ​​ You hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for your heart is not right in the sight of God.

​​ 8:22 ​​ Repent (Think differently) therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.

2Timothy 2:25 ​​ In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

​​ 8:23 ​​ For I perceive that you art in the gall of bitterness (wrath of rebellion), and in the bond of iniquity (unrighteousness). ​​ 

​​ 8:24 ​​ Then answered Simon, and said, Pray you to the Prince for me, that none of these things which you have spoken come upon me.

​​ 8:25 ​​ And they, when they had testified and preached the word of Yahweh, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Man of Kush)

​​ 8:26 ​​ And the angel (messenger) of the Prince spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.

​​ 8:27 ​​ And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, ​​ (Zeph 3:10, John 12:20)

Ethiopia was Kush. These Ethiopians (Kushiym) were white people, not blacks at this time. There were no black eunuchs or Queens, and besides, they were uncivilized, illiterate and eating each other at this time.

​​ 8:28 ​​ Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.

He was reading from the Septuagint LXX. The apostles and Christ Himself quoted from the Septuagint.

​​ 8:29 ​​ Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join yourself to this chariot.

​​ 8:30 ​​ And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Isaiah, and said, Understandest you what you readest?

​​ 8:31 ​​ And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.

​​ 8:32 ​​ The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened He not His mouth:

​​ 8:33 ​​ In His humiliation His judgment was taken away: and who shall declare His generation? for His life is taken from the earth. ​​ (Isaiah 53:7-8) Speaking of Yahshua

​​ 8:34 ​​ And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray you, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?

​​ 8:35 ​​ Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus (Yahshua).

​​ 8:36 ​​ And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?

​​ 8:37 ​​ And Philip said, If you believest with all your heart, you mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Verse 37 is not in any manuscript before the 6th century AD. This verse is an addition to support the doctrine of “just believe”. Catholicism is most likely the guilty party of this addition.

​​ 8:38 ​​ And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.

​​ 8:39 ​​ And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Prince caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.

​​ 8:40 ​​ But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

The key to the identity of the Ethiopian eunuch is to find out who the inhabitants of Ethiopia in New Testament times really were. Many Judeo-Christian publishers gloss the Ethiopian as an arbitrary African Negro without much historical accuracy. History is replete with examples of territories changing in racial make-up via wars, famines, migrations etc. Egypt is a good example of determining the racial identity of an Egyptian, depending on the time period. The history of Ethiopia is one of several important kingdoms that are basically unknown to Christendom, e.g., the Silurian Parthian and Scythian Empires. These territories provided fertile soil for the missionary efforts of the early Christian church. The Apostle Matthew spent much of his time fulfilling the Great Commission in the most unknown Christian empire of them all: Aksum, ancient Ethiopia.

This is what the World Book Encyclopedia has to say about this empire: “Aksum was a powerful ancient kingdom in East Africa. It was the ancestor of Ethiopia. It became important about 50 A.D. and reached its zenith between the 300s and 600s. Aksum grew rich and powerful because of Adule, its port on the Red Sea. Adule was a world trading center. Goods were traded to merchants from Egypt, Greece, Rome, Persia, India and Ceylon. Aksumite kings built impressive forts, palaces and granite monuments. During the 300s, King Ezana defeated the state of Meroe. Ezana became famous for making Christianity the state religion. Aksum declined after the Persians conquered Arabia in the late 500s. During the 600s, the Muslims conquered the Persians and stopped the flow of settlers who had come to Aksum from southern Arabia. As a result, the Christians of Aksum were surrounded by non-Christians.”

In 960 A.D. Judith (a descendent of Cain), conceived a plan to murder all members of the royal family of Aksum (descendents from King Solomon of Israel and the Queen of Sheba of southern Arabia). During and after this reign of terror, this once powerful Christian kingdom fell into insignificance. Later, in the 1600s Negro tribes called Galla moved into the ancient land and ravaged, pillaged, and burnt enormous areas, destroying countless treasures contained in the churches and irreplaceable old manuscripts. Thus, once the second largest Christian nation of its time, Aksum became a wasteland, and its heritage forgotten and ignored. The forgotten history of the kingdom of the African Nile has caused many modern day Christian Bible students to make a major assumption that is totally incorrect: that the Ethiopian eunuch of Acts chapter 8 was a Negro. But this popular assumption is not correct for the following reasons:

• It’s a faulty assumption because it’s based on the idea that Ethiopia now, as well as 2000 years ago, was and is a Negro nation. All of the ancient kingdoms of East Africa, including Egypt, Aksum, Kush, Yemen and southern Arabia were not Negro nations in 33 A.D., but instead were Caucasian and bastions of white culture until the 1600s.

• The word “Ethiopian” indicates that this eunuch was a Caucasian. “Aith” means sunburned and “ops” means countenance, hence a sunburned complexion. Negroes do not have a sunburned look. It is white people who tan from sun exposure and therefore were the original Ethiopians according to archaic etymology. A similar exegesis is found in the Song of Solomon.

• The Ethiopian eunuch had been to Jerusalem to do what only an Israelite could do, i.e. “to worship” (Acts 8:27). Who was allowed to worship in the Temple? Could a non-Israelite enter the Court of Israel and worship in the Temple, especially in the time right after the death of Christ? Consider what happened to the Apostle Paul when he stirred up all the people by bringing Greeks into the Temple, and they were going to kill him for it (Acts 21:27-31). Trophimus, even though he was racially the same as Paul, was considered a heathen, polluting the Temple by his presence. How then could an Ethiopian Negro (who definitely could not be an Israelite) have entered into the forbidden, exclusive Temple Court of Israel and worshipped? Wouldn’t he have polluted the Temple too?

• The Ethiopian was reading a very expensive scroll of Isaiah. Phillip asked him if he knew what he was reading, and he said he needed someone to explain. The eunuch had just finished reading the following 3 verses from Isaiah 53:4-6, which had the recurrent theme of “OUR griefs”, “OUR sorrows”, “OUR transgressions”, “OUR iniquities”, “OUR peace”, “WE are healed”, “WE, like sheep” and “WE have turned”. What people are all the preceding pronouns (in caps) referring to? “For the transgression of MY PEOPLE was He stricken” (Isaiah 53:8): God’s people; the people known as ‘sheep’; the people whom Christ redeemed; the people of the covenants; the people of God’s Kingdom; the people next of kin to Christ, their Kinsman Redeemer, the God of Israel. Isaiah was writing about providing atonement for Israel. This is, no doubt, what Philip explained to the Ethiopian eunuch. The Apostle Phillip, Isaiah, Christ and the Ethiopian (Aksumian) eunuch were all Israelites.

• Doesn’t it seem strange that if Aksum, the second largest Christian nation at one time, was actually a black nation, that there was no other known black Christians, let alone kingdoms, anyplace in the world? Isn’t it significant that there were no Negroes who ever attended any of the church councils; or were bishops or elders from this or any other area? If any assumptions are to be made, it is fair to think that the eunuch probably helped Matthew to establish churches in an area with a rich Christian heritage (which is all but forgotten today).

34 AD

Saul's conversion on the Road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-9)

Saul is blind for 3 days.

Goes to Damascus (Acts 9:10-19)

Yahshua tells a disciple in Damascus, Ananias, that he returns Saul's sight. That Saul is a chosen vessel to bear His name unto the dispersed Israelites.

Saul immediately preached in the synagogues (assembly halls) that Christ is the Son of Yahweh.

Travels to Arabia and remains there (Gal 1:17) 34-37 AD

37 AD

Returns to Damascus then exits the city for safety (Gal 1:17; Acts 9:20-25; 2 Cor 11:32-33)

But his students taking him by night sat him in a basket lowering him down by the wall.

Caligula becomes emperor at the death of Tiberius

Caligula (37-41 AD)

Goes up to Jerusalem (Acts 9:26-29; Gal 1:18)

The apostles were skeptical, but Barnabus explained about Paul's conversion.

*The Hellenists here were not Greeks, but rather they were followers of Greek customs and traditions amongst the Judaeans.

Paul disputed with the Hellenists and that they “endeavored to kill him”, indicates that Paul prevailed in his disputes, and that the Hellenists had no other recourse. Paul, having been educated far beyond the other apostles, was in a unique position among them to be able to both elucidate and dispute the Gospel and the Old Testament in the context of ancient world history. Paul was uniquely qualified to bring the Gospel to “lost” Israel, to those of the ancient dispersions, to those nations which were descended from the seed of Abraham. That was his mission “to the Nations”. That qualification is fully evident in many of his epistles.

Goes back to Tarsus for safety (Acts 9:30) 37-46 AD

(Acts 9:32-35) Peter heals a man named Aeneas, and all dwelling in Lydda and Saron turned to Christ.

(Acts 9 leaves off with Peter in Joppa, raising from death a woman named Dorcas, many believed.

He then abode at the home of Simon the Tanner, by the sea, where he tarried many days)

The Conversion of Saul

Acts 9:1 ​​ And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Master, went unto the high priest, ​​ (Gal 1:13)

​​ 9:2 ​​ And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues (assembly halls), that if he found any being of The Way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

Ignorant of the infiltrated serpent seed among the religious sects, Saul was asking for more power to persecute the followers of Christ.

​​ 9:3 ​​ And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven (the sky):

1Corinthians 15:8 ​​ And last of all He was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.

​​ 9:4 ​​ And he fell to the earth (ground), and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest you Me? ​​ (Matt 25:40)

​​ 9:5 ​​ And he said, Who art You, master? And the Master said, I am Jesus whom you persecutest: it is hard for you to kick against the pricks.

The last part is not in the older manuscripts.

​​ 9:6 ​​ And he trembling and astonished said, Master, what wilt You have me to do? And the Master said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told you what you must do.

​​ 9:7 ​​ And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. ​​ (3Mac 6:18)

Daniel 10:7 ​​ And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves.

The men in both instances did not hear with understanding.

​​ 9:8 ​​ And Saul arose from the earth (ground); and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man (no one): but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.

​​ 9:9 ​​ And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

​​ 9:10 ​​ And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Master in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Master.

​​ 9:11 ​​ And the Master said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,

​​ 9:12 ​​ And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

​​ 9:13 ​​ Then Ananias answered, Master, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to Your saints at Jerusalem:

​​ 9:14 ​​ And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on Your name.

​​ 9:15 ​​ But the Master said unto him, Go your way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

The Greek: 15 But the Prince said to him “Go! For he is a vessel chosen by Me who is to bear My Name before both the Nations and kings of the sons of Israel.

'Gentiles' is a stumbling block for the unlearned. “Gentile” is a Latin word that means nation, kin or race. It can be any nation of peoples of the same posterity. By definition it can refer to a black nation, or a Chinese nation, even Jews, etc. But of the same race. The Jews changed the meaning, forced, and added the 'non-Israelite' meaning. Therefore fooling you into thinking that you are of another race other than your true identity, which is an Anglo-Saxon Israelite of the seed of Abraham, and that we are the children of the light. The Jews are imposters. Wake up. By their fruits you shall know them.

​​ 9:16 ​​ For I will shew him (Paul) how great things he must suffer for My name's sake.

Romans 1:1 ​​ Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, an called ambassador, set apart for the gospel of God,

​​ 9:17 ​​ And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Master, even Yahshua, that appeared unto you in the way as you camest, hath sent me, that you mightest receive your sight, and be filled with the Holy Spirit.

​​ 9:18 ​​ And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.  ​​​​ (Tob 11:13-15)

​​ 9:19 ​​ And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

Saul Preaches in Damascus

​​ 9:20 ​​ And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues (assembly halls), that He is the Son of God.

​​ 9:21 ​​ But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?

​​ 9:22 ​​ But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Judaeans which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this Man is the very Christ.

Saul Escapes from the Jews

​​ 9:23 ​​ And after that many days were fulfilled, the Judaeans (the Jewish scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees) took counsel to kill him:

​​ 9:24 ​​ But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.

2Corinthians 11:32 ​​ In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me:

​​ 9:25 ​​ Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket. ​​ 

Saul in Jerusalem

​​ 9:26 ​​ And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed (tried) to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

​​ 9:27 ​​ But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Master in the way, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus (Yahshua).

​​ 9:28 ​​ And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.

Galatians 1:18 ​​ Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.

​​ 9:29 ​​ And he spake boldly in the name of the Prince Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him.

​​ 9:30 ​​ Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.

​​ 9:31 ​​ Then had the churches (assemblies) rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Master, and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, were multiplied.

The Healing of Aeneas

​​ 9:32 ​​ And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda.

​​ 9:33 ​​ And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy.

​​ 9:34 ​​ And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Yahshua Christ maketh you whole: arise, and make your bed. And he arose immediately.

​​ 9:35 ​​ And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Master.

Peter in Lydda and Joppa

​​ 9:36 ​​ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

“Just believe” and “wait to be raptured”? Verse 36 says otherwise.

​​ 9:37 ​​ And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.

​​ 9:38 ​​ And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.

​​ 9:39 ​​ Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

​​ 9:40 ​​ But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

​​ 9:41 ​​ And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.

​​ 9:42 ​​ And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Master.

​​ 9:43 ​​ And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.

Don't forget that these people that believed were Israelites that forgot or never heard of Christ and his purpose of death. Paul was the apostle to the Nations (wrongly “Gentiles”). The Nations of Israel. He was re-educating our people in The Way. He wasn't preaching “just believe”, he was preaching heritage, the law, brotherly love, and warning us of our enemy, the tares. Teaching that by faith (the true Belief) we are worthy of the grace (favor) that is freely ours, if we seek righteousness by loving and obeying the law.

39 AD

Herod Antipas deposed by Caligula and exiled to Gaul

(Acts 10) Peter's visit to Cornelius

Messenger of Yahweh visits Cornelius, instructs to send men to Joppa for Peter.

Peter has a vision on a roof top at noon.

(Acts 10:13) And a voice came to him: “Arise, Petros! Offer sacrifice, and eat!”

This is not about food, but the corresponding vision which Cornelius received and the subsequent instructions to Peter in verse 20 both show that it is about men, the act of eating being an allegory for what was about to be required of Peter, which was the act of communing with uncircumcised men ('lost' Israelites) and transmitting the Gospel to them.

Profane (or common, defiled) – Can be cleansed, sanctified

Unclean – Cannot be clean, cannot be sanctified.

Here the animals in Peter's vision do not represent foods, but rather they represent people, and what Yahweh had cleansed were uncircumcised Israelites. Yahweh God, through Yahshua Christ, had cleansed the outcasts of Israel on the Cross (stake, pale), and Peter was not to consider them to be profane. Many of the Greek tribes as well as the Romans, Kelts, Parthians, and the other Germanic tribes all descended from the “lost” Israelites of the Assyrian deportations (741-676 B.C.), and the migrations of Israelites from Palestine over the centuries leading up to those deportations (the Danaans, Dorians, Trojans, and Phoenicians who emigrated from the 15th through the 8th centuries B.C.). These had long ceased following Hebrew custom, and were considered unclean by the Judaeans who adhered to (and also added to) certain interpretations of the Old Testament laws. Peter received his vision for the express purpose that he should preach the Gospel to these people.

John 15, the words of Christ to the apostles: “3 You are already clean through the word which I have spoken to you.” However Judas Iscariot could not be cleansed, as John evidenced in his Gospel at 13:10-11.

As Peter awoke from his vision, behold, the men sent by Cornelius were at the gate of the Tanner.

The Spirit told Peter to go, and make no distinction (between circumcised Judaean and uncircumcised Greeks).

Now a vision of “all the four-footed creatures” would contain both the clean and the unclean creatures, as they are distinguished in the law. However Peter responds “Not at all, master, because not ever have I eaten anything profane and unclean.” These are Peter's words, and not the words of God. Therefore they do not imply that Peter should eat things deemed unclean by the law. Rather, Yahweh God responded with the words “The things which Yahweh has cleansed, you do not deem profane!” ​​ Referring to the dispersion (uncircumcised).

(Acts 10:28) You know how it is unlawful for a Judaean man to join to or associate with another tribe. Yet Yahweh has explained to me not to call any man profane or unclean.

The Book of Acts is a book of Transition

Yahweh is teaching to Peter that these other men, outside Judaea, are under the same covenant. They are the dispersed or uncircumcised Israelites.

Notice that the Holy Spirit descended on these people without any water baptism having yet taken place. It took Peter himself some time to realize what had happened here, and when he does realize it, he also realizes and professes the implications. Peter says in Acts 11: “15 And with my beginning to speak the Holy Spirit fell upon them, even as also upon us in the beginning. 16 Then I remembered the saying of the Prince as He spoke: ‘Indeed John immersed in water, but you shall be immersed in the Holy Spirit.’” For this very reason, this is the last time that water is used in relation to baptism in the New Testament. The Book of Acts is a book of transition, and this was also one of those transitions.

The baptism of John was a baptism of cleansing in water that was instituted before the cross (stake) of Christ, and it was a matter prophesied in Malachi chapter 3. It had implications in fulfilling the law in relation to the proper sacrifice of the Lamb of God: for both the priests and the sacrifice had to be cleansed, and John the Baptist was appointed to conduct that cleansing. From this point on, water is not again mentioned in connection with baptism, anywhere in the rest of Acts. Rather, when Priscilla and Aquila had first encountered Apollos, who had only known the baptism of John, which was a baptism in water, they corrected him, as we read in the last verses of Acts chapter 18:24-28

Peter and Cornelius

Acts 10:1 ​​ There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,

Centurion is a Roman word that means 'leader of a band of one hundred men'. Soldiers.

​​ 10:2 ​​ A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.

Cornelius was an Israelite. It is evident that he practiced The Way.

​​ 10:3 ​​ He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour (3pm) of the day an angel (messenger) of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.

​​ 10:4 ​​ And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, master? And he said unto him, Your prayers and your alms are come up for a memorial before God.

​​ 10:5 ​​ And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:

​​ 10:6 ​​ He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell you what you oughtest to do.

​​ 10:7 ​​ And when the angel (Yahshua) which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually;

​​ 10:8 ​​ And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa.

​​ 10:9 ​​ On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour (12 noon):

​​ 10:10 ​​ And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance,

​​ 10:11 ​​ And saw heaven (the sky) opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth:

Symbolic of the 12 Israelite tribes woven together as a group. All different sub tribes and branches of the 12 tribes. They are all of Abraham's seed. The tribes of the House of Judah were the circumcised, and the 10 tribes of the House of Israel were the dispersed, or uncircumcised, who were regarded as common by the Judaean House of Judah because they practiced paganism and forgot who they were.

​​ 10:12 ​​ Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

​​ 10:13 ​​ And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.

​​ 10:14 ​​ But Peter said, Not so, master; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.

'common' is a reference to something profane. Meat was bought at the marketplace which was part of the Temple, and most people were pagans, so the meat was sacrificed to gods, hence profane. Defiled.

'unclean' is a reference to the Levitical food laws. Animals deemed unclean by Yahweh.

The “churches” use this chapter to teach you to eat pork.

Yahweh does not cleanse something He deemed unclean clean by a sacrifice. Or by any manner, Malachi 3:6 ​​ For I am Yahweh, I change not;

Yahweh cleanses something that is profane or defiled.

Deuteronomy 14:8 ​​ And the swine, because it divideth the hoof, yet cheweth not the cud, it is unclean unto you: you shall not eat of their flesh, nor touch their dead carcase.

Do we believe the “churches” or scripture?

​​ 10:15 ​​ And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not you common (profane, defiled).

The 'churches' will get mad at you and say 'don't call what God cleaned unclean!'. But He didn't clean the unclean animals which were never considered food.

What did God cleanse? Israelites that have been defiled by pagan practices. God did not clean the garbage disposing animals for consumption, they are still the garbage disposers.

​​ 10:16 ​​ This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven (the sky).

Peter needed things done three times a lot it seems. ​​ (John 21:15-17)

​​ 10:17 ​​ Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,

​​ 10:18 ​​ And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there.

​​ 10:19 ​​ While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek you.

​​ 10:20 ​​ Arise therefore, and get you down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

​​ 10:21 ​​ Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom you seek: what is the cause wherefore you are come?

​​ 10:22 ​​ And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Judaeans, was warned from God by an holy angel (messenger) to send for you into his house, and to hear words of you.

​​ 10:23 ​​ Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.

​​ 10:24 ​​ And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near (necessary) friends.

​​ 10:25 ​​ And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.

​​ 10:26 ​​ But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.

​​ 10:27 ​​ And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together.

​​ 10:28 ​​ And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Judaean to keep company, or come unto one of another nation (race); but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

These were not men of another race. These men were Israelites of the house of Israel that had forgotten their heritage. Israelites that did not dwell in Judaea were considered 'common', or foreign, because most of the Israelites never returned to Judaea after the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities and settled elsewhere becoming pagan, or just ignorant of who they were and their relation to their racial kinsmen.

​​ 10:29 ​​ Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent you have sent for me?

​​ 10:30 ​​ And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour (3pm) I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

​​ 10:31 ​​ And said, Cornelius, your prayer is heard, and your alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

​​ 10:32 ​​ Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto you.

​​ 10:33 ​​ Immediately therefore I sent to you; and you hast well done that you art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded you of God.

The 'Lost' Nations of Scattered Israel Hear the Good News

​​ 10:34 ​​ Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:  ​​​​ (Deut 10:17)

Meaning rich, poor, popular, nobody, high office, no office. Your stature in life.

​​ 10:35 ​​ But in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him.

The context is Israelites. Every Israelite in every nation.

​​ 10:36 ​​ The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (He is Master of all:)

Romans 2:13 ​​ (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

Romans 3:22 ​​ Even the righteousness of God which is by faith (allegiance) of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

No difference between the tribes of Israelites in Judaea, and the tribes of Israel of the dispersion. They are all the same people, race, kin.

​​ 10:37 ​​ That word, I say, you know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; ​​ (Luke 4:14)

​​ 10:38 ​​ How God anointed Jesus (Yahshua) of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power: who went about doing ​​ good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him. ​​ (Luke 4:18, Heb 1:9)

​​ 10:39 ​​ And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Judaeans, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:

​​ 10:40 ​​ Him God raised up the third day, and shewed Him openly;

​​ 10:41 ​​ Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with Him after He rose from the dead.

​​ 10:42 ​​ And He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick (the living) and dead. ​​ (Act 17:31; Joh 5:29; Psa 96:13, 98:9; Rev 19:11)

​​ 10:43 ​​ To Him give all the prophets witness, that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins.

Isaiah 53:11 ​​ He shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied: by His knowledge shall My righteous servant justify many; for He shall bear their iniquities.

Dispersed and Uncircumcised Israelites Receive the Holy Spirit

​​ 10:44 ​​ While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all them which heard the word.

Notice there was no water baptism. They were immersed in the knowledge and understanding of The Belief. Baptism was for the Levitical ritual cleansing of Christ in preparation for sacrifice.

​​ 10:45 ​​ And they of the circumcision (house of Judah) which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel, the uncircumcised) also was poured out the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Because they were both children of Israel.

​​ 10:46 ​​ For they heard them speak with tongues (in languages), and magnify God. Then answered Peter,

​​ 10:47 ​​ Can any man forbid water, that these (uncircumcised) should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Spirit as well as we (circumcised)?

​​ 10:48 ​​ And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Prince. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

1Corinthians 1:17 ​​ For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross (pale) of Christ should be made of none effect.

This vision in chapter 10 was showing that the House of Judah and Israel were reconciled under the New Covenant (2 Cor 5:18). Many Israelites did not understand that the rituals and oblations were to cease. (Dan 9:27)

This is the last time water baptism is used. The apostles that understood taught this from here on out.

(Acts 11)

Peter gives his report about his message from Yahweh regarding the uncircumcised.

He witnessed the Holy Spirit immersing them.

41 AD

Caligula murdered

Cladius declared emperor

Cladius (41-54)

​​ 

Barnabas travels to Tarsus in order to seek Saul (Acts 11:25)

Agabus prophesies a famine (Acts 11:27, 28) The 42' Famine in Rome

Aid sent to Jerusalem through Barnabas and Saul (Acts 11:29, 30)

Peter's Report to the Assembly at Jerusalem

Acts 11:1 ​​ And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles (dispersed Nations) had also received (accepted) the word of God.

​​ 11:2 ​​ And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,

The Judaeans of the House of Judah contended with Peter because they did not understand that the uncircumcised were their long lost kinsmen of the dispersed Nations of the 10 northern tribes.

​​ 11:3 ​​ Saying, You wentest in to men uncircumcised (dispersed Nations), and didst eat with them.

Galatians 2:12 ​​ For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel): but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.

​​ 11:4 ​​ But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,

​​ 11:5 ​​ I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:

​​ 11:6 ​​ Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth (land), and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

​​ 11:7 ​​ And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay (offer sacrifice) and eat.

​​ 11:8 ​​ But I said, Not so, master: for nothing common (profane, defiled) or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.

Peter thought that this vision was about food, when it was about people, meaning the 10 “lost” and dispersed tribes of Israel. This group did not return to Jerusalem after captivity. That's why the two houses don't know each other as kinsmen.

The “churches” use this chapter to teach you to eat pork.

​​ 11:9 ​​ But the voice answered me again from heaven (the sky), What God hath cleansed, that call not you common.

Christ's death cleansed both houses, He was teaching Peter that they were under the same covenant.

​​ 11:10 ​​ And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven (the sky).

​​ 11:11 ​​ And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.

​​ 11:12 ​​ And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:

​​ 11:13 ​​ And he shewed us how he had seen an angel (messenger) in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;

​​ 11:14 ​​ Who shall tell you words, whereby you and all your house shall be saved.

​​ 11:15 ​​ And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

​​ 11:16 ​​ Then remembered I the word of the Prince, how that He said, John indeed baptized with water; but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.

Two separate baptisms. One by John, a Levitical priest, with water, for Christ. The other with the knowledge and understanding of the Holy Spirit. Immersed in Truth.

​​ 11:17 ​​ Forasmuch then as God gave them (the uncircumcised) the like gift as He did unto us (the circumcised), who believed on the Prince Yahshua Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?

The Judaeans were now starting to understand that both the houses of Judah and of Israel were Israelites under the Better Covenant.

​​ 11:18 ​​ When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles (Nations, uncircumcised) granted repentance (a change of mind, compunction) unto life.

These next verses of Romans are the references to the above verses.

Romans 10:12 ​​ For there is no difference between the Judaean (Israelites of Judaea) and the Greek (Israelites of the dispersion): for the same Prince over all is rich unto all that call upon Him.

10:13 ​​ For whosoever (meaning the children of Israel) shall call upon the name of the Prince shall be saved (preserved).

Romans 15:9 ​​ And that the Gentiles (uncircumcised, dispersed Israel) might glorify God for His mercy; as it is written, For this cause I (Paul) will confess to you among the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel), and sing unto your name.

15:16 ​​ That I (Paul) should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles (Nations-of Israel), ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles (Nations of Israel that forgot who they were) might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

The Assembly in Antioch

​​ 11:19 ​​ Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Judaeans only.  ​​​​ (Act 8;1-4)

​​ 11:20 ​​ And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Prince Jesus.

​​ 11:21 ​​ And the hand of the Prince was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Prince.

​​ 11:22 ​​ Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church (assembly) which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.

​​ 11:23 ​​ Who, when he came, and had seen the grace (Divine influence) of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Master.

​​ 11:24 ​​ For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith (moral conviction, belief): and much people was added unto the Prince.

The message of redemption to all the Nations of Israel was spreading, and they were becoming reacquainted with the spirit and law on their heart.

The scriptures prophecy that Israelites bring the word to the world (Adamic society). And we are seeing proof here. The Jews deny the scriptures for their 'doctrines of men' and have NEVER brought the gospel to anyone.

​​ 11:25 ​​ Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:

​​ 11:26 ​​ And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church (assembly), and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians (Messianists) first in Antioch.

Only Israelites can be called Christians. All other religions allow anybody in, because they really have nothing to offer. What can their non-existing god do for you? Nothing.

Christianity is exclusive to the race of Adam, the seed of Abraham, the brethren of Christ. Us.

​​ 11:27 ​​ And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.

​​ 11:28 ​​ And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth (famine) throughout all the world (society): which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. ​​ (Acts 21:10)

'world' does not mean the planet 99% of the time. Agabus was not predicting a worldwide famine. 'world' usually means the Adamic society, a few times 'age', and once or twice 'order'.

​​ 11:29 ​​ Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:

Romans 15:26 ​​ For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. ​​ (1 Cor 16:1)

​​ 11:30 ​​ Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

43 AD

Roman campaigns against Britain

(Acts 12:1-3) Herod Agrippa slays James the elder, brother of John. Seeing it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to take Peter.

44 AD

(Acts 12:4-17) A messenger of Yahweh leads Peter out of prison, he goes to Mary the mother of JohnMark.

Death of Herod Agrippa I (grandson of Herod the Great)

(Acts 12:20-23) Yahweh smote Herod and he was eaten of worms.

Account of death recorded in Josephus' Antiquities, Book 19: 343-354.

The emperor Claudius gave Herod Agrippa I dominion over Judaea and Samaria as a gift in return for his support after the assassination of Caligula. His brother, Herod of Chalcis, was married to both his cousin Mariamne and later to his own niece, Berenice. The son of Herod Agrippa I, called Herod Agrippa II, is the Agrippa of the latter chapters of Acts.

Barnabas and Saul return to Jerusalem with John Mark (Acts 12:25)

James Killed and Peter Imprisoned

Acts 12:1 ​​ Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church.

Certain of the assembly. The KJV changed the Greek word 'ecclesia' to 'church'. The ecclesia is the called out body of Israelites. The 'church' is not the 'called'. The 'church' is an abomination, all 33,000 versions and denominations.

​​ 12:2 ​​ And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. ​​ (Matt 20:23)

​​ 12:3 ​​ And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)

Exodus 12:14 ​​ And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and you shall keep it a feast to Yahweh throughout your generations; you shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.

12:15 ​​ Seven days shall you eat unleavened bread; even the first day you shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel.

Do the “churches” teach this today. No. They teach that Israel is the Jews, and Gentiles (non Jews) and the “church”, ​​ takes their place in the NT. ​​ Wrong. Keep sitting in your own pew and warming it up for Satan.

​​ 12:4 ​​ And when he (Herod, an Edomite) had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. ​​ (Exo 12:1-27)

Easter, really! Is this a pagan book of mythology? It should read 'Passover'.

Easter is a pagan holiday that worships the goddess of fertility, Diana, Artemis, Astarte. Hence all the eggs. Rabbits are very promiscuous and so are pagan sex orgies.

Passover and Easter are a Catholic merging of Christian and pagan practices. When you acknowledge Easter for anything Christian, you are apostate. Time to search the scriptures people.

​​ 12:5 ​​ Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church (assembly) unto God for him.

Peter Delivered From Prison

​​ 12:6 ​​ And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

​​ 12:7 ​​ And, behold, the angel (messenger) of Yahweh came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.

​​ 12:8 ​​ And the angel (messenger) said unto him, Gird yourself, and bind on your sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast your garment about you, and follow me.

​​ 12:9 ​​ And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel (messenger); but thought he saw a vision.

Psalm 126:1 ​​ A Song of degrees. When Yahweh turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

​​ 12:10 ​​ When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his (it's) own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel (messenger) departed from him.

​​ 12:11 ​​ And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that Yahweh hath sent His angel (messenger), and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Judaeans.

Psalm 34:7 ​​ The messenger of Yahweh encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.

Daniel 3:28 ​​ Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent His angel, and delivered His servants that trusted in Him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.

Daniel 6:22 ​​ My God hath sent His messenger, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before Him innocency was found in me; and also before you, O king, have I done no hurt.

​​ 12:12 ​​ And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.

​​ 12:13 ​​ And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.

​​ 12:14 ​​ And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.

​​ 12:15 ​​ And they said unto her, You art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel (messenger).

​​ 12:16 ​​ But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.

​​ 12:17 ​​ But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Prince had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

​​ 12:18 ​​ Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.

​​ 12:19 ​​ And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode.

The Death of Herod

​​ 12:20 ​​ And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.

​​ 12:21 ​​ And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.

​​ 12:22 ​​ And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.

​​ 12:23 ​​ And immediately the angel (messenger) of Yahweh smote him, because he gave not God the glory (honor): and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost (expired). ​​ (2Mac 9:5-28)

​​ 12:24 ​​ But the word of God grew and multiplied.

Isaiah 55:11 ​​ So shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.

​​ 12:25 ​​ And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.

In Acts chapter 12 we saw the murder of the elder James, the son of Zebedee, and the arrest and miraculous escape of the apostle Peter. Both the murder of James and the arrest of Peter were on account of the political motives of Herod Agrippa. Upon the escape of Peter, we are also introduced to the apostle Mark. Towards the end of the chapter we see the death of Herod Agrippa, who did not deny himself when the people extolled him as a god, and the cause of his death as recorded here in Acts is also recorded by the Judaean historian, Flavius Josephus.

(Acts 13:1)

The assembly at Antioch, Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, and Saul.

Likely the Simon who bore Christ's cross (stake, pale).

When this happened to Simon, he was “coming out of the country”, or alternatively coming out of a field or off of a farm, and he must have been headed into Jerusalem as the soldiers were leading Christ out of Jerusalem. This was at the Passover, which was one of the three times each year that all Judaeans were required to appear at the temple in Jerusalem, according to the law. That this Simon is a Cyrenian, has a Hebrew name, and is in Jerusalem at this time is not a coincidence. He is certainly a Judaean man from Cyrene observing the law.

47 AD

The Holy Spirit had Barnabas and Saul "separated" and sent them out (Acts 13:2, 3)

They travel from Antioch to Seleucia, then to Cyprus (Acts 13:4) End of 47-48 AD

1st Missionary Journey (AD 48)

48 AD

While on Cyprus Barnabas and Saul go to Salamis and Paphos, with them John Mark.(Acts 13:5-12)

They come upon Bar-Jesus (Elymas) Sorcerer. Full of guile and fraud. With him was the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, who desired to hear the word. Paul sees through Elymus deceit and Elymus is blinded for a season.

From Paphos they go to Perga of Pamphylia where John Mark departs for Jerusalem (Acts 13:13)

Ministry in Antioch of Pisidia (Acts 13:14-50)

Paul teaches to the audience that they are the seed of Abraham, about their history and heritage, and the covenants promised by Yahweh. Paul's primary task was to explain that the ministry, death by crucifixion, and subsequent resurrection of Yahshua Christ was indeed the fulfillment of the scriptural promises of a Savior and King to the children of Israel.

The meaning of Christ's death. The preaching first to the Judaeans, and then the dispersion.

Finally the Jews aroused a persecution against Paul and Barnabas.

At Iconium (Acts 13:51 - 14:6)

Some believed, some did not. Edomites stirred up the Judaeans. They were about to be stoned. So they fled to Lystra.

Barnabas and Saul Commissioned

Acts 13:1 ​​ Now there were in the church (assembly) that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

​​ 13:2 ​​ As they ministered to the Master, and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, Separate Me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

​​ 13:3 ​​ And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

The Apostles Preach in Cyprus

​​ 13:4 ​​ So they (Saul and Barnabas), being sent forth by the Holy Spirit, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

​​ 13:5 ​​ And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues (assembly halls) of the Judaeans: and they had also John to their minister (as an attendant).

​​ 13:6 ​​ And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus:

​​ 13:7 ​​ Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man (a man of understanding); who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

​​ 13:8 ​​ But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith (The Belief). ​​ (Ex 7:11, 2 Tim 3:8)

The name Saul means, to straddle. Paul bridged Hebrewism and the Greco-Roman world.

​​ 13:9 ​​ Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Spirit, set his eyes on him,

​​ 13:10 ​​ And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, you child of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, wilt you not cease to pervert the right ways of Yahweh?

Matthew 13:38 ​​ The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;

​​ 13:11 ​​ And now, behold, the hand of Yahweh is upon you, and you shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.

​​ 13:12 ​​ Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Master.

Paul and Barnabas in Antioch of Pisidia

​​ 13:13 ​​ Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.

​​ 13:14 ​​ But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue (assembly hall) on the sabbath day, and sat down.

​​ 13:15 ​​ And after the reading of the law (Torah) and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue (assembly hall) sent unto them, saying, Ye men, brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.

​​ 13:16 ​​ Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, you that fear God, give audience.

​​ 13:17 ​​ The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought He them out of it. ​​ (Exo 1:7, 12:51)

​​ 13:18 ​​ And about the time of forty years suffered He their manners in the wilderness. ​​ (Num 14:34; Deut 1:31)

​​ 13:19 ​​ And when He had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, He divided their land to them by lot.  ​​​​ (Deut 7:1; Josh 14:1)

It was our ancestors, Israelites that were chosen by God, He brought them out, He taught them in the wilderness and He gave them the land of Canaan. Yahweh has only known us apart from all the other races. This is not the book of the generations of Negros, Asians, and Mexicans.

​​ 13:20 ​​ And after that He gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet. ​​ (1Sam 3:20)

Judges 2:16 ​​ Nevertheless Yahweh raised up judges, which delivered them out of the hand of those that spoiled them.

​​ 13:21 ​​ And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.

1Samuel 8:5 ​​ And said unto him (Samuel), Behold, you art old, and your sons walk not in your ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.  ​​​​ 10:21

​​ 13:22 ​​ And when He ​​ (Yahweh) had removed him (Saul), He raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also He gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after Mine own heart, which shall fulfil all My will.  ​​​​ (1Sam 13:14, 16:12; Psa 89:20)

​​ 13:23 ​​ Of this man's seed hath God according to His promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Yahshua:

According to the flesh. The flesh of Jacob/Israel. Abraham. Adam. Jesus is not a chameleon changing to black for the Negroes, yellow for the Chinese and brown for the Mexicans, or Jewish like the “churches” teach. ​​ 

Isaiah 11:1 ​​ And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:

Psalm 132:11 ​​ Yahweh hath sworn in truth unto David; He will not turn from it; Of the fruit of your body will I set upon your throne.

​​ 13:24 ​​ When John had first preached before His (Christ's) coming the baptism of repentance (a change of mind, compunction) to all the people of Israel. ​​ 

​​ 13:25 ​​ And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think you that I am? I am not He. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of His feet I am not worthy to loose.

​​ 13:26 ​​ Men, brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, ​​ whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.

In the KJV you will see the word 'and' in between each of the underlined above. They don't exist in the original manuscripts. They were added by the translators to separate into groups, but the context of scripture is always the children of Israel. All the above underlined are of one family.

If people would study the original languages of the scriptures, they will see the “churches” apostasy.

​​ 13:27 ​​ For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew Him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning Him.

'they' are The Edomite/Canaanite Jew Pharisees and Sadducees.

​​ 13:28 ​​ And though they found no cause of death in Him, yet desired they Pilate that He should be slain.

The Jews murdered Christ, not the Romans as the “churches” teach.

​​ 13:29 ​​ And when they had fulfilled all that was written of Him, they took Him down from the tree, and laid Him in a sepulchre. ​​ (Luk 18:31; Mat 27:59)

The Greek has 'pole', or pale, and other translations have 'stake'.

​​ 13:30 ​​ But God raised Him from the dead: ​​ (Mat 28:6)

​​ 13:31 ​​ And He was seen many days of them which came up with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are His witnesses unto the people. ​​ (Mat 28:16; Act 1:3)

​​ 13:32 ​​ And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers,

​​ 13:33 ​​ God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that He hath raised up Yahshua again; as it is also written in the second psalm, You art My Son, this day have I begotten You. ​​ (Psa 2:7)

​​ 13:34 ​​ And as concerning that He raised Him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, He said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David.

Isaiah 55:3 ​​ Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.

​​ 13:35 ​​ Wherefore He saith also in another psalm, You shalt not suffer Your Holy One to see corruption.

Psalm 16:10 ​​ For You wilt not leave My soul in hell (the grave); neither wilt You suffer Your Holy One to see corruption.

​​ 13:36 ​​ For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption:

David's body rotted.

​​ 13:37 ​​ But He, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.

Christ's body did not rot.

​​ 13:38 ​​ Be it known unto you therefore, men, and brethren, that through this Man (Christ) is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: ​​ (Jer 31:34)

The 'and' was added by the translators. Shouldn't be there.

​​ 13:39 ​​ And by Him all that believe are justified from all things, from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.

Even though we are to follow the law, the law cannot justify us. The level of our obedience to the law is part of the level of justification. Christ didn't break the law, He fulfilled it. This is the example to seek and follow.

Isaiah 53:11 ​​ He shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied: by His knowledge shall My righteous servant justify many; for He shall bear their iniquities (lawlessness).

​​ 13:40 ​​ Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets;

​​ 13:41 ​​ Behold, you despisers, and wonder, and perish (and hide from sight): for I work a work in your days, a work which you shall in no wise believe, though a man declare (relate) it unto you.

Habakkuk 1:5 ​​ Behold you among the heathen, and regard, and wonder marvellously: for I will work a work in your days, which you will not believe, though it be told you.

​​ 13:42 ​​ And when the Judaeans (the Jew rulers) were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles (dispersed Israelite Nations) besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.

​​ 13:43 ​​ Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Judaeans and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace (Divine influence) of God.

​​ 13:44 ​​ And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.

​​ 13:45 ​​ But when the Judaeans (Jewish Sadducees/Pharisees) saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

The Judaean Jew priests and Pharisees were always against Christ and the apostles. Some of these jealous Judaeans were Israelites that were influenced by the counterfeit Jewish priesthood and their Judaism. No different than today's 33,000 denominations that would reject the truth if it were preached in their 'synagogues'.

​​ 13:46 ​​ Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing you put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel, the “lost” sheep).

Matthew 10:6 ​​ But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Note: The word 'Jews' in the Bible should always read 'Judaeans'. Though there were Israelites living in Judaea, there were also Edomite and Canaanites, and Israelites who followed them. Matthew 23:15 ​​ Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, you make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.

We have to understand that the Jews can turn us against our brethren.

It was necessary for Paul to bring the word to the true Israelite Judaeans first, because they were the tribes that returned to Jerusalem to preserve the law and bring in the Messiah, according to the flesh. He was born of the line of Judah and Levi, hence Christ is our King and High Priest.

​​ 13:47 ​​ For so hath the Prince commanded us, saying, I have set you to be a light of the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of 'lost' Israelites), that you shouldest be for salvation (preservation, deliverance) unto the ends of the earth.

Wherever Israelites are.

Isaiah 42:6 ​​ I Yahweh have called you in righteousness, and will hold your hand, and will keep you, and give you for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles (lost sheep, dispersed of Israel;

Isaiah 49:6 ​​ And He said, It is a light thing that you shouldest be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel (house of Judah): I will also give you for a light to the Gentiles (lost sheep, house of Israel), that you mayest be My salvation (preservation)unto the end of the earth.

Luke 2:32 ​​ A light to lighten the Gentiles (dispersed Nations), and the glory of your people Israel.

​​ 13:48 ​​ And when the Gentiles (Nations of 'lost' Israelites) heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of Yahweh: and as many as were ordained (appointed) to eternal life believed.

Ordained means appointed which means chosen. But the “churches” teach that YOU get to choose to be chosen. The scriptures teach that HE does the choosing. All you can do is put yourself in the best position to be worthy of His choosing. And not by “just believing”.

​​ 13:49 ​​ And the word of Yahweh was published throughout all the region.

​​ 13:50 ​​ But the Judaeans (corrupt religious rulers) stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

These Judaeans would be the Jews and those Israelites that sided with the Jews, even if in ignorance, as our people today are against the truth because of Jewish fables.

2Timothy 3:11 ​​ Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Prince delivered me.

​​ 13:51 ​​ But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.

​​ 13:52 ​​ And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Spirit. ​​ (Matt 5:12, John 16:22)

Acts chapter 14 Paul addressed Lykaonians, who were not Israelites but who were descended from the ancient Thracians and Lydians (who were in turn the descendants of the Japhethite Tiras of Genesis 10:2 and the Shemitic Lud of Genesis 10:22)

Israelites were from the line of Shem, Noah's son. Ham and Japheth were also Noah's sons, but Yahweh chose His Anointed People from the descendants of Shem, Abraham was a Shemite.

Ham and Japheth also had many descendants and they are Adamites as well, all three brothers are the same race. The “churches” teach that Ham was father of the blacks and Japheth of the Asians. This is even scientifically impossible and against Yahweh's law of kind after kind.

Flees to Lystra and Derbe, preaching the gospel (Acts 14:6-7)

In Lystra Paul and Barnabas are mistaken for gods when Paul heals a cripple.(Acts 14:8-18)

Calling Barnabas Jupiter, and Paul Mercury. But we are mere men.

Certain Jews come from Antioch and Iconium agitate the people against them.

Stoned at Lystra, supposed to be dead, but re-enters the city (Acts 14:19-20)

Departs with Barnabas to Derbe, preaching the gospel (Acts 14:20-21)

They return to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch to strengthen disciples and elect elders (Acts 14:21-24)

Passing throughout Pisidia they came to Pamphylia, preaching the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia, and returned to Antioch of Syria and reported their journey to the assembly (Acts 14:24-28)

In Antioch

After Paul's first evangelistic journey he, and his fellow laborer in the ​​ gospel Barnabas, stay in Antioch for almost three years (Acts 14:26-28).

Paul and Barnabas in Iconium

Acts 14:1 ​​ And it came to pass in Iconium, that they (Paul and Barnabus) went both together into the synagogue (assembly hall) of the Judaeans, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Judaeans and also of the Greeks believed.

​​ 14:2 ​​ But the unbelieving Judaeans stirred up the Gentiles (Nations), and made their minds evil affected against the brethren. ​​ 

​​ 14:3 ​​ Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Master, which gave testimony unto the word of His grace (Divine influence), and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

​​ 14:4 ​​ But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Judaeans, and part with the apostles.

​​ 14:5 ​​ And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles (Nations), and also of the Judaeans with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,

So the Edomite Pharisees and Sadducees agitated both houses of Israel against the true followers.

​​ 14:6 ​​ They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:

​​ 14:7 ​​ And there they preached the gospel.

Paul and Barnabas in Lystra and Derbe

​​ 14:8 ​​ And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:

​​ 14:9 ​​ The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith (moral conviction, belief) to be healed,

​​ 14:10 ​​ Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on your feet. And he leaped and walked.

Isaiah 35:6 ​​ Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.

​​ 14:11 ​​ And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.

​​ 14:12 ​​ And they called Barnabas, Jupiter (Zeus); and Paul, Mercurius (Hermes), because he was the chief speaker.

These pagans could not shake their idolatry. It was a disgrace that the people called them gods.

​​ 14:13 ​​ Then the priest of Jupiter (Zeus), which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.

​​ 14:14 ​​ Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,

​​ 14:15 ​​ And saying, Sirs, why do you these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that you should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven (the sky), and earth (the land), and the sea, and all things that are therein: ​​ (Exo 20:11; Psa 146:6; 4Mac 12:13)

​​ 14:16 ​​ Who in times past suffered all nations (of Israel) to walk in their own ways. ​​ (Act 17:30)

Psalm 81:12 ​​ So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels.

Yahweh gave us the free will to walk righteously or unrighteously.

​​ 14:17 ​​ Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.

We are His witnesses. By law, we deserve death, but the promise to Abraham is our favor (grace). We owe Him to walk righteously.

​​ 14:18 ​​ And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them. ​​ 

​​ 14:19 ​​ And there came thither certain Judaeans from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

More agitation from the ruling sect of Judaism.

​​ 14:20 ​​ Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

The Return to Antioch in Syria

​​ 14:21 ​​ And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,

​​ 14:22 ​​ Confirming (Strengthening) the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith (The Belief), and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

If you are “raptured” then this verse makes the scriptures of no effect.

​​ 14:23 ​​ And when they had ordained (elected) them elders in every church (assembly), and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

The Greek: 23 And elders being elected by them in each assembly, praying with fasting they presented them in whom they had confidence with the authority.

They were the elected elders that were prayed for to have confident authority over the assembly.

Titus 1:5 ​​ For this cause left I you in Crete, that you shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and establish elders in every city, as I had instructed you:

​​ 14:24 ​​ And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.

​​ 14:25 ​​ And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:

​​ 14:26 ​​ And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace (Divine influence) of God for the work which they fulfilled.

​​ 14:27 ​​ And when they were come, and had gathered the church (assembly) together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how He had opened the door of faith (assurance, belief) unto the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel).

​​ 14:28 ​​ And there they abode long time with the disciples.

'Gentile' is usually always a reference to the dispersed 10 tribes of Israel who forgot who they were. Gentiles means a nation or race of people. It does not mean non-Jew.

The end of Acts chapter 14 leaves us with Paul and Barnabas in Antioch in Syria after having returned from their first Christian missionary journey in Anatolia. On their first journey they did not venture far, travelling through the island of Cyprus and the Anatolian provinces of Pamphylia, Pisidia and Lycaonia.

47 AD ​​ 

Goes up to the Jerusalem Council with Barnabas (Acts 15:1-29; Galatians 2:1)

On the way they passed through Phenice and Samaria, preaching to the dispersion.

The Conference in Jerusalem

Paul, Barnabas and several others (Acts 15:2, Galatians 2:1-2) travel to Jerusalem to meet with other assembly leaders regarding the dispute over circumcision and its role in salvation. The two evangelists have a meeting with a few of the apostles concerning the issue. All those in the meeting agree circumcision is not required for salvation.

Acts Chapter 15 is further evidence that the Book of Acts records a period of religious transition, which is evident in the confessions of the apostles themselves, in the understanding of these early Christians that their salvation was to be found in Christ, and not by adhering to the rituals – or the works as they are called – of the Old Testament law. Yet the apostles also understood that Christians should strive to keep the law if indeed they loved Christ, and we shall also see that here as the balance of this chapter of Acts is presented. It is difficult to convince those beholden to the law, who seek their justification by keeping the law, that Israelites are justified in Christ, and while they should seek to be obedient to His commandments, they shall be judged by His mercy and not by the law. For only Israelites can be Christians under the New Covenant. Therefore also, because Christ has mercy on us, we should have mercy towards our brethren who transgress, and seek to correct them rather than to condemn them.

(Acts 15:8) Peter is referring to his conversion of the household of the Roman centurion Cornelius and their having received the Holy Spirit which is recorded in Acts Chapter 10. Peter is also asserting that his conversion of the household of Cornelius to Christianity marked the first time that non-Judaeans were turned to Christ. In other words, those of the dispersed Nations of Israel began to become reaquanted with their heritage.

The apostles Barnabas and Paul then inform a gathering of all the people about what God has accomplished through them among the dispersion (Acts 15:12).

The final view regarding the issues at hand was given by James. Ultimately, the majority of believers agree that circumcision is not necessary for salvation.

(Acts 15:19) James adds three injunctions which he must have felt were quite important, and which transcended mere obedience to the Mosaic law:

To abstain from things polluted by idols: this does not mean merely things sacrificed to idols, and it is not even necessarily a reference to food. It rather admonishes Christians to steer clear of anything where idols are involved. In the ancient world, that meant the games, the theater, the pagan festivals which took place in every city, as well as the temples and the religious rites of the pagans.

To abstain from things which are strangled and from blood: These are from the Mosaic law concerning things which may be eaten, or which may not be eaten. With this admonishment, Christians should consider that some things are indeed deemed by God as being unfit for us to eat. PORK!

To abstain from fornication: the reasons for this admonition being added here are cultural, because the commandment “you shalt not commit adultery” did not translate properly into Greek understanding as it appeared in the Greek scriptures.

Here James uses the Greek word πορνeία, translated fornication in the New Testament, which the Greeks used not only to describe prostitution, but also to describe any illicit sexual act, and the Greeks indeed considered race-mixing to be such an illicit sexual act.

The conference decides to have some men, Judas surnamed Barsabas and Silas, go with the apostles Paul and Barnabas to help them inform believers in Antioch regarding the decisions reached in Jerusalem (Acts 15:30-32).

​​ 

Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch of Syria, teaching and preaching (Acts 15:30-35; Gal 2:11-14)

Silas also stayed in Antioch

Contention over John Mark; Barnabas and John Mark sail to Cyprus (Acts 15:36-39)

Paul and Silas depart, going through Syria and Cilicia strengthening the assemblies (Acts 15:40-41)

​​ 

A heated disagreement and separation

In Antioch Paul and Barnabas have a heated discussion over the inclusion of John Mark in their missionary journey. Barnabas, the uncle of Mark (Colossians 4:10), wants to take him on the trip while Paul does not. So they separate (Acts 15:36-41). They do reconcile later in life.

The Council at Jerusalem

Acts 15:1 ​​ And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except you be circumcised after the manner of Moses, you cannot be saved.

These 'certain men' were the Judaizers. Spreading the religion of apostasy. These 'Judaizers' were usually Jews, but they also could have been Israelites following the 'traditions of men', as Saul had done as a Pharisee.

​​ 15:2 ​​ When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question (debate).

Galatians 2:1 ​​ Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.

​​ 15:3 ​​ And being brought on their way by the church (assembly), they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel): and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

​​ 15:4 ​​ And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church (assembly), and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

​​ 15:5 ​​ But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.

These are those Israelite members of the sects that did not understand, or were fooled by the Edomite members. The Edomite Jews do not believe, nor ever will.

​​ 15:6 ​​ And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.

​​ 15:7 ​​ And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men, brethren, you know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles (Nations of 'lost' Israelites) by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.

​​ 15:8 ​​ And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, even as he did unto us;

​​ 15:9 ​​ And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith (The Belief).

Romans 10:12 ​​ For there is no difference between the Judaean and the Greek: for the same Prince over all is rich unto all that call upon Him.

​​ 15:10 ​​ Now therefore why tempt you God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

Matthew 23:2 ​​ Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:

23:3 ​​ All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not you after their works: for they say, and do not.

23:4 ​​ For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.

​​ 15:11 ​​ But we believe that through the grace (Divine influence) of the Prince Yahshua Christ we shall be saved (preserved), even as they (the fathers). ​​ (Rom 3:24)

​​ 15:12 ​​ Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles (dispersed Nations) by them.

​​ 15:13 ​​ And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men, brethren, hearken unto me:

​​ 15:14 ​​ Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles (Nations of scattered Israel), to take out of them a people for (in) His name.

​​ 15:15 ​​ And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,

​​ 15:16 ​​ After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up: ​​ 

Amos 9:11 ​​ In that day will I raise up the tabernacle of David that is fallen, and close up the breaches thereof; and I will raise up His ruins, and I will build it as in the days of old:

He is talking about His people, the children of Israel.

​​ 15:17 ​​ That the residue (remaining) of men might seek after Yahweh, and all the Gentiles (Nations), upon whom My name is called, saith Yahweh, who doeth all these things.

Only the nations of Israel are called by His name.

​​ 15:18 ​​ Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world.

​​ 15:19 ​​ Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles (Nations of 'lost' Israelites) are turned to God:

​​ 15:20 ​​ But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication (race mixing), and from things strangled, and from blood. ​​ (Exo 22:20; Lev 17:1,7,10-14; Deut 32:17, ​​ 32:21; 1Co 10:14, 20-21; Num 25:1-3; Gen 9:4; Eze 33:25; Pro 21:25)

​​ 15:21 ​​ For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues (assembly halls) every sabbath day. (Jos Ant 20. 9.1 199-203)

The Council's Letter to 'Lost' Israelite Believers

​​ 15:22 ​​ Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church (assembly), to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:

​​ 15:23 ​​ And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israelites) in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia:

​​ 15:24 ​​ Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:

​​ 15:25 ​​ It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,

​​ 15:26 ​​ Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Master Yahshua the Anointed.

We must not ​​ burden ourselves with the old rituals that were expired at the cross (stake, pale).

​​ 15:27 ​​ We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.

​​ 15:28 ​​ For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;

​​ 15:29 ​​ That you abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication (race mixing, whoring): from which if you keep yourselves, you shall do well. Fare you well.  ​​​​ 

4Maccabees 5:3 ​​ And should any of them be unwilling to eat the accursed food, they were to be tortured on the wheel, and so killed.

​​ 15:30 ​​ So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle:

​​ 15:31 ​​ Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.

​​ 15:32 ​​ And Judas and Silas, being prophets (interpreters of prophecy) also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.

​​ 15:33 ​​ And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles.

​​ 15:34 ​​ Notwithstanding it pleased Silas to abide there still.

​​ 15:35 ​​ Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of Yahweh, with many others also.

Paul and Barnabas Separate

​​ 15:36 ​​ And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of Yahweh, and see how they do.

​​ 15:37 ​​ And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.

​​ 15:38 ​​ But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.

​​ 15:39 ​​ And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;

​​ 15:40 ​​ And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by (being given over to) the brethren unto (by) the grace (Divine influence) of God.

​​ 15:41 ​​ And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches (assemblies).

Mark may have argued about keeping the rituals, not fully yet understanding the reason for Christ's death. As many did not first understand. Hence, Acts is a book of transition.

48 AD

Paul's Second Missionary Journey begins (Finck says- 3rd missionary journey)

Paul begins his second evangelistic journey by taking Silas with him to Tarsus. They go to the cities of Derbe and Lystra where Paul meets Timothy for the first time (1Timothy 1:2, 4:14).

After the events recorded in Acts chapter 15, Paul of Tarsus is the central figure throughout the balance of the narrative of the book. This is not because the other apostles did not do anything, but rather simply, it is evident at this point that the lives and missions of the apostles diverged completely, and Luke may well have had no records concerning the others before finishing his work as we have it.

In the first part of Acts chapter 16, we see that Paul of Tarsus departs from Antioch with his new companion Silas to embark on what would be his second recorded missionary journey. However, it is really his third missionary journey, since when he departed from Jerusalem for Tarsus after the dispute with the Hellenists as it is recorded in Acts chapter 9, it is made manifest later that he had spent at least some portion of that time proselytizing in Tarsus and other places in Kilikia. This is made evident at Acts 15:41, where embarking on this journey with Silas it says there that “...they passed through Suria and Kilikia reinforcing the assemblies.” The beginning of Acts chapter 16 brought Paul and his company once again through Iconium, Lystra and Derbe. Then, being prevented by the Holy Spirit to enter either Asia Minor or Pamphylia, they traveled into the Troad and crossed into Macedonia. Here they are found in Philippi, which was a Roman colony.

Goes to Derbe and Lystra and picks up Timothy, strengthening the assemblies (Acts 16:1-5)

While journeying northwest of Pisidian Antioch Paul decides to preach in the western part of Asia. The holy spirit, however, does not allow him to travel in that direction (Acts 16:6). He eventually ends up in Troas. While staying in the city to decide what to do next God gives Paul a vision conveying what HE wants him to do next (Acts 16:8-9)! The group soon leaves and came to Samothracia, and the next day the city for Neapolis.

They sail from Troas to Neapolis (Acts 16:11)

Then Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia (verses10-15).

To Philippi where Paul meets Lydia (Acts 16:12-15)

Lydia was a seller of purple cloth.

Note that in verse 10, for the first time in Acts, Luke writes in the first person, using forms of words for we and us. So here we know with absolute certainty that he is in the company of Paul, although there is circumstantial evidence that Luke was also present at the events described in Acts chapter 15.

Paul and Silas imprisoned after casting out a demon from a slave girl (Acts 16:16-25)

Paul, in Philippi, casts a demon out of a slave. The slave's owners, who were making money off of her demonic powers, have the apostle and Silas beaten and thrown in prison. They are only set free when a miraculous earthquake occurs and loosens their bonds.

Prison doors opened miraculously and the jailer saved (Acts 16:25-34)

Paul, Silas and Luke went back to Lydia's house.

Departs from Philippi (Acts 16:35-40)

Timothy Joins Paul and Silas

Acts 16:1 ​​ Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Judahitess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:

A Judaean and a Greek begat Timotheus. In other words a parent from both houses of Israel.

​​ 16:2 ​​ Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.

​​ 16:3 ​​ Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Judaeans which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.

Paul circumcised Timothy because rather than have 'doubtful disputations', he respected the authority of the Judaeans, even though they did not yet understand the transition of the OT laws and ordinances to the New Covenant. The sacrifices and oblations were to cease.

​​ 16:4 ​​ And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees (opinions) for to keep, that were ordained (decided) of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.

​​ 16:5 ​​ And so were the churches (assemblies) established in the faith (The Belief), and increased in number daily.

Paul's Vision of the Man of Macedonia

​​ 16:6 ​​ Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia,

Asia was not China, Korea, Japan. It was the Roman province of Anatolia.

They were to go to Macedonia first.

​​ 16:7 ​​ After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.

​​ 16:8 ​​ And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.

​​ 16:9 ​​ And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.

​​ 16:10 ​​ And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Master had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.

The Conversion of Lydia

​​ 16:11 ​​ Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;

​​ 16:12 ​​ And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.

​​ 16:13 ​​ And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.

​​ 16:14 ​​ And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Prince opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

Luke 24:45 ​​ Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,

We don't choose Him, He chooses us.

​​ 16:15 ​​ And when she was baptized (immersed in understanding), and her household, she besought us, saying, If you have judged me to be faithful to (believing) the Prince, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

Paul and Silas in Prison

​​ 16:16 ​​ And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination (demon) met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying (uttering spells):

​​ 16:17 ​​ The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation (deliverance).

​​ 16:18 ​​ And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command you in the name of Yahshua Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.

​​ 16:19 ​​ And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains (money-making) was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,

​​ 16:20 ​​ And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Judaeans, do exceedingly trouble our city,

​​ 16:21 ​​ And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.

​​ 16:22 ​​ And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them. ​​ (2 Cor 6:5, 11:23,25)

​​ 16:23 ​​ And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:

​​ 16:24 ​​ Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

​​ 16:25 ​​ And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

​​ 16:26 ​​ And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.

​​ 16:27 ​​ And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

​​ 16:28 ​​ But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do yourself no harm: for we are all here.

​​ 16:29 ​​ Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,

​​ 16:30 ​​ And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved (preserved)? ​​ (Luke 3:10)

​​ 16:31 ​​ And they said, Believe on (commit to) the Master Yahshua Christ, and you shalt be saved (preserved), and your house. ​​ (John 3:16,35, 6:47)

​​ 16:32 ​​ And they spake unto him the word of Yahweh, and to all that were in his house.

So they didn't “just believe”. They educated them in the word and what was expected of followers.

​​ 16:33 ​​ And he (the keeper of the prison) took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized (immersed in the word), he and all his, straightway.

​​ 16:34 ​​ And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

​​ 16:35 ​​ And when it was day, the magistrates sent the sergeants, saying, Let those men go.

​​ 16:36 ​​ And the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.

​​ 16:37 ​​ But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned (without a trial), being ​​ Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily (secretly)? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.

​​ 16:38 ​​ And the sergeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.

Roman citizens had rights. Jews were not permitted to be Roman citizens, proving Paul and the disciples were not Jews.

​​ 16:39 ​​ And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.

As Romans, they had rights and due process. Christ did not for He was not a Roman.

​​ 16:40 ​​ And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

48,49 AD

They passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia (Acts 17:1)

They arrive in Thessalonica.

Strabo, in the ninth book of his Geography tells us that Thessaly, the central part of mainland Greece on the side of the Aegean Sea, was in early times populated by the same Phoenicians who built the Greek city of Thebes (9.2.3).

Thessaly became part of the Macedonian Kingdom from the 4th century BC, and was later part of the Roman province of Macedonia.

At Thessalonica they preached Christ, but had to flee on account of the Jews (Acts 17:1-10)

Although many in the city believed and accepted the gospel a riot forms that causes Paul and company to flee to Berea (Acts 17:1-8).

At Berea where he leaves Silas and Timothy (Acts 17:10-14)

The Bereans not only listen to what is preached but also verify it against the Bible.

After Jews from other cities start to cause trouble for the apostle Paul he leaves for Athens (Acts 17:13-15). Silas and Timothy remained in Berea.

In Athens, Paul's spirit within him was irritated, observing that the city was given to idolatry.

The Athenians, by all historic accounts, were Ionian Greeks (Javan), as opposed to the Danaans, Dorians, Pelasgians, and other lesser-known tribes which were for the most part early divisions of these.

Here in Acts chapter 17 Paul is addressing not Israelites, but rather Athenians, who were Ionians, a tribe of Japhethites descended from Javan of Genesis 10:2 and 10:4. In Joel 3:6 the Hebrew word for Javan was incorrectly translated in the King James Version as Grecians, when it should have more accurately been Ionians, who were only one tribe of the Greeks.

For this reason, because the Ionian Athenians, like the Lycaonians, are Adamic peoples but they are not Israelites, Paul addresses them quite differently from the Romans, Dorians, and Kelts among whom he established Christian assemblies, only calling to mind their common descent from Adam and the events pertaining to them which are recorded in Genesis chapter 11 and mentioned at Deuteronomy 32:8 (here in verse 26), and telling them that they, too, are offspring of Yahweh, the God of Scripture (here in verses 28-29) and that therefore they also have a share in the assurance of the resurrection (here in verse 31). That the other branches of the Adamic race are also resurrected, and not just the Israelites, we have the testimony of Christ Himself at Matthew 12:41-42 and Luke 11:31-32. The first promise of eternal life was made to all of the Adamic race, as it is found in Genesis 3:22: “and now, lest he [meaning Adamites] put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever”.

However Paul does not talk to the Lycaonians or to the Athenians about redemption, or about Moses, or about the Hebrew law, or about alienation from God caused by disobedience, or about the need for obedience to the law in Christ, or about reconciliation, or about the marriage relationship of Israel to Yahweh, or about any of the other things found in Scripture which can only apply to the descendants of the ancient Israelites! Paul only preached to them that they would cease from idolatry and seek the One True God of Creation.

Two elements of Paul's address to the Athenians are important enough to mention once again. The first is that the Athenians, mocking Paul for talking about a resurrection of the dead, were actually also denying many of their own most ancient beliefs, reflected in the early poetry and literature of Athens down through the Tragic Poets and the writings of men such as Apollodorus of Athens, who lived only two centuries before Paul.

More importantly is the substance of Paul's address to the Athenians. These men were Ionian Greeks, descended from the Japhethites of Scripture, the sons of Javan mentioned in Genesis chapter 10. The identification is certain when the Hebrew of the Old Testament, the Persian inscriptions mentioning the Yavana, or Ionian Greeks, and the ancient historical records are all compared.

For this reason, in Paul's address to these people we see none of the references to Moses, the Hebrew Law, the Hebrew patriarchs, or the ideas of sin or redemption or the other things which are only relevant to the children of Israel in their special relationship to Christ. Instead of accusing the Athenians of sin, he accused them of ignorance, because their fathers did not have the benefits of the knowledge of God transmitted to the Israelites and the Hebrew patriarchs!

Rather, we see that Paul restricted his discourse to references and allusions to Old Testament scriptures such as Deuteronomy 32:8 or the Biblical Genesis Creation account which do indeed apply to the wider Adamic race as a whole. This was the same way that Jonah addressed the Assyrians, who were descendants of Asshur, the son of Shem of Genesis chapter 10. Paul further exhorted them to depart from idolatry and to repent by seeking the God of creation, who was also their Father, and he takes advantage of the words of their own poet, Aratus, in order to convey that message.

This is important to note, because Paul's address to the Athenians, and also his earlier address to the Lycaonians found in Acts chapter 14, establish that Paul indeed understood the scope of the application of Scripture to the wider Adamic race, in comparison to the actual descendants of the tribes of Israel, in exactly the same manner that Christians who understand identity today understand it. Paul clearly distinguished between genetic Israelites and Adamic non-Israelites, the way all Christians today should also make a distinction. Paul did not spiritualize sperm and attempt to make Israelites out of Japhethites in these two addresses.

In Athens he argues in the assembly hall with the Judaeans and the worshipers, and in the marketplace in the city's well-known Areopagus (Ares Hill, “hill of curses”) (verses 16-19).

(Acts 17:23-) Proclaims Yahweh does not dwell in temples made with hands. Explains about the nations, and that we are our Fathers children. Repent. Judgment is coming. Some believers join Paul as he departed.

The Uproar in Thessalonica

Acts 17:1 ​​ Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue (assembly hall) of the Judaeans:

​​ 17:2 ​​ And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,

​​ 17:3 ​​ Opening and alleging (Explaining and pointing out), that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Yahshua, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.

Luke 24:26 ​​ Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory?

24:46 ​​ And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:

​​ 17:4 ​​ And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.

​​ 17:5 ​​ But the Judaeans which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company (mob), and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people. ​​ (Rom 16:21)

​​ 17:6 ​​ And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;

​​ 17:7 ​​ Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Yahshua.

​​ 17:8 ​​ And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.

​​ 17:9 ​​ And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.

Paul and Silas in Beroea

​​ 17:10 ​​ And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue (assembly hall) of the Judaeans.

​​ 17:11 ​​ These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Isaiah 34:16 ​​ Seek you out of the book of Yahweh, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for My mouth it hath commanded, and His spirit it hath gathered them.

John 5:39 ​​ Search the scriptures; for in them you think you have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.

2Timothy 2:15 ​​ Study to shew yourself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

​​ 17:12 ​​ Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.

​​ 17:13 ​​ But when the Judaeans of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.

The Edomite Jew agitators at it again.

​​ 17:14 ​​ And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still.

Matthew 10:23 ​​ But when they persecute you in this city, flee you into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of Adam be come.

​​ 17:15 ​​ And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.

Paul in Athens

​​ 17:16 ​​ Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry. ​​ (2Pet 2:8)

​​ 17:17 ​​ Therefore disputed he in the synagogue (assembly hall) with the Judaeans, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

​​ 17:18 ​​ Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some (others say), He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Yahshua, and the resurrection.

​​ 17:19 ​​ And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof you speakest, is?

​​ 17:20 ​​ For you bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean.

​​ 17:21 ​​ (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)

They were philosophers.

​​ 17:22 ​​ Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill (Areopagus), and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are too superstitious.

​​ 17:23 ​​ For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore you ignorantly worship, Him declare I unto you.

Wisdom 13:1 ​​ Surely vain are all men by nature, who are ignorant of God, and could not out of the good things that are seen know Him that is: neither by considering the works did they acknowledge the workmaster;

​​ 17:24 ​​ God that made the world (order) and all things therein, seeing that He is Master of heaven (the sky) and earth (the land), dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

​​ 17:25 ​​ Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though He needed any thing, seeing He giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;  ​​​​ (1Ki 8:27; Isa 42:5; 2Mac 14:35; 3Mac 2:9)

​​ 17:26 ​​ And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  ​​​​ (2Mac 7:23)

'blood' is not supposed to be there. It was added to support universalism.

The Greek: 26 ​​ And He made from one (Adam) every nation of men to dwell upon all the face of the earth, appointing the times ordained and the boundaries of their settlements,

The context is still and always the generations of Adam. Adam's blood. The race of Adam.

Deuteronomy 32:8 ​​ When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when He separated the sons of Adam, He set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel.

​​ 17:27 ​​ That they should seek the Master, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him, though He be not far from every one of us: ​​ (Wis 13:6-9; Rom 1:20)

​​ 17:28 ​​ For in Him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also His offspring.

Offspring is genos, meaning kindred, stock descent, family. It's genetic.

​​ 17:29 ​​ Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.

Isaiah 40:18 ​​ To whom then will you liken God? or what likeness will you compare unto Him?

The “churches” teach that anyone can become God's offspring, even spiritually.

The scriptures teach that offspring are literal descendants, literal seed, literally His family.

​​ 17:30 ​​ And the times of this ignorance God winked at (overlooked); but now commandeth all men every where to repent (think differently):

​​ 17:31 ​​ Because He hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by that man (Christ) whom He hath ordained; whereof He hath given assurance unto all men, in that He hath raised Him from the dead.

​​ 17:32 ​​ And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear you again of this matter.

​​ 17:33 ​​ So Paul departed from among them.

​​ 17:34 ​​ Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.

The gospel is preached in Corinth and Ephesus

Paul leaves Athens for Corinth, where he meets Silas and Timothy (Acts 18:1-5). The apostle preaches in the local synagogue until it eventually splits. He stays in the city for around 18 months.

​​ 

49 AD

Claudius Ceasar expels Judaeans from Rome- Blames it on Chrestus (Christ)

At Corinth and rejoined with Silas and Timothy, who came down from Macedonia (Acts 18:1-17)

(Acts 18:2) Aquila and Priscilla. ​​ Paul abode with them.

Paul stayed in Corinth for at least a year and a half .

Justus, Crispus and many Corinthians were added.

51 AD

Paul is brought before Gallio (Acts 18:12-18) but is soon released. He goes to Cenchrea where he takes a vow and has his head shaved. He, Priscilla and Aquila then travel to Ephesus by ship. In a short time he leaves them in order, if possible, to be in Jerusalem for the Feast (Acts 18:18-22)

Coming back into Caesarea, during the Spring Holy Day season Peter visits the city of Antioch. He does not mind eating or talking with uncircumcised converts until brethren from Jerusalem, who still believe in circumcision, arrive. When they come Peter and others stop eating with the converts. Paul publicly corrects Peter for his unbiblical behavior (Galatians 2:11-20).

Galatians written here in Antioch.

Travels through Galatia and Phrygia strengthening the disciples (Acts 18:23)

(Acts 18:24-25) A Judaean, Apollos, was preaching the baptism of John, in Ephesus. Priscilla and Aquila took him aside and explained the difference of water baptism and baptism of the word.

1 Thessalonians written in Corinth during events of Chapter 18 (50-51AD) (1 Thes 3:6)

2 Thessalonians written shortly after in Corinth also.

Paul in Corinth

Acts 18:1 ​​ After these things (speech on Ares Hill) Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;

​​ 18:2 ​​ And found a certain Judaean named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Judaeans to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

​​ 18:3 ​​ And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.

1Corinthians 4:12 ​​ And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:

​​ 18:4 ​​ And he reasoned in the synagogue (assembly hall) every sabbath, and persuaded the Judaeans and the Greeks.

The Greeks are Hellen, Israelites living under Greek dominion.

​​ 18:5 ​​ And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Judaeans that Yahshua was Christ.

​​ 18:6 ​​ And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles (dispersed nations of Israel).

This would be the same thing today if Paul tried to reason with today's “churches”. They are Judaized and don't know it.

​​ 18:7 ​​ And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue (congregation).

​​ 18:8 ​​ And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue (congregation), believed on the Prince with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized (immersed in the word).

1Corinthians 1:14 ​​ I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;

1:15 ​​ Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name.

1:16 ​​ And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other.

1:17 ​​ For Christ sent me not to baptize (in water), but to preach the gospel (in Truth)...

Christ is now our High Priest, and we are cleansed by Him only, through knowledge and understanding of the Word, and action and the practice of following His example. No water, man, or anything else can cleanse you but Truth.

​​ 18:9 ​​ Then spake the Prince to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not your peace:

​​ 18:10 ​​ For I am with you, and no man shall set on you to hurt you: for I have much people in this city.

Jeremiah 1:18 ​​ For, behold, I have made you this day a defenced city, and an iron pillar, and brasen walls against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, against the princes thereof, against the priests thereof, and against the people of the land.

1:19 ​​ And they shall fight against you; but they shall not prevail against you; for I am with you, saith Yahweh, to deliver you.

Yahweh preserved Paul from the enemies so He may spread the Word.

​​ 18:11 ​​ And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

​​ 18:12 ​​ And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Judaeans made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,

​​ 18:13 ​​ Saying, This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law (Torah).

​​ 18:14 ​​ And when Paul was now about to open his mouth, Gallio said unto the Judaeans, If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O you Judaeans, reason would that I should bear with you:

14 …wrong or wicked crime, O Judaeans, according to reason I would support you.

​​ 18:15 ​​ But if it be a question of words and names, and of (according to) your law, look you to it; for I (Gallio) will be no judge of such matters.

​​ 18:16 ​​ And he drave them from the judgment seat.

​​ 18:17 ​​ Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things. ​​ (1 Cor 1:1)

Paul's Return to Antioch

​​ 18:18 ​​ And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow. ​​ (Num 6:18, 21:24)

​​ 18:19 ​​ And he came to Ephesus, and left them there: but he himself entered into the synagogue (assembly hall), and reasoned with the Judaeans.

​​ 18:20 ​​ When they desired him to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;

​​ 18:21 ​​ But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.

Keep the feast. This is years after Christ ascended and the apostles and Israelites are still keeping the feasts, which we are to still observe. This would have been either the Feast of Unleavened Bread in the spring or the Feast of Tabernacles in the Fall.

​​ 18:22 ​​ And when he had landed at Caesarea, and gone up, and saluted the church (assembly), he went down to Antioch.

​​ 18:23 ​​ And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples. ​​ (Gal 4:14)

Ministry of Apollos

​​ 18:24 ​​ And a certain Judaean named Apollos (an Israelite), born at Alexandria, an eloquent (learned) man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.

​​ 18:25 ​​ This man was instructed in the way of the Master; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Master, knowing only the baptism of John.

​​ 18:26 ​​ And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

Aquila and Priscilla understood the difference between water baptism and baptism in the word.

They took Apollos aside and explained these things along with the end of the sacrifices.

​​ 18:27 ​​ And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace (Divine influence):

​​ 18:28 ​​ For he mightily convinced the Judaeans, and that publicly, shewing by the scriptures that Yahshua was Christ.

Ministry in Ephesus (Acts 19:1-41)

Passes through the upper regions on his way to Ephesus (Acts 19:1)

Paul's Third Missionary Journey

Apostle Paul begins his third journey by revisiting Galatian assemblies.

Living in Ephesus

Paul had already been in Ephesus for three months prior to his time in the school of Turannos (Acts 19:8) and then for an additional two years while at that school. Here we see that he is in Asia even beyond that time, where it would be safe to say that he was in Ephesus for at least nearly two and a half years, and possibly longer.

Whoever Tyrannus was, for he is only mentioned by name on this one occasion, Paul was able to use his school in order to teach Christianity for 2 years, to Judaean and Greek Israelites.

Paul travels to Ephesus and lives there for a little more than 3 years (Acts 19:1-20).

1 Corinthians written here in Ephesus (1Cor 16:8,19)

(Acts 19:2-7) Paul treats the baptism of John different than of the Holy Spirit.

This is the last time that immersion, or baptism, appears in the historical narrative of the New Testament. After this it is only referred to in retrospect. Here it is over twenty years after the Passion of Christ and the first Christian Pentecost, and men who were familiar with the ministry of John the Baptist were not yet familiar with the Way in Christ.

When Paul wrote his epistle to the Ephesians from Rome, he told them that there was “5 One Master, one belief, one baptism, [and] 6 One God and Father of all...” (Ephesians 4:5-6). If there is but one baptism, and Christ said that “John truly baptized with water; but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days hence”, as it is recorded in Acts chapter 1, then the baptism in Christ cannot be added to or layered atop the baptism of John, lest Paul be a liar and there is more than one baptism.

Rather, Paul is no liar, and where Christ is recorded as having said in Luke chapter 12 that “I have a baptism to be baptized with” He was not talking about the already-past baptism of John, but He was rather referring to his own forthcoming death. Therefore Paul later said in Romans chapter 6 that “so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death”.

Therefore, to be baptized in Christ is to be immersed into the knowledge of His sacrifice on behalf of the children of Israel, and their salvation by that sacrifice. Once an Israelite receives this knowledge in the Gospel and repents, as Christ said in John chapter 15, “3 Now you are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” This is why both Peter and Paul attest in their epistles that baptism is truly a cleansing with the Word of God so that the conscience is clean. The baptism which was with water was a ritual act of cleansing which has long been eclipsed.

(Acts 19:9) Paul “separated the students”, meaning that those who were persuaded to Christianity would stop attending the Judaean assembly hall in order to be instructed by Paul alone.

Very much what needs to happen today, come up out of the apostate “churches”.

Yahweh revealed special miracles by the hands of Paul (11-12)

(Acts 19:13-20) 7 Vagabond Jews (Gen 4:12,14, Cain's descendants) try proclaiming Christ to adjure demons and were overcome by them. See also Acts 16:16-18 (Damsel soothsayer)

Understanding the truth, many believed and burned their pagan possesions.

(Acts 19:22) Paul sends Timothy and Erastus to Macedonia

(Acts 19:23) Demetrius and pagan silversmiths are angry at Paul, who is hurting their business. They made little silver shrines of Diana (Artemis)

(Acts 19:29) The theater at Ephesus, an uproar.

Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul's companions were caught in the rush into the theater. Paul wanting to enter but the other disciples with him did not allow it.

The townclerk calmed the crowd and dismissed the assembly.

Paul in Ephesus

Acts 19:1 ​​ And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,

​​ 19:2 ​​ He said unto them, Have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Spirit.

​​ 19:3 ​​ And he said unto them, Unto what then were you baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.

This verse is a proof that water baptism does nothing. They did not receive the Holy Spirit yet.

​​ 19:4 ​​ Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance (a change of mind, compunction), saying unto the people, that they should believe on Him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Yahshua. ​​ (Mat 3:11)

​​ 19:5 ​​ When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Prince Yahshua.

So did they get dunked in water twice? Certainly not. But dunked in the Word, with knowledge and understanding.

​​ 19:6 ​​ And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them; and they spake with tongues (languages), and prophesied.

Don't forget there was more than one language then. Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek, Latin, etc. They all understood each other.

​​ 19:7 ​​ And all the men were about twelve.

​​ 19:8 ​​ And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.

Kingdom theology, not 'personal salvation'.

​​ 19:9 ​​ But when divers (some) were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way (The Way) before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

​​ 19:10 ​​ And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Prince Yahshua, both Judaeans and Greeks.

The Sons of Sceva

​​ 19:11 ​​ And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:

​​ 19:12 ​​ So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.

​​ 19:13 ​​ Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Prince Yahshua, saying, We adjure you by Yahshua whom Paul preacheth.

Vagabond (Gen 4:12,14, Cain's descendants). Jews try proclaiming Christ to adjure demons and were overcome by them.

​​ 19:14 ​​ And there were seven sons of one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests, which did so.

​​ 19:15 ​​ And the evil spirit answered and said, Yahshua I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?

​​ 19:16 ​​ And the man in whom the evil spirit was, leaped on them (the 7 vagabonds), and overcame them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.

​​ 19:17 ​​ And this was known to all the Judaeans and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Master Yahshua was magnified.

​​ 19:18 ​​ And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.

For all the verses that the “church” uses that say “just believe”, here is one that teaches that there is more. There must be confession, which is acknowledgment of error and making a change in mind and lifestyle, and proving your conversion by your daily actions. “Just believing” gets you NOTHING.

​​ 19:19 ​​ Many of them also which used curious arts (magic) brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver.

​​ 19:20 ​​ So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

People burned their pagan items. When will we do the same?

The Riot in Ephasus

​​ 19:21 ​​ After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.

​​ 19:22 ​​ So he sent into Macedonia two of them that ministered unto him, Timotheus and Erastus; but he himself stayed in Asia for a season.

​​ 19:23 ​​ And the same time there arose no small stir about that way (The Way).

​​ 19:24 ​​ For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen;

​​ 19:25 ​​ Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, you know that by this craft we have our wealth.

​​ 19:26 ​​ Moreover you see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands:

Psalm 115:4 ​​ Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands.

Isaiah 44:10 ​​ Who hath formed a god, or molten a graven image that is profitable for nothing? (see Isaiah 44:10-20)

Jeremiah 10:3 ​​ For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. ​​ (Christmas is a pagan holiday)

​​ 19:27 ​​ So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world (inhabited world) worshippeth.

​​ 19:28 ​​ And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.

​​ 19:29 ​​ And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre. (Rom 16:23)

​​ 19:30 ​​ And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not.

​​ 19:31 ​​ And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre.

​​ 19:32 ​​ Some therefore cried one thing, and some another: for the assembly was confused; and the more part knew not wherefore they were come together.

​​ 19:33 ​​ And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Judaeans putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people.

1Timothy 1:20 ​​ Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan (the Adversary), that they may learn not to blaspheme.

2Timothy 4:14 ​​ Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Prince reward him according to his works:

​​ 19:34 ​​ But when they knew that he was a Judaean, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.

They loved their goddess of Easter. So does America.

​​ 19:35 ​​ And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, Ye men of Ephesus, what man is there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper (is the guardian of the temple) of the great goddess Diana, and of the image which fell down from Jupiter (Zeus)?

​​ 19:36 ​​ Seeing then that these things cannot be spoken against, you ought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly.

​​ 19:37 ​​ For you have brought hither these men, which are neither robbers of churches (temple robbers), nor yet blasphemers of your goddess.

The first English Bible was the Tyndale Bible, and it was translated sometime between 1524 and 1526. The Tyndale Bible never once used the word church. It used the word assembly or congregation. The Tyndale Bible did use the word churches once in Acts 19:37 to describe the pagan temples. Interestingly, this preference for the word “church” was passed on to the KJV translation, even though the word used there in Acts 19:37 is NOT ekklesia. It is Strong’s #2417 hierosulos and means a temple-despoiler. In other words, it means that the hierosulos (translated by Tyndale as churches) is spoiling the Judaean Temple. It is a false temple! Therefore, the Greek word ekklesia was falsely translated church in the King James, which was a word used to describe pagan temples!

​​ 19:38 ​​ Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a matter against any man, the law is open, and there are deputies: let them implead one another.

​​ 19:39 ​​ But if you enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a lawful assembly.

​​ 19:40 ​​ For we are in danger to be called in question for this day's uproar, there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this concourse (disorderly gathering).

In danger of answering to Roman authorities.

​​ 19:41 ​​ And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.

54 AD

Claudius poisoned by his wife

Nero becomes Emperor

Nero (54-68 AD)

55AD

1 Corinthians written during his stay in Ephesus.

In Acts chapter 19 we saw that Paul of Tarsus had spent nearly three years in Ephesus, which was the capital city of the Roman province of Asia. Paul was the founder of the Christian assemblies in Asia, where we saw in both Acts chapters 18 and 19 that there were only adherents to the teachings of John the Baptist who preceded him at Ephesus. That also helps to establish that, like many other prophecies of Scripture, in some respects the prophecy concerning John also fulfilled itself as a process, over considerable time, and not only during the years of John's baptism ministry. As we have seen with both Apollos and with the men of Ephesus, the ministry of John was still paving the way for Christ, well over thirty years after his death.

56AD

Acts chapter 20, where he is about to leave Ephesus, never to see the city again.

Goes to Macedonia (Acts 20:1)

2 Corinthians written as he was traveling to Greece

Titus written. Or written under arrest in Rome

Travels to Greece (Acts 20:2) Spends 3 months in Greece

1 Timothy written while in Greece

Paul wrote at 1 Timothy 1:3 that “3 Just as I, traveling into Macedonia, had summoned you to remain in Ephesus that you should command some not to teach errors”.

Goes back to Macedonia (Acts 20:3) Learned of a plot against him by the Jews.

At Troas (Acts 20:4-12) ​​ 

Romans written here in Troas

-Comparing the names of the men who were here with Paul to those men who were with him when the epistle to the Romans was written, who are listed from Romans 16:21, and seeing Timothy, Luke, Sosipatros [who is called only Sopatros here in Acts] and Gaios in the list along with several men from the province of Asia.

Paul, Sopater, Aristarchus, Secundus, Gaius, Timothy, and of Asia;Tychicus and Trophimus, who were waiting in Troas already.

They abode there 7 days.

-The Romans themselves had migrated to Italy from the Troad, 1,200 years before.

(Acts 20:7-12) Paul breaks bread and speaks until midnight, Eutychus falls asleep and out of a high window.

Traveling to Assos they set sail for Miletus.

The disciples sailed to Assos while Paul went by foot. They met in Assos and all sailed to Mitylene, Chios, Samos, and Trogyllium. The next day Miletus. (Acts 20:13-15)

57 AD

Warnings to assembly leaders.

From Miletus Paul sends a message asking that the Ephesians elders come see him.

When they arrive he warns about false teachings and assembly splits, causing denominations and apostasy. (Acts 20:26-31).

Paul exhorts the Ephesian elders at Miletus (Acts 20:15-38)

He tells them he is by the Spirit, bound to go to Jerusalem to testify the gospel of the grace (favor, Divine influence) of Yahweh.

That they would not see him again. To always feed the flock which was purchased with blood. The wolves will try to come in. To keep watch and remember the words of the Prince.

(:38) Paul was right, he never returned to Greece. Rather, he was arrested in Jerusalem, sent to Rome, and ultimately executed by Nero.

Paul Goes to Macedonia and Greece

Acts 20:1 ​​ And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia.

​​ 20:2 ​​ And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,

​​ 20:3 ​​ And there abode three months. And when the Judaeans laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.

Those Edomite Jew snakes, always lying in wait to slay Paul.

​​ 20:4 ​​ And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

​​ 20:5 ​​ These going before tarried for us at Troas.

​​ 20:6 ​​ And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days.

Exodus 12:14 ​​ And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and you shall keep it a feast to Yahweh throughout your generations; you shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.

12:15 ​​ Seven days shall you eat unleavened bread; even the first day you shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel. ​​ (Ex 23:15)

Decades after Christ ascended the Israelites were still keeping the feasts, not only because it is an Israelite tradition, but also because Yahweh commanded it. The New Testament is not for or about 'the Gentile church', it is a continuation of the book of the generations of Adam. It is our Israelite heritage. It is NOT a universal book for all races.

Paul's Farewell Visit to Troas

​​ 20:7 ​​ And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. ​​ (1Cor 16:2)

​​ 20:8 ​​ And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.

​​ 20:9 ​​ And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.

​​ 20:10 ​​ And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.

​​ 20:11 ​​ When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.

​​ 20:12 ​​ And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted (they were encouraged).

The Voyage from Troas to Miletus

​​ 20:13 ​​ And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.

​​ 20:14 ​​ And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.

​​ 20:15 ​​ And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus.

​​ 20:16 ​​ For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

Paul kept the feast days.

Paul Speaks to the Ephesian Elders

​​ 20:17 ​​ And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church (assembly).

​​ 20:18 ​​ And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,

​​ 20:19 ​​ Serving the Prince with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:

​​ 20:20 ​​ And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house,

​​ 20:21 ​​ Testifying both to the Judaeans, and also to the Greeks, repentance (a change of mind, compunction) toward God, and faith (allegiance) toward our Prince Yahshua Christ.

Mark 1:15 ​​ And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent you, and believe the gospel.

Luke 24:27 ​​ And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself (Christ).

​​ 20:22 ​​ And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:

​​ 20:23 ​​ Save that the Holy Spirit witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.

1Thessalonians 3:3 ​​ That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

The “churches” teach an escape of afflictions through the “rapture”.

Scripture teaches that our afflictions are for our refining.

​​ 20:24 ​​ But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Prince Yahshua, to testify the gospel of the grace (favor, Divine influence) of God.  ​​​​ (2Tim 4:7)

​​ 20:25 ​​ And now, behold, I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

Preaching the reign of Elohiym, the kingdom, not preaching the 'churches gospel of personal salvation'.

​​ 20:26 ​​ Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.

​​ 20:27 ​​ For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. ​​ (Luke 7:30)

​​ 20:28 ​​ Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the church (assembly) of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood.

1Timothy 4:16 ​​ Take heed unto yourself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this you shalt both save (preserve) yourself, and them that hear you.

​​ 20:29 ​​ For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous (oppressive) wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

Paul is talking about the flock, the sheep, the lost sheep of Israel.

The wolves are the enemies of Israel, the Edomite and Canaanite Jews. The children of that wicked one.

​​ 20:30 ​​ Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

1Timothy 1:20 ​​ Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan (the Adversary), that they may learn not to blaspheme.

We are to cast those that are unrighteous out of our society and let the adversary deal with them.

Some of our own people side with the enemy. Some follow false preachers, like Joel Osteen and other big money terrorvangelists. Some follow out of ignorance, like today's apostate churches. How can you tell? There are many ways, but here are the three most important clues. 1. If your church teaches a Jewish Jesus. 2. If your church teaches that you are a non-Israelite 'Gentile'. 3. And teach that you are “saved” by “just believing”.

​​ 20:31 ​​ Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.

​​ 20:32 ​​ And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of His grace (Divine influence), which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

The Greek: 32 And now I commit you to Yahweh and to the Word of His Divine influence, which is able to build and to give the inheritance which is in all those being sanctified.

Sanctified: holy, pure, set apart. Scripture teaches that only Israelites are sanctified.

​​ 20:33 ​​ I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.

​​ 20:34 ​​ Yea, you yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.

Paul worked, he was a tentmaker. He did not depend on tithes, which had become a way for churches to make money rather than do right with it. Church tithing is unscriptural, but giving alms is not.

​​ 20:35 ​​ I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring you ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Prince Yahshua, how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Romans 15:1 ​​ We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

1Corinthians 9:12 ​​ If others be partakers of authority over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this authority; but we cover all ourselves, lest we should hinder the gospel of the Anointed (the people).

​​ 20:36 ​​ And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.

​​ 20:37 ​​ And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,

​​ 20:38 ​​ Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

Acts, chapters 18 through 20, Paul had written each of the seven of those of his surviving epistles which were written while he was a free man. The first epistle to the Thessalonians was, no doubt, the earliest of Paul's surviving epistles and was written in Corinth (Acts 18, 1Thessalonians 3:6). The second epistle to the Thessalonians followed the first in short time and was very likely also written from Corinth during Paul's long sojourn there. The epistle to the Galatians was written during Paul's stay in Antioch which is described in Acts 18:22-23, where he also had his final meeting with Peter described in Galatians chapter 2. It could not have been written before that time. Paul visited the Galatians soon thereafter, and his epistle reflects an anticipation to visit them in its fourth chapter (4:18, 20). The epistle which we know as 1 Corinthians was written from Ephesus (1 Corinthians 16:8, 19), during the three-year period that Paul stayed in Ephesus described in Acts chapter 19. The second epistle to the Corinthians was written as Paul journeyed from Macedonia to visit Achaia for the last time, and before he reached Corinth for his final visit there. The first epistle to Timothy was written from Greece around this same time, as the circumstances indicate in conjunction with Paul's own comment at 1 Timothy 1:3. Finally, the epistle to the Romans was written from the Troad, during Paul's stay there described at the beginning of Acts chapter 20, which is evident from both the lists of men who were with Paul provided in Acts 20 and Romans 16, and also from Paul's comments concerning his ministry and his plans to visit Rome which were made in Romans chapter 15 (15:22-28).

The other seven of Paul's surviving epistles were all written while he was in bonds, six of them from Rome (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 2 Timothy, Titus and Philemon) while one, the epistle to the Hebrews, was written while Paul was under arrest in Caesareia.

Acts chapter 20 leaves off with the elders of the Christian assembly of Ephesus escorting Paul of Tarsus to a ship bound for Syria, that he may be in Jerusalem before the Pentecost, which was evidently the Pentecost of 57 AD. This chapter of Acts, chapter 21, opens as Paul is on a ship headed to Syria, so that Paul could go to Jerusalem. Others are with him, including Luke, as once again the narrative is being written in the first person.

Coos. Rhodes. Patara. Phoenicia. (Acts 21:1, 2)

Passing by Cyprus, sailed into Syria and landed at Tyre. Staying for 7 days.

At Tyre (Acts 21:3-6) The mainland city, called Ushu by the Assyrians, was to a great degree destroyed by the same Nebuchadnezzar who shortly thereafter razed Jerusalem. The island city was destroyed, razed completely, nearly 300 years later by Alexander. During the Hellenistic period Tyre regained commercial significance as a port city, a status which it maintained throughout Roman times.

After spending a week in Tyre he sails to Caesarea (Acts 21:5-6). While in the city Paul stays in the home of Philip the evangelist for a few days.

At Ptolemais (Acts 21:7) Stayed for one day.

At Caesarea (Acts 21:8-14)

Philip, who is said to be “from of the seven”, therefore must have been the Philip who is listed as one of those men chosen for the service to that early assembly of Christians as it is described at Acts 6:3-5. The events of Acts chapter 6 occurred over twenty years earlier than Paul's stay in Caesareia which is being described here.

The apostle then leaves for Jerusalem by carriage (Acts 21:15).

Paul, Luke, certain disciples of Caesarea, and Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple from the beginning.

58 AD

At Jerusalem (Acts 21:15-25)

Back in Jerusalem

In the late spring of 58 Paul visits James in Jerusalem for the last time. After the visit he goes to the temple with four Judaean converts (Acts 21:18-26).

(Acts 21:27) Jews from Asia stirred up the people,

They remembered seeing him bring Trophimus into the temple before, and now bringing in the Greeks.

Paul gets arrested in the temple and it causes a mob (Acts 21:26-36)

Paul's Journey to Jerusalem

Acts 21:1 ​​ And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:

​​ 21:2 ​​ And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set forth.

​​ 21:3 ​​ Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her burden.

​​ 21:4 ​​ And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

​​ 21:5 ​​ And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

​​ 21:6 ​​ And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they returned home again.

​​ 21:7 ​​ And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.

​​ 21:8 ​​ And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.

​​ 21:9 ​​ And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.

Joel 2:28 ​​ And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My spirit upon all flesh (of Israel); and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:

​​ 21:10 ​​ And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.

​​ 21:11 ​​ And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Spirit, So shall the Judaeans at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles (nations).

The 'nations' of the dispersed would imprison Paul.

Verse 11 was a prophecy of events that would happen in verse 33.

​​ 21:12 ​​ And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.

​​ 21:13 ​​ Then Paul answered, What mean you to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Prince Yahshua.

​​ 21:14 ​​ And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Master be done.

​​ 21:15 ​​ And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to Jerusalem.

​​ 21:16 ​​ There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should lodge.

A student from the beginning, a long time Christian.

Paul Visits James at Jerusalem

​​ 21:17 ​​ And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

​​ 21:18 ​​ And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present.

Galatians 1:19 ​​ But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Prince's brother. ​​ (Gal 2:9)

​​ 21:19 ​​ And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought (performed) among the Gentiles (dispersed Nations) by his ministry.

Romans 15:18 ​​ For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought (performed) by me, to make the Nations obedient, by word and deed,

15:19 ​​ Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.

​​ 21:20 ​​ And when they heard it, they glorified the Prince, and said unto him, You seest, brother, how many thousands of Judaeans there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law (Torah):

​​ 21:21 ​​ And they are informed of you, that you teachest all the Judaeans which are among the Gentiles (Nations) to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.

They lied, Paul did not teach against the Torah. The Judaizers were always agitating the people.

​​ 21:22 ​​ What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they will hear that you art come.

​​ 21:23 ​​ Do therefore this that we say to you: We have four men which have a vow on them;

​​ 21:24 ​​ Them take, and purify yourself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning you, are nothing; but that you yourself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law (Torah). ​​ (Num 6:2,13,18)

​​ 21:25 ​​ As touching (concerning) the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel) which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication (race mixing). ​​ (Act 15:20,29)

​​ 21:26 ​​ Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.

Paul Arrested in the Temple

​​ 21:27 ​​ And when the seven days were almost ended, the Judaeans (agitators) which were of Asia, when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,

​​ 21:28 ​​ Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people, and the law (Torah), and this place: and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.

The Greeks were of the dispersed Nations, and considered 'common' or profane by the Judaeans.

Paul was also teaching that the sacrificial rituals were not needed anymore, they were fulfilled by Christ.

​​ 21:29 ​​ (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.) ​​ (Act 20:4)

The Temple was an Israelite heritage. It was not for the world, as were the other religions. You can see in museums today, the signs that warned any non-Israelite to NOT enter, punishable by death. ​​ 

The Judaean Israelites considered the Greeks common. Even though the Greeks were of the dispersed tribes of Israel, they both just forgot that they were kinsmen. Trophimus was a Greek.

​​ 21:30 ​​ And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.

​​ 21:31 ​​ And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.

​​ 21:32 ​​ Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them: and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of Paul.

​​ 21:33 ​​ Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.

​​ 21:34 ​​ And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be carried into the castle.

​​ 21:35 ​​ And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the soldiers for the violence of the people.

​​ 21:36 ​​ For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him. (actually, “Kill him!”)

G142 airo can also mean to take from the living by violence.

Paul Defends Himself

​​ 21:37 ​​ And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief captain, May I speak unto you? Who said, Canst you speak Greek?

The captain said, “do you know Greek?”

​​ 21:38 ​​ Art not you that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?

'Sicarii' was a trouble causing group (See 5:36) Paul was mistaken for them.

​​ 21:39 ​​ But Paul said, I am a man which am a Judaean of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech you, suffer me to speak unto the people. ​​ 

​​ 21:40 ​​ And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying, ​​ (4Mac 12:7; Act 26:14)

With Acts chapter 21, we left Paul in Jerusalem after having seen the apostle James, and undergoing a purification ritual in the Temple. Spotted in the Temple by certain Judaeans who knew Paul from his ministry in Asia, upon their having accused him of defiling the Temple Paul was arrested in the ensuing commotion.

His arrival at the temple causes a riot to break out. A mob seizes Paul and begins to savagely beat him after he is dragged outside the temple area. The angry mob of Jews, however, disperses when Roman soldiers appear on the scene. The Romans arrest Paul and question him. The apostle escapes being scourged when the authorities discover he is a Roman citizen.

The commander mistook Paul for a leader of the Sicarii, or Assassins, as they were called, which was a group that had been causing much trouble in Judaea and which is discussed and frequently mentioned by Flavius Josephus in his writings.

Paul is eventually escorted out of Jerusalem under Roman guard. He is taken to Caesarea so that governor Felix can decide what to do with him. (v23-25)

​​ 

Addresses the mob (Acts 21:37 - 22:21)

He addresses them in Hebrew, so they listen.

Paul's citizenship saves him from scourging (Acts 22:22-29). Paul, being born in Tarsus, and being a citizen of Tarsus, thereby being also a Roman citizen, had many more legal rights than Christ.

Paul Has the Floor and Defends Himself

Acts 22:1 ​​ Men, brethren, and fathers, hear you my defence which I make now unto you.

​​ 22:2 ​​ (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,)

​​ 22:3 ​​ I am verily a man which am a Judaean, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law (Torah) of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as you all are this day. ​​ (Act 5:34-39; 2 Cor 11:22)

​​ 22:4 ​​ And I persecuted this way (The Way) unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women.

​​ 22:5 ​​ As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. ​​ (Act 8:3, 26:8-11)

Paul Tells of His Conversion

​​ 22:6 ​​ And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven (the sky) a great light round about me.

​​ 22:7 ​​ And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest you Me?

​​ 22:8 ​​ And I answered, Who art You, Master? And He said unto me, I am Yahshua of Nazareth, whom you persecutest.

​​ 22:9 ​​ And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not (understood not) the voice of Him that spake to me.  ​​​​ (3Mac 6:18)

Daniel 10:7 ​​ And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not (understood not) the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide themselves.

3Maccabees 6:18 ​​ Then the all-glorious, all-powerful, and true God, displayed His holy countenance, and opened the gates of heaven, from which two messengers, dreadful of form, came down and were visible to all but the Judaeans.

​​ 22:10 ​​ And I said, What shall I do, Master? And the Master said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told you of all things which are appointed for you to do.

​​ 22:11 ​​ And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.

​​ 22:12 ​​ And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law (Torah), having a good report of all the Judaeans which dwelt there,  ​​​​ (Act 9:10,17)

​​ 22:13 ​​ Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive your sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.

​​ 22:14 ​​ And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen you, that you shouldest know His will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of His mouth.  ​​​​ (Exo 3:15)

​​ 22:15 ​​ For you shalt be His witness unto all men of what you hast seen and heard.

​​ 22:16 ​​ And now why tarriest you? arise, and be baptized (immersed in truth), and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord. (not in the manuscripts)

The Greek: 16 And now what should you do (Why are you deferring)? Arise to be immersed and to wash away your errors (the misses of you-missing the mark of duty), being called by His Name.

Paul was retelling about his revelation on the way to Damascus. He was being immersed by the Holy Spirit with knowledge and understanding. He was being 'called' by Yahweh.

Paul Sent to the 'Lost' Sheep of the House of Israel

​​ 22:17 ​​ And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;

2Corinthians 12:2 ​​ I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.

Paul couldn't tell if he was in a trance or awake.

​​ 22:18 ​​ And saw Him saying unto me, Make haste, and get you quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.

​​ 22:19 ​​ And I said, Master, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue (assembly hall) them that believed on You:

​​ 22:20 ​​ And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept (held) the raiment (clothes) of them that slew him. ​​ (Act 7:58)

Luke 11:48 ​​ Truly you bear witness that you allow the deeds of your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and you build their sepulchres.

​​ 22:21 ​​ And He said unto me, Depart: for I will send you far hence unto the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of 'lost' Israelites).

Paul and the Roman Tribune

​​ 22:22 ​​ And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.

​​ 22:23 ​​ And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air,

​​ 22:24 ​​ The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him.

​​ 22:25 ​​ And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned (without trial)?

​​ 22:26 ​​ When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain, saying, Take heed what you doest: for this man is a Roman.

​​ 22:27 ​​ Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art you a Roman? He said, Yea.

​​ 22:28 ​​ And the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this freedom. And Paul said, But I was free born.

​​ 22:29 ​​ Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him: and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman, and because he had bound him.

Paul Before the Council

​​ 22:30 ​​ On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused of the Judaeans, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.

Before the Sanhedrin (Acts 22:30 - 23:10)

(Acts 23:3) Paul calls high priest Ananias a “whitened wall” and warns that God would smite him. The fulfillment is recorded by Josephus (Wars 2.17.9). Slain with his brother by robbers.

Paul pits the Sadducees against the Pharisees over the resurrection.

Yahshua tells Paul that he will bear witness of Him in Rome (Acts 23:11)

The plot against Paul's life (Acts 23:12-22) Jews (40+) make a vow not to eat or drink until Paul is dead. Most likely Sadducees, because the Pharisees just previously found no evil in him.

(Acts 23:16-17) Paul's sister and nephew.

Paul is sent safely to Felix the governor (Acts 23:23-35) with 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen, and 200 spearmen by night.

Acts 23:1 ​​ And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men, brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.

​​ 23:2 ​​ And the high priest Ananias (Edomite Sadducee) commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. ​​ (1Ki 22:24; Jer 20:2)

​​ 23:3 ​​ Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite you, you whited wall: for sittest you to judge me after the law (Torah), and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law (Torah)?  ​​​​ (Mat 23:27-28)

Leviticus 19:35 ​​ Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard, in weight, or in measure.

​​ 23:4 ​​ And they that stood by said, Revilest you God's high priest?

​​ 23:5 ​​ Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, You shalt not speak evil of the ruler of your people.

Exodus 22:28 ​​ You shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of your people.

​​ 23:6 ​​ But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men, brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question. ​​ (Act 26:5; Phil 3:5)

Paul was smart, he pitted the Pharisees against the Sadducees about the resurrection. This took the attention off of him, beating them at their own game.

​​ 23:7 ​​ And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.

​​ 23:8 ​​ For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.  ​​​​ (Mat 22:23)(Jos Ant. 18.2.4 16-17; see also War 2.8.14 162-166)

​​ 23:9 ​​ And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.

​​ 23:10 ​​ And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.

​​ 23:11 ​​ And the night following the Master stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as you hast testified of Me in Jerusalem, so must you bear witness also at Rome.

The Plot to Kill Paul

​​ 23:12 ​​ And when it was day, certain of the Judaeans banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.

​​ 23:13 ​​ And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy.

​​ 23:14 ​​ And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we have slain Paul.

​​ 23:15 ​​ Now therefore you with the council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you to morrow, as though you would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near, are ready to kill him.

​​ 23:16 ​​ And when Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went and entered into the castle, and told Paul.

​​ 23:17 ​​ Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.

​​ 23:18 ​​ So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said, Paul the prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto you, who hath something to say unto you.

​​ 23:19 ​​ Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside privately, and asked him, What is that you hast to tell me?

​​ 23:20 ​​ And he (Paul's nephew) said, The Jews have agreed to desire you that you wouldest bring down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat of him more perfectly.

​​ 23:21 ​​ But do not you yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready, looking for a promise from you.

​​ 23:22 ​​ So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged (instructed) ​​ him, See you tell no man that you hast shewed these things to me.

Paul Sent to Felix the Governor

​​ 23:23 ​​ And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go to Caesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two hundred, at the third hour of the night;

​​ 23:24 ​​ And provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe unto Felix the governor.

​​ 23:25 ​​ And he wrote a letter after this manner:

​​ 23:26 ​​ Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.

​​ 23:27 ​​ This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.

​​ 23:28 ​​ And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought him forth into their council:

​​ 23:29 ​​ Whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.

​​ 23:30 ​​ And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent straightway to you, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say before you what they had against him. Farewell.

​​ 23:31 ​​ Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him by night to Antipatris.

​​ 23:32 ​​ On the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the castle:

​​ 23:33 ​​ Who, when they came to Caesarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor, presented Paul also before him.

​​ 23:34 ​​ And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;

​​ 23:35 ​​ I will hear you, said he, when your accusers are also come. And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.

In Acts chapter 23, after a plot against Paul's life was revealed to the Roman military tribune, Paul is sent under arms and cloak of night to the residence of the Roman procurator in Caesareia. Upon his arrival there the procurator accepted Paul as his prisoner, when he declared that he would hear his case. This is in spite of the fact that Paul had not violated any Roman laws, but as the Roman commander had written to the governor, he found the Judaeans (Jews) “accusing him concerning inquires of their law, and having not one accusation worthy of death or of bonds.”

Paul before Felix (Acts 24:1-27)

A Prisoner in Caesarea

Governor Felix holds Paul as a prisoner in Caesarea for more than two years. Felix does this because he hopes to be bribed into an early release (Acts 24:26-27). When Porcius Festus replaces Felix as governor in 60 A.D. the case against the apostle is repeated.

Paul, refusing the offer to have his trial in Jerusalem, requests his case be heard by Caesar. Festus agrees and soon sends him off to Rome.

Hebrews written here in Caesarea (Heb 13:23)

Romans written under arrest here in Caesarea

Paul Before Felix at Caesarea

Acts 24:1 ​​ And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul.

​​ 24:2 ​​ And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying, Seeing that by you we enjoy great quietness (prosperity), and that very worthy deeds are done unto this nation by your providence (foresight),

​​ 24:3 ​​ We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

​​ 24:4 ​​ Notwithstanding, that I be not further tedious unto you, I pray you that you wouldest hear us of your clemency a few words.

​​ 24:5 ​​ For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition among all the Judaeans throughout the world (society), and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:

​​ 24:6 ​​ Who also hath gone about to profane the temple: whom we took, and would have judged according to our law.

7 ​​ But the chief captain Lysias came upon us, and with great violence took him away out of our (Sadducees) hands,

8 ​​ Commanding his accusers to come unto you: by examining of whom yourself mayest take knowledge of all these things, whereof we accuse him.

From the end of verse 6 and the beginning of verse 8 are not in the older manuscripts.

From verse 6 it should read: ​​ 6 ​​ who also attempted to profane the temple and whom we took hold of, from whom you yourself should be able, examining him concerning all these things, to discover that which we accuse him of.

​​ 24:9 ​​ And the Judaeans also assented, saying that these things were so.

Paul's Defense Before Felix

​​ 24:10 ​​ Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I know that you hast been of many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:

​​ 24:11 ​​ Because that you mayest understand, that there are yet but twelve days since I went up to Jerusalem for to worship.

​​ 24:12 ​​ And they neither found me in the temple disputing with any man, neither raising up the people, neither in the synagogues, nor in the city:

​​ 24:13 ​​ Neither can they prove the things whereof they now accuse me.

​​ 24:14 ​​ But this I confess unto you, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law (Torah) and in the prophets:  ​​​​ (Exo 3:15)

​​ 24:15 ​​ And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.

​​ 24:16 ​​ And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.

​​ 24:17 ​​ Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.

​​ 24:18 ​​ Whereupon certain Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult. ​​ (Act 21:17-28)

​​ 24:19 ​​ Who ought to have been here before you, and object, if they had ought against me.

​​ 24:20 ​​ Or else let these same here say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the council,

​​ 24:21 ​​ Except it be for this one voice, that I cried standing among them, Touching the resurrection of the dead I am called in question by you this day.  ​​​​ (Act 23:6)

​​ 24:22 ​​ And when Felix heard these things, having more perfect knowledge of that way (The Way), he deferred them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your matter.

​​ 24:23 ​​ And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let him have liberty, and that he should forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.

Paul Held in Custody

​​ 24:24 ​​ And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jewess (Judaean), he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith (belief) in Christ.

​​ 24:25 ​​ And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Go your way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for you.

​​ 24:26 ​​ He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him.

​​ 24:27 ​​ But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.

59 AD

Paul before Festus (Acts 25:1-12)

Assassination of Agrippina, the mother of Nero

Paul's appeal honored - turning point towards Rome (Acts 25:12)

Paul before Agrippa (Acts 25:23 - 26:32)

Paul Appeals to the Emperor

Acts 25:1 ​​ Now when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem.

​​ 25:2 ​​ Then the high priest and the chief of the Judaeans informed him against Paul, and besought him,

​​ 25:3 ​​ And desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him.

​​ 25:4 ​​ But Festus answered, that Paul should be kept at Caesarea, and that he himself would depart shortly thither.

​​ 25:5 ​​ Let them therefore, said he, which among you are able, go down with me, and accuse this man, if there be any wickedness in him.

​​ 25:6 ​​ And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea; and the next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul to be brought.

​​ 25:7 ​​ And when he was come, the Judaeans which came down from Jerusalem stood round about, and laid many and grievous complaints against Paul, which they could not prove.

​​ 25:8 ​​ While he answered for himself, Neither against the law of the Judaeans (Sadducees), neither against the temple, nor yet against Caesar, have I offended any thing at all.

​​ 25:9 ​​ But Festus, willing to do the Judaeans (Sadducees) a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, Wilt you go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?

​​ 25:10 ​​ Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Judaeans have I done no wrong, as you very well knowest.

​​ 25:11 ​​ For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Caesar.

​​ 25:12 ​​ Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, Hast you appealed unto Caesar? unto Caesar shalt you go.

Festus Consults King Agrippa

​​ 25:13 ​​ And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.

​​ 25:14 ​​ And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:

​​ 25:15 ​​ About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Judaeans (Sadducees) informed me, desiring to have judgment against him.

​​ 25:16 ​​ To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.

​​ 25:17 ​​ Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth.

​​ 25:18 ​​ Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed:

​​ 25:19 ​​ But had certain questions against him of their own superstition (worship), and of one Yahshua, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.

​​ 25:20 ​​ And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.

​​ 25:21 ​​ But when Paul had appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar.

​​ 25:22 ​​ Then Agrippa said unto Festus, I would also hear the man myself. To morrow, said he, you shalt hear him.

Paul Brought Before Agrippa

​​ 25:23 ​​ And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great pomp, and was entered into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus' commandment Paul was brought forth.

​​ 25:24 ​​ And Festus said, King Agrippa, and all men which are here present with us, you see this man, about whom all the multitude of the Judaeans have dealt with me, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying that he ought not to live any longer.

​​ 25:25 ​​ But when I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and that he himself hath appealed to Augustus, I have determined to send him.

​​ 25:26 ​​ Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my lord (the authority). Wherefore I have brought him forth before you, and specially before you, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have somewhat to write.

​​ 25:27 ​​ For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send a prisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laid against him.

Acts chapter 25, we saw that upon the assumption to the office of procurator in Judaea by Porcius Festus, he reviewed the case of Paul of Tarsus whom Felix had left bound. Festus then admitted that Paul had done nothing worthy of death or bonds, but would not release him since he did not want to show the Judaeans (Sadducees) any disfavor. Paul was therefore compelled to appeal to Caesar, since Festus only offered him a trial in Jerusalem which Paul, being a Roman citizen, could not be compelled to accept. Ostensibly, Paul was destined to go to Rome, as we had been informed by the account in Acts. But if Paul had submitted to the Judaeans (Sadducees) then by no means would he have escaped with his life, since the Judaeans (Sadducees) were desiring to kill him unlawfully if they could not have their way with him otherwise.

When Herod Agrippa II arrived in Caesarea, evidently to see the new procurator, Festus told Agrippa of Paul, and Agrippa is portrayed as having exclaimed that he had been wanting to hear Paul speak.

Certainly, accounts of the episodes related to Paul's arrest and of his defenses before the Hebrews and before Felix must have been heard by Agrippa in Jerusalem. With Agrippa wanting to hear Paul, and with Festus being in need of an account of the charges against Paul so that he could write to Nero explaining why Paul had been sent to him, Paul is therefore given an opportunity to address not only Agrippa, but “the commanders and eminent men of the city”. Since Caesareia was a large city there must have been a considerable crowd present in addition to those whom Luke mentioned specifically. Further evidence of this is seen in Acts 25:23, where Luke says that Agrippa, who being the king of a neighboring country is actually a visiting dignitary, along with his sister (or perhaps his sister-wife) Bernika, had entered into the auditorium “with much fanfare”, as Luke described the event.

This auditorium, or literally place of hearing as the King James Version has it, where this spectacle was conducted was most likely the local theater, or stadium, buildings which were quite common throughout the Roman empire. When Paul was charged by the silversmiths at Ephesus, those of his company were brought to the local theater, where the people were accustomed to assemble for such events. There is such a theater at Caesarea which remains today, an archaeological relic believed to be the very theater that was built by the first Herod before 10 BC, which seated as many as 4,000 people. It is assuredly the very auditorium where this event had taken place.

Considering Festus' statement at verse 24 of that chapter, it is evident that the only way to preserve Paul beyond this point, would be to send him in bonds to Rome. With this, Luke records Paul's discourse at the opening of chapter 26.

(Acts 26:18) His curing of the blind, which occurred so often during His ministry, was only a type, an example illustrating His true mission. The truly blind people were the people of Israel in their dispersions and in their state of apostasy from Yahweh their God.

(Acts 26:24) Phestos, being a pagan Roman, and being unaware of the Hebrew Scriptures and not informed of the religious history of the Judaeans, could be expected to think that Paul was mad in professing these things which he said here.

We are not ever told what it was that Porcius Festus may have written to Nero concerning Paul of Tarsus. However it is evident, that pronouncing that Yahshua is the Christ, and that He alone is the true King, Paul is on course for an inevitable clash with an emperor who imagined himself to be a god.

Paul Defends Himself Before Agrippa

Acts 26:1 ​​ Then Agrippa said unto Paul, You art permitted to speak for yourself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:

​​ 26:2 ​​ I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before you touching (concerning) all the things whereof I am accused of the Judaeans (Sadducees):

​​ 26:3 ​​ Especially because I know you to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Judaeans: wherefore I beseech you to hear me patiently.

​​ 26:4 ​​ My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Judaeans;

​​ 26:5 ​​ Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.  ​​​​ (Act 23:6; Php 3:5)

​​ 26:6 ​​ And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:

The promise of this seed can be traced from Gen 3:15, 22:18, and 26:4.

​​ 26:7 ​​ Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Judaeans.

Throughout scripture, the message is always to and about the children of Israel. It does not change to 'the church' ​​ and Gentiles.

​​ 26:8 ​​ Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? ​​ 

2Maccabees 7:9 ​​ And when he was at the last gasp, he said, You like a fury takest us out of this present life, but the King of the world shall raise us up, who have died for His laws, unto everlasting life.

​​ 26:9 ​​ I verily thought with myself (supposed it necessary), that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Yahshua of Nazareth.

The Greek has: '…,regarding the name of Yahshua the Nazorian, to do many things against,

​​ 26:10 ​​ Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them.

'Saints' are those of the children of Israel.

The “churches” teach that anyone who “believes” becomes a saint.

​​ 26:11 ​​ And I punished them oft in every synagogue (assembly hall), and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.  ​​​​ (Act 8:3, 22:4-5)

Paul Tells of His Conversion

​​ 26:12 ​​ Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,

​​ 26:13 ​​ At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven (the sky), above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.

​​ 26:14 ​​ And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest you Me? it is hard for you to kick against the pricks.

​​ 26:15 ​​ And I said, Who art You, Master? And He said, I am Yahshua whom you persecutest.

​​ 26:16 ​​ But rise, and stand upon your feet: for I have appeared unto you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of these things which you hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear (reveal) unto you;

​​ 26:17 ​​ Delivering you from the people, and from the Gentiles (dispersed Israelite nations), unto whom now I send you,

​​ 26:18 ​​ To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness (remission of the penalty) of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith (The Belief) that is in Me.

Isaiah 35:5 ​​ Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. ​​ 42:6,7, 60:2-3; Rev 21:24

Paul Tells of His Preaching

​​ 26:19 ​​ Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:

​​ 26:20 ​​ But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles (dispersed Nations), that they should repent (think differently) and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance (a change of mind). ​​ (Act 9:20,28-29; Mat 16:27)

​​ 26:21 ​​ For these causes the Judaeans (Sadducees) caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me. ​​ 

​​ 26:22 ​​ Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

​​ 26:23 ​​ That Christ should suffer, and that He should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel).  ​​​​ (Isa 42:6, 49:6)

1Corinthians 15:20 ​​ But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.

Paul Asks Agrippa If He Believes the Prophets

​​ 26:24 ​​ And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, you art beside yourself; much learning doth make you mad.

​​ 26:25 ​​ But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

​​ 26:26 ​​ For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.

​​ 26:27 ​​ King Agrippa, believest you the prophets? I know that you believest.

​​ 26:28 ​​ Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost you persuadest me to be a Christian.

Agrippa was the grandson of the Herod that tried to kill Christ as a baby. They are Edomites.

​​ 26:29 ​​ And Paul said, I would to God, that not only you, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

​​ 26:30 ​​ And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that sat with them:

​​ 26:31 ​​ And when they were gone aside, they talked between themselves, saying, This man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.

​​ 26:32 ​​ Then said Agrippa unto Festus, This man might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Caesar.

In Acts chapter 26, Paul was afforded the opportunity to address a rather large crowd, at what Luke depicted as a rather festive gathering, concerning his Christian profession. Paul did not necessarily speak for the benefit of Herod Agrippa, who was an Edomite and certainly not a candidate for the Christian profession. Rather, Paul addressed Herod as a matter of protocol, and used the occasion in order to witness to the many hundreds of others who must have been present.

Here in Acts chapter 27, with Paul in bonds and boarding a ship for Rome, Luke going with him mentions that they are accompanied by Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica.

Paul delivered to Julius, a centurion of Augustus, departing for Rome and sails to Myra (Acts 27:1-5) 59 AD

They sail to Fair Havens on Crete (Acts 27:6-8)

In spite of Paul's warning, they set sail again (Acts 27:9-12)

Paul's Fourth Missionary Journey

Paul, along with several other prisoners, boards a boat bound for Rome. The ship runs into bad weather as it sails to reach the port of Phenice on the western side of Crete. It is soon driven off course and out to sea. Unable to be controlled, the ship wanders the Mediterranean for roughly two weeks. It is abandoned by its 276 passengers when it runs aground off the island of Malta (Melita) (Acts 27:37-44).

In the midst of a terrible storm they get shipwrecked on the island of Malta (Melita)

Paul Sails for Rome

Acts 27:1 ​​ And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.

​​ 27:2 ​​ And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.

​​ 27:3 ​​ And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.

​​ 27:4 ​​ And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.

​​ 27:5 ​​ And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.

​​ 27:6 ​​ And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein.

​​ 27:7 ​​ And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone;

​​ 27:8 ​​ And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.

​​ 27:9 ​​ Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them,

​​ 27:10 ​​ And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.

​​ 27:11 ​​ Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.

​​ 27:12 ​​ And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west.

The Storm at Sea

​​ 27:13 ​​ And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.

​​ 27:14 ​​ But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon (Northeaster).

​​ 27:15 ​​ And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive.

​​ 27:16 ​​ And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat:

​​ 27:17 ​​ Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake (lower) sail, and so were driven.

​​ 27:18 ​​ And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship;

​​ 27:19 ​​ And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. ​​ (Jonah 1:5)

​​ 27:20 ​​ And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.