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Showing posts from April, 2024

The Book of Acts Summary

The Book of Acts, also known as the Acts of the Apostles, is the fifth book of the New Testament and serves as a sequel to the Gospel of Luke. It recounts the early history of Christianity from the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven following His resurrection, through the spread of the Christian message across the Roman Empire. Here’s a brief summary: The Ascension and Pentecost : After Jesus' ascension, His disciples receive the Holy Spirit during the festival of Pentecost. This empowers them to begin their ministry. Peter, emerging as a leader, delivers a powerful sermon that leads to the baptism of about three thousand people. The Early Church : The early chapters describe the communal life of the early Christians in Jerusalem, who share everything in common, perform miracles, and continue to grow in numbers despite persecution. Persecution and Expansion : The narrative shifts to the broader expansion of the church, spurred by persecution. Key figures like Stephen and Philip ...

Why am I so scattered?

Feeling scattered can often stem from multiple sources, both external and internal. It's understandable to feel this way when juggling various responsibilities, thoughts, or emotions. Here's a perspective that aligns with some spiritual teachings you've mentioned, which might help frame these feelings: Purpose and Part : According to your reference, each person has a unique role in a larger divine plan, and understanding that can help focus your energy on what you're meant to do, rather than feeling overwhelmed by everything. Spiritual Practice : Luke 5:16 says, "And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed." This highlights the importance of finding time for solitude and prayer, which can be a grounding practice, helping to clear the mind and reduce feelings of being scattered. Servitude and Readiness : Emphasizing service to others and readiness for spiritual responsibilities can provide a clear direction and reduce feelings of being scattered by ...

Never do this as a Believer

  Acts 10:24 reads: "And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends." This verse sets the scene for the meeting between Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and Peter, an apostle. Cornelius, despite his high rank and authority in the Roman military, demonstrates humility and devoutness, characteristics highlighted throughout this narrative. The key event related to the theme of giving all glory to God occurs shortly after this verse when Peter arrives at Cornelius’s house. As Peter enters, Cornelius meets him and falls at his feet in reverence (Acts 10:25). However, Peter immediately tells him to stand up, saying, "Stand up; I myself also am a man" (Acts 10:26). This interaction is crucial as it underscores the message that glory belongs to God alone, not to humans, regardless of their role in His works. Reflection on Humility and Giving Glory to God The behavior of both Cornelius and Pet...

Best time to Pray for Divine Encounter

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The book of Acts highlight specific times of the day when significant spiritual events, including divine encounters, occurred. These times carry a historical and spiritual significance that many believers consider best timing for prayer, especially for those seeking a divine encounter. Let's look at each of these verses and the context around them: Acts 2:15 (NLT) "For these people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine o'clock in the morning!" Context and Significance : This verse occurs during the event of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descends upon the apostles. Peter defends the miraculous speaking in tongues by noting the early hour, emphasizing that it is only the third hour of the day (about 9:00 AM). This time, being early in the day, symbolizes a beginning filled with the Holy Spirit’s power and presence. It suggests a time of freshness and openness to God’s work, making it a significant time for prayer. Acts 3:1 "One day Peter and John were goin...