Timothy Joins Paul and Silas
16:1 Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek. 2 He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium. 3 Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. 4 As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions that had been reached by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem. 5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
The Macedonian Call
6 And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. 7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. 8 So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. 9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
The Conversion of Lydia
11 So, setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis, 12 and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city some days. 13 And on the Sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together. 14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. 15 And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us.
Paul and Silas in Prison
16 As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. 17 She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” 18 And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour.
19 But when her owners saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the rulers. 20 And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. 21 They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” 22 The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. 23 And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. 24 Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.
The Philippian Jailer Converted
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 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 everyone’s bonds were unfastened. 27 When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” 29 And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. 34 Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.
35 But when it was day, the magistrates sent the police, saying, “Let those men go.” 36 And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, “The magistrates have sent to let you go. Therefore come out now and go in peace.” 37 But Paul said to them, “They have beaten us publicly, uncondemned, men who are Roman citizens, and have thrown us into prison; and do they now throw us out secretly? No! Let them come themselves and take us out.” 38 The police reported these words to the magistrates, and they were afraid when they heard that they were Roman citizens. 39 So they came and apologized to them. And they took them out and asked them to leave the city. 40 So they went out of the prison and visited Lydia. And when they had seen the brothers, they encouraged them and departed. (ESV)
ELLO… I READ
I like verse 25,”About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,”
I like this verse because it talks about Paul and Silas instead of trying to get some rest after being beaten they are praising the LORD. Their situation is terrible and normally instead of singing people would be sad because they were doing the right thing. Paul and Silas’s joy was in the LORD. if your Joy is in the never-changing LORD then you will always be joyful because GOD is eternal, everlasting, graceful, merciful, perfect, and LOVING. I need to make sure I have my joy in the LORD so no matter the situation I can give thanks to the LORD my GOD who has done everything for me and saved me from an eternal damnation in HELL. GOD is good and I need to do what HE says no matter the cost and I can’t be torn down by a situation because I have so much to be thankful for because of JESUS.
CYA
BEAUTIFUL! Your comment is biblical–God’s truth and promises to us are rampant throughout your sentiments here, Tanner. I am greatly encouraged in my faith by your comment :)
Mmmmmm. Miracles.
How awesome would it be to live in this time, and be able to witness these kinds of acts frequently?
But, even despite having these clear miracles of God, it wasn’t enough to convince most of them to accept Christianity as truth, and put their faith in God.
..Which is interesting, because it would seem that if you were able to witness a miracle of God, that you’d no doubt want to put your faith in Him, but the more I’ve thought about it, the more I’ve realized that it doesn’t matter what we do as humans–coming to a point of repentance and faith is a decision of God. He is the one that enables us to do that, and therefore it doesn’t matter how much evidence you show people, if they don’t have the gift of God in them, they won’t listen.
And it’s not entirely like we don’t have miracles today. Repentance in itself is a miracle.
Man alone can not willingly follow God’s command and desires, and so any person who is able to overcome that through the spirit essentially is a walking miracle.
And yet, just like the days of Paul, people can witness these miracles of God all day long, but it won’t cause them to believe–God causes people to believe. It’s a gift of him.
Be grateful, guys. He could’ve easily chosen someone else over you.
True J. but we are called to share the gospel with everyone, even those who we think will never respond to Jesus, because His ways are higher than our ways! And we want everyone to be saved and so does Jesus!
Awesome comment Jeremy! :D Because we cannot change the hearts of people, we need to be begging God to work in them!
And thank you for reminding me to be grateful! I need to be praising the Lord for how He has chosen me, because I certainly don’t deserve it!
Jesus does the Work in their hearts we deliver The Truth :)
Acts 16:10 And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
Just like Nehemiah, Paul responds to the call of God with speed and purpose. Do we? Samuel, Phillip and Jesus Himself answered the call of the Father promptly. Lord, please move Your Spirit in me today to act on Your word and do it now with all my heart. And please come soon!
Great point Mr. Hosford! Thank you! :)
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them
This is one of my favorite verses. Paul and Silas were thrown into prison based on false accusations. They had not been disturbing the peace. The owners of the slave girl were just mad because now they couldn’t make any more money off of her. I would have been upset. I would think that it wasn’t fair to be thrown in prison. But what is Paul and Silas’s response? They were praying and singing hymns! I love that all the other prisoners were listening to them. They probably couldn’t figure out how these two could be so content and happy. This is how I want to face trials in my life. I want to face them with prayer and singing. I serve a God who is in control of all. That is reason to rejoice no matter what the situation!!
I love, too, how Paul and Silas live out the call God gives us, to rise above our circumstances and have faith in God, entrusting every aspect of our lives to Him, even when it is, “unfair,” or, “unfounded”. They KEPT their faith in God, and they TRUSTED Him. And in so doing, they chose to praise Him and give Him glory and worship. And whaddaya know, God’s will was that a man’s LIFE would be saved!!! If Paul and Silas had been embittered, shown disgust in their circumstances, the jailer may not have seen how immovable and permanent God is. But he was able to glean from Paul and Silas how faithful and sovereign our God IS. And in the suffering that our brothers received and embraced in the faith God gave them (and gives to US), one more life was reconciled unto our Savior.
Praise the Lord, and may we see OUR lots in life as a blessing and opportunity to glorify God and be a witness for Him-even in the unfair, unreasonable junk.
Grounded or busted by a parent who may not be tracking with Jesus? Submit and rejoice in God’s sovereignty. Do no grumbling.
Get pulled over by a mean, arrogant cop for no reason? Be humble and joyful.
Coach make you run stairs because someone ELSE was messing around, so he decided to punish the whole team? Run those stairs with a grateful heart!
People’s lives are at stake. May we REMEMBER that every time we find ourselves in an uncomfortable or unfair situation.
Thanks, Meisha, for triggering this :)
This passage is so motivating! Even the jailer came to Paul and Silas because he wanted to become saved. I love the intensity and encouragement of evangelism throughout Acts! Paul and Silas were carrying out God’s will and preaching the gospel at different places, and even getting thrown in jail for it! Now that I think back, I remember when Pastor Bobby said something along the lines of, “How awesome would it be if you guys got a detentiion for talking about Jesus on your campus!?” Being that on fire about Christ and not stop talking about it to the point where you are are in detention for it? I definitely want to have the attitude of these guys from this passage, and to do what God wants me to and carry out his will! My prayer is that the zeal of talking to others about the gospel will not stop here! I pray that I will always cease opportunities and have a desire that burns for God’s word and for evangelism!!!! mmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!!!
Great comment Brooke!
good chapter
6 And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia.
I think it’s very interesting how God told them not to go to Asia..at least not yet. God had a plan for Asia in that time and I think God knew that they would not accept the Gospel just yet. God has a plan for everything and though they didn’t go yet, people do eventually and they die over there sharing with them the Gospel…I think I need to remember to pray for those that are over there right now, who are praying in secret and having bible studies in secret. It’s against the law there to have even a bible, they neeed God’s protection! I’m definitely going to pray more for the missionaries over there, including the Mui family, that God would protect them and that the Gospel will be heard by open ears. Maranatha. :)
inspiring! you say Maranatha! at the end of your comment! You are looking forward to the Lord’s coming even though you are in your teens! Cool! Now thats love for our Lord! When I was in my teens I didn’t have a high school ministry like this one. Praise God for His provision in TN!
3 Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.
This verse is extremely cool because it shows the commitment and dedication that Paul and Timothy had for sharing the gospel. Timothy did not have to be circumcised. He knew that salvation was by grace through faith ALONE, apart from any works or deeds like being circumcised. And yet Timothy got circumcised so that he and Paul could share the gospel with the Jews without causing them to stumble. THAT is dedication to the gospel! I need to be willing to make sacrifices like that for the sake of Jesus Christ! I am praying that I will be fearless like these two men of God, and also that I will do whatever it takes to get people to hear God’s truth! Paul and Timothy are such awesome examples of how I need to be preaching the Name of Jesus Christ!
Good comment, Cam!
Have a great “field trip” today.
31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.
This is definitely one of my favorite chapters in Acts. The power of God was displayed here like no other! It also shows the power of prayer and faith that the disciples had. They were in jail praying, and look what God did! Wowww. I liked verse 31, but it is very commonly misunderstood. Many people take this verse as a way to get out of living a radical life for Jesus. The word “believe” is commonly misconcepted and thought to mean “know.” The lie is that if you know who Jesus was and that he died, your all good! Now that is PART of it, but the world believe means something else. I think it means to know, to trust in, to fear, to worship, and to make him your Lord. I need to wake up every day making sure that I am not just knowing Jesus, but that I am frearing him and putting my whole trust in him.
Mmmmmmmm…so true Morgan. A mere head knowledge of God is not enough to save. You have to repent of your sins and put your whole faith in Christ, that he did the whole work of salvation on the cross and that there is nothing we can do to be saved. This is so important to remember every day! Great comment Morgan!
Acts16:10 And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
God may I like Paul have an immediate reaction of obedience to the Holy Spirit’s urging!
14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. 15 And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us.
Purple is my favorite color, but then its probably everyones favorite
color, sorry I got distracted.
Father God thank you for your Holy Spirit which opens my heart to pay attention, and apply your Word to my life.
I am so blessed that I can come before you and ask for your help
and the Holy Spirit helps me learn your truths.
“If you have judged me to be faithful Lord, I desire to be a servant(like Lydia) to you IN TN.
Beth!! Awesome to see you on SOTD! So excited to have you be part of the leadership team to True North!
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
Paul and Silas have just been put in jail for something that isn’t deserving of that punishment. They had driven a demon out of a woman, and the men who gained money off of her got angry at Paul and Silas. So not only were they in jail, but they were sitting in a cell unjustly, for they shouldn’t have had to been in jail at all. For many people, this would not be the most joyous moment. In fact, most would be grumbling and complaining of how they don’t even deserve to be in jail. Yet these two men kept their thoughts on God. They were up at midnight praying to God and worshiping his name in song!
I need to make sure that my attitude toward God and my attitude in general is not dependent upon worldly circumstances. If I base my attitude off worldly circumstances, then those circumstances will change up and down. And so will my attitude. But if I choose to find my contentment in the Lord, he is eternal and immutable, never stopping to be who he is. As he will always continue to be good, my attitude should reflect the steady flow of contentment. In all circumstances I need to praise God. In all circumstances I need to be praying to God. I don’t want to be a man of circumstance, that I only praise God when I think things are good, and that I only pray to God when I think things are bad and I need help. I need to in all situations pray to God. And I need to seek to lift high his name in worship, not with one act here or there, but that my life is a declaration of worship unto the Lord!
14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.
Great reminder here in this verse that salvation is an act of God. The Lord opened Lydia’s heart to respond to the Good News. Paul did not know who God had called to become his child, but had faithfully preached the truth as he was commanded. Realizing that God does the saving work in someone’s life should motivate me to share with more people! Again, I must remember that I must be obedient to spread the gospel and trust that God will save souls.
17 She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.”
When i read this the first thing that comes to my thought’s are.. “When people see me and Christians i hope they say this about us”. Not for our glory but for his glory. As Christians it’s important to rep christ in the small, things large things and everything! God commands it. Something I’d like to see Change with some christians at my school is cursing. I know people who call themselves Christians and always curse. I think non-christians look at them like “oh they’re Christians and they cuss?… well then i guess i can cuss too!” NO! WRONG! God says this….
Psalms 109:17 As he loved cursing, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not in blessing, so let it be far from him.
Exodus 20:7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
Matthew 5:34-36 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.
Matthew 23:21-22 And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon.
Based on that I think we need to be more accountable for what we say and do because we will be judged.
MARANATHA! ….and Happy Birthday Emily!!!
Good morning!
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 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 everyone’s bonds were unfastened.
I really like this chapter. I have read it many times but it just keeps getting better and better. I am starting to understand all these passages a little bit more.
I like this verse because it shows how Paul and Silas have complete faith in God to guide them and protect them from destruction. Because of their faith they were released from prison. God is amazing! He can do anything if you just ask Him.
30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” I love this response of the jailer! How could you respond any different!
5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
When our faith is strengthened, the number of believers increases. AMAZING. Celebratiion in the Holy Spirit of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is CONTAGIOUS–infectious! I love this picture, too, because it is a great inspiration and example of how necessary it is to get together as brothers and sisters and celebrate God, Who He is, His provision for us, His love for us, the salvation and sanctification/purification He does in, through, and for us…we need to share with one another the answers to prayers that God gives us! We need to exalt Him together for His faithfulness, His sovereignty, His magnitude, His power, His love, His creativity, His Word, His provision, His gentle tenderness…
This is SPURRING for us! And it is something that intrigues people, gets us all to consider and then hopefully properly align our focus and priorities on HIM. And in so doing, He increases the number of His believers.
We say, “Maranatha!” We need to make sure we are LIVING, “Maranatha!” by strengthening our faith. May we return to His Word and fellowship regularly together so that we can be strengthened, and so that He might increase our reconciled family.
14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.
As some of the other commenters have said this morning, the thing that stood out to me in Lydia’s conversion is that it highlights that God was the one who opened her heart and allowed her to be saved. This is important to recognize in our culture where people describe their conversion experience by using the terminology of “accepting Christ.” The phrase, “I accepted Christ and became a Christian” goes against this passage in Acts and elsewhere in the Bible. We do not become Christians by “accepting Christ.” We become Christians when God accepts us. We are not accepted by God for what we have done or by being a good person. The only way we become acceptable to God is when we turn from our sin and trust in Christ and our sinful resume is exchanged for Christ’s perfect resume. We are acceptable to God only when we are IN Christ! Let’s be committed to using Biblical terminology to describe our conversions…we are saved when we repent of our sins and place our trust in Christ…and that is entirely the work of God!
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
This is one of my favorite stories in the Bible! Even in the most trying of circumstances, Paul and Silas still rejoice in the Lord! One cool thing to note about this is how other people will notice when we are praising God when life is hard instead of complaining about it! This chapter challenges me to examine whether I am rejoicing in the Lord always.
I agree Pastor Ben! I’m loving this chapter of Acts too!
30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
This is a perfect example of God bringing good out of a bad situation! Rather than complaining or moping about why God had allowed them to be beaten and put in jail, they were singing to the Lord. And look what happened! A man became saved! Sometimes I may wonder why things may be happening to me in my life, but I must always remember that God could be working something out to bring good out of the bad situation. I don’t always understand what God is doing, but I want to rejoice and trust Him fully because he works for the good of those who love Him! (Romans 8:28)
verses 25 through 34
I really like this section of Acts 16 because it is showing the courage, faith, and strength of these godly men. It is amazing to read that even when they were in prison, they were still worshipping and praising God. As you can see, that faith and continuous praise helped them turn others to Christ and get them out of jail. God has a plan for everything and He will never leave you.
5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
&&
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
Honestly, Acts is continually getting better and better! I’m thinking this is definitely where God wants me reading right now. :) Verse 5 stuck out to me because its such an amazing reminder. Churches increased EVERY DAY. The best part is, that they were increasing because God’s people were speaking about Him and bringing people in. I need to remember to spread God’s Word more ALL THE TIME so that His churches can increase and be strengthened in faith.
Verse 25 really stood out to me because to me, it reminds me of 2 things….
1) people can hear me talking about God allll the time, and although they may not show it they could still be listening. So I should be talking about God more often..maybe I’ll inadvertently change some people’s hearts for God!!
2) it reminded me that people are listening to me all the time. I may not realize it. But my conversations are heard by so many people. Thinking back, how many times have I lost the opportunity to share the gospel with someone behind me, because I was talking to my friend at school, or the grocery store, or Disneyland!?! We let opportunity pass us because we are too wrapped up in what we want, and don’t spend enough time on what those around us NEED.
God, will you give me the strength and courage to stand up for you, more often, and not waste my time on worldly things. Help me to concentrate on YOU alone.
30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
I really enjoyed this verse this morning. Many people ask how they can be saved, but its not the things you do or the way you do things. It is realizing that you need the Lord Jesus in your life and asking him for help. He is always listening to prayers and HE will help you grow into your Christian life. Believing is the most amazing thing that you can do and just realizing that he is so holy and amazing and that life itself is just not enough. Praising God is just one way of showing him how much you care and giving him all what he diserves. He will know that you believe and help change your life to be all about him. I need to start evangelizing to others how don’t know who HE is.
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
They were singing and praising the Lord. Even though they were put in jail. I hope that I would act like that in that situation. It is awesome to see how God was there for them. Paul and Silas knew God was there for them but they did not know if they would get out of jail. They just trusted in the Lord.
MARANATHA
This chapter was really goood.
10 And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
I like this verse cuz it says how the preach the gospel to people, we should all tell people the good news anytime we have a chance! I have been throwing away my chances that God gave me, and thats not a good thing. So i pray that people from True North at there school,and outside of Treu North..they will have a great converstion about the good news that Jesus Christ wants us to tell, thats why we are here!!!
30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
i love this verse i pray that someone ask me that “what must i do to be saved” and what this verse says believe in the Lord Jesus and put your faith in him, live for him and not of this world like yourself. the other couple verses bellow says that they rejoice when he got saved, thats AWSOME. who wouldnt rejoice when they have the light, and have no taste of death anyomore, and they have God in there hearts<33
i pray that we WONT STOP STANDING!! i pray that there will be more comments on SOTD.
like always MARANATHA
Yes! I pray that too! Great comment Anita :)
I am so thankful that we are friends! I’ll be praying too! It is so encouraging to see you on SOTD every day :)))))
5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
This verse is soo good!!! Just being strengthened in our faith, we can also help the numbers of the churches increase! We can do all things through Christ Jesus who gives us strength! It would be awesome to watch our church grow more and more daily and know that we helped! That is why it is so important to pray for wisdom, strength, knowledge, and opportunities to speak to people about the Good News! Maranatha!:)
thats one of the verses i really liked to, i was going to put that one upp. and the comment mmmmmm im feeling you dog =)
Thats amazing that there was an earthquake that broke open the prison. The fact that the prisoners listened to paul praying and singing songs to the lord paints a beautiful picture in my head. My goal as a highschool student is very similar to this. I believe that we should take the evil out of the students of our schools and give them the gift of the lord aswell. Next year will be a good year for Dana Hills. Its kind of ironic because my school was originally intended to be a state prison.
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
This is what I call rejoicing in the midst of trial. How did they do that? They were beaten publicly with rods and then unjustly thrown in jail without a fair trial, and they were Roman citizens! How did they stop themselves from complaining or from becoming utterly discouraged. This should of been Paul and Silas’ lowest point, but instead it was their peak. But how?
Joy in the midst of trial, as James puts can be turned into rejoicing because of two things:
1.) The perseverance and hope it produces.
2.) The fact that despite the circumstances, God is always good.
If I saw trials and the discipline of the Lord, as a test to pass, which will produce in me characters of eternal value, such as perseverance and hope, and I focused not on my circumstances, but on the hope placed out before me, that God is good, and in Him there is no fault, then I would have no reason to complain or become discouraged. God is good! And even in that moment of trial, I have a Father who is invested in the job of working for my good, and I am a son with an inheritance from the most high who has given me a living hope of eternal life in Christ Jesus which cannot be dashed out or thwarted.
Why am I not always joyful? There is certainly a time for conviction and contemplation, but in sight of God’s goodness and glory, joy is always around the corner. Thank you God!
God is good! Rejoice!
Awesome, Spencer!
Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.
This appears odd at first glance, but remember that Timothy, like Paul, was about to embark on missionary/church planting throughout the known Mediterranean world, and those Jews who did not yet know or fully understand the gospel would often/probably not listen to a man who is part Greek. Gentiles would have no problem listening to Timothy, but a true, OT-thumping, phylactery-toting Jew would have problems with Tim stepping into a synagogue with Paul, regardless of Paul’s credentials. Paul had a very simply mission: to spread the gospel. Anything like Timothy’s heritage & lack of subscription to the Jewish law could easily detract from Paul’s message & result in less than clarity. To circumvent any of these distractions, Paul simply circumcises Tim so he get right down to GOSPEL-PREACHING. May we not allow small seemingly small things in our lives get in the way of our message to those around us. This is exactly why Paul also says that all things are “lawful” for him, but not all things are “beneficial.” As Christians, we must often forfeit our “rights” in deference to what will convey the best, clearest, & most powerful presentation of God’s Word in our lives.
I read…
In this chapter, we are introduced to Timothy. Timothy was an outcast because of his biracial genetics. His father was a Gentile and his mother a Jew. Jews would basically ignore these multiracial citizens an outcast them. But, Paul included him in his ministry because of salvation for Gentiles now possible. I am thankful that the Lord has now included us non-Jews in His salvation plan.
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
Their example is so encouraging that they are singing hymns to God and it is so amazing to see their perspective even in prison. They are so content and fulfilled with God’s grace that no situation whether it is being jailed or fearing man can shake them because their foundation is built on the Lord. IT was also a great way to evangelize as in the second part of the verse says that the prisoners were listening to them. I pray that during a trial or placed in a crisis, that the first thing I would do is to use my time to worship and pray to God.
25 “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.”
This is a great example on having joy through suffering and trials. Paul and Silas were beaten, in a cold and dark cell, chained to the floor, and with rats running all over the place in the pitch-dark, they could’ve easily complained and gotten mad at God. But that’s not what they chose, instead they were praising God with hymes. Even in the hardest situations, I need to have joy. I can’t just focus on the circumstances, I need to focus on God who is unconditional.
!!!MARANATHA!!!
7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them.
14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.
These verses are great illustrations and reminders of how God’s will prevails. Instead of trying to make my own decisions about where and who I need to serve, I need to turn to God first and seek His will. My prayer should always be for God to use me wherever He needs me and to trust Him no matter where He guides me. And even though I can speak boldly and clearly to people about Christ, it’s the Lord who does the work and opens their hearts. I pray that God will rid me of myself so that I can be an instrument of Christ. Let me seek Him first in all I do. And may God open all of our hearts to His word this summer. Praying for revival in the OC!
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them
This verse is really convicting, when things don’t go the way I want or planned I usually get frustrated. If something bad happens to me I will feel sorry for myself and never see if there is any good to come of it. Paul and Silas have been thrown in jail and the were praying and worshipping, I need to change my mindset.
2 He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium. 3 Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him,
this is extremely important–it is Pauls implicit proof for the importance of having a good name or reputation. If Timothy was not above reproach paul would be dubious about his faith–because our works are the outward indication of our inward condition.
7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them.
i dont really know why the Holy Spirit wouldnt allow them to speak in those regions??? if anyone knows id be grateful for a REPLY:)
The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. 23 And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. 24 Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks
This reminds me of the couple of messages Pastor B did on suffering and being persecuted for your faith. This is a prime example of how God will allow us to be persecuted for our faith. Its was inures our faith and solidifies our bonds. I love how in later passages it describes Paul and Silas as joyful; singing praises and hyms…thats encouraging. We should all have paul/silas-like faith. To be joyful in pain means alot more than to be joyful when everything is under control and “problem-free.”
I have to say that this was such a great chapter!
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,
I love this verse. I love to sing! And this verse is a constant reminder for me to praise the Lord at all times. Even now when life is tuff and sad, I can still praise God. He is there and hears our prayers, we just need to speak up. :] He deserves all praise and because of this verse I think about singing to Him(sometimes in my head) all the day long. SING PRAISE!!! :D
5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
I really liked this verse because it really points out how important church truly is! I cant tell you how much a church can influence your life, which is why im so thankful to be a part of Compass Bible Church!
5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
This is such an awesome verse on how the church gets so strong from preaching correctly on Gods word! If were building up the church in our spiritual gifts and following Gods word, the church will grow one by one till we have a new revival!
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them
How awesome, even after being beaten Paul and Silas are prasin the Lord. I need to work on putting God above all other trials in my life, and when things get tough, praise God for all that he has done for me.
again! they are totally prosecuted to the point of being beaten!!! AND STILL they go on! It’s such amazing motivation to keep on evangelizing! If they can go on after that, I can go on after some stupid high school kids remarks!!!
34 Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.
This is what I call “First Love.” This guard has just accepted Christ as His Savior and has become a Christian; what great news!!! He responds to this by getting baptized and rejoicing (basically throwing a salvation party!).
I just listened to an old sermon by Pastor Bobby about our First Love (love for Jesus). Jesus rebukes the church in Ephesus in Revelation 2, saying that they have lost this true love. I need to make sure that fire for Christ never dies down and that I constantly love Jesus just as much as when I got saved.
5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
I really liked this verse! “The churches were strengthened in the faith.” Paul and Timothy traveled through the cities and preached the message of Jesus Christ. As they passed by the churches, they were “strengthened in the faith,” and because they were “strengthened,” they “increased in numbers daily.” The Good News message attracted people! Let this be a lesson for us. Preach the good news, and the church will be strengthened for the glory of God!!
Verses 24-26
Paul and Silas were thrown into jail. They were in chains because they brought people to Jesus. After all they had to go through suffering for the truth and they were praising the Lord in jail. Right after that, there was the earthquake that set them free. This shows how God always provides a way out from even some of the hardest circumstances.
4 As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions that had been reached by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem. 5 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.
This is such a great verse. As Christians we need to be sure that we are constantly encouraging our brothers and sisters in CHRIST to keep standing. The Christian life is difficult, but together we are stronger.
Acts 16: 25-43
This passage of this chapter is really an incredible display of both Godly character in men and the true caliber of how mighty God is. We see Paul and Silas, thrown in jail for absolutely no reason prior to this, yet they are still worshipping God in jail! They are not basing their happiness on worldly things, but rather remain joyful always because they derive their happiness from their salvation in Jesus Christ! I want to be like Paul and Silas, realizing that even if my circumstances aren’t good all the time, my God is!
The second part of this passage is even more incredible! God used what seemed like a terrible situation for Paul and Silas and turned into a display of his power and cause of the Salvation of a man and his family! It is so undoubtedly clear than God has a plan for everything that happens in my life, and I need to trust HIM in everything, not my self and my desires.
34 Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.
I really liked the part of this verse that says how he and his family rejoiced that they had believed in God. This just convicts me of not thanking God for my salvation as often as I should. Salvation is the best thing that has ever happened to me, without it I would be suffering in Hell forever, and it also needed for a big price to be paid. LORD, thank you so much for my salvation – it is more great than I can even appreciate. Please forgive me for taking it for granted and not thanking you for it as I should; please help me in the future to always remind me of what you provided through your death and please help me to constantly give you the thanks and praise for it as you deserve.
31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
God id good! (: It really is this easy! i am so thankful that i am saved through the grace of Jesus Christ!
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them
This verse clearly demonstrates persecution should be closely followed with praying and singing to God. No doubt the Paul and Silas were thanking God for considering them to be worthy of persecution. For most people going to jail would seem depressing and so not in God’s will. In this case however it God really used this prison time for his glory. How about a jailer and his whole family came to Christ because of the witness of Paul and Silas in jail? God is always working for good in the lives of those who follow him. This verse reminds me to be thankful for any persecution that I encounter for living life in Jesus name.
The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.
This really stood out to me tonight. Because so many times I think I have to come up with something clever or intelligent to say when sharing the gospel with people when all I have to do is open my mouth God will take the message to the people he has chosen and open there hearts as he did with Lydia. This also teaches me how I need to pray for those who are lost is that God would open there hearts when the gospel of Jesus is preached and that they would understand it.
Lord, give me boldness and confidence in you alone. I know that I am weak in my flesh and will fight opening my mouth, but I pray that you will make me more bold, may my heart break for the lost and may not give up praying that they would be saved. I know that it is you who does the work not us. If you want some one to hear then you will open their heart.
14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.
This is such a refreshing reminder to me that salvation is a work of God alone! I cannot open someone’s heart to the gospel, only God can do that! I’ve had many different people that I’ve evangelized for a long time and they do not get it, their hearts are closed to it. This account encourages me to be praying fervently for those people, asking God to open their hearts and revive them with his salvation like only he can do. I also want to be boldly and lovingly speaking the truth so God can use me to do his work in them!
Reading this got me thinking about the talk my dad and I had on Tuesday about how when Paul was in jail and the gaurds and prisoners were his closest disiples. The simple things he did by justing singing got people to stop what they are doing to just listen to a song. Even preaching the gospel was a greater power. Haley said yesterday about having no fear and just be able to talk to anyone with anyone. What gets in the way most of the time is thinking what the other person is going to think about you. The thing is that we should not care at all. Who knows that talk could have saved them. People are going to judge us and yes make fun of us, but Gods judgement is the we should worry about. Hope to see a lot of guys at the beach.
Acts 16
25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 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 everyone’s bonds were unfastened.
Paul and Silas even after being beaten with many blows were not only without grumbling against God but they were praying and singing hymns to the Lord. Wow if we could only be so loyal a servant to God that in tough times we also would be found praying and singing praise to the Lord. I cannot imagine being beaten and thrown in prison because of my faith in Christ. We too can have this strength that Paul and Silas display when we are living our lives congruent with God’s will. God rewards Paul and Silas for their faithfulness with protection and freedom. Our bonds can be unfastened when we are obedient in doing all that the Lord has commanded us. God is faithful to those who are faithful! Filled with the Holy Spirit they had great faith that God would do great things even in times of great persecution and suffering. That is FAITH!
God I pray that I will have the faith that Paul and Silas display here so I can be used by you even amidst the toughest of times in my life. All for your Glory! Amen
James 5:13 13 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.