Morning Message: Justice, Judgment and the Day of the Lord

This morning's message is a detour from our ongoing study in the book of Acts.  Pastor Bob will be out of commission for a couple of weeks recovering from surgery.  Please keep Pastor Bob in your prayers for a full and speedy recovery. 

This week's message is from the book of Obadiah. It was recorded at East Side Christian Church, where Pastor Bob was a guest speaker. 

Bobservations' Column
Titled - "Justice, Judgement and the Day of the Lord"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Today, we are taking a detour from our weekly study in the book of Acts.  Instead, we will be looking at Obadiah, the shortest Book of the Bible. Along with the other “Minor Prophets,” there is nothing minor about their content, nor their message. We find that Obadiah’s words provide evidence for a date some 90 years before Joel, or about 900 B.C.!

Internal evidence seems to indicate that Obadiah’s ministry was during the reign of Atheliah’s son Ahaziah. The northern tribes had set up their own King, Joram, who was the son of Ahab, who married Jezebel! (2 Kings 8:16-26). Ahaziah was King over Judah (the southern tribes.) Turmoil followed, as Ahaziah was also the son-in-law of Ahab, and Ahaziah “did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord.”

Obadiah’s prophecy denounces the Edomites, descendants of Jacob’s brother Esau. The region in which they lived was south of the Dead Sea, east of the Jordan River rift. The area includes the cities of Petra and Bozrah, built up by the nomadic tribe of the Nabateans, who used the region to tax the trade routes through the Middle East. Petra is a notable city and is described by Obadiah. Though the Edomites inhabited the area, it was the Nabateans who drove them out, westward into the Negev Desert of southern Israel, and the region known as “Idumea.”

The core problem of world politics is revealed in Obadiah’s 10th verse, 1:10. This single chapter book provides reasons for God’s displeasure and gives us insights into the continuous upheaval in World politics, particularly in the Middle East.

The Bible contains the written record of the land purchase where Jerusalem sits; the ascension of David to his throne; and the written record of Jesus as a descendent of King David.

Upon Jesus return to Earth, He will rightly take the throne of His Royal Ancestor, David, and reign over the whole Earth.

“The heavens are Yours, the Earth also is Yours, the world and all of its fullness” (lyrics from a worship song).

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Obadiah 1:1-21 - Justice, Judgment and the Day of Judgment

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

The Book of Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament, consisting of just one chapter and 21 verses. It is an oracle of divine judgment primarily directed against Edom (the neighboring nation descended from Esau) and a message of ultimate restoration for Judah (descended from Jacob).

John Wesley is said to have remarked that he read the newspaper “to see how God was governing His world,” and this is certainly a biblical approach. God rules over kingdoms and nations (2 Chronicles 20:6; Daniel 5:21); and as A. T. Pierson used to say, “History is His story.” This doesn’t mean that God is to blame for the foolish or wicked decisions and deeds of government officials, but it does mean that He is on the throne and working out His perfect will.

The God who knows the number and the names of the stars (Psalm 147:4) and who sees when the tiniest bird falls dead to the ground (Matthew 10:29) is mindful of the plans and pursuits of the nations and is working out His divine purposes in human history.

Knowing that the Lord reigns over all things ought to encourage the people of God as we watch world events and grieve over the decay of people and nations. The sovereignty of God isn’t an excuse for believers to be indifferent to evil in the world, nor is it an encouragement to slumber carelessly and do nothing. God’s ways are hidden and mysterious, and we sometimes wonder why He permits certain things to happen, but we must still pray “Thy will be done” (Matthew 6:10) and then be available to obey whatever He tells us to do.

The day of the LORD is near for all nations. - Obadiah 1:15

For all those who say in their heart, “There is no God” (Psalm 14:1), a day of reckoning will come. “The day of the LORD is near for all nations” (Obadiah 15). On that day, people will reap what they have sown. Just as Edom had sat drinking and carousing among the ruins of Jerusalem, so also will the nations be forced to drink the cup of God’s wrath on the day of judgment (Obadiah 16). As Paul wrote: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction” (Galatians 6:7-8).

Thankfully, the day of judgment is also a day of deliverance for those who love the Lord (Obadiah 17). Righteousness will triumph over sin and evil. In terms of the judgment on Edom, in a bit of divine poetic justice Obadiah said that it would be the Israelites themselves who would execute judgment on Edom, specifically that the returnees from exile would occupy the former land of Edom (Obadiah 18-20). In the end, Mount Zion would emerge not as a place of defeat and exile and destruction, but a place of victory and deliverance and power. “And the kingdom will be the LORD’s” (Obadiah 21).

If we all reaped strictly what we’ve sown, there would be no hope for any of us. Because Jesus died in our stead, however, we no longer owe a penalty of death if we trust in His name (John 3:16). When we take communion, we do so in remembrance of Him—His body, broken for us, and His blood, shed for us (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). From which cup will you drink? The cup of God’s wrath, or the cup of communion? Choose love and rejoice!

Sunday Morning Audio Message: 

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

The Vision (1:1) - The prophetic word often came from God in the form of a vision (cf. Isaiah 1:1; Micah 1:1; Nahum 1:1; Habakuk 1:1).

Obadiah (1:1) - Thirteen different men are named Obadiah in the Bible, including the minor prophet who wrote the book of Obadiah. The name Obadiah was common in ancient Israel and Judah. His name means "the servant of Jehovah." He is considered by many to be the first prophet chronologically. Other than what is disclosed through the book of Obadiah, nothing more is known about Obadiah the prophet. His book, the shortest of the Old Testament with only twenty-one verses, reveals that Obadiah probably lived in the harsh and bitter era after the capture and destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. He was most likely a contemporary of Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel.

Thus saith the Lord God (1:1) - Although the background of the prophet is obscure, the source of his message is not. It was supernaturally given by God, and was not motivated by unholy vengeance. Cf. Jeremiah 49:14.

Edom (1:1) - The descendants of Esau (Genesis 25:30; 36:1), the Edomites settled in the region south of the Dead Sea. Obadiah's entire one-chapter prophecy deals with God's coming judgment on Edom, the nation founded by Jacob's twin brother, Esau. The fulfillment took place initially later at the time of the Babylonian invasion, when Nebuchadnezzar decimated the Edomites and their Land. The nation was eventually overrun by others and finally became desolate. However, the ultimate fulfillment will be when the confederacy invading Israel in the last days (Psalm 83; Ezekiel 38), which includes the Muslim Arabs now occupying Edom's ancient land, is defeated and its influence destroyed.

Arise . . . Rise Up Against Her (1:1) - The prophet heard of a God-ordained, international plot to overthrow Edom. the selfish motives of Edom's enemies were divinely controlled by the Lord's "messengers" to serve His sovereign purposes (cf. 104:4).

I Have Made Thee (1:2) - God sovereignly rules over all nations (cf. Daniel 2:21; 4:17; Jeremiah 39:15). He dictates the rise and fall of nations. What appears secure or invincible to humanity can be humbled by a single divine decree. The phrase "I will make you" highlights that the future of the nation of Edom rests entirely on God's initiative, not on the nation's alliances, their military defenses or even wealth.

Who Shall Bring Me Down . . . I Will Bring You Down (1:3, 4) - Edom's pride was answered decisively by the Lord (cf. Matthew 23:12). The calamity against Edom, though brought about by her enemies, was truly God's judgment of her pride (cf. Proverbs 16:18; 1 Corinthians 10:12). In spite of her economic prosperity and geographical impregnability, the God of Jacob would topple Esau's offspring (cf. Jeremiah 49:16).

The Clefts of the Rock (1:3) - The people of Edom built their homes in high rock clefts and mountain fortresses. Dwelling in difficult mountain terrain, Edom's imposing, impregnable capital city of Petra was virtually inaccessible, giving her a sense of security and self-sufficiency. They believed their elevated geography made them untouchable, asking, "Who can bring me down to the ground? Here is the reality of God's power, through the prophet Obadiah, God responds that even if they were to “soar like the eagle” or build a “nest among the stars,” His sovereign will reaches everywhere, and He can bring them down from any height.

Robbers by Night (1:5, 6) - Because of the rugged terrain and very narrow access through the gorges, predatory attack could only come at night. Edom's attackers, by divine judgment, would not stop where normal thieves would when they have enough. Unlike partial human theft or harvest gleaning, God's judgment on Edom would be total, thorough, and complete. Every nook, cranny, and hidden treasure would be searched out and wiped away.

Esau (1:6) - The personification of the nation Edom (cf. Jeremiah 49:10).
Esau was the twin brother of Jacob and the firstborn son of Isaac and Rebekah. 

The name Edom means "red," originating from when Esau rashly sold his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of red lentil stew.

The Nation: Esau’s descendants became known as the Edomites (the "House of Esau"). They settled in the rugged, mountainous region south of the Dead Sea, with Petra as a major city.

Wise Men (1:8) - Edom was known for her wise men and sages (cf. Jeremiah 49:7). Her location on the King's Highway provided her with intellectual stimulation from India, Europe, and North Africa. "wise men of Edom". In biblical times, the nation of Edom—specifically its prominent southern region and city of Teman—was internationally famous for its human wisdom, intellectual elite, and strategic counselors.

Teman (1:9) - A name derived from a grandson of Esau (Genesis 36:11), Teman was an ancient city and tribal region of Edom (located in present-day southern Jordan.

Slaughter (1:9) - Both slaughter and shame will be just retribution for Edom's violence and slaughter against her brother's people.

Violence Against thy Brother Jacob (1:10) - Edom's opposition is in plain view here, which began as Israel approached the land and continued to Jeremiah's day (Numbers 20:14-21; 2 Chronicles 28:17). Because Jacob and Esau were brothers, this evil of Edom was made even more reprehensible (cf. Genesis 25:23; Malachi 1:3; Romans 9:10-13).

Day of the Lord (1:15) - God's near judgment of Edom in history (vv. 1-14) was a preview of His far judgment on all nations (vv. 15, 16) who refuse to bow to His sovereignty.

My Holy Mountain (1:16) - This is referring to Zion, Jerusalem.

Drink, and Swallow (1:16) - This refers to the cup of God's wrath. Judah drank temporarily of judgment; Edom will drink "continually," with irreversible, permanent results (Jeremiah 49:12).

Deliverance (1:17-21) - A reversal of Judah's plight at the hands of the Edomites will come about when Messiah intercedes and establishes His millennial kingdom and "Holiness" prevails.

Israel (1:18-20) - Those of Judah who remain (v. 14) will be divinely empowered to "devour" (v. 18) and completely wipe out the house of Esau.

Conclusion and Personal Application:

The short Old Testament book of Obadiah delivers a direct warning against human pride, gloating over others' misfortune, and spiritual apathy.

You can apply these timeless truths to daily life through several practical steps:

Guard Against Pride and Self-Reliance: What are you placing your confidence in? Edom trusted in its rocky fortresses and clever wisdom. The Bible heavily condemns sinful pride, viewing it as a root of spiritual rebellion and self-sufficiency that separates people from God. The Antidote is Humility: James 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:5 emphasize that "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble."

Reject Gloating! Mourn with Others: Obadiah condemned Edom for rejoicing and gloating when Jerusalem suffered. Guard your heart against secret satisfaction or gossip when a rival, coworker, or cultural opponent faces hardship.

Show Compassion: Instead of blocking or mocking people in distress (as Edom did to refugees), respond to crises with grace, mercy, and support. Leave vengeance to God: Trust God's ultimate justice rather than holding onto bitterness or seeking payback against those who wrong you.

Avoid Spiritual Apathy, Take a Stand: Do not remain passively indifferent when you have the chance to do what is right. Live faithfully unto God, and align with His Kingdom. Remember that worldly powers rise and fall, but God's righteous kingdom ultimately triumphs and will reign forever!

Morning Message: Repentance Unto Life

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "Repentance Unto Life"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

The title of today’s message is the last verse from last week, Acts 11: 18.

Jesus’ offering of salvation cost Him everything of His life on Earth. As the Apostles and Disciples traveled and moved to distant places, world evangelism had begun. Heaven had opened to the Gentiles, whom the Jews considered like unclean dogs.

Meanwhile, those still back in Jerusalem, ministered to the Jews of Jerusalem and Judea, by showing them “a more excellent way” (1 Corinthians 12: 31). A more excellent way to what, one may ask… Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” It is the way to Jesus; the way to eternal life; the way to heaven, peace, and eternal joy.

This is the whole purpose of the entire Bible. As we have strayed from our Maker, our Maker has inspired some men to teach, and to guide us back to our Maker, through His own words. It is yet another of God’s gifts to those He has created. The Bible is God’s love story written to those who desire a way back to Him.

The Jews thought that it was a privilege reserved for them, for following the Levitical Law and its Ordinances. But the Apostles knew from watching Jesus during His ministry on Earth that this new “way” was for the Gentiles as well as the Jews. The Jewish view of humanity was “Gentiles vs. Jews,” because of their being His Chosen People. But “chosen” for what?

Genesis 3:15 speaks of a battle between the serpent, and “the seed of the woman.” At its foundation, this is the war between good and evil. And mankind must choose whom they want to follow. And the battle boiled down to “Rules vs. Love.” We are told that “God so loved the world, that He gave us His only begotten (human born) Son. They were chosen to bring the seed of the woman into the world, for all mankind.

“One Lord, one faith, one baptism…” - Ephesians 4:5

Bobservations' Column: Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Acts 11:19-12:25 - "Repentance Unto Life"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Travel back with me to the Golden city of the Roman empire.

Antioch was called the Queen city of the east. It’s main street was more than four miles long - paved entirely with marble, and lined on both sides by marble columns.

The Roman author, Cicero described it as a place of scholarly citizens and classical studies.

In addition to that, Antioch rivaled Corinth in it’s sinfulness. It would have been a combination of Las Vegas and New Orleans combined. It was the only city in the ancient world that had its streets lit at night.

Chariot racing, gambling and the pursuit of physical pleasure was the action in this city. In fact, even its chief religion at the Temple of Daphne was nothing more than immorality and prostitution.

Antioch was sin city - any vice, any god, any pleasure, was within walking distance.

The streets of Antioch were never quiet, this city never slept.

If there was a city in the Roman empire that you would never imagine to be the place for an evangelistic crusade - it was Antioch.

If there was ever a city that would ignore the gospel - it was First Century New York city.

And yet, out of the next few verses in our study through the Book of Acts, what we discover is an incredible example - an example of Christianity - an example of God’s grace - an example of godly living in the midst of ungodly temptation - believe it or not - an example of a New Testament church.

Acts 11:19–30 describes the growth of the early church in Antioch, marking the shift of the gospel message to the Gentile world and the birth of the term "Christians."

Believers scattered by the persecution following Stephen's death traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. While many spoke only to Jews, men from Cyprus and Cyrene began preaching the Good News of Jesus to Gentiles (Greeks) as well, and many turned to the Lord.

When the church in Jerusalem heard about the growth in Antioch, they sent Barnabas to investigate. Seeing God's grace at work, he rejoiced and encouraged the new believers to stay faithful.

Barnabus travelled to Tarsus to find Saul (later known as Paul) and brought him back to Antioch. They spent a full year teaching large crowds and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians. 

In the last couple of verses, a prophet by the name of Agabus predicted a severe worldwide famine that happened during the reign of the Roman Emperor Claudius. In response, the Antioch believers decided to send financial relief to their brothers and sisters in Judea, delivering it through Barnabas and Saul to the elders in Jerusalem

Let’s pick our study back up with chapter 11, verse 19.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:  

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

They Which Were Scattered Abroad (11:19) - This takes us back to Acts chapter 8 referring to events that took place among the Jews and it occurred "after the persecution that arose over Stephen."

Persecution (11:19) - the persecution these early believers face led to tribulation. Because of this, these Jewish believers traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch.

Phenice (Phoenicia) (11:19) - The coastal region directly north of Judea, containing the trading ports of Tyre and Sidon. The name is believed to come from the Greek word phoinix, meaning a palm tree, most especially the date palm. Albert Barnes describes the location, saying, “Phenice, or Phoenicia, was a province of Syria, which in its largest sense comprehended a narrow strip of country lying on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean, and extending from Antioch to the borders of Egypt. But Phenice Proper extended only from the cities of Laodicea to Tyre, and included only the territories of Tyre and Sidon. This country was called sometimes simply ‘Canaan.’”

Cyprus (11:19) - This is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily and Sardinia, located some sixty miles west off the Syrian coast

Antioch (11:19) - Located some 200 miles north of Sidon, Antioch was a major pagan metropolis, the third largest in the Roman Empire, behind Rome and Alexandria. Albert Barnes again describes the place, saying, “There were two cities of this name, one situated in Pisidia in Asia Minor (see Acts 13:14); the other, referred to here, was situated on the Orontes River, and was long, the capital of Syria. It was built by Seleucus Nicanor and was called Antioch in honor of his father Antiochus. It was founded in 301 B.C. It is not mentioned in the Old Testament, but is several times mentioned in the Apocrypha and in the New Testament. It was long the most powerful city of the East, and was inferior only to Seleucia and Alexandria. It was famous for the fact that the right of citizenship was conferred by Seleucus on the Jews as well as the Greeks and Macedonians, so that here they had the privilege of worship in their own way without molestation. It is probable that the Christians would be regarded merely as a sect of Jews, and would be here suffered to celebrate their worship without interruption.”

Preaching the Word (11:19) - With these locations noted, the verse finishes with the thought that those scattered were “preaching the word to no one but the Jews only.” Although true to some extent, this is not so much because they “had the common prejudices of the Jews, that the offers of salvation were made only to the Jews” (Barnes), but that they probably had no idea that Gentiles would even be included in God’s offer of Christ Jesus. In other words, it is true that the Jews had these prejudices, but without even knowing something is available to others, those prejudices would not even arise. Peter found out that Gentiles could be included, and he set aside any such prejudices. These Jews were as of yet uninformed as to what God was going to do for the Gentiles. Therefore, they simply went about telling their own fellow Jews that the Messiah had come.

Men From Cyprus and Crene (11:20) - these men had been in Jerusalem, but when Stephen was stoned and the great time of tribulation came against the saints, some of the people who were scattered to the cities previously mentioned were Jews who originally came from Cyprus and Cyrene. As such, they would speak the native languages and they would be able to effectively relay the word about Jesus to people in those areas. And more, they would be more comfortable having conversations with the native people, including Gentiles. Having noted that, it next says, “who, when they had come to Antioch.”

Grecians (Hellenists) (11:20) - These are Greek-speaking non-Jews.

Hand of the Lord (11:21) - Speaks of both God's power expressed in judgment and in blessing. Here, it refers to blessing. This is referring to those who preached about Jesus. The Lord’s hand was with them, and they were able to effectively communicate the good news, bringing others to salvation.

Barnabas (11:22) - Barnabas was introduced into the Bible in Acts 4:36 where it said several things about him that would make him an obvious choice to go. First, his name means Son of Encouragement. His real name being Joses, tells us that he was called Barnabas because it fit his character. Thus, he would be well-suited to the task of encouraging those believers he encountered. Secondly, he was a Levite. By nature of their tribe, Levites were teachers of the law and those who were set aside to give instruction and help to others within the Jewish community. Therefore, he would be well-suited to such work outside of Israel. And this is especially so because it also says he was from Cyprus. As such, he would certainly be fluent in Greek and the native tongue of the area as well.

Tarsus (11:25) - Again, this is the birthplace of Saul (Paul) and a key city in the Roman province of Cilicia, located on the banks of the Cydnus River near the border of Asia Minor and Syria.

To Seek Saul (11:25) - This was no easy task. Several years had elapsed since Saul fled Jerusalem (9:30). Apparently, he had been disinherited and forced to leave his home due to his new allegiance to Christianity (Philippians 3:8).

Christians (11:26) - A term of derision, a pejorative, such as, "Look at those stupid 'Christians.'" However, to a believer in the Greek-speaking world, the name is the only logical and proper title. The word Christos is transliterated into “Christ,” and it has the same meaning as Messiah. Both mean “Anointed One.” As the majority of believers moved from Hebrew speaking to Greek-speaking Jews, and even Gentiles, such as would be the case in Antioch, the title “Christian,” or “Christ-follower,” would naturally and gladly be used. There would be no hint of derision, but only a welcome bearing of the word.

Prophets (11:27) - These are the preachers of the New Testament (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:32, Ephesians 2:20). The word used indicates one who speaks by the inspiration of God. Their utterance can be to either foretell events or to forth tell, such as in explaining the Word of God. It is the same word used by Paul in Romans 12:6 and elsewhere as an office of the church.

Agabus (11:28) - One of the Jerusalem prophets who years later played an important part in Paul's ministry (21:10, 11).

A Great Dearth (Famine) (11:28) - Several ancient writers (Tacitus [Annals XI 43], Josephus [Antiquities XX.ii.5], and Suetonius [Claudius 18]) affirm the occurrence of great famines in Israel c. A.D. 45-46. Agabus gave a word that was to be taken as a sign that something would come to pass. This coming event was “that there was going to be a great famine.” The reason for reporting this now will be seen in the coming verses, but other reasons which go unstated are that the New Covenant church, not Israel under the law, is given the word by the Spirit. It also shows that the famine which is coming could be prepared for by the church, both spiritually and physically, so that it would be able to continue and flourish. As for the famine itself, it is next said to be coming “throughout all the world.”

All the World (11:28) - The famine reached beyond the region of Palestine.

Claudius Caesar (11:28) - The Roman Emperor. He began his reign in 41 A.D., and he reigned for 13 years. He was at last poisoned by one of his wives, Agrippina, who wished to raise her son Nero to the throne. During his reign no less than four different famines are mentioned by ancient writers, one of which was particularly severe in Judea, and was the one, doubtless, to which the sacred writer here refers.

Elders (11:30) - This is the first mention of the men who were pastor-overseers of the churches (15:4, 6, 22, 23; 16:4; 21:18); i.e., a plurality of godly men responsible to lead the church. They soon began to occupy the leading role in the churches, transitioning from the apostles and prophets, who were foundational (cf. Ephesians 2:20; 4:11).

Herod the king (12:1) - This is referring to Herod Agrippa. He was the son of Aristobulus and the grandson of Herod the Great. He ran up numerous debts in Rome and fled to Palestine.  Imprisoned by Emperor Tiberiius after some careless comments, he eventually was released following Tiberius's death, and was made ruler of northern Palestine, to which Judea and Samaria were added in A.D. 41. As a hedge against his shaky relationship with Rome, he curried favor with the Jews by persecuting Christians.  Because these events shortly preceded his death, it is believed that this is AD43/44, about a decade after the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. Hence, the church has been functioning for about ten years at this point.

Stretched Forth His Hands (12:1) - The meaning is “to wield power or authority.” When one lays his hand upon someone or something, it is to accomplish a task. In the case of a king, he will work to a particular end on behalf of his kingdom, his subjects, alliances with other kings, and so on. His actions can be taken in a positive or negative light, depending on who he is laying his hands to, on, for, upon, or against. In this case, he has laid on his hands, “to harass some from the church.”

James (12:2) - James is an apostle and the elder brother of John the apostle. This is then James the son of Zebedee recorded in Matthew 4. He is known in early writings as James the Greater. James the Less is James, the son of Alpheus noted in Matthew 10:3 when the apostles were designated by name. The only mention of him in Acts outside of this verse is that he is noted among the apostles after the ascension of the Lord (Acts 1:13). He is the first of the apostles to be martyred. No reason why he was selected to be killed is given, but it does show that he was prominent enough and outspoken enough to be noticed and brought forth. So, despite not having anything recorded concerning his apostolic work, it is certain he was faithful and productive. As for his death, it appears that this is something hinted at by what Jesus said in Matthew 20:20-23. Read for further study.

With the Sword (12:2) - The manner of his execution indicates James was accused of leading people to follow false gods.

It Pleased the Jews (12:3) - The meaning is clear. This doesn’t mean all the Jews collectively, but those who represented the nation. It is referring to the Jews who were in the powerful positions and whose favor would more fully establish his political relations with them, along with his own power within the realm. Because these leaders were happy that Agrippa had done away with one of the leading apostles, “he proceeded further to seize Peter also.” The apostles had been a thorn in the side of the leadership for about ten years. Therefore, having the ruling governmental authority over them harass and destroy this group was a welcome occasion for the leading Jews. And because this pleased the Jews, while also solidifying his own position and power, Agrippa decided to continue with his attack against them. As Peter was a chief figure among them and one who had spoken boldly against the ruling council, he was probably personally called out by name by the Jews as the next suitable target.

The Days of Unleavened Bread (12:3) - The meaning is that this is during the time of the Passover and the pilgrim feast of Unleavened Bread which accompanies it. Luke unites the two in one thought as he did in his gospel. This is evident because the Passover actually precedes and leads into Unleavened Bread (Luke 22:1-8).

Four Quarternions (12:4) - or four squads of soldiers would be sixteen men. Hence, if the shifts were divided into four, there would always be four soldiers monitoring him.

Prayer . . . without Ceasing (12:5) - It means "fervently." The church was literally pouring out its heart in a continuous fashion for Peter. The prayed for the Lord's hand to intercede in whatever fashion He determined, be it a miraculous release, or to soften the heart of Herod.

The Angel of the Lord (12:7) - The specific capitalized phrase "the Angel of the Lord" in many Old Testament passages is often understood by theologians as a theophany or Christophany—a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ—because that specific figure speaks and acts as God Himself. In the New Testament, angelic beings are also distinguished as servants. This angel came into Peter’s cell in a miraculous manner where he stood by Peter.

Went Out . . . and Followed Him (12:9) - As noted in the previous verse, they must have been given some type of spiritual blindness so that they could not even perceive what was going on around them. So profound is this type of blindness that it affected an entire army, as is recorded in 2 Kings 6:8-23. In this account in Acts, the supposed spiritual blindness imposed upon the soldiers has allowed Peter to escape from the prison, even while heavily guarded.

Mary (12:12) - In Acts 12:12, the woman named Mary is the mother of John Mark (the author of the Gospel of Mark) and the aunt of Barnabas. She was a prominent and wealthy Christian figure in the early church at Jerusalem

John Mark (12:12) - Is the cousin of Barnabas (Colossians 4:10), acquaintance of Peter in his youth (1 Peter 5:13), he accompanied Barnabas and Paul to Antioch (v. 25) and later to Cyprus (13:4, 5). He deserted them at Perga (13:13), and Paul refused to take him on his second missionary journey because of that desertion (15:36-41). He disappeared until he was seen with Paul at Rome as an accepted companion and coworker (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 24). During Paul's second imprisonment at Rome, Paul sought John Mark's presence as useful to him (2 Timothy 4:11). He wrote the second Gospel (the Gospel of Mark) that bears his name, being enriched in his task by the aid of Peter (1 Peter 5:13).

His Angel (12:15, 16) - According to Jewish superstition, each person had his own guardian angel who could assume that person's form. Of course, this is false.

James (12:17) - This is the Lord's brother, now head of the Jerusalem church. In Galatians 2:9, he is noted by Paul as one of the pillars of the church. He will preside over the council in Jerusalem in Acts 15. As with other clues in Acts, this shows us that this James had become the leader of the church at this time. Peter specifically singles him out now rather than any of the other apostles.

He Departed (12:17) - Speaking of Peter. With the news conveyed, and certainly for the safety of those inside, Peter departed. With this note, the record of the apostleship of Peter in Acts is all but over. He will be mentioned by name in the next verse and then only once again, in Acts 15 during the council at Jerusalem. From this point on, Saul (who is Paul) will become the focus of the Acts narrative until the end of the book.

Put to Death (12:19) - According to Justinian's Code (ix.4:4), a guard who allowed a prisoner to escape would suffer the same fatal penalty that awaited the prisoner.

Tyre and Sidon (12:20) - The two port cities north of Caesarea, in a region called Phoenicia. Mutual interdependence existed between these cities and Galilee, although Tyre and Sidon were more dependent on Galilee.

Blastus (12:20) - This is the king's treasurer who acted as an intermediary between Herod and the representatives of Tyre and Sidon.

A Set Day (12:21) - A feast in honor of Herod's patron, the Roman emperor Claudius.

Arrayed in Royal Apparel (12:21) - According to Josephus (ancient historian), he wore a garment made of silver.

Gave Not God the Glory (12:23) - The crime for which Herod was executed by God (A.D 44), who will eventually condemn and execute all who are guilty of this crime (Romans 1:18-23).

Eaten of Worms (12:23) - According to Josephus, Herod endured terrible pain for five days before he died.

Fulfilled their Ministry (12:25) - This is referring to the citation from Acts 11 above. They were chosen to deliver relief to those in Judea. That task is now complete and so they are returning from Judea to Antioch, as can be deduced from the first verses of the next chapter. Of them, it says, “and they also took with them John whose surname was Mark.”

Conclusion and Personal Application:

Acts 12:1-25 contrasts human opposition with divine sovereignty, showing how King Herod’s violent persecution was ultimately defeated by God's quiet, unstoppable power. The chapter begins with a powerful king executing James and imprisoning Peter, but it ends with Peter free, Herod judged by an angel, and the Word of God multiplying.

Here is how you can practically apply the truths of Acts 12 to your personal life today:

Recognize prayer as a primary weapon: When Peter was locked away, the church didn't lobby the Roman government or plot a prison break; they offered "earnest prayer to God" (Acts 12:5). When facing overwhelming crises, your first instinct should be prayer, not panic. The believers gathered together and prayed together fervently.

Sleep through the storm: Peter was sleeping so soundly between two soldiers the night before his execution that the angel had to strike him on the side to wake him up (Acts 12:6-7). No matter the difficult trials we might face, casting all of our cares upon Him with the knowledge that He is in control gives us great peace. "God giveth his beloved sleep." Psalm 127:2

Trust His differing answers: This chapter presents a hard truth: James was executed, but Peter was rescued. God is sovereign over both life and death, and his silence or differing answers do not mean He has abandoned you. Trust His larger plan, even when it doesn't match your preferred outcome.

Obey the next immediate step: The angel told Peter to get up, dress himself, put on his sandals, and follow him. Peter did this while thinking it was all a vision (Acts 12:9). You don’t need the whole blueprint to move forward. Apply this by simply obeying the next right thing God has commanded you to do, even if you don’t see how it will end.

Watch iron gates open: Peter walked past guards and through an iron gate that "opened for them of its own accord" (Acts 12:10). When you walk in obedience, God will dismantle obstacles that seem completely immovable to human strength.

Deflect glory to God: King Herod accepted the praise of people who called him a god, and he was immediately judged for not giving God the glory (Acts 12:22-23). Whenever you experience success, promotion, or praise, consciously pass that glory upward to God to protect your heart from destructive pride.

Remember the durability of God's Word: The chapter ends with a stark contrast: the proud king died, "but the word of God increased and multiplied" (Acts 12:24). Cultivate deep investment in things that last—Scripture and people—rather than building temporary earthly empires or seeking human approval.

Morning Message: Contentions and Visions

Bobservations Column

Titled - "Contentions and Visions"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

Peter’s vision of the sheet comes back into play this week. It had profoundly changed his mind about the dietary laws, and inter-personal relationships, and about the Levitical Law as a whole. The visions from the Lord act in several ways; they serve to give us direction and purpose. And if such visions seem to not apply, then we should write them down and keep them in the back of our minds, for some future application. God’s Word will not come back void, but His words received in a vision will also have a reason behind them.

As believers, we take comfort in God’s Word. We need not fret when the world throws us an unexpected set of circumstances. The clearest example in the Bible is when God asked Abraham to offer his only son, Isaac, as a sacrifice. Abraham could well have been confused by the supposed contradiction, after God had told him that that he was to be the father of “a great nation.” His name would be great, and all families of the earth would be blessed. (Genesis 12:1-3)

The Genesis 12 words are surely what gave Abraham to courage to take Isaac to the alter of sacrifice, and come away with not only Isaac, but also with a clearer understanding of God’s faithfulness. When Isaiah 55:11 says that God’s word will not come back void, it is a declaration too the world that God’s Vision for the World will indeed come to pass. Our God is faithful; He has a good track record. He can be trusted.

The Great Commission to take the Gospel to the ends of the Earth? Will He not therefore enable us to do exactly that?

“Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath began a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” - Philippians 1:6

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Acts 11:1-18 - "Contentions and Visions"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

For the last couple of weeks, we’ve been talking about the interaction between Peter and Cornelius. If you missed it, you’re in luck, because Luke, the author of Acts, spends a lot of time on this. The studies in Chapter 10 (first part here and second part here) tells in detail how God brought about this meeting and then what happened at the meeting itself.

In chapter 11, which we’re in today, Peter recounts everything that happened in chapter 10. In other words, I don’t need to give you much of the context, I don’t have to summarize everything, because Peter’s going to do it for us.

After the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Cornelius and his household, Peter travels to Jerusalem. Word of what had happened at Cornelius’ house spread rapidly and arrived in Jerusalem before Peter did. Among the members of the Jerusalem church was an especially zealous group of Jewish believers who demanded strict observance to the Law of Moses. When this "circumcision party" saw Peter, they immediately accused Peter saying that he had come into a Gentile house with uncircumcised men and ate with them. To them, this was an outrage, and their stance threatened the unity of the church.

Throughout our study in the book of Acts, the unity of the church was threatened by two things. One was external persecution and the threats of persecution. First Peter, John, and a formerly lame man had been arrested. This did not shake the church. In fact, it had unified the brethren. The same happened when the Apostles were arrested and beaten in chapter 5. But these, upon threat and release came back to the church rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer for the name of Jesus. The same happened to Stephen, arrested, and then stoned to death, yet the church united, continued to grow and share the gospel.

The greater threat to unity came from within the church itself. We saw the deception of Ananias and Sapphira in their fraudulent claim to have donated everything while they kept back part for themselves.  Obviously, there are those who probably knew the sales price of the land as well as the amount they gave.  The sinfulness of lying, deception and hypocrisy has no place in the believer, let alone the church and the Lord quickly dealt with this with a swift punishment.  The threat to the moral purity and cohesiveness of the church was adverted. Another threat was the dispute over the distribution of charity for the widows of the church which had favored the Aramaic speaking Jews at the expense of the Greek-speaking ones. The church appointed seven deacons, all of whom had Greek names to bring oversight and equity. The unity of the church was thus preserved.

As we reach chapter 10, the opening of the Gospel to the Gentiles we see the threat of disunity once again. The church had managed to unite the differences between the Aramaic speakers and the Greek speakers. But these were both Jews. They bridged the gap with the Samaritans, Peter himself observing the revival. As these were half Jews, they did find acceptance, even though at one time Samaritans were hated. God had worked through the Holy Spirit upon the Samaritans which no one could deny. We then saw the God-fearing Ethiopian eunuch who because he was a eunuch could not be circumcised. But he returned to Ethiopia, and little was heard of this in Jerusalem as Philip was sent to Azotus and did not return to Jerusalem.

But the acceptance of Gentiles seemed a bridge too far for the circumcision party. This party would trouble the church throughout the book of Acts. Even the Jerusalem council which was convened to address the status of Gentiles in the church did not fully heal this rift as we saw later when Paul came to Jerusalem immediately prior to his arrest. He was told that there were Jewish believers who were zealous for the law and needed to be calmed. They suggested Paul pay for men taking Jewish vows to show that Paul was an observant Jew. This, of course, did not work. It also seems ironic that the church at Jerusalem seems to have done little or nothing to stand up for their brother Paul after his arrest.

How did Peter answer the circumcision party? All knew that Peter had been an observant Jew as well as a Christian. Peter was not the type to act our of character. He related how he had had the vision and that the Lord had sent Peter to Cornelius. It had taken a lot of convincing. The Jews and proselytes had experienced what had happened on the Day of Pentecost. They know the undeniably reality of the baptism of the Spirit. they saw the signs and wonders which had been performed. Then Peter told them that the Holy Spirit had fallen upon these Gentiles the same way it had on them. Peter could not deny that they had truly experienced the Baptism of the Spirit with signs following.

Peter goes back and repeats what Jesus had himself said at the beginning of Acts that John the Baptist had baptized with water and that they would be baptized in the Holy Spirit in a few days. We should notice that the Gentiles received the Holy Spirit before they were baptized in water. We should also notice that instead of asking for knives to circumcise the Gentiles who had received the Spirit but rather water for baptism. Water baptism should be understood as an outward sign of inward Christian transformation. Baptism does not save but rather testifies that one has been saved.

The church heard Peter’s testimony as well as the six other witnesses which had gone with Peter and had to conclude that this was indeed the Lord’s work, that the Lord had granted Gentiles repentance unto life also. Even the circumcision party had to admit this. But there is often a rift between accepting something mentally and acceptance of the heart. In their hearts they could not fully accept the irrefutable evidence of the event any more than some the Jews at the beginning of Acts having been presented with many infallible proofs of the resurrection failed to accept Jesus, although many did. They had to accept the Gentiles being in the church to some extent, but they were also seeking limitations. Some thought they would also have to undergo circumcision and keep the law of Moses to be saved. Others would accept some sort of Gibeonite status for these Gentiles. the Jews would rule the kingdom but would need someone to rule over. they would need choppers of wood and haulers of water. But unless they went all the way and submit to circumcision and the Law, they would always be of inferior status. Both of these ideas would pop up and need to be addressed.

Sunday Morning Audio Message: 

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Apostles and Brethren (11:1) - They are two distinct categories. The Apostles are the twelve disciples chosen by the Lord for special training were so called, Luke 6:13; 9:10. Paul, though he had seen the Lord Jesus, 1 Corinthians 9:1; 15:8, had not 'companied with' the Twelve 'all the time' of His earthly ministry, and hence was not eligible for a place among them, according to Peter's description of the necessary qualifications, Acts 1:22. Paul was commissioned directly, by the Lord Himself, after His Ascension, to carry the Gospel to the Gentiles. The Brethren are disciples, fellow believers in Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:10; John 20:17.

Gentiles (11:1) - The clear and obvious meaning is that these were uncircumcised, non-proselyte Gentiles. They had never observed a day of the Mosaic Law in their lives, their stomachs were filled with the morning’s bacon, they had not received any ceremonial purifications, and so on. They were, to the Jews, essentially unclean dogs. The thought of what occurred may have been repugnant to them and yet it occurred. Therefore, it was not – nor could it be considered – repugnant to God. While this message is being conveyed, it is to be remembered that Peter remained in Caesarea, living for a span among these Gentiles.

Received the Word of God (11:1) - What does this mean? The books of Moses? No, of course not. Does it mean that they were instructed in the law, the history of Israel, and the prophets? Nothing specific is said of that in Luke’s analysis of what Peter said. Go back and read Acts 10:34-43. Other than the last sentence which merely confirms that Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophets, the words are about Jesus and His ministry. The implication of the vision given to Cornelius, as well as the trance in which Peter was in, is that Jesus’ ministry is the fulfillment of those prophets and what He has done is now also offered to the Gentiles. It is a new direction, a New Covenant, and it is based on the word of God which is the testimony of Jesus. As Paul says in Romans 10:17, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

They that were of the Circumcision Contended (11:2) - These are circumcised Jewish believers. A distinction is being made by separating Peter and those with him from a group that is adamant about adherence to the law by calling them “the circumcision.” The "circumcision party" (Jewish Christians) questioned whether Gentiles could receive full fellowship in the church or if they needed to adopt Jewish law and customs to be accepted by God.

Uncircumcised (11:3) - The word, akrobustia, is first seen here. It signifies the foreskin. It is used at times by Jews when referring to Gentiles. Figuratively, it signifies a person being outside of God’s covenant. This is because of the mandates given to Abraham all the way back in Genesis 17. This was later brought into the Mosaic law, as well as is seen in Leviticus 12:3, saying, “And on the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.” After this, the word will be used nineteen more times, all by Paul in his epistles. His uses of it will mostly contrast those who are circumcised and those who are not (cf. Romans 4:9-12). The blessing of God in Christ came upon the uncircumcised just as the declaration of righteousness bestowed upon Abraham came upon him while he was still uncircumcised. Not considering this, those of the circumcision were highly upset at Peter, noting that he had gone in to be with these men “and ate with them!”

Did Eat With Them (11:3) - The "circumcised party" understood that uncircumcised men eat food that was not considered clean according to the laws and customs of the Jews. He might as well have brought a pound of bacon home with him and started eating it right in front of them. They were aghast at his complete shunning of what it meant to be a Jew. They have yet to understand that God is no respecter of persons.

Peter Rehearsed the Matter from the Beginning (11:4-14) - Peter is giving a detailed chronology of events. This is what happened. By doing this, he would be able to convince them of the appropriateness of his actions more precisely. This is because they will be able to see it in the same manner as God ordered the things to occur. Peter had his own doubts, but they were dispelled by how things transpired. By the time he arrived at Cornelius’ house, he felt reassured that his entry into it was exactly the right thing to do. By speaking out the matter just as it had been presented to him, they could logically follow along as if they were there, right next to him, watching how God orchestrated everything. As such, even a hardened Jew, if he accepted Peter’s story as true, would be fully convinced that Peter’s actions were wholly acceptable.

All Thy House (11:14) - All who were under Cornelius's authority and care, who could comprehend the gospel and believe (cf. 16:15, 31).

At the Beginning (11:15) - The reference is to the event of Acts 2:3. The believers were gathered together, and the Spirit sat upon each of them. With that, it then said, “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” In Acts 10:46, it said, “For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.” The same gift came upon the Gentiles as had come upon the Jews at Pentecost. The event occurred apart from any law observance or rite of the Jews such as circumcision, and apart from the act of baptism. It simply happened when they heard the gospel and believed. God had shown no favoritism of Jews over Gentiles. He graciously accepted these people apart from any work of any kind.

Baptized with the Holy Spirit (11:16) - Peter remembering something that Jesus said, and he then processed the Lord’s words in a fuller and more complete way, which is, “John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Pentecost did not just apply to Jews then. Rather, its significance continued on with the acceptance of Gentiles as well.

As God gave them the Gift (11:17) - In other words, Peter acknowledges that the Spirit is a gift given by God. It is not something earned, nor is it something bestowed by the apostles. Those gathered in Acts 2 had received the gift apart from any merit. Those in the house of Cornelius had likewise only heard the gospel and they had obviously believed what was said. In their belief, the gift was given to them as well. Peter confirms this to those with him, saying, “as He gave us when we believed.” Belief is the only condition set forth for the reception of the Spirit. It was true for the disciples, and it was true for the Gentiles in the house of Cornelius. Whatever they thought about the Gentiles in the past is now wholly irrelevant in Christ.

They Held Their Peace (11:18) - In other words, they held their tongues in accusation against Peter. They had accused him of wrongdoing in verse 11:3, saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them.” That is what they now are silent over. Because of how Peter described the events, and especially with the note concerning the coming of the Spirit upon the Gentiles, there could no longer be any accusation against Peter. He stood innocent of any transgression. As such, and in this state of understanding, it next says, “and they glorified God.” Once they ceased their accusation, they next broke forth in acknowledgment of the works of God. What else could they do? The Gentiles had received the Spirit in the middle of Peter’s words, cutting off the need for anything else to be said. The simplicity of the gospel had been conveyed, the Gentiles believed what they heard, and the Spirit came upon them. The work of Jesus Christ was proven to be all-sufficient for the conversion of a person who had never spent a moment of his existence living out the Law of Moses. The fulfillment of the prophecy of Isaiah 49:6 had come to pass.

God Also Granted to the Gentiles Repentance to Life (11:18) - "Repentance" means to "change the mind." As such, the words "repentance to life" means a changing of the mind leading to salvation (eternal life as noted in John 3:16). The speaking forth of the gospel, when accepted, leads to a changing of the mind about God. The word “repentance” here does not mean “stopping sinning and making oneself right.” It means “to change the mind” and nothing more. Until these now-saved people are instructed on what it means to be pleasing to God, they cannot change in the right direction. One must first come to believe in the finished work of Jesus and be saved. He is what we change our minds to accept. He is God’s provision for restoration. This is what Peter conveyed to the house of Cornelius in Acts 10:43, saying, “To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.”