Bible Minute

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study


Date: Jun 8, 2011
Topic: Obedience/Discipleship
All for One

A brilliant young preacher sweeps into town. He speaks powerfully and eloquently; a speaker impossible to ignore. He knows his material too--at least he seems to know what he's talking about. But, the more you listen, the more you realize, he's leaving something out. Is it an honest mistake? Or is this young man intentionally ignoring critical parts of the Bible as he speaks to the people in your town?

What would you do in this situation? Do you ignore him? Confront him? Complain to fellow believers about him? Write a letter to the editor of the local newspaper? It's a tough decision. And while for you this may be a hypothetical situation, for Priscilla and Aquila it wasn't. And the way this couple responded to the bright young Apollos and his deficient teaching can teach us a lot about teamwork and unity in the church.

What Does God Say?

Acts 18:24-25 introduces us to Apollos. "Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John" (ESV).

Even though Apollos knew a lot, and even though he could proclaim it eloquently, he didn't know everything. And there have been preachers like this in every generation since. This is one of the reasons why it's important to spend time in the Bible: to avoid being swayed by powerful, yet inaccurate, teaching. To be more like Priscilla and Aquila"

We meet this famous couple of the Bible earlier in the chapter in the city of Corinth when the apostle Paul spent some time with them. Priscilla and Aquila ended up traveling with Paul to Ephesus and when Paul moved on, the couple decided to stay. Their time together must have left an impression on the apostle because later, in the closing of his letter to the believers in Rome, Paul addressed a special greeting to the couple, his "fellow workers in Christ Jesus" (Romans 16:3).

Paul, and the Gospel of salvation he preached, also had an impact on Priscilla and Aquila. So, when this couple met the eloquent Alexandrian Apollos and heard his message, they knew right away that something needed to be done.

We'll look at Priscilla and Aquila's advice to Apollos in the next section.

My Thoughts

Read Acts 18:26-28 and think about the following questions.

What is the response of Priscilla and Aquila to Apollos' teaching?
How does Apollos respond to Priscilla and Aquila's instruction?
What does this say to you about the responsibilities believers carry in the church as both teachers and listeners?

My Part

It's easy to imagine this story playing out in a very different way. For example, Priscilla and Aquila could have roused the believers in Ephesus and chased Apollos away. Apollos could have ignored the advice of the wise couple and preached the way he wanted. As it was, everybody understood that they were on the same side, and unity was more important than pride.

Ironically, Apollos' name would later be used by those spreading division in the church at Corinth. Read Paul's response in 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 sometime and consider what you can do this week to promote unity among believers rather than division.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 9, 2011
Topic: Service/Servanthood
Marks of Effective Ministry

You would be a rare believer if you couldn't look back into your past and recall a Christian who made a profound spiritual influence on your life. Search your mind for a moment. Perhaps it was your father, your mother or another family member who awakened a spiritual nerve. It may have been a friend or a pastor, a Bible teacher or a fellow worker. Every one of us owes a huge debt of gratitude to one or more Christians who cared--persons we have met in our own lifetime.

Today, however, let's consider someone no believer in our day, including you and me, has personally met; but who, nevertheless, has been God's messenger to bring us to Christ.

That man is the apostle Paul.

We know what sort of person Paul was before Christ saved him on the road to Damascus. We also know what a force the remainder of his life was for the Lord. Sometimes he spoke about himself, revealing his heart for God and for people and, at the same time, his evaluation of himself and his ministry.

What Does God Say?

In Acts 20, you'll find Paul aboard ship on his way from Macedonia to Jerusalem. The ship weighed anchor at Miletus, a seaport near Ephesus, the bustling city of the province of Asia, where Paul previously spent two years teaching the Word of God amid bitter opposition. His ministry there proved to be so effective that the entire province heard the Gospel message (Acts 19:10).

But on this trip, Paul was eager to get to Jerusalem, so he asked the elders representing the Ephesian church to come to him at Miletus, where he reviewed his work among them.
Take your Bible and read what he told them in Acts 20:18-21. Then jot down your answers to the questions below.

   1. Mark 3:14 tells us that Jesus appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach. How did Paul practice this in his discipling of the leaders at Ephesus (Acts 20:18 )?
   2. What was Paul's attitude as he lived among the Ephesians (Acts 20:19)?
   3. Who caused Paul the most trouble there (Acts 20:19)?
   4. What does Paul tell the elders in Acts 20:21, 25, 27 that explains what he taught "house to house"?
   5. What kinds of people heard his message (Acts 20:21)?

My Thoughts

In Acts 20:24, Paul tells the Ephesian delegation, "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God."

   1. Read Philippians 3:7-8. What does Paul say made the suffering and the loss of all things worthwhile?
   2. Read 2 Timothy 4:6-8. What does Paul say made finishing the race worthwhile?

In his writings, Paul often remarks about his life and his ministry. He sometimes evaluates himself but always realistically, humbly, prayerfully, and honestly. Paul did not practice false humility, but neither did he boast about his accomplishments. He could honestly ask believers to follow him, even as he was a follower of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

My Part

Romans 12:3 (NASB) says, "For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith."

Note that Paul does not say you should never think of yourself. In fact, he says you should think of yourself. But when you do, do it with sound judgment, recognizing that it is the power of God's Spirit that enables you to be an effective person for Him.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 10, 2011
Topic: Obedience/Discipleship
Priority and Plan

Learning life lessons from Paul can be little intimidating. Like having your first driving lesson instructor turn out to be a Formula 1 champion. Or opening your mouth to sing for the first time…under the watchful eye of the Metropolitan Opera's leading soprano. You just don't know if you can measure up.

However, even though Paul seems like the ultimate spiritual superhero, he communicates to us just one single value: the most important value of a Christ-follower. So set the intimidation factor aside and take a look.

What Does God Say?

Acts 20:17-38 is Paul's last training session with some church leaders from Ephesus. Paul is going back to Jerusalem, knowing that the trouble which awaits him will likely keep him from seeing these dear fellow believers again. He recounts his experiences, especially the trials, the opposition and adversity, and acknowledges he's about to face more of the same.

But here's the important part: Paul says, "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24 ESV).

Paul's priority was to testify to the Gospel of the grace of God. And he was motivated to finish the course, no matter what it cost, because his ministry came from Jesus Christ. Like an accountant, he weighed the gain or value of his life, his accomplishments, even his sufferings, and saw that it would be counted a loss if Christ was not preached. His priority and the only goal worth pursuing was to know Christ and make Him known.

In writing to the Philippians, Paul restates this singular value system: "But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ" (Philippians 3:7-8 ESV). For Paul, it all came down to knowing Christ and making Him known. Anything else--his education, experience, influence, suffering, even his own life--was of no value if it kept him from knowing Christ and making Him known.

My Thoughts

Take a look at some of the things that Paul could have considered as assets or boasted of. Romans 1:1
Philippians 3:4-6
Galatians 1:11-16
2 Corinthians 11:22-28
2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Paul didn't use these things to puff himself up as a "super-Christian," but how did he view them? What was his focus instead?

1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Philippians 3:7-11
Colossians 1:24-29

My Part

Now, Paul was Paul and you and I are not. But this same priority needs to be true in our lives. Take some time to evaluate your heart so you can finish this sentence:

    * For me, the greatest goal is ________________.
    * What would you "count as loss" unless it helped you reach that goal?
    * What motivates you to seek it out?

Maybe today you can't honestly say that knowing Christ and making Him known is your driving passion in life. What's holding you back? What can you do right now to start moving towards that goal?

Knowing Christ begins with time in His Word, like today's study. Or take a couple weeks to focus on one of the Gospels and as you read, ask "Who is this Jesus?" Keep track of what you discover and see how you get to know Him better.

How are you getting to know Christ better?

Making Christ known doesn't mean you have to become a great teacher or missionary like Paul. (Although, don't rule it out if that's where God wants you!) But making Jesus known might be as simple as Bible stories with your kids, a heartfelt conversation with a friend over coffee, or offering compassion and time to an elderly neighbor.

What are you going to do to make Christ known?

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 13, 2011
Topic: Obedience/Discipleship
Diehard Devotion

Three words summed up the Apostle Paul's ministry: thrills, chills, and spills! This radical missionary got to testify before kings, preach to large crowds, and establish vibrant churches in dark corners of the world. And Paul endured plenty of hardships along the way: Angry mobs hurled stones at him; he was shipwrecked and feared for his life; he was whipped, mocked, conspired against, and imprisoned. What compelled this amazing believer to endure so much? What can we learn from his diehard devotion?

What Does God Say?

Flip open your Bible and read all of Acts 24. Take a look at how the New Living Translation presents Paul's defense (Acts 24:10-15):
"The governor then motioned for Paul to speak. Paul said, 'I know, sir, that you have been a judge of Jewish affairs for many years, so I gladly present my defense before you. You can quickly discover that I arrived in Jerusalem no more than twelve days ago to worship at the Temple. My accusers never found me arguing with anyone in the Temple, nor stirring up a riot in any synagogue or on the streets of the city. These men cannot prove the things they accuse me of doing.'

"'But I admit that I follow the Way, which they call a cult. I worship the God of our ancestors, and I firmly believe the Jewish law and everything written in the prophets. I have the same hope in God that these men have, that he will raise both the righteous and the unrighteous.'"

The thrill of being identified with Christ was surging through Paul's veins--even after the chills and spills that came with obedience. God had planted a deep eternal hope in the apostle's heart. Paul knew that there was no point in playing a religious game that was all talk and no action. He had met his Lord and Savior on the road to Damascus, and his life would never be the same.

Acts 9:4-16. If you were Paul, how would you have taken the news that God had very different plans for your life?

Romans 8:28-30. How do we remain hopeful when it feels as if God has abandoned us? What was Paul's secret?

2 Corinthians 11:23-28. In what ways has the Lord stood next to you and encouraged to be brave for His sake?

My Thoughts

Take a moment right now and reflect on the Person Paul had committed his life to: Jesus Christ. What scenes from the Bible come to mind? Christ's birth in a manger? His baptism in a river? Do you see Him healing the blind, raising the dead, laughing with children? Now turn your thoughts to an ugly image: Christ's journey to the cross. Can you see a weary face covered in spit; a bruised and bleeding body struggling to carry a heavy cross? Unthinkable, isn't it, yet Jesus died for our sins and rose again so that we could spend eternity with Him.

Now consider what Paul knew all too well: Proclaiming Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior and following Him is downright hard at times. Life can get messy, faith can be scary, and the road Jesus asks us to take can be difficult. Did Paul ever complain? Not once! Instead, he identified himself confidently with Christ--even when the consequences were deadly.

"I admit that I worship the God of our fathers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that agrees with the Law and that is written in the Prophets, and I have the same hope in God as these men, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man" (Acts 24:14-16).

My Part

There's a line in C.S. Lewis' book, The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe, in which the character Lucy asks an innocent question about Aslan: "Is he a good lion?"

The answer she gets is surprising: "Of course not! He's a lion!"

    * If we're going to follow Jesus, we have to accept that life is not always going to be easy or safe. But, like Paul, we must remain obedient and trust God's will.
    * God had His plans, and they were far grander than Paul's. It's the same for you and me.
    * The Lord calls Christians to create occasions to talk about Christ. We must be willing to identify ourselves boldly for God and seize every opportunity to share our faith.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 14, 2011
Topic: Obedience/Discipleship, Salvation, Evangelism
It's Your Story

They do it in infomercials all the time. The camera zooms in on someone's face as they recount their personal story about a product or program which changed their life for the better. The sponsoring company may trot out all the statistics and lab results, but it's the power of a personal story that's most likely to make you say, "Yes, I need that!"

When you talk to a friend or coworker about Jesus Christ, you're not trying to sell something. But the power of your personal story is still an effective way to help them understand. Paul did it...

What Does God Say?

By Acts 26, Paul has returned from his missionary travels to Jerusalem. He's been arrested as a troublemaker and spent two years waiting for either a release or his appeal to Caesar. In Acts 23-25, he's had the opportunity to testify to his life mission--the Gospel of Christ--before people at every level of leadership. Now, in Acts 26, he is brought before King Agrippa who gives him an opportunity to speak for himself.

So, Paul begins: "I consider myself fortunate that it is before you, King Agrippa, I am going to make my defense today against all the accusations of the Jews, especially because you are familiar with all the customs and controversies of the Jews. Therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently.

"My manner of life from my youth, spent from the beginning among my own nation and in Jerusalem, is known by all the Jews. They have known for a long time, if they are willing to testify, that according to the strictest party of our religion I have lived as a Pharisee. And now I stand here on trial because of my hope in the promise made by God to our fathers" (Acts 26:2-6 ESV).

And from there, Paul goes on to describe his life, his early training, his zeal to persecute the Christians, his amazing encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, and his mission and experience since then.

Paul has a legal issue here, but he focuses on his own story to make the biggest point. And when Agrippa skates around the appeal to faith, Paul has the courage to say, "I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am--except for these chains" (Acts 26:29 ESV). His goal isn't to get himself off the hook but to see others, even kings, meet the Jesus he met and see their lives eternally transformed.

That's the heart of presenting the Gospel, evangelizing or sharing your faith. To show someone how Christ has saved and changed your life, and that what He did for you, He wants to do for them as well.

My Thoughts

Read Acts 26:9-32.

    * What does Paul say about his life before Christ?
    * How does he present his encounter with Christ?
    * What changes does he reflect on after meeting Jesus?
    * What does he want to see in others?

You may also want to read Paul's testimony in Acts 21:37-22:21 and ask the same questions.

My Part

So, it's one thing to see a bold man like Paul tell his own dramatic story. What about you?

Take some time over the next few days to think through your personal story. Jot down some of the important facts that matter to you. Use the four questions above as your framework. For example:

   1. What was your life like before Christ? Give some background, your personal experience, some reasons you were seeking what Jesus has to offer.
   2. How did you meet Him? Think about people or events that influenced you and what brought you to a decision.
   3. What has changed in your life since you met Jesus? Look for the Spirit's transforming work in attitudes, in habits and in relationships. These are often the needs other people have, too, and when they realize it's possible to be transformed in those areas, they're more receptive to the message.
   4. What do you want to see in the person you're talking to? This is how you demonstrate that you care about them today and for eternity. Knowing you value them highly enough to tell them what can save their life--well, that counts for a lot. This person may not make an immediate decision, but you haven't left them to figure out what's next. Even Agrippa didn't say yes, but Paul's compassion was winsome.

Now, practice! Get a friend or family member to listen to you tell your story. Ask for their feedback on what makes sense, what's distracting or unnecessary and how you can keep it genuine and honest but still get to the point.

Then ask God for an opportunity to use your story and introduce someone else to Jesus Christ.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 15, 2011
Topic: Hope, God's Care
When the Wind Blows

On the radio this morning the announcer was reading the weather and mentioned that it might be a little windy. His advice: wear a hat, or at least use a little extra hairspray. For the most part, wind not does affect us much beyond hairstyle concerns. But sometimes wind affects us in much more drastic ways. Ask anyone who has lived through  a tornado or hurricane and they'll tell you exactly how much of our lives are lived at the mercy of the wind.

This was even more true back in the days of the Apostle Paul: days when trade and travel over the Mediterranean Sea were as important to civilization as oxygen is to a body. In Acts 27, we join Paul as he begins a long voyage from Caesarea to Rome. And while some of his shipmates might say they journeyed at the mercy of the winds, Paul would differ and say that his journey to Rome and, in fact all our journeys, are at the mercy of One far greater.

What Does God Say?

Acts 27:1-13 is an easy portion of Scripture to pass over. Here Luke (the author of Acts) tells us about the voyage he and Paul took to Rome. But read these verses again and notice how much the wind dictates the path their ship takes.

In verse 4, the boat is forced to take a less direct route along the southern coast of modern-day Turkey because, "the winds were against us." In verse 7, they finally arrive in Cnidus, off the southwestern coast of Turkey, only after much difficulty. And because "the wind did not allow us to go farther," they were forced to turn south and sail along the coast of Crete. Finally, in verses 12-13, the ship's pilot decided to make for the harbor of Phoenix because "the south wind blew gently."

Paul knew this was a bad idea and told the pilot, " I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives" (verse 10). But because Fair Haven was not a good place to winter a ship, because Phoenix wasn't more than a day or two away, and because a favorable south wind blew, the pilot and owner of the ship decided to press on despite the apostle's warning.

In verse 14, the wind returns. "But soon a tempestuous wind, called the northeaster, struck down from the land. And when the ship was caught and could not face the wind, we gave way to it and were driven along" (14-15). What followed was a very long two weeks as the tiny ship and her crew were driven across the Mediterranean seemingly at the mercy of the wind. Paul knew better, though, and we'll see why in the next section.

My Thoughts

As you read Acts 27:13-44 think about the following questions:

    * Though Paul slips in a quick "I told you so," in verse 21, how does he encourage his shipmates?
    * Others may have been saying "I'm sure we'll make it!" but what is different about Paul's assurance?
    * In verses 33-38, what else does Paul do to encourage the crew?
    * Read verse 44. Who were Paul and his shipmates really at the mercy of?

My Part

It's June, and the wind has been in the news a lot lately--specifically, tornadoes. Right now scores of men, women and children are picking up the broken pieces of their lives and wondering what the future holds. And they're not alone. All around us, every day there are people whose lives have been devastated by the "winds" of economic downturn, the "winds" of violence, the "winds" of infidelity. And they need to know that the mercy of God can help them weather any storm. They need you to tell them about His mercy and His love. They need you to demonstrate that love. In whatever capacity you can this week, be there for them.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 16, 2011
Topic: Prayer
Prayer: Is It Obsolete?

"God answers prayer. Prayer is God and man joining hands to secure some high end. He joins with us through the communication of prayer in accomplishing certain great results. This is the main drive of prayer. Our asking and expecting and God's doing jointly bring to pass things that otherwise would not come to pass. Prayer changes things. This is the great fact of prayer." –S. D. Gordon, Quiet Talks on Prayer, p. 67.

There is an awesome testimony in the Book of Acts to the effectiveness and power of prayer throughout the opening years of the Church's history. Today, take a look at the record of how the first Christians regarded prayer's importance in every phase of their lives.

What Does God Say?

Before His death, Jesus told His disciples that they would be with Him for a short time more, and then they would no longer see Him (following His death). Then for a short while, they would see Him again (following His Resurrection). Finally, He would be ascending to return to the Father in heaven (John 16:16, 28 ).

 As He informed the disciples about these coming events, Christ included this momentous promise about prayer: "In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you. Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full" (John 16:23-24, NASB).

After His ascension, the disciples lived in the light of that promise. Turn to the Book of Acts and see how the practice of confident, believing prayer was ingrained in the hearts of the first followers of Christ. Study the references below and answer the questions:

    * Acts 1:12-14. When the disciples who viewed Christ's ascension returned to the Upper Room, how did they spend their time?
    * Acts 1: 24. Before making a choice by lot for an apostle to replace Judas Iscariot, what did the group do?
    * Acts 2:42 mentions four major activities of the very first Christians after the Holy Spirit's coming at Pentecost. What were they?
    * What good news did an angel bring to Cornelius because of his prayers (Acts 10:1-4, 30-33)? What was Peter doing before God sent him to give the Gospel to Cornelius (Acts 10:9; 11:5)?
    * What "place" had Paul and his companions been looking for when they led Lydia, the first European convert, to Christ (Acts 16:13-14).
    * Acts 16:25. How were Paul and Silas spending their time in the inner prison at Philippi?
    * When the father of Publius, the ruler of Malta, was lying in bed with fever and severe dysentery, Paul went to see him. What was the first thing Paul did (Acts 28:8 )? What miracle happened?

My Thoughts

The early Church's unwavering confidence in the power of prayer should teach us a sobering truth. Why do we today look to money, government, or the natural abilities of ourselves and others to get things done "for the Lord," rather than humbly and immediately going to God in Spirit-led intercession and supplication? How many of our plans simply leave God out? How many of our activities are devoid of God's presence? How often do we hope others will pray, yet we do not?

Apart from the Book of Acts, the rest of the Scriptures are filled with lessons on prayer. Here is one. Look for others as you do your own Bible study.

"With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints...."
Ephesians 6:18, NASB

My Part

Here are some things you can do right now:

    * Make a list of three people you know who need prayer, then pray for them specifically one-by-one.
    * Add three responsibilities that you have on your agenda today, and then take them to the Lord in prayer.
    * Finish with three needs you see in your own life. Ask God to meet those needs.

And you may want to do this every day!

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 17, 2011
Topic: Prayer, Holy Spirit, Obedience/Discipleship
Powered Tools

The Book of Acts gives us a front-row seat for the unfolding drama of an international spiritual movement that changed the world. We see followers become leaders; a small band of brothers turn into a congregation of men and women from every language, ethnic group and background.

What made it work?

What Does God Say?

Well, first, the entire spiritual movement we now call the Church or the Body of Christ was energized by the Holy Spirit of God. This was--and is--God's own work. In Acts 1:8, Jesus promised His followers that "you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth" (ESV). The mission was laid out--be His witnesses--and the power to accomplish it would come from the Holy Spirit.

In Acts 2, the Holy Spirit arrived and took up residence in a dramatic fashion. "And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:2-3 ESV). As we work through the rest of Acts, we find three companions to the Spirit's work: prayer, the preaching or teaching of the Word, and fellowship among the believers.

Take, for example, the events of Acts 1 and 2. After Jesus returned to heaven, His followers gathered together to do what? Pray! "And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers" (Acts 1:13-14 ESV). That phrase "with one accord" reflects a unity in spirit…a fellowship.

As we saw a moment ago, the Spirit came with power and the next thing we know, Peter is preaching from God's Word, calling all Jerusalem to hear and believe (Acts 2:14-36). His sermon is Word-centered, quoting directly from Joel and the Psalms, pulling out God's own words to help people understand what's happening. And the result? About three thousand people were added to the "fellowship" which then "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers" (Acts 2:42 ESV).

Each companion helped the believers tune into what God wanted to do through the Holy Spirit. And if we want to be effective tools powered by the Holy Spirit, we need those three things in our lives, too, as individuals and as the Body of Christ in today's world. When God's people are talking with Him (prayer), listening to Him speak (the Word) and sharing life together (fellowship), the Holy Spirit works to transform us and our world.

My Thoughts

In the following passages, look for any or all of the companions to the work of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 4:23-31
Acts 10:30-48
Acts 13:1-3
Acts 16:25-34
Acts 19:1-10
Acts 28:17-31

    * Prayer often preceded the work; what difference do you think that made?
    * How did you see preaching or teaching as central to the growth of the Body?
    * While the word "fellowship" may not show up in these verses, look for "togetherness" or times when believers shared an experience or discipline (fasting, baptism, worship). How did you see this build the Body?
    * Which of these do you think is missing from your personal or church experience?

My Part

When you trace the history of the church since the end of Acts, you still find these three companions alongside any move of the Spirit in times of growth, revival, and missionary outreach.

So, what about today? As an individual believer but also as a part of the Body in your local congregation and the Body worldwide, where do you need to start in your own life?

Remember, the Holy Spirit is working whether or not "big" things are happening. He is in residence now; He doesn't come and go. But when we are engaged in prayer, in speaking and hearing from God's Word, and we're in tune or fellowship with other believers, we're better equipped to be "powered tools" for the Holy Spirit to use.

Review the last week or even month and see what part the Word, prayer, and fellowship have in your life, and then in your church's life. Where do you need to spend a little time? How can you encourage a renewed focus in your church? Maybe it starts with your small group or Bible study. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you to be part of the movement He began in Acts…and see where He will take you.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 20, 2011
Topic: Thankfulness
God Gives Salvation

Do you know anyone who--every single day--complains! Maybe it's a coworker who is constantly negative or a relative who voices unhappiness every time you see him or her. Have you noticed that when you're with a complainer, your own attitude begins a downward spiral?

That's why taking some time to stop and give thanks is an emotional and spiritual necessity.

What Does God Say?

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul wrote, "May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light" (Colossians 1:11-12, ESV).

We have a lot to be thankful for. But without the Father's gift of salvation through Christ, that wouldn't be true. Our lives would be hopeless. It is through His gift we have forgiveness from sin, a relationship with Him and a future in heaven. As part of His gift, the Holy Spirit strengthens us and gives us endurance. Through His salvation, we experience patience with joy and for all that we should give thanks. It is the Father's gift of salvation that qualifies us "to share in the inheritance of the saints in light."

To the Thessalonians, Paul put it this way: "But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth" (2 Thessalonians 2:13, ESV).

My Thoughts

Read the following passages from the New Testament and think about the questions.

Acts 28:15: How can we encourage thankfulness in others?
Romans 1:21: What can happen when we don't give thanks?

My Part

An attitude of thanksgiving will change your outlook. So, if you're more negative than positive, determine to become a more thankful person. Here's one way to begin: In the coming week make it a point every day to thank God for at least three things. Be sure to include salvation and all God gave you when He provided you with this amazing gift. Also make it a point to demonstrate your thanksgiving when you're with family or friends.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 21, 2011
Topic: Thankfulness, Jesus, Salvation
Thankful for Your Savior

When was the last time you thanked Jesus for being your Savior? Is it a daily practice? Or is it something you did only when you were first saved? The fact that God has given you the precious gift of His Son, Jesus, who died for your sins and made it possible for you to have peace with God and eternal life...well, that's worth a "Thank You!

What Does God Say?

The Bible records a number of people who praised God for the gift of the Savior. Mary started it. When she was told her son would be the Savior of all mankind, she turned to praise:

"My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior" (Luke 1:46-47, ESV).

Zechariah starts his song with,

"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for he has visited and redeemed his people
and has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of his servant David (Luke 1:68-69).

And he then goes on through verse 79 to recount the great promises of God's salvation.

Simeon and Anna were two elderly people who'd devoted their lives to God and who had spent years praying for the promised Savior to come. When each met the baby Jesus, his or her heart overflowed in gratitude. Simeon said,

"Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace,
as you have promised.
I have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared for all people.
He is a light to reveal God to the nations,
and he is the glory of your people Israel!" (Luke 2:29-32, NLT).

And while Anna's specific words are not recorded for us, "she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem" (Luke 2:38, ESV).

My Thoughts

Having a Savior is definitely a matter for thanksgiving. God didn't have to do this for us--He didn't have to give us a Savior, the forgiveness of sins, fellowship with Him and eternity in His presence. But He did, even though it meant sacrificing His own Son. We can't really imagine what that cost God, but we can thank Him for it.

John 3:16 is so familiar we just rattle it off. Take a couple minutes right now to read it again. Read it a second time in a different translation or paraphrase (If you don't have one available, go to www.biblegateway.com and select a translation from the numerous options there.) Then answer these questions:

    * Who does God love?
    * What did this love cost God? (You may want to respond to this question by drawing a picture. Give your picture an appropriate title.)
    * What is the purpose of this love?

My Part

Now, how will you apply this? Let's make it really easy. Just do it--just take a moment or two as you go through your day to say thank you to God for the gift of Jesus your Savior. Borrow a Bible verse of praise, maybe one from this study, if you need it.

Look for another opportunity tomorrow and the day after that. When you feel like you've blown it in some area, be thankful again that you have a Savior who took care of that sin and forgives you. Before long, you'll make gratitude a daily, positive habit.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 22, 2011
Topic: Salvation
Don't Know God

What do you do about people like Pharaoh who say, "Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD" (Exodus 5:2, NKJV)? How do you respond when they patronize your faith saying, "Well, it's nice that you have something to believe in"?

The number of people who doubt God's existence is growing every day. Men and women of every nation are saying, "I don't believe there is a God." So, how does God respond?

What Does God Say?

The Bible is pretty blunt when it describes this type of person.

"The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God'" (Psalm 14:1, NKJV).

It's foolishness for anyone to conclude there is no God because God has made it clear He exists.

"For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse" (Romans 1:20, NKJV). God has made Himself known in nature, and He has also revealed Himself in the Bible.

When you encounter someone who claims there is no God, you can point out these facts to that person. But keep in mind that knowing about God is not the same as a relationship with Him. Read the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), and you'll discover several instances when demons rightly identified Jesus as the Son of God. (See Mark 1:22-24; Mark 3:11). They knew exactly who He was, but they certainly didn't have a personal relationship with Him.

So, how can we bring these friends into a personal relationship with the God we know? Truthfully, we can't--but God can. Salvation, entering into a relationship with God, is His gift to those who respond to His Spirit. But even though we can't make our friends and neighbors into Christians, there's still a lot we can do to help them open up to Jesus.

My Thoughts

Paul talked about his ministry in 1 Corinthians by saying, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase" (3:6, NKJV). His point was that it is God who saves a person, and we should therefore identify ourselves as children of God, not as children of Apollos or Paul. What does it mean to plant? To Water? What are some ways we can plant or water today?

My Part

Peter advises in his first letter, "Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear" (1 Peter 3:15, NKJV).

Have you ever given your testimony?

If somebody asked you today why you believe in God, what would you say?

Don't wait for someone to ask. Take some time today to write out your testimony. Write about how you met God and how your life has been changed since.

Ask God to bring someone across your path this week that you can share your story with.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 23, 2011
Topic: Evangelism
Make Him Known

What is 750,000 miles long, reaches around the earth 30 times and grows 20 miles longer each day? Answer: The line of people who are without Christ. The Bible tells us that since so many don't know Jesus, it's our job to make Him known.

What Does God Say?

John answered them saying, "I baptize in water, but among you stands One whom you do not know" (John 1:26, NASB).

John was not saying that folks did not know Jesus as a person. He was the carpenter from Galilee, his mother, four brothers and his sisters lived in Nazareth and the people there did know Him. John was saying that people did not recognize who Jesus was. And so John made sure to tell them.

The next day he [John] saw Jesus coming to him and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!....this is the One who baptizes in the Holy Spirit. I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God" (John 1:29, 33-34, NASB).

Write out a brief bio of Jesus from John's description. Then write down who Jesus is in your life.

My Thoughts

Do you know anyone who may not know who Jesus really is? Could you, like John, make Jesus known to them? Write down a list of those people and begin to pray for the opportunity to share with them.

Go to your Bible and find Scriptures that provide a picture of Jesus as the Son of God, the Savior of the world and the only way a person can come to God. You might check these out: John 1:6-14; John 14:1-6; Romans 10:9-10; Acts 2:37-40; Philippians 2:5-11.

We need to make Jesus known not only by what we say, but also by what we do.

"By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:35, NASB).

What are you doing to show love toward others?

My Part

Take time now to pray asking God to give you a deep and abiding desire to make Jesus known and to care about sharing with people who need the Lord.

Make a list of those who have helped you know Jesus and send them an e-mail or card thanking them for how God used them in your life.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 24, 2011
Topic: Bible Study/Theories
More to Know

An old hymn declares:

*More about Jesus let me learn,

More of His holy will discern;

Spirit of God, my teacher be,

Showing the things of Christ to me.

The hymn writer isn't talking about simply knowing facts about Jesus; he's talking about an intimate knowledge--an experiential knowledge--of what it means to have Christ as our personal Savior. So, how do we get this kind of knowledge? God's Word helps us to find it.

What Does God Say?

"For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come" (Ephesians 1:15-21).

My Thoughts

These people were already Christians (Paul had heard of their "faith in the Lord Jesus"), but the apostle knew that there was more. Salvation is just the starting point. Beyond this initial step, Paul prays that those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ will experience: hope (based on His calling), riches (based on God's inheritance in the saints) and God's power (based on Christ's Resurrection).

    * While individuals may be called to specific tasks, through Christ all Christians have been called to spend eternity with God in heaven. How does this calling give you hope?
    * Paul says that we (Christians) are part of God's inheritance through Christ--part of His wealth. How does that make you feel?
    * How have you experienced God's power in your life since you've placed your faith in Christ?

My Part

Which of the above experiences are you most in need of today? Take a few minutes right now and ask God to let you experience this part of knowing Christ.

*Eliza E. Hewitt and John R. Sweney, "More About Jesus"

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 27, 2011
Topic: Salvation
What Must I Do to be Saved?

What must I do to be saved?

That's a question asked many times over. But salvation isn't a matter of what you do, it's about what Jesus did for you. Let's see what the Bible says.

What Does God Say?

In Acts 16, one man asked that question of Paul and Silas. "And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and said, 'Sirs, what must I do to be saved?' And they said, 'Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.'" (Acts 16:29-34, ESV).

    * What did Paul tell the jailer he must do in order to be saved?
    * At the end of this story (v. 34), how did the jailer demonstrate that he was truly saved?

My Thoughts

You can't save yourself, you don't have the power. You can't earn your salvation because your sin is always in the way. On your own, you'd never be "good enough" to meet God's incredible standard of holiness. But Jesus can. He is the perfect holy Son of God, and He did the work on your behalf. "For our sake he [God] made him [Jesus] to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him [Jesus] we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21, ESV).

Why? Because "God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God" (John 3:16-18, ESV).

So, what's left for you? To believe. Believe that Jesus took care of your sin when He died on the cross on your behalf, that He's the one who gives you access to God and a new, eternal life.

Once you have believed, what might you do to demonstrate your new relationship with God?

My Part

If you're considering making that choice today, we'll walk you through it. Click here. And we'd love to hear from you.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Jun 28, 2011
Topic: Hope
Missing Ingredients

It was a family joke for many years. Aunt Mary was eagerly expecting her brother's arrival. He had been with the U. S. Air Force in Europe involved in World War II. Mary hadn't seen him for over three years.

To add a special touch to the homecoming, Mary was putting a chocolate cake together when the doorbell rang. Her brother was there! She popped the cake into the oven and the family met him at the door. Happy greetings mingled with tears of joy. Suddenly remembering the cake, Mary hurried to the kitchen and pulled it out of the oven, only to discover she had forgotten one ingredient--the flour!

Do you know there are many unhappy Christians around because they're unaware that certain ingredients are missing from their understanding of what Christ has done for them in salvation?

For some, the missing ingredient is an understanding of God's forgiveness of sin. Others may be ignorant of the work of the Holy Spirit. Some are blind to the grace of God in Christian living. Still others may fail to recognize the importance of Christ's return.

In your Bible study for today you'll look at one aspect of salvation that is often misunderstood or totally left out of a Christian's perception of his or her salvation. See what the Bible says about it.

What Does God Say?

Some people in the church at Corinth had trusted Christ for their salvation and were waiting for Christ to return (1 Corinthians 1:4-9) but felt there would be no resurrection of the dead (1 Corinthians 15:12). They were lacking a critical ingredient in their understanding of the Lord's work of salvation First Corinthians 15 is the apostle Paul's teaching aimed at correcting their misconceptions about the resurrection of the body.

Read through 1 Corinthians 15, then look up the following verses and answer the questions below.

    1 Corinthians 15:12. What were some of the Christians in Corinth saying about the resurrection of the dead?
    1 Corinthians 15:16-17. What is the consequence for Christians if the dead are not raised?
    1 Corinthians 15:23. When will those who belong to Christ be raised?
    1 Corinthians 15:42-44. Contrast the "natural body" with the "spiritual body."
    1 Corinthians 15:49. Who will the risen believer be like (Compare to 1 John 3:2-3)?

My Thoughts

There are many church-going people who believe that Jesus died to save their souls and their souls will go to heaven and live without a body forever. Some even think that, since the body is material, it is evil and will be done away with. Those ideas are completely foreign to the Bible, which teaches that saved people will be raised to live forever in a perfect body, like the risen Christ. The resurrection is a key part of the Christian faith and hope, as Paul describes it in 1 Cor. 15:51-56 (ESV):

My Part

Paul describes that hope in 1 Corinthians 15:51-56 (ESV). (These would be good verses to memorize.) "Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:

'Death is swallowed up in victory.'
'O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?'
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law" (1 Corinthians 15:51-55, ESV).