Living a Life Worth Living – Writings by Robin McKinley
The Book of Acts (in the New Testament of the Bible) is also called ‘Acts of the Apostles’. The author of Acts was Luke, who also wrote the Gospel of Luke.
Acts tells the story of the first Christians. After Jesus went up to heaven, they waited in Jerusalem. Then, God sent his Holy Spirit (Acts 2). The Holy Spirit gave power to the first Christians. So, they told the people about Jesus. The Christians explained that the people must confess their evil deeds to God. Then, they must invite God into their lives.
The first Christians did wonderful things by God’s power. Peter cured a man who could not walk by God’s power. God even cured ill people when Peter’s shadow went over them .
Many people opposed the first Christians. A Christian called Stephen did many wonderful things. But the rulers opposed him. They did not want him to speak about Jesus. So, the rulers killed Stephen. But Stephen was not afraid. He knew that he was going to heaven. Like Jesus, Stephen prayed for the people who were killing him (Acts 7:60).
But the number of Christians continued to increase. And new churches began in many areas, for example Samaria and Antioch. Soon, God taught Peter and the other Christians that God’s good news is for everyone, from every nation (Acts 10). So, they began to speak to people who were not from Israel.
Saul was a religious leader who opposed the first Christians. Saul even helped to kill Stephen (Acts 8:1). But God spoke to Saul on the road to Damascus. And Saul became a Christian (Acts 9). He travelled to many places, to tell everyone about Jesus (Acts chapters 13-28). Later, Saul changed his name to Paul. Paul wrote many books in the New Testament of the Bible.
The first Christians had many dangers and many troubles. But they trusted God. And they told people about Jesus in each place where they went. God was with them. God did wonderful things wherever they went. And boldly, they taught the message of the Bible.
Occasionally we’ll hear someone say, “a wise old man once said . . .” That’s what occurred in Acts 5. A respected Pharisee named Gamaliel in essence said, who can stand against the Lord? If it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!” … Read more
When the Holy Spirit brings conviction on people, their responses to the gospel message can be amazing. Those coming under conviction don’t want to give in, they do, however, want to save face. The apostle Paul experienced a couple of cases like that with two political leaders. “Suddenly, Festus shouted, “Paul, you are insane. Too … Read more
God has a plan and a purpose for each of His children. Sometimes we do things the long and often hard way. Other times we go to and do exactly what He wants of us. Being in the center of God’s will comes when you let the Holy Spirit guide you. Let’s take a look … Read more
The Apostle Paul saw a crippled man and realized he had faith to be healed. So he told the man to stand up and he did. The people reacted positively to this miracle from God. But it didn’t last very long. So Paul called to him in a loud voice, “Stand up!” And the man … Read more
How important is hearing the voice of God? If we want to stay in the center of God’s will, it’s a must. Occasionally He will speak to us audibly or give us thoughts. Most of the time, however, He will speak to us through His Word. God spoke to Peter in Acts 10 through a … Read more
Acts 3 contains a great story about when you faith and miracles work together. Peter and John were on their way into the temple when the Holy Spirit put a distraction in front of them. Maybe we need to make sure we aren’t too busy to be distracted by the Holy Spirit. Through faith in … Read more
How many of you have eye or vision problems? I know I do. I have worn eyeglasses since my younger teenage years. Fortunately, my vision can be corrected to 20/20 which I am thankful for. Vision problems though go beyond physical sight. Many people have problems with their spiritual vision, also. Our corrected vision will … Read more
Occasionally, our country’s government shuts down the government offices. The reason is because the two parties that run this country can’t see eye-to-eye on issues. Some of them even claim to be Christians. It makes one wonder if there will be more democrats or republicans in heaven. Divisions in governments are not new. Even the … Read more
