Salvation bible study featuring Acts chapters 11 through 16 and Romans

 

            Here is a bible study featuring Acts chapters 11 through 16 which continue the story with the new church being called Christians, the persecution of Peter and the death of Herod and then goes on to relate many aspects of Paul’s missionary journey to different places including modern Greece. There are again miracles, one of the more notable ones is the earthquake in the jail where Paul and Silas were being held, which in turn would lead to the salvation of the jail keeper and his family. On the topic of salvation, I am also including a teaching which has various scriptures from the epistle to the Romans which present the gospel message very powerfully.

To start this bible study, in Acts chapter 11, Peter is then confronted by some about the conversion of gentiles and after discussion all realize that the gentiles are also eligible for salvation and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. It then goes on to speak of the ministry of Barabbas and Saul/Paul

And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.

(Acts 11:1)

 

And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,

(Acts 11:2)

 

Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.

(Acts 11:3)

 

But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,

(Acts 11:4)

 

I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:

(Acts 11:5)

 

Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.

(Acts 11:6)

 

And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.

(Acts 11:7)

 

But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.

(Acts 11:8)

 

But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.

(Acts 11:9)

 

And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.

(Acts 11:10)

 

And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.

(Acts 11:11)

 

And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:

(Acts 11:12)

 

And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;

(Acts 11:13)

 

Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.

(Acts 11:14)

 

And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.

(Acts 11:15)

 

Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.

(Acts 11:16)

 

Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?

(Acts 11:17)

 

When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

(Acts 11:18)

 

Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

(Acts 11:19)

 

And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.

(Acts 11:20)

 

And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.

(Acts 11:21)

 

Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.

(Acts 11:22)

 

Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.

(Acts 11:23)

 

For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

(Acts 11:24)

 

Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:

(Acts 11:25)

 

And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

(Acts 11:26)

 

And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.

(Acts 11:27)

 

And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.

(Acts 11:28)

 

Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:

(Acts 11:29)

 

Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

(Acts 11:30)

 

In Acts chapter 12 Peter’s is then thrown into prison by Herod but is then rescued by angels. Herod himself would be killed, being eaten of worms but the church continues to grow.

Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church.

(Acts 12:1)

 

And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.

(Acts 12:2)

 

And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)

(Acts 12:3)

 

And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.

(Acts 12:4)

 

Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

(Acts 12:5)

 

And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

(Acts 12:6)

 

And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.

(Acts 12:7)

 

And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.

(Acts 12:8)

 

And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.

(Acts 12:9)

 

When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.

(Acts 12:10)

 

And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

(Acts 12:11)

 

And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.

(Acts 12:12)

 

And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.

(Acts 12:13)

 

And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.

(Acts 12:14)

 

And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel.

(Acts 12:15)

 

But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.

(Acts 12:16)

 

But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

(Acts 12:17)

 

Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.

(Acts 12:18)

 

And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode.

(Acts 12:19)

 

And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.

(Acts 12:20)

 

And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them.

(Acts 12:21)

 

And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.

(Acts 12:22)

 

And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.

(Acts 12:23)

 

But the word of God grew and multiplied.

(Acts 12:24)

 

And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.

(Acts 12:25)

 

Acts chapter 13 is where Paul gets so named and then the chapter goes on to describe his ministry and it goes on to show how the Jews to a large degree would refuse Paul’s ministry but then Paul would go on to minister to the gentiles, many of whom would get saved as a result but then this filled the Jews with envy and then open the door for persecution from them

Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

(Acts 13:1)

 

As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

(Acts 13:2)

 

And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

(Acts 13:3)

 

So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

(Acts 13:4)

 

And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.

(Acts 13:5)

 

And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus:

(Acts 13:6)

 

Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

(Acts 13:7)

 

But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

(Acts 13:8)

 

Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,

(Acts 13:9)

 

And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?

(Acts 13:10)

 

And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.

(Acts 13:11)

 

Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

(Acts 13:12)

 

Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.

(Acts 13:13)

 

But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.

(Acts 13:14)

 

And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.

(Acts 13:15)

 

Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.

(Acts 13:16)

 

The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.

(Acts 13:17)

 

And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness.

(Acts 13:18)

 

And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot.

(Acts 13:19)

 

And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.

(Acts 13:20)

 

And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.

(Acts 13:21)

 

And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.

(Acts 13:22)

 

Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:

(Acts 13:23)

 

When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.

(Acts 13:24)

 

And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.

(Acts 13:25)

 

Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.

(Acts 13:26)

 

For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled them in condemning him.

(Acts 13:27)

 

And though they found no cause of death in him, yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain.

(Acts 13:28)

 

And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre.

(Acts 13:29)

 

But God raised him from the dead:

(Acts 13:30)

 

And he was seen many days of them which came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are his witnesses unto the people.

(Acts 13:31)

 

And we declare unto you glad tidings, how that the promise which was made unto the fathers,

(Acts 13:32)

 

God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he hath raised up Jesus again; as it is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.

(Acts 13:33)

 

And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he said on this wise, I will give you the sure mercies of David.

(Acts 13:34)

 

Wherefore he saith also in another psalm, Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

(Acts 13:35)

 

For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption:

(Acts 13:36)

 

But he, whom God raised again, saw no corruption.

(Acts 13:37)

 

Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:

(Acts 13:38)

 

And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.

(Acts 13:39)

 

Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets;

(Acts 13:40)

 

Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.

(Acts 13:41)

 

And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath.

(Acts 13:42)

 

Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.

(Acts 13:43)

 

And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God.

(Acts 13:44)

 

But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

(Acts 13:45)

 

Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.

(Acts 13:46)

 

For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.

(Acts 13:47)

 

And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

(Acts 13:48)

 

And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.

(Acts 13:49)

 

But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

(Acts 13:50)

 

But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.

(Acts 13:51)

 

And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

(Acts 13:52)

 

Acts chapter 14 goes on to describe Paul’s ministry describing a healing miracle where a guy walks that never has before but also persecution is described where Paul is stoned after being thrown out of  city.

And it came to pass in Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews, and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.

(Acts 14:1)

 

But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the brethren.

(Acts 14:2)

 

Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

(Acts 14:3)

 

But the multitude of the city was divided: and part held with the Jews, and part with the apostles.

(Acts 14:4)

 

And when there was an assault made both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them,

(Acts 14:5)

 

They were ware of it, and fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region that lieth round about:

(Acts 14:6)

 

And there they preached the gospel.

(Acts 14:7)

 

And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked:

(Acts 14:8)

 

The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed,

(Acts 14:9)

 

Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked.

(Acts 14:10)

 

And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men.

(Acts 14:11)

 

And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.

(Acts 14:12)

 

Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people.

(Acts 14:13)

 

Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out,

(Acts 14:14)

 

And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:

(Acts 14:15)

 

Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.

(Acts 14:16)

 

Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.

(Acts 14:17)

 

And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.

(Acts 14:18)

 

And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

(Acts 14:19)

 

Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

(Acts 14:20)

 

And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,

(Acts 14:21)

 

Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

(Acts 14:22)

 

And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

(Acts 14:23)

 

And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.

(Acts 14:24)

 

And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:

(Acts 14:25)

 

And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.

(Acts 14:26)

 

And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

(Acts 14:27)

 

And there they abode long time with the disciples.

(Acts 14:28)

 

To continue this study, in Acts chapter 15 they had to deal with a controversy of circumcision versus uncircumcision and this is dealt with by a speech by James, then there is a dispute between Paul and Barnabas as to whether to take John Mark with them or not, and it became so sharp that they split over the issue at hand and go on their own separate ways

And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.

(Acts 15:1)

 

When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.

(Acts 15:2)

 

And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

(Acts 15:3)

 

And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them.

(Acts 15:4)

 

But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses.

(Acts 15:5)

 

And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.

(Acts 15:6)

 

And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.

(Acts 15:7)

 

And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;

(Acts 15:8)

 

And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

(Acts 15:9)

 

Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

(Acts 15:10)

 

But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.

(Acts 15:11)

 

Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.

(Acts 15:12)

 

And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me:

(Acts 15:13)

 

Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.

(Acts 15:14)

 

And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written,

(Acts 15:15)

 

After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:

(Acts 15:16)

 

That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things.

(Acts 15:17)

 

Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.

(Acts 15:18)

 

Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God:

(Acts 15:19)

 

But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.

(Acts 15:20)

 

For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day.

(Acts 15:21)

 

Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:

(Acts 15:22)

 

And they wrote letters by them after this manner; The apostles and elders and brethren send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia:

(Acts 15:23)

 

Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which went out from us have troubled you with words, subverting your souls, saying, Ye must be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we gave no such commandment:

(Acts 15:24)

 

It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,

(Acts 15:25)

 

Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

(Acts 15:26)

 

We have sent therefore Judas and Silas, who shall also tell you the same things by mouth.

(Acts 15:27)

 

For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;

(Acts 15:28)

 

That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.

(Acts 15:29)

 

So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle:

(Acts 15:30)

 

Which when they had read, they rejoiced for the consolation.

(Acts 15:31)

 

And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.

(Acts 15:32)

 

And after they had tarried there a space, they were let go in peace from the brethren unto the apostles.

(Acts 15:33)

 

Notwithstanding it pleased Silas to abide there still.

(Acts 15:34)

 

Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.

(Acts 15:35)

 

And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.

(Acts 15:36)

 

And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.

(Acts 15:37)

 

But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work.

(Acts 15:38)

 

And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;

(Acts 15:39)

 

And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God.

(Acts 15:40)

 

And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.

(Acts 15:41)

 

In Acts chapter 16, Paul’s journeys continue with someone appearing to him by dream asking him to go to Macedonia which he indeed does do, and there he encounters a woman who had a spirit who would announce them. Paul would then turn and cast the evil spirit out of the woman but end up being beaten and jailed because her handlers made money off the possessed woman which income was now gone. Paul and Silas would then worship while in prison and then there would be a big earthquake which freed their bands and would then be used to lead the jailer and his family to Christ. Paul would then be freed.

Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:

(Acts 16:1)

 

Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.

(Acts 16:2)

 

Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.

(Acts 16:3)

 

And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.

(Acts 16:4)

 

And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.

(Acts 16:5)

 

Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,

(Acts 16:6)

 

After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.

(Acts 16:7)

 

And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.

(Acts 16:8)

 

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.

(Acts 16:9)

 

And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.

(Acts 16:10)

 

Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;

(Acts 16:11)

 

And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.

(Acts 16:12)

 

And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.

(Acts 16:13)

 

And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

(Acts 16:14)

 

And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

(Acts 16:15)

 

And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:

(Acts 16:16)

 

The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.

(Acts 16:17)

 

And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.

(Acts 16:18)

 

And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,

(Acts 16:19)

 

And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,

(Acts 16:20)

 

And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.

(Acts 16:21)

 

And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.

(Acts 16:22)

 

And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:

(Acts 16:23)

 

Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.

(Acts 16:24)

 

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

(Acts 16:25)

 

And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.

(Acts 16:26)

 

And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

(Acts 16:27)

 

But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.

(Acts 16:28)

 

Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,

(Acts 16:29)

 

And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

(Acts 16:30)

 

And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.

(Acts 16:31)

 

And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.

(Acts 16:32)

 

And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.

(Acts 16:33)

 

And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

(Acts 16:34)

 

And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying, Let those men go.

(Acts 16:35)

 

And the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.

(Acts 16:36)

 

But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.

(Acts 16:37)

 

And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.

(Acts 16:38)

 

And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.

(Acts 16:39)

 

And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.

(Acts 16:40)

 

I am now concluding this teaching with a large group of verses from Paul’s epistle to the Romans which present the salvation message very powerfully. The teaching is finished by a prayer of salvation to invite Jesus in your heart to begin a relationship with God to which nothing can compare.

 (Romans 11:11)  I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.

 

(Romans 11:12)  Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?

 

(Romans 11:13)  For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:

 

(Romans 11:14)  If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

 

(Romans 11:15)  For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?

 

(Romans 11:16)  For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.

 

(Romans 11:17)  And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;

 

(Romans 11:18)  Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

 

(Romans 11:19)  Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in.

 

(Romans 11:20)  Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:

 

(Romans 11:21)  For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.

 

(Romans 11:22)  Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.

 

(Romans 11:23)  And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff them in again.

 

(Romans 11:24)  For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?

 

(Romans 11:25)  For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

 

(Romans 11:26)  And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

 

I am also adding this passage in Romans chapter 1 stating well my own feelings that I am not ashamed of the gospel and want to see the message of salvation shared so people can accept the same by faith so that people can know and be without excuse

(Romans 1:13)  Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

 

(Romans 1:14)  I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.

 

(Romans 1:15)  So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

 

(Romans 1:16)  For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

 

(Romans 1:17)  For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

 

(Romans 1:18)  For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

 

(Romans 1:19)  Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

 

(Romans 1:20)  For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

 

I am continuing this  teaching with the passage in Romans 3 which states how nobody does righteously not even one person at all.

 

(Romans 3:9)  What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;

 

(Romans 3:10)  As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

 

(Romans 3:11)  There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.

 

(Romans 3:12)  They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

 

This next passage, also from Romans chapter 3 later on says while all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory they are then justified through grace and what Jesus did for them at the cross and this is through faith and it excludes boasting

(Romans 3:21)  But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;

 

(Romans 3:22)  Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

 

(Romans 3:23)  For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

 

(Romans 3:24)  Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:

 

(Romans 3:25)  Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

 

(Romans 3:26)  To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

 

(Romans 3:27)  Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

 

(Romans 3:28)  Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

 

(Romans 3:29)  Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

 

(Romans 3:30)  Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

 

(Romans 3:31)  Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.

 

The last 4 verses of Romans 4 also state how that righteousness is imputed to us for believing  in Jesus death for us and God who raised Him

(Romans 4:22)  And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.

 

(Romans 4:23)  Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;

 

(Romans 4:24)  But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

 

(Romans 4:25)  Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.

 

This next passage of scripture which contains the last seven verses from Romans chapter 6 speaks of us being freed from sin to live righteous and as servants of God for the wages of sin are death (hell) but God’s gift is eternal life by Jesus

(Romans 6:17)  But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

 

(Romans 6:18)  Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

 

(Romans 6:19)  I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

 

(Romans 6:20)  For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.

 

(Romans 6:21)  What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.

 

(Romans 6:22)  But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

 

(Romans 6:23)  For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

While we were yet weak and in sin God in love sent Jesus to die for us as stated in this passage in Romans chapter 5 as while one mad us all sinners through disobedience one’s obedience also brought all back to righteousness and also reminds us through the offense one many are sinners but through the obedience of one many more were made righteous

 

(Romans 5:6)  For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

 

(Romans 5:7)  For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.

 

(Romans 5:8)  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

 

(Romans 5:9)  Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

 

(Romans 5:10)  For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

 

(Romans 5:11)  And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

 

(Romans 5:12)  Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned

 

(Romans 5:13)  (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.

 

(Romans 5:14)  Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.

 

 (Romans 5:15)  But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many.

 

(Romans 5:16)  And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification.

 

(Romans 5:17)  For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

 

(Romans 5:18)  Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.

 

(Romans 5:19)  For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

 

The next passage here from Romans chapter 10 explains that the word is near us, how to be saved by confessing Jesus as Lord by mouth and believing that God raised Him from the dead and of the virtues of those who preach the gospel for faith comes by hearing the word of God.

(Romans 10:8)  But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;

 

(Romans 10:9)  That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

 

(Romans 10:10)  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

 

(Romans 10:11)  For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

 

(Romans 10:12)  For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.

 

(Romans 10:13)  For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

 

(Romans 10:14)  How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

 

(Romans 10:15)  And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

 

(Romans 10:16)  But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

 

(Romans 10:17)  So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

 

Here in these first five verses of Romans 5 we now have peace with God being reconciled by Jesus justified by our faith

(Romans 5:1)  Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

 

(Romans 5:2)  By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

 

(Romans 5:3)  And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

 

(Romans 5:4)  And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

 

(Romans 5:5)  And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

 

Paul reminds us in the first two verses of Romans 8 that there is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus

(Romans 8:1)  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

 

(Romans 8:2)  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

 

(Romans 8:31)  What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

 

(Romans 8:32)  He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

 

(Romans 8:33)  Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.

 

(Romans 8:34)  Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

 

(Romans 8:35)  Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

 

(Romans 8:36)  As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

 

(Romans 8:37)  Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

 

(Romans 8:38)  For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

 

(Romans 8:39)  Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

Finally in Romans 12 we are now to present our bodies as a living sacrifice and are not to be conformed by the word but transformed by the renewing of our mind. We also are now all part of one body and are encouraged to be diligent in giftings from God and loving to one another and not seeking revenge or retaliate but love our enemies and do good. The whole chapter is included for its powerful encourgements and advice for new believers.

(Romans 12:1)  I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

 

(Romans 12:2)  And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

 

(Romans 12:3)  For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

 

(Romans 12:4)  For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

 

(Romans 12:5)  So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

 

(Romans 12:6)  Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;

 

(Romans 12:7)  Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;

 

(Romans 12:8)  Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

 

(Romans 12:9)  Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

 

(Romans 12:10)  Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

 

(Romans 12:11)  Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

 

(Romans 12:12)  Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

 

(Romans 12:13)  Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

 

(Romans 12:14)  Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

 

(Romans 12:15)  Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

 

(Romans 12:16)  Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

 

(Romans 12:17)  Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

 

(Romans 12:18)  If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

 

(Romans 12:19)  Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

 

(Romans 12:20)  Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

 

(Romans 12:21)  Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

 

The passages in this teaching above are there to show our need of a savior. As it is written God did love the world enough to send His only begotten Son- Jesus to die for our sins on the cross though He was nearly stoned in the gospel of John on two occasions. Jesus makes powerful points in these chapters about how He is indeed the one to take away the sins and also bring everlasting (eternal ) Life to all to all those who believe in Him. This was all done so the sins of man, which had separated man from God could be atoned for, which Jesus did by dying o0n the cross, and the love relationship with God then is thus restored. There is nothing like a love relationship with God at all, nothing can even come remotely close to it. I am now including a prayer which you can pray and then invite Jesus in your heart to begin this wonderful relationship to which nothing can compare. Please pray this prayer with me now.

Dear God in heaven, I come to you in the name of Jesus. I acknowledge to You that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived; I need your forgiveness. I believe that your only begotten Son Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross at Calvary and died for my sins, and I am now willing to turn from my sin. You said in Your Holy Word, Romans 10:9 that if we confess Jesus as our Lord and believe in our hearts that God raised Jesus from the dead, we will be saved. Right now I confess Jesus as the Lord of my soul. With my heart, I believe that God raised Jesus from the dead. This very moment I accept Jesus Christ as my own personal Savior and according to His Word, right now I am saved. Thank you Jesus for your unlimited grace which has saved me from my sins. I thank you Jesus that your grace never leads to license, but rather it always leads to repentance. Therefore Lord Jesus transform my life so that I may bring glory and honor to you alone and not to myself. Thank you Jesus for dying for me and giving me eternal life.

Amen.

 

God bless you and yours