New Testament Fellowship

New Testament Fellowship

2/10/2025, 3:42:00 AM

Acts 9 in the King James Version (KJV) recounts the dramatic conversion of Saul (who later becomes Paul), his subsequent ministry, and the early spread of the Gospel through his efforts. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. The Power of God’s Grace to Transform Lives (Acts 9:1-19) – Saul, a fierce persecutor of Christians, is dramatically converted on the road to Damascus when he encounters Jesus. This teaches that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Saul’s transformation from an enemy of the faith to one of its greatest advocates highlights the power of God to change even the most hardened hearts. It emphasizes that salvation is available to everyone, no matter their past. 2. The Importance of Obedience and Trust in God’s Plan (Acts 9:10-18) – Ananias, a disciple in Damascus, is instructed by God to go to Saul and pray for him, despite his initial fear because of Saul’s reputation. Ananias obeys, and Saul’s sight is restored. This teaches the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when it seems difficult or risky. It also highlights the need for obedience to God’s commands, even when we don’t fully understand the purpose. 3. The Role of Prayer and the Holy Spirit in Transformation (Acts 9:11-18) – Saul’s blindness and his subsequent restoration to sight through Ananias is a powerful symbol of spiritual blindness being lifted through prayer and the work of the Holy Spirit. This lesson emphasizes the importance of prayer, both personal and intercessory, in bringing about spiritual change, and the role of the Holy Spirit in opening hearts to the truth. 4. Boldness in Proclaiming the Gospel (Acts 9:20-22) – After his conversion, Saul immediately begins preaching Jesus as the Son of God in the synagogues, despite the risks involved. His boldness in sharing the Gospel teaches that once a person is transformed by Christ, they should not hesitate to boldly proclaim the truth of their faith. The lesson here is that true conversion leads to a desire to share the Gospel, regardless of opposition or danger. 5. God’s Protection and Provision in Difficult Circumstances (Acts 9:23-25) – After Saul’s preaching, the Jews plot to kill him, but his disciples help him escape. This shows that God provides protection and makes a way for His servants, even when they face danger or opposition. The lesson is that believers can trust God to protect them and guide them through difficult circumstances as they fulfill His will. 6. The Unity of the Body of Christ (Acts 9:26-31) – After Saul’s conversion, the disciples are initially afraid of him, but Barnabas vouches for Saul, and he is accepted into the fellowship. This highlights the importance of unity within the church and the need to support and encourage one another, especially when someone new enters the faith. The lesson here is that the church should be a place of grace and acceptance, helping new believers grow and find their place in the body of Christ. 7. The Expansion of the Church (Acts 9:31) – The church enjoys peace and continues to grow in strength, walking in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit. This teaches that as believers remain faithful and committed to God’s work, the church will grow, and God’s purposes will continue to unfold. The lesson is that peace, unity, and reliance on the Holy Spirit contribute to the ongoing expansion of the church. In summary, Acts 9 teaches that God’s grace can transform even the most unlikely individuals, the importance of obedience and trust in God’s plan, the role of prayer and the Holy Spirit in transformation, boldness in proclaiming the Gospel, God’s protection in difficult circumstances, the importance of unity in the body of Christ, and the ongoing expansion of the church through faithful believers.

New Testament Fellowship

2/12/2025, 3:22:03 AM

Acts 10 in the King James Version (KJV) records the conversion of Cornelius, a Roman centurion, and the subsequent vision given to Peter that leads to the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian faith. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. God’s Plan for All People (Acts 10:1-48) – Cornelius, a Gentile, is described as a devout man who fears God and prays regularly. God sends an angel to him, telling him to send for Peter. Simultaneously, Peter has a vision of unclean animals, symbolizing that God has cleansed what was once considered unclean. This teaches that God’s salvation is not limited to Jews but is for all people, regardless of their background or ethnicity. The lesson is the inclusiveness of the Gospel and that God’s love extends beyond cultural, ethnic, and religious boundaries. 2. Overcoming Prejudices (Acts 10:9-16) – Peter’s vision of the unclean animals challenges his Jewish understanding of dietary laws, showing that God’s Kingdom is not about external rituals but about inward purity and openness to all people. The lesson here is that following Jesus means overcoming personal prejudices and embracing people from all walks of life. Believers are called to look beyond superficial differences and recognize the value of every person in God’s eyes. 3. The Holy Spirit Leads in Mission (Acts 10:19-20) – The Holy Spirit directly instructs Peter to go with the men sent by Cornelius without hesitation, signaling that God is guiding His people to fulfill the mission of spreading the Gospel. This teaches the importance of being sensitive and obedient to the Holy Spirit’s leading in the mission field, even when it challenges our preconceived notions. 4. The Power of Obedience and Faith (Acts 10:34-43) – Peter boldly proclaims the Gospel to Cornelius and his household, preaching that Jesus Christ is the Lord of all, and that through Him, anyone who believes receives forgiveness of sins. This demonstrates that obedience to God’s calling leads to opportunities to share the Gospel, and faith in Jesus is the key to salvation. The lesson is that salvation is available to all through faith in Christ, and the message of the Gospel must be shared with everyone. 5. God’s Timing and Provision (Acts 10:44-48) – While Peter is still speaking, the Holy Spirit falls upon all who hear the message, including the Gentiles. They are baptized in the Holy Spirit, just as the apostles had been. This shows that God’s timing is perfect, and He provides the necessary empowerment for the mission. The lesson is that God works in His timing, and believers can trust Him to equip them for His purposes. 6. The Confirmation of God’s Will (Acts 10:47-48) – Peter’s recognition that the Gentiles have received the Holy Spirit as the Jews had (at Pentecost) confirms that God’s plan is to include all people in His salvation. This teaches that God’s will is revealed through the actions of the Holy Spirit and the unity of believers. It shows that God’s plan for salvation is broad and inclusive, and His purposes are always in line with His truth. In summary, Acts 10 teaches that the Gospel is for all people, not just for Jews; believers must overcome prejudices and be open to all; the Holy Spirit guides and empowers believers for mission; obedience and faith in Christ lead to salvation; God works in His perfect timing; and God’s plan includes everyone in His salvation, regardless of background or ethnicity.

New Testament Fellowship

2/14/2025, 5:17:28 AM

Acts 12 in the King James Version (KJV) recounts the persecution of the church, including the martyrdom of James, the imprisonment of Peter, and his miraculous escape. It also highlights the death of King Herod. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. God’s Power Over Persecution (Acts 12:1-19) – King Herod, seeking to please the Jews, persecutes the church by killing James and imprisoning Peter. However, Peter’s miraculous escape from prison, orchestrated by God through an angel, demonstrates that God is sovereign over all powers, including those who oppose His people. The lesson here is that, despite facing persecution or opposition, believers can trust that God has the ultimate power to protect and deliver them. 2. The Power of Prayer (Acts 12:5, 12-17) – While Peter is in prison, the church prays earnestly for him. God responds to their prayers by sending an angel to release Peter. This underscores the importance of persistent and fervent prayer. The lesson is that prayer is a powerful tool for believers, and God hears and answers the prayers of His people. It also teaches that even in the most difficult circumstances, prayer should be our first response. 3. God’s Timing and Deliverance (Acts 12:6-11) – Peter’s escape happens in God’s perfect timing. The chains fall off, the doors open, and Peter walks out of prison, free and unharmed. This shows that God’s deliverance is often at the right moment, even when situations seem hopeless. The lesson is that believers can trust in God’s timing for deliverance, even if the path to freedom seems uncertain or delayed. 4. The Dangers of Pride and Oppression (Acts 12:20-23) – King Herod, who sought glory for himself by persecuting the church, is struck down by God after he accepts the people’s praise as a god. This is a clear warning against pride, arrogance, and the abuse of power. The lesson is that God opposes prideful behavior and will not share His glory with anyone. Leaders and individuals must remain humble and recognize that all authority comes from God. 5. The Continued Growth of the Church (Acts 12:24) – Despite the persecution and challenges, the word of God continues to grow and spread. This teaches that, even in the face of opposition, God’s purposes cannot be thwarted. The lesson is that the church will continue to grow, and God’s plan will prevail, no matter the obstacles that may arise. In summary, Acts 12 teaches that God is sovereign over all persecution and opposition, the power of prayer in times of crisis, the importance of trusting in God’s perfect timing, the dangers of pride and arrogance, and the unstoppable growth of the church. It encourages believers to remain faithful, pray persistently, and trust in God’s protection and deliverance.

New Testament Fellowship

2/9/2025, 4:58:20 AM

Acts 8 in the King James Version (KJV) recounts the spread of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, the ministry of Philip, the conversion of Simon the Sorcerer, and the Ethiopian eunuch. The key lessons from this chapter include: 1. The Spread of the Gospel through Persecution (Acts 8:1-4) – After the martyrdom of Stephen, a great persecution arises against the church in Jerusalem, and believers are scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. This results in the Gospel being spread beyond Jerusalem. The lesson here is that God can use even persecution and suffering to advance His purposes. What appears to be a setback in human terms is often part of God’s plan to reach more people with the Gospel. 2. Evangelism and the Role of the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:5-8, 26-40) – Philip, empowered by the Holy Spirit, goes to Samaria and preaches the Gospel, resulting in many people being baptized. Later, the Holy Spirit directs him to the Ethiopian eunuch, leading to his conversion. This shows the importance of being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in evangelism. Believers are called to actively share the Gospel but must also listen for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to reach those who are ready to hear. 3. The Power of the Gospel to Transform Lives (Acts 8:9-13) – Simon the Sorcerer, a man who had previously amazed the people with his magic, comes to faith in Jesus after hearing Philip’s message. This demonstrates that the Gospel has the power to transform even the most seemingly hardened or spiritually deceived individuals. The lesson is that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace, and the Gospel can change anyone’s life, no matter their past. 4. True Conversion vs. False Conversion (Acts 8:18-24) – After seeing the apostles lay hands on people and them receiving the Holy Spirit, Simon offers money to gain this power. Peter rebukes him, pointing out that his heart is not right before God. This teaches that true conversion involves a genuine repentance and faith in Christ, not seeking to use God’s power for personal gain. The lesson is the importance of sincere faith and not treating the Gospel or the gifts of the Spirit as commodities. 5. The Importance of Baptism and Belief (Acts 8:36-38) – The Ethiopian eunuch is baptized by Philip after understanding and believing in Jesus Christ as the Savior. This shows that baptism is an essential step in the process of salvation for those who believe, and that it is important to ensure that a person fully understands the Gospel before being baptized. The lesson here is the importance of faith in Jesus as the foundation for baptism and salvation. 6. Obedience to God’s Calling (Acts 8:29-40) – Philip’s willingness to obey God’s call to approach the Ethiopian eunuch, despite it seeming like an unexpected or unusual task, highlights the importance of obedience in following God’s leading. The lesson is that believers are called to be obedient to the Holy Spirit, even when it leads them into unexpected opportunities for ministry. In summary, Acts 8 teaches that God uses both persecution and obedience to spread the Gospel, the power of the Holy Spirit in evangelism, the ability of the Gospel to transform lives, the importance of genuine conversion, the essential role of baptism, and the need for believers to be obedient to the Holy Spirit’s leading in their mission to share Christ.

New Testament Fellowship

2/7/2025, 4:58:06 AM

Acts 6 in the King James Version (KJV) introduces the appointment of deacons to address a practical issue in the early church and highlights the continuing growth of the church, as well as the ministry of Stephen. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. The Importance of Delegating Responsibilities (Acts 6:1-6) – The apostles face a situation where the distribution of food to widows is being neglected. To address this, they appoint seven men to serve as deacons, ensuring that the apostles can focus on prayer and the ministry of the word. The lesson here is that effective ministry requires delegation of responsibilities. Leaders should recognize when tasks are too overwhelming and share the workload to maintain focus on their primary calling. 2. Spiritual Leadership and Qualifications (Acts 6:3-5) – The apostles require that the men chosen as deacons be “full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom.” This emphasizes the importance of spiritual qualifications for leaders in the church. Leaders should be spiritually mature, wise, and filled with the Holy Spirit to effectively serve others and uphold the integrity of the ministry. 3. The Growth of the Church (Acts 6:7) – The appointment of the deacons allows the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word, leading to the continued growth of the church. This teaches that when the church operates in an organized and Spirit-filled manner, it can expand and reach more people. Proper structure and focus on the spiritual health of the church promote its growth and effectiveness in fulfilling the Great Commission. 4. The Ministry of Stephen (Acts 6:8-15) – Stephen, one of the newly appointed deacons, is described as “full of faith and power” and performs signs and wonders. When he faces opposition, he responds with wisdom and boldness, but is ultimately arrested and falsely accused. The lesson here is the importance of standing firm in the truth and being bold in sharing the Gospel, even in the face of persecution. It also highlights that God can use individuals in powerful ways, regardless of their role, when they are filled with the Holy Spirit. In summary, Acts 6 teaches the importance of delegating responsibilities within the church, the need for spiritually qualified leaders, the role of organizational structure in fostering church growth, and the courage to stand for the truth even when facing opposition. It encourages believers to serve in unity and wisdom, allowing God to use them in advancing His mission.

New Testament Fellowship

2/13/2025, 4:45:52 AM

Acts 11 in the King James Version (KJV) continues the story of the early church, focusing on Peter’s defense of his actions in sharing the Gospel with Gentiles, the expansion of the church, and the growth of the Christian community in Antioch. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. God’s Work is Bigger Than Our Expectations (Acts 11:1-18) – When Peter returns to Jerusalem, the Jewish believers criticize him for associating with Gentiles. Peter explains how God gave him a vision showing that the Gospel was for all people, and recounts the events of Cornelius’ conversion. The Holy Spirit’s outpouring on the Gentiles confirms that God has opened the door for them to receive salvation. The lesson here is that God’s work may sometimes exceed our understanding or expectations. We should remain open to His plan, even when it challenges our previous views or traditions. 2. The Importance of Accountability and Transparency (Acts 11:1-18) – When Peter is questioned by the believers in Jerusalem, he does not become defensive but shares his experience and explains his actions. This teaches the importance of accountability and being transparent in our actions, especially when we are led by the Holy Spirit in ways that may seem unconventional or challenging to others. It reminds us that honest discussion and clarity are important in the body of Christ. 3. The Universality of the Gospel (Acts 11:15-18) – Peter concludes that if God gave the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles, as He did to the Jews, then there should be no reason to oppose their inclusion in the faith. This confirms the lesson that the Gospel is for all people, and salvation is not limited to one ethnic group or nation. The message of Jesus Christ is universal, and believers should not show partiality based on race, culture, or background. 4. The Growth of the Church (Acts 11:19-26) – After the persecution that scattered the early believers, they continue to spread the Gospel, even to Gentiles in Antioch. Barnabas is sent to Antioch to encourage the new believers, and he brings Saul (Paul) to help teach. The church in Antioch becomes a center for Christian growth, and it is here that the disciples are first called “Christians.” The lesson here is that God’s Kingdom continues to grow, often in unexpected places. As the Gospel spreads, new communities of believers are formed, and believers are called to nurture and encourage one another in the faith. 5. Generosity and Compassion (Acts 11:27-30) – In response to a prophecy about a coming famine, the disciples in Antioch decide to send financial help to the believers in Judea. This demonstrates the early church’s commitment to generosity and caring for the needs of others, especially fellow believers. The lesson is the importance of being compassionate and generous, especially in times of need, and the call to support the global body of Christ in practical ways. In summary, Acts 11 teaches that God’s work often goes beyond our expectations, the importance of accountability and transparency, the universality of the Gospel, the continuous growth of the church through outreach, and the necessity of generosity and compassion toward others. It encourages believers to embrace God’s inclusive plan for salvation and to support one another in love and unity.

New Testament Fellowship

2/16/2025, 5:39:24 AM

Acts 14 in the King James Version (KJV) continues the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas, focusing on their experiences in Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe. They face both opposition and success, and the chapter also details the establishment of churches. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. Perseverance in the Face of Opposition (Acts 14:1-7) – In Iconium, Paul and Barnabas preach in the synagogue, and many believe, but others oppose them and try to harm them. Despite the opposition, they continue preaching. The lesson is that sharing the Gospel can invite resistance and persecution, but believers must persevere, trusting in God’s protection and continuing to boldly proclaim the truth. 2. God’s Power Confirms the Message (Acts 14:8-18) – In Lystra, Paul heals a crippled man, and the people mistake them for gods. Paul and Barnabas quickly correct them, pointing them to the one true God. This demonstrates that God sometimes uses signs and wonders to confirm the message of the Gospel and to point people toward the truth. The lesson is that God’s power is evident in His work, but the glory belongs to Him alone, and believers must be careful to give Him all the credit. 3. The Danger of Popularity and Misunderstanding (Acts 14:8-18) – When the people of Lystra mistake Paul and Barnabas for gods after the healing, they are in danger of being misled by their own praise and misunderstanding of the Gospel. Paul and Barnabas quickly redirect the attention to God. This teaches that believers must avoid seeking personal glory or letting the world misinterpret their actions. True servants of God must point people back to Christ and reject any form of idolatry. 4. Endurance in Ministry (Acts 14:19-23) – After Paul is stoned and left for dead in Lystra, he rises up and continues preaching in Derbe. Despite suffering, Paul and Barnabas remain faithful to their mission and return to strengthen the churches they’ve established. The lesson is that true discipleship requires endurance. The Christian life is not always easy, but it involves suffering, perseverance, and a commitment to building up others in the faith. 5. Strengthening and Encouraging the Believers (Acts 14:21-23) – After their experiences in these cities, Paul and Barnabas return to the churches they established to strengthen and encourage the believers. They appoint elders to lead these new churches. This shows the importance of ongoing discipleship, teaching, and leadership development in the life of the church. The lesson is that a thriving church is one that continues to grow, is led by faithful leaders, and encourages its members to stand firm in the faith. 6. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Ministry (Acts 14:26-27) – When Paul and Barnabas return to Antioch, they report all that God has done through them and how the Holy Spirit had opened the door for the Gentiles to hear the Gospel. This emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering ministry. The lesson is that effective ministry is led and sustained by the Holy Spirit, and believers must remain dependent on Him in all their work. 7. Rejoicing in God’s Faithfulness (Acts 14:27) – Paul and Barnabas give thanks to God for the work He has done, acknowledging that it was God’s faithfulness, not their own, that made their mission successful. The lesson here is the importance of giving God the glory for all successes and recognizing that everything is a result of His grace and power. In summary, Acts 14 teaches perseverance in the face of opposition, the importance of pointing people to God rather than seeking personal glory, endurance in ministry, the value of strengthening and encouraging believers, the central role of the Holy Spirit in ministry, and the necessity of rejoicing in God’s faithfulness. It calls believers to remain faithful, humble, and dependent on God as they carry out His mission.

New Testament Fellowship

2/15/2025, 3:05:48 AM

Acts 13 in the King James Version (KJV) details the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas, their preaching in various cities, and the challenges they face in spreading the Gospel. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. Obedience to God’s Calling (Acts 13:1-3) – The chapter begins with the church in Antioch fasting and praying, and the Holy Spirit instructs them to set apart Paul and Barnabas for a special mission. They are obedient to God’s call and are sent out. This teaches that believers must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s direction and obedient to God’s calling, even when it leads to new and uncertain paths. 2. The Importance of Proclaiming the Gospel Boldly (Acts 13:4-12) – As Paul and Barnabas travel through Cyprus, they encounter opposition from a sorcerer named Elymas. Paul confronts him boldly, demonstrating that the Gospel may face opposition, but believers must not be afraid to speak the truth. The lesson here is the need for boldness in proclaiming the Gospel, even in the face of opposition or challenges. 3. The Centrality of Jesus Christ in the Gospel Message (Acts 13:13-41) – Paul preaches in the synagogue in Antioch of Pisidia, recounting the history of Israel and showing that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises. He emphasizes that salvation is found only through Jesus Christ. This teaches that the message of salvation is centered on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and it must be the focus of the Gospel message. Believers must always point others to Christ as the way to salvation. 4. Facing Rejection and Persevering (Acts 13:42-46) – After preaching in Antioch, many Gentiles are interested in the message, but some Jews reject it. Paul and Barnabas boldly declare that they will turn to the Gentiles, as God has commanded them to bring the message of salvation to all people. The lesson is that rejection is a reality in evangelism, but believers are called to persevere and continue sharing the Gospel with others, regardless of who accepts or rejects it. 5. The Expanding Reach of the Gospel (Acts 13:47-52) – As Paul and Barnabas continue their mission, they face both rejection and success. Many Gentiles accept the message, and the disciples are filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. This teaches that the Gospel is for all people, and as believers remain faithful, the message will spread to new places and hearts. Even in the face of opposition, the church’s mission is unstoppable because it is empowered by the Holy Spirit. 6. Joy in the Face of Persecution (Acts 13:50-52) – Despite being driven out of Antioch, Paul and Barnabas are filled with joy and continue their mission, showing that the joy of the Lord is not dependent on circumstances. The lesson here is that believers should rejoice in their service to God, even when facing persecution or opposition, because they are part of God’s greater purpose. In summary, Acts 13 teaches the importance of being obedient to God’s calling, boldly proclaiming the Gospel, focusing on Jesus Christ in the message of salvation, persevering through rejection, spreading the Gospel to all people, and finding joy in service to God, regardless of the challenges faced. It encourages believers to remain faithful, bold, and joyful in their mission to spread the message of Jesus Christ.

New Testament Fellowship

2/6/2025, 4:36:14 AM

Acts 5 in the King James Version (KJV) contains significant events, including the story of Ananias and Sapphira, the apostles’ continued preaching and miraculous signs, and their arrest and persecution. Key lessons from this chapter include: 1. The Seriousness of Integrity and Honesty (Acts 5:1-11) – Ananias and Sapphira lie about the amount of money they donated to the apostles, pretending to give all of it while keeping part for themselves. As a result, both fall dead. This emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity before God. It teaches that sin, especially deceit, can have serious consequences, and that God values sincerity and truthfulness in our actions and offerings. 2. God’s Power and Authority in the Church (Acts 5:12-16) – The apostles perform many signs and wonders, leading to great numbers of people believing in Jesus. This shows that God’s power is at work in the church to confirm His message and demonstrate the truth of the Gospel. The lesson is that God’s power, through the Holy Spirit, is still active in the world, working through believers to heal, deliver, and bring others to faith. 3. Persecution for Faithfulness (Acts 5:17-42) – The apostles are arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin for preaching in Jesus’ name. However, they continue to boldly proclaim the Gospel, and God miraculously frees them from prison. The apostles are beaten, but they rejoice for being counted worthy to suffer for Christ’s name. The lesson is that faithfulness to God often leads to opposition and persecution, but believers should remain bold and faithful, trusting that suffering for Christ brings eternal rewards. 4. Obedience to God over Human Authority (Acts 5:29-32) – When the apostles are commanded to stop preaching in Jesus’ name, Peter and the apostles declare, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” This highlights the importance of prioritizing obedience to God over human authority, especially when those authorities go against God’s commands. The lesson teaches believers to stand firm in their commitment to God, even when facing opposition from secular or religious leaders. 5. The Importance of Perseverance in Mission (Acts 5:40-42) – After being released, the apostles continue to teach and preach about Jesus, despite their suffering. This teaches the importance of perseverance in the mission of the church. Believers are called to remain faithful to the Great Commission, even when facing challenges, persecution, or hardships. In summary, Acts 5 teaches lessons about the seriousness of integrity and honesty before God, the power of the Holy Spirit in confirming the Gospel, the inevitability of persecution for following Christ, the priority of obedience to God over human authority, and the perseverance required in fulfilling the mission of spreading the Gospel.

New Testament Fellowship

2/8/2025, 5:23:48 AM

Acts 7 in the King James Version (KJV) is the account of Stephen’s speech before the Sanhedrin, where he recounts the history of Israel and boldly defends his faith in Jesus Christ. It concludes with his martyrdom. The key lessons from this chapter include: 1. The Importance of Understanding God’s History and Plan (Acts 7:1-53) – Stephen recounts the history of Israel, beginning with Abraham, and highlights how God’s plan has unfolded through the patriarchs, the prophets, and Moses. He shows that God’s plan was not confined to the Jewish people alone, but was pointing toward the coming of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. The lesson here is the importance of understanding God’s redemptive history as revealed through Scripture, and recognizing how it points to Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises. 2. Faithfulness to God’s Calling (Acts 7:9-16) – Stephen reminds the council of the faithfulness of figures like Joseph and Moses, who, despite facing hardship and rejection, trusted in God’s calling. The lesson is that faithfulness to God’s calling, even in the midst of suffering or rejection, is crucial. God has a purpose for each believer, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. 3. The Rejection of God’s Messengers (Acts 7:51-53) – Stephen accuses the religious leaders of being “stiffnecked” and resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors resisted the prophets. He highlights that the rejection of God’s messengers (like Jesus) is a pattern throughout Israel’s history. The lesson here is the danger of hardening one’s heart and resisting the truth of God’s Word. It reminds believers to remain open to God’s guidance and not reject His message, whether through Scripture or the Holy Spirit. 4. Courage to Speak the Truth (Acts 7:54-60) – After his bold speech, Stephen is stoned to death, but before he dies, he sees a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Stephen’s courage to speak the truth, even in the face of persecution and death, serves as a powerful example for Christians. The lesson is the importance of boldly declaring the truth of the Gospel, regardless of the consequences, and trusting in God’s presence and strength in times of trial. 5. A Christ-like Attitude in the Face of Persecution (Acts 7:59-60) – As Stephen is being stoned, he prays for his persecutors, asking God to forgive them. This mirrors Jesus’ own words on the cross, “Father, forgive them.” The lesson is the call to forgive those who persecute us and to respond with grace and mercy, reflecting the heart of Christ in our actions, even when we face injustice. In summary, Acts 7 teaches the importance of understanding God’s redemptive history, remaining faithful to God’s calling, avoiding the hardening of the heart, boldly speaking the truth, and demonstrating a Christ-like attitude in the face of persecution. It encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, speak the truth, and love even those who oppose them.