Day 338 of My 5th Bible Study Journey

Day 338, 4 December 2025 - 12th Day of Advent  

1) Acts 20:7-38, Acts 21, Acts 22, Acts 23

Paul's Farewell Visit to Troas

7 (Ac 20:11; 1Co 16:2; Rev 1:10) On the first day of the week,
when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to leave
the next day, preached to them and continued his message until midnight.
8 (Ac 1:13) There were many lamps in the upper room where they were
assembled.
9 A young man named Eutychus sat in the window, falling into a deep sleep
as Paul spoke for a longer time. Being overcome by sleep, he fell down
from the third floor and was taken up dead.
10 (Mk 5:39; Mt 9:23-24) Paul went down and leaned over him, and embracing
him said, "Do not be troubled, for he is alive."
11 (Ac 20:7) When he had gone up and had broken bread and eaten,
he conversed for a long while until dawn and departed.
12 They took the lad in alive and were greatly comforted.

[7] And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to
break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and
continued his speech until midnight.
[8] And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were
gathered together.
[9] And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being
fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with
sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.
[10] And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble
not yourselves; for his life is in him.
[11] When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten,
and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.
[12] And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.

The Voyage From Troas to Miletus

13 We went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, intending to take
Paul on board there. For he had arranged this, intending to go on foot.
14 When he met us at Assos, we took him on board and went to Mitylene.
15 (Ac 20:17; 2Ti 4:20) The day after sailing from there we arrived off
Chios. And the next day we crossed over to Samos and stayed at Trogyllium,
and the following day we came to Miletus.
16 (Ac 2:1; 19:21) Paul had decided to sail by Ephesus, to avoid spending
time in Asia. For he was hurrying so he could be in Jerusalem, if
possible, on the day of Pentecost.

[13] And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to
take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.
[14] And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.
[15] And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the
next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we
came to Miletus.
[16] For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend
the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at
Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

Paul Speaks to the Ephesian Elders

17 (Ac 11:30; 14:23) From Miletus he sent to Ephesus for the elders
of the church.
18 (Ac 18:19; 19:1) When they came to him, he said to them,
"You know how I always lived among you from the first day that
I came to Asia,
19 (Ac 20:3; 20:31) serving the Lord with all humility
and with many tears and trials which befell me through
the plots of the Jews.
20 (Ac 20:27; 20:31) I did not keep from declaring what was beneficial
to you, and teaching you publicly and from house to house,
21 (Ac 2:38; 11:18; 20:24) testifying to both Jews and Greeks
of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
22 "Now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing
what shall befall me there,
23 (Ac 9:16; 21:4) except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every
city that imprisonment and afflictions await me.
24 (Ac 21:13; 2Co 4:1) But none of these things deter me. Nor do I count
my life of value to myself, so that I may joyfully finish my course
and the ministry which I have received from the Lord Jesus, to testify
to the gospel of the grace of God.
25 (Ac 28:31; Mt 4:23) "Now I know that all you, among whom I went
proclaiming the kingdom of God, will see my face no more.
26 (Ac 18:6) Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent
of the blood of all men.
27 (Ac 20:20; Lk 7:30) For I did not keep from declaring to you
the whole counsel of God.
28 (1Co 10:32; Isa 40:11) Therefore take heed to yourselves
and to the entire flock, over which the Holy Spirit has made you
overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased
with His own blood.
29 (Mt 7:15; Jn 10:12) For I know that after my departure,
dreadful wolves will enter among you, not sparing the flock.
30 (1Ti 1:19-20; 1Jn 2:19) Even from among you men will arise
speaking perverse things, to draw the disciples away after them.
31 (Ac 19:10; 19:8) Therefore watch, remembering that for three years
night and day I did not cease to warn everyone with tears.
32 (Ac 14:23; 26:18) "Now, brothers, I commend you to God and to the word
of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance
among all who are sanctified.
33 (1Co 9:12; 2Co 11:9) I have not coveted anyone's silver or gold or
clothing.
34 (Ac 18:3) Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided
for my necessities and for those who were with me.
35 (Pr 19:17; Mt 10:8) In all things I have shown you how, working like
this, you must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus,
how He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "
36 (Lk 22:41; Ac 21:5) Having said these things, he knelt down with all
of them and prayed.
37 (Lk 15:20; 2Ti 1:4) They all wept much and embraced Paul's neck
and kissed him,
38 (Ac 15:3; 20:25) grieving most over the words he spoke, that they were
to see his face no more. Then they escorted him to the ship.

[17] And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the
church.
[18] And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the
first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at
all seasons,
[19] Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and
temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
[20] And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have
shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,
[21] Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward
God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
[22] And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing
the things that shall befall me there:
[23] Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds
and afflictions abide me.
[24] But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto
myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I
have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
[25] And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching
the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
[26] Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood
of all men.
[27] For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
[28] Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the
which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God,
which he hath purchased with his own blood.
[29] For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in
among you, not sparing the flock.
[30] Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to
draw away disciples after them.
[31] Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I
ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
[32] And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace,
which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them
which are sanctified.
[33] I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.
[34] Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my
necessities, and to them that were with me.
[35] I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support
the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is
more blessed to give than to receive.
[36] And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
[37] And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,
[38] Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should
see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.

Acts 21

Paul's Journey to Jerusalem

1 When we had withdrawn from them and set sail, we went on a straight
course to Cos, the next day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara.
2 We found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, went aboard, and set sail.
3 (Mt 4:24; Ac 4:36) Having come in sight of Cyprus, we passed to the
south of it and sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre, for there the ship's
cargo was to be unloaded.
4 When we found the disciples, we remained there
seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.
5 (Ac 20:36; 9:40) But when our days were over, we parted and traveled on.
Everyone, with wives and children, escorted us until we were outside
the city. And we knelt on the shore and prayed.
6 (Jn 19:27) After bidding farewell to one another, we boarded the ship,
and they returned home.
7 We finished the voyage from Tyre when we landed at Ptolemais,
where we greeted the brothers and stayed with them for one day.
8 (Ac 6:5; Eph 4:11; 2Ti 4:5) The next day we who were Paul's companions
departed, and arrived at Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip
the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him.
9 (Ac 2:17; Lk 2:36) He had four virgin daughters who prophesied.
10 (Ac 11:28) While we stayed there many days, a prophet named Agabus
came down from Judea.
11 (Ac 21:33; Jer 13:1-11; 1Sa 15:27-28) When he had arrived, he took
Paul's belt and bound his own hands and feet, saying, "The Holy Spirit
says, 'In this manner the Jews at Jerusalem shall bind the man who owns
this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.' "
12 (Mt 16:21-23) When we heard these things, both we and the residents
implored him not to go up to Jerusalem.
13 (Ac 20:24; Php 2:17) Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping
and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned, but also
to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
14 (Mt 6:10; Lk 22:42) When he would not be persuaded, we kept silent
and said, "Let the will of the Lord be done."
15 After those days we got ready and went up to Jerusalem.
16 Some of the disciples from Caesarea went with us and brought
with them Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we should lodge.

[1] And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had
launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following
unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:
[2] And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set
forth.
[3] Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and
sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her
burden.
[4] And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul
through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.
[5] And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way;
and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were
out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.
[6] And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they
returned home again.
[7] And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and
saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
[8] And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto
Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was
one of the seven; and abode with him.
[9] And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
[10] And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a
certain prophet, named Agabus.
[11] And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own
hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at
Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into
the hands of the Gentiles.
[12] And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place,
besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.
[13] Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I
am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of
the Lord Jesus.
[14] And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the
Lord be done.
[15] And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to
Jerusalem.
[16] There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and
brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should
lodge.

Paul Visits James

17 (Ac 15:4) When we had come to Jerusalem, the brothers received us gladly.
18 (Ac 11:30; 15:13) On the next day Paul went with us to James, and all
the elders were present.
19 (Ac 1:17; 14:27) He greeted them and recounted one by one what God
had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.
20 (Ac 22:3; Ro 10:2) When they heard this, they glorified the Lord.
Then they said to him, "You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews
there are who believe, and they are all zealous for the law.
21 (Ac 21:28) They have been informed concerning you that you teach
all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them
not to circumcise their children nor to observe the customs.
22 What then shall be done? The assembly will certainly meet, for they
will hear that you have come.
23 (Ac 18:18) Therefore do what we tell you. We have four men who have
taken a vow.
24 (Ac 21:26; 24:18) Take these men and be purified with them, and pay
their expenses so that they may have their heads shaved. Then all will
know that what they were told concerning you is nothing, but that you
yourself live in observance of the law.
25 (Ac 15:29) As for the Gentiles who believe, we have written and
concluded that they should observe no such thing, except that they abstain
from food offered to idols, from sexual immorality, from strangled
animals, and from blood."
26 (Ac 24:18; Nu 6:13-20) Then on the next day, Paul took the men
and purified himself with them. And he went into the temple, announcing
when the days of purification would be complete and an offering would
be given for each one of them.

[17] And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.
[18] And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the
elders were present.
[19] And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God
had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.
[20] And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him,
Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and
they are all zealous of the law:
[21] And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which
are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to
circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.
[22] What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they
will hear that thou art come.
[23] Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a
vow on them;
[24] Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them,
that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof
they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also
walkest orderly, and keepest the law.
[25] As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded
that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from
things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from
fornication.
[26] Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them
entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of
purifcation, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.

Paul Arrested in the Temple

27 (Ac 24:18; 26:21) When the seven days were nearly concluded, the Jews
from Asia saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people,
and laid hands on him,
28 (Ac 24:5-6; 21:21) crying out, "Men of Israel, help! This is the man
teaching all men everywhere against the people and the law and this place.
He even brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place."
29 (Ac 20:4) For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the
city with him, whom they supposed Paul had brought into the temple.
30 (Ac 26:21) Then the whole city was provoked, and the people ran
together. They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple.
And immediately the doors were shut.
31 While they were trying to kill him, news came up to the commander
(Gk. chiliarch, a battalion commander
with the rank of lieutenant colonel over 1,000 soldiers.)
of the battalion of soldiers that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.
32 (Ac 23:27) He at once took soldiers and centurions, and ran down
to them. When they saw the commander and the soldiers,
they stopped beating Paul.
33 (Ac 12:6; 20:23) Then the commander came and arrested him, and ordered
that he be bound with two chains. Then he asked who he was
and what he had done.
34 (Ac 19:32; 23:10) Some in the crowd shouted one thing, some another.
As he could not learn the truth because of the uproar,
he commanded that he be brought into the barracks.
35 When he came onto the stairs, he was carried by the soldiers
because of the violence of the people.
36 (Lk 23:18; Jn 19:15) For the mob of people followed, crying out,
"Away with him!"

[27] And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia,
when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands
on him,
[28] Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men
every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further
brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.
[29] (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian,
whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)
[30] And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took
Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.
[31] And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain
of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.
[32] Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them:
and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of
Paul.
[33] Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be
bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.
[34] And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when
he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be
carried into the castle.
[35] And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the
soldiers for the violence of the people.
[36] For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him. 
Paul Defends Himself

37 As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks,
he said to the commander, "May I speak to you?"
He replied, "Do you know how to speak Greek?
38 (Mt 24:26A) Are you not the Egyptian who in past days caused an uproar
and led the four thousand men of the Sicarii (Or men of the Assassins.)
out into the wilderness?"
39 (Ac 9:11; 22:3) Paul said, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus of Cilicia, a
citizen of no common city. I beg of you, permit me to speak to the people."
40 (Ac 12:17; Jn 5:2) When he had given him permission, Paul stood on the
stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. When there was great
silence, he addressed them in the Hebrew language, saying,

[37] And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief
captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?
[38] Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar,
and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?
[39] But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia,
a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the
people.
[40] And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and
beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great
silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,

Acts 22

1 (Ac 7:2) "Brothers and fathers, hear my defense which I now make to you."
2 (Ac 21:40) When they heard that he addressed them in the Hebrew
language, they became even more quiet.
Then he said,
3 (Ac 9:11; 5:34; 21:20) "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but
brought up in this city. At the feet of Gamaliel I was trained in the
strict tradition of the law of the fathers, being zealous toward God as
you all are today.
4 (Ac 22:19-20; 26:9-11) I persecuted this Way to the death,
arresting and imprisoning both men and women,
5 (Lk 22:66; Ac 9:1-2) as even the high priest and the council of elders
bear witness of me. From them I received letters to the brothers in
Damascus, where I went to take even those who were there and lead them in
chains to Jerusalem to be punished.

[1] Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto
you.
[2] (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they
kept the more silence: and he saith,)
[3] I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet
brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the
perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye
all are this day.
[4] And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into
prisons both men and women.
[5] As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the
elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to
Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be
punished.

Paul Tells of His Conversion

Ac 9:1-19; 26:12-18

6 "As I journeyed and came near Damascus, about noon suddenly a great
light from heaven shone around me.
7 I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me,
'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?'
8 "I answered, 'Who are You, Lord?'
"He said to me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.'
9 (Ac 9:7; Da 10:7) Those who were with me saw the light and were afraid,
but they did not hear the voice of Him who was speaking to me.
10 (Ac 16:30) "I said, 'What shall I do, Lord?'
"The Lord said to me, 'Rise and go into Damascus. There you will be told
what you have been appointed to do.'
11 Since I was blinded by the glory of that light, those who were with me
led me by the hand into Damascus.
12 (Ac 10:22; 6:3) "Ananias, a devout man according to the law,
who was well spoken of by all the Jews living there,
13 came and stood by me, and said, 'Brother Saul, receive your sight.'
And at that moment I looked up at him.
14 (Ac 26:16; 1Co 9:1; 15:8) "Then he said, 'The God of our fathers has
appointed you to know His will and to see the Just One and to hear His
voice,
15 (Ac 23:11; 4:20) for you will be His witness to all men of what you
have seen and heard.
16 (Ac 2:38; Heb 10:22; 1Co 6:11) And now why do you wait? Rise, be
baptized and wash away your sins, and call on the name of the Lord.'

[6] And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto
Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round
about me.
[7] And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul,
Saul, why persecutest thou me?
[8] And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of
Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.
[9] And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but
they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.
[10] And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise,
and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which
are appointed for thee to do.
[11] And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the
hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.
[12] And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good
report of all the Jews which dwelt there,
[13] Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy
sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.
[14] And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou
shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice
of his mouth.
[15] For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and
heard.
[16] And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy
sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

Paul Sent to the Gentiles

17 (2Co 12:1-4) "When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying
in the temple, I fell into a trance
18 and saw Him saying to me, 'Hurry! Get out of Jerusalem immediately,
for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.'
19 (Mt 10:17; Ac 22:4) "I said, 'Lord, they know that I imprisoned
and beat those who believed in You in every synagogue.
20 (Ac 7:58; 8:1) And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed,
I was standing by consenting to his death, guarding the clothes
of those who killed him.'
21 (Ac 9:15) "Then He said to me, 'Depart, for I will send you far away
to the Gentiles.' "

[17] And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even
while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;
[18] And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of
Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.
[19] And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every
synagogue them that believed on thee:
[20] And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing
by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew
him.
[21] And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the
Gentiles.

Paul and the Roman Commander

22 (Ac 25:24; 21:36) They listened to him up to this word, and then
they lifted up their voices and said, "Away with such a man from
the earth, for he is not fit to live!"
23 As they shouted and threw off their garments and threw dust into the air,
24 (Ac 21:34; 23:10) the commander ordered him to be brought
into the barracks and examined with scourging, so that he might learn
what crime they were alleging against him.
25 (Ac 16:37) As they stretched him forward with straps, Paul said
to the centurion standing by, "Is it legal for you to flog
an uncondemned Roman citizen?"
26 On hearing this, the centurion reported to the commander, saying,
"What are you doing? This man is a Roman citizen."
27 The commander came and said to him, "Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?"
He said, "Yes."
28 The commander answered, "I bought my citizenship for a large sum."
So Paul said, "But I was born a citizen."
29 Therefore those who were about to examine Paul immediately backed away
from him. And the commander feared, knowing that he was a Roman citizen
and because he had bound him.

[22] And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their
voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit
that he should live.
[23] And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into
the air,
[24] The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade
that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they
cried so against him.
[25] And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that
stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and
uncondemned?
[26] When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain,
saying, Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman.
[27] Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a
Roman? He said, Yea.
[28] And the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this
freedom. And Paul said, But I was free born.
[29] Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him:
and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman,
and because he had bound him.

Paul Before the Sanhedrin

30 (Ac 23:28; 21:33) On the next day, desiring to know exactly
why he was accused by the Jews, he released him and ordered the chief
priests and all the Sanhedrin to assemble,
and he brought Paul down to stand before them.

[30] On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he
was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the
chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and
set him before them.

Acts 23

1 (Ac 24:16; 2Co 1:12) Paul looked at the Sanhedrin and said,
"Brothers, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day."
2 (Ac 24:1; Jn 18:22) The high priest Ananias ordered those who stood
by him to strike him on the mouth.
3 (Jn 7:51; Dt 25:1-2) Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you,
you whitewashed wall! Do you sit judging me according to the law,
yet order me to be struck contrary to the law?"
4 Those who stood by said, "Do you criticize God's high priest?"
5 (Ex 22:28) Paul said, "Brothers, I did not know that he was
the high priest. For it is written,
'You shall not speak evil of the ruler of your people.'(Ex 22:28.)"
6 (Ac 24:15; 24:21) Then Paul, knowing that one sect were Sadducees
and the other Pharisees, cried out among the Sanhedrin,
"Brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of a Pharisee. I am being judged
for my hope in the resurrection of the dead."
7 When he had said this, dissension arose between the Pharisees
and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided.
8 (Mt 22:23; Lk 20:27) For the Sadducees say that there is
no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit. But the Pharisees acknowledge
them all.
9 (Ac 22:7; 22:17-18) There was a great outcry. The scribes that were
from the sect of Pharisees stood up and argued,
"We find no evil in this man. But if a spirit or an angel has spoken
to him, let us not fight against God."
10 (Ac 22:24) When much dissension arose, fearing that Paul would be torn
to pieces by them, the commander ordered the soldiers to go down and take
him from them by force and bring him into the barracks.
11 (Ac 18:9; 19:21) The following night the Lord stood by him and said,
"Take courage, Paul. For as you have testified about Me in Jerusalem,
so you must also testify at Rome."

1 And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have
lived in all good conscience before God until this day.
2 And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him
on the mouth.
3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for
sittest thou to judge me after the law,
and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?
4 And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?
5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest:
for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.
6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other
Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee,
the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called
in question.
7 And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees
and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.
8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor
spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.
9 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees'
part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a
spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.
10 And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest
Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go
down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the
castle.
11 And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer,
Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear
witness also at Rome.

The Plot Against Paul's Life

12 (Ac 23:21; 23:30) At daybreak some of the Jews conspired under oath,
saying they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul.
13 There were more than forty who had conspired.
14 They went to the chief priests and elders and said,
"We have bound ourselves under oath not to eat until we have killed Paul.
15 So now, with the Sanhedrin, tell the commander to bring him down to you
tomorrow, pretending to inquire further concerning him. We are ready to
kill him before he arrives."
16 (Ac 23:10) But when the son of Paul's sister heard of the treachery,
he went and entered the barracks and told Paul.
17 Then Paul called one of the centurions over and said,
"Take this young man to the commander, for he has something to tell him."
18 (Eph 3:1) So he took him to the commander and said, "Paul the prisoner
sent for me and asked me to bring you this young man who has something
to tell you."
19 Then the commander took him by the hand, went aside privately,
and asked him, "What is it you have to tell me?"
20 (Ac 23:14-15)The boy said, "The Jews have agreed to ask you
to bring Paul down tomorrow to the Sanhedrin, pretending to inquire
further concerning him.
21 (Ac 23:12-14) Do not trust them. More than forty men, who have bound
themselves with an oath to neither eat nor drink until they have killed
him, are waiting for him. And now they are ready, waiting for your
promise."
22 The commander dismissed the young man and ordered him,
"Tell no one that you have reported these things to me."

12 And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound
themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink
till they had killed Paul.
13 And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy.
14 And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have
bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we
have slain Paul.
15 Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he
bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something
more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near,
are ready to kill him.
16 And when Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went a
nd entered into the castle, and told Paul.
17 Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this
young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.
18 So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said, Paul the
prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee,
who hath something to say unto thee.
19 Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside
privately, and asked him, What is that thou hast to tell me?
20 And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring
down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat
of him more perfectly.
21 But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them
more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will
neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready,
looking for a promise from thee.
22 So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him,
See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.

Paul Sent to Felix the Governor

23 Then he summoned two centurions and said,
"Prepare two hundred infantrymen, seventy mounted soldiers,
and two hundred light infantrymen with spears to go to Caes­area
at the third hour of the night.
24 (Ac 23:26; 24:10) And provide mounts so Paul may ride
and take him safely to Felix the governor."
25 He wrote a letter that went like this:
26 (Ac 15:23; Lk 1:3) Claudius Lysias,
To His Excellency Governor Felix:
Greetings.
27 (Ac 22:25-29) This man was seized by the Jews
and was about to be killed by them. When I learned that he was
a Roman citizen, I came with soldiers and rescued him.
28 (Ac 22:30) Being minded to learn what crime they alleged,
I took him to their Sanhedrin.
29 (Ac 18:15; 26:31) I found him being accused of controversial matters
about their law, but charged with nothing worthy of death or imprisonment.
30 (Ac 23:20; 23:35) When it was revealed to me that there was a plot
against the man, at once I sent him to you and ordered the accusers
to state before you their charges against him.
Farewell.

23 And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred
soldiers to go to Cæsarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two
hundred, at the third hour of the night;
24 and provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe
unto Felix the governor.
25 And he wrote a letter after this manner:
26 Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.
27 This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then
came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.
28 And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought
him forth into their council:
29 whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have
nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.
30 And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent
straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say
before thee what they had against him. Farewell.

31 So the soldiers, according to their orders, took Paul by night
to Antipatris.
32 The next day they let the cavalry depart with him
and they returned to the barracks.
33 When they arrived in Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor,
they presented Paul also to him.
34 (Ac 21:39; 25:1) Upon reading the letter, the governor asked what
province he was from. When he learned that he was from Cilicia,
35 (Ac 23:30; 25:16) he said, "I will hear you when your accusers
also arrive." And he ordered that he be guarded in Herod's Praetorium.

31 Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him
by night to Antipatris.
32 On the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him,
and returned to the castle:
33 who, when they came to Cæsarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor,
presented Paul also before him.
34 And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he
was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;
35 I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come.
And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.

2) Our Daily Bread for 4 December 2025 Titled
<a href="https://www.odbm.org/en/devotionals/devotional-category
/believing-more-than-we-see"> Believing More Than We See </a> by
Winn Collier

Hebrews 11:1-4

1 (2Co 4:18; 5:7) Now faith is the substance of things hoped for,
the evidence of things not seen.
2 For by it the men of old obtained a good report.
3 (Jn 1:3; Ro 4:17) By faith we understand that the universe was framed
by the word of God, so that things that are seen were not made
out of things which are visible.
4 (Mt 23:35; Heb 12:24) By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent
sacrifice than Cain offered. Through this he was approved as righteous,
with God testifying concerning his gifts. He still speaks through his
faith, though he is dead.

[1] Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things
not seen.
[2] For by it the elders obtained a good report.
[3] Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of
God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
[4] By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by
which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his
gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

In the late nineteenth century, few people had access to the great sequoia 
groves in the United States, and many didn't believe the reports of the 
massive trees. In 1892, however, four lumberjacks ventured into the Big Stump 
Forest in California and spent thirteen days felling the grand tree named 
Mark Twain. Twain was 1341 years old, 300 feet tall, and 50 feet 
in circumference. One observer described Twain as a tree "of magnificent 
proportions, one of the most perfect trees in the grove." They shipped part 
of this remarkable beauty, now destroyed, to the American Museum of Natural 
History, where everyone could see a sequoia.

The reality, though, is that we can't prove every truth with our eyes alone. 
Hebrews describes faith as "confidence in what we hope for and assurance 
about what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1). Faith isn’t irrational or a fit of 
fancy, because the whole story is grounded in a person - Jesus - who has 
entered human history. Faith includes human senses and reason, but it's not 
limited to them. Faith requires more. "By faith we understand that the 
universe was formed at God's command" Hebrews says, "so that what is seen was 
not made out of what was visible" (v. 3).

It's often difficult to trust what we can’t touch or see or completely 
comprehend. But our faith in Christ, made possible by the Spirit, 
helps us to believe more than we can see.

Reflect & Pray

Where do you struggle with faith? How can you trust God more confidently?

Dear God, please help me to believe and have confidence in You.

<a href="https://www.odbm.org/en/spiritual-beliefs
/the-bible-biblical-study/faith-that-endures">
Learn more about Hebrews 11 and faith by reading Faith that Endures.</a>

3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation

Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools

Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 5 - 1 John 1:9

9 (Ps 32:5; Pr 28:13) If we confess our sins, He is faithful
and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive
us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

"If God already knows everything about me, everything I've done,
then why do I need to confess it?" Grant struggled with a common
dilemma for many Christians. Indeed, God, knew all his sin - much
better than Grant did himself. But Grant needed to confess,
not for God's benefit, but for his own. Grant needed to agree with God
that his sin was wrong, and put himself in a position to receive God's
grace in forgiveness.
1 John 1:9 make the process quit clear. We confess,
and God forgives and cleanses. Many of us, however, want to take on
God's part as well. We confess, agreeing with God that our sin is wrong.
But then we proceed to try to 'clean up our act,'bargaining with God,
promising that if he will forgive us just this once,
we won't ever to it again.
The problem is, we can never keep such a promise.
We probably will do it again, and then we are back where we started,
begging for forgiveness, and trying once more to cleanse
ourselves for our unrighteousness.
God offers freedom from such futile performance. He says, "Just confess.
Agree that you sinned. Submit yourself to me. Then I'll take over from there."
God's grace does not give us freedom to keep on sinning, of course - we need
to cooperate with the work of his Spirit in our lives and do all we can
to avoid sin. But we do not have to beg God for forgiveness - forgiveness
is offered to us freely.
We do not have to clean up out act before God will accept us; God can make
the necessary changes in our lives. When we confess, submit ourselves to God,
and allow him to work within us, he is able both to forgive us and to cleanse
us from unrighteousness.

Application

a) In what ways have I bartered with God and tried to "Clean up my act"
in order to deserve his forgiveness?

b) What is my part in confession? What is God's response?
Why it is important for me to recognize God's part in my
confession and forgiveness?

4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland

Joshua 1:5

5 (Dt 7:24; 31:6-8) No man will be able to stand against you all the days 
of your life. As I was with Moses, I will be with you. I will not 
abandon you. I will not leave you.

5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy 
life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, 
nor forsake thee.

5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:

God's Help in Times of Temptation

1 Cor 10:1-13

1 Corinthians 10

Warning Against Idolatry

1 (Ex 14:29; Ps 66:6) I would not want you to be unaware that
all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea,
2 and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 (Ex 16:35; Dt 8:3) all ate the same spiritual food;
4 (Ex 17:6; Nu 20:11) and all drank the same spiritual drink,
for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them,
and that Rock was Christ.
5 (Heb 3:17; Jude 1:5) But with many of them God was not well pleased,
and they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 (Nu 11:4; 1Co 10:11) Now these things were our examples to the intent
that we should not lust after evil things as they lusted.
7 (Ex 32:19; 32:4) Neither be idolaters as were some of them.
As it is written,
"The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to revel." (Ex 32:6. )
8 (Nu 25:1-9; 1Co 6:18) Neither let us commit sexual immorality as some
of them committed, when 23000 fell in one day.
9 (Nu 21:5-6; Ex 17:2) Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them
also tempted and were destroyed by serpents.
10 (Ex 12:23; Nu 16:41) Neither murmur, as some of them also murmured
and were destroyed by the destroyer.
11 (Ro 13:11) Now all these things happened to them for examples.
They are written as an admonition to us,
upon whom the end of the ages has come.
12 (Ro 11:20) Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed,
lest he fall.
13 (1Co 1:9; 2Pe 2:9) No temptation has taken you except what is common
to man. God is faithful, and He will not permit you to be tempted above
what you can endure, but will with the temptation also make a way
to escape, that you may be able to bear it.

1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all
our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
2 and were all baptised unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 and did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4 and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that
spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
5 But with many of them God was not well pleased:
for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust
after evil things, as they also lusted.
7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written,
The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed,
and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted,
and were destroyed of serpents.
10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured,
and were destroyed of the destroyer.
11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples:
and they are written for our admonition,
upon whom the ends of the world are come.
12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man:
but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted
above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also
make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

Remember God's promises when You pray

The Lord's prayer

Matthew 6:9-13


9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."

9 After this manner therefore pray ye: 
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. 
11 Give us this day our daily bread. 
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: 
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.


6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)

The Northern Territories of Canada

Yukon

Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69

In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.

Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.

Northwest Territories (NWT)

NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473

The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.

Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.

Nunavut (NU)

NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86

The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."

Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel. 

Adding further

30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020

Under the Keep Praying page

When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.

Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."

Peter's Speech at Pentecost

14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'

- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.

- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.

Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."

Ideas for prayer

- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!

My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity

(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...) 

7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada

http://www.ehc.ca

4nd Day of the Month

a) Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada
(Prov 14:34 - Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin is a reproach to any people.

34 Righteousness exalteth a nation:
But sin is a reproach to any people.

)

b) Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right
use of power and the right stewardship of their positions. 

Advent Day 12

From C.S.Lewis A Grand miracle by Joel Heck

Thursday, Second Week of Advent


"The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God. 
We do not know... how things would have worked if the
human race had never rebelled against God and joined the enemy....
You and I are concerned with the way things work now."

- C. S. Lewis

(Read this and more in Mere Christianity, p. 178.)

Why Did He Do It?

Have you ever noticed that children have so many of the same mannerisms as
their parents? They walk, gesture, and even laugh like their parents. 
Children also mimic the bad traits of their par­ents, but it is a great 
compliment to parents that their sons and daughters are like them.

Why did the Son of God become one of us? Certainly not for his own benefit. 
John says it this way, "But to as many as received him, to them he gave power 
to become the sons of God." Lewis says it similarly, "The Son of God became a 
man to enable men to become the sons of God." God didn't become a man to 
impress anyone, least of all us. God was in the business of raising up us men 
and women to become like him, people who walk in his ways, who act like he 
acted and do what he did. Jesus became like us so that we might become like 
him.

Parents want their children to grow up to be like them. Setting aside our 
faults for the moment, it is better for them to become like us than to stay 
children. That is also our Father's intent for us. At times, it is painful 
when God molds and shapes us to be conformed to the image of his Son. But we 
become more ourselves when we become like him.

Prayer:

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become your sons and 
daughters. Amen.

Verses:

12 Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,
to those who believed in His name,

John 1:12,

10 (Eph 2:10; 4:23-24; Ro 12:2)and have embraced the new nature,
which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him who created it,

Col. 3:10

From Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn

THURSDAY, SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT

Benediction

Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

-Luke 1:42

Mary must have had multiple motives. Soon after she had received
the angel Gabriel's proclamation, she hastened
to the town where Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth lived.
Probably she went to see for herself that Elizabeth, too, was pregnant.
Perhaps she went, with great love for her relative, to give her assistance
in her last months. Maybe she grasped she would need the practice
of helping to deliver a child.

She travelled a long way-from Nazareth of Galilee in the north
to the hill country of the southern province, Judea-so she had ample
time to ponder all the news Gabriel had given. She had accepted
the LORD's will, and now she had time to comprehend more thoroughly
what it all meant.

Elizabeth's greetings were rapturous. The babe leaped, and she was filled
with the Holy Spirit, so she cried out joyously, "Blessed are you ...
and the fruit of your womb." How much that must have emboldened Mary!

Prayer

Thank you, God, that these two women had each other! Amen.


Read Luke 1:39-45.

Mary Visits Elizabeth

39 In those days Mary arose and quickly went into the hill country,
to a city of Judah,
40 and entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.
41 When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped
in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
42 She spoke out with a loud voice, "Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb!
43 But why is this granted to me,
that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44 Indeed, as soon as the sound of your greeting came to my ears,
the baby in my womb leaped for joy.
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion
to those things which were told her by the Lord."

From The AH-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler

SECOND THURSDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and AWARENESS!

4 (Mk 1:15; Jn 1:14; Ge 3:15) But when the fullness of time came,
God sent forth His Son, born from a woman, born under the law,
GALATIANS 4:4

It is hard not to be aware that something is happening during these
weeks before Christmas. isn't it? Whether one is a Christian or not, things
are simply different. Take a look around: sparkling, flashing lights on homes
and lawns, halls decked with boughs of holly, a lot of fa-la-la-ing going
on, little kids and bored dads standing in line to see an old fat guy, store
owners singing their favorite carol: What a Friend We Have in Jesus
and on and on and on. I just read of a town that prohibited the Salvation
Army from having their traditional Santa's ringing bells outside of stores,
because of a noise pollution ordinance. o a smart marketing person
made two signs for the Santa's to hold up. One said "Ding" and the other
said "Dong.' Now that's awareness!

So what's the point? The point is that unless we become intentionally
aware of what Advent and Christmas are all about. we will miss the point!

Today's reading is the point: When it was time, God sent Jesus unto the
world! Perhaps this message has been heard and used so much that it is
hard to keep aware of the meaning of Christmas: God loves us so much
that Jesus was born, died and rose again for us! Sure, go ahead and
wrap gifts. put trees up, bake cookies, say "ho. ho. ho." But as you do so,
continue to be aware that Christ is Christmas ... period! Please do not be
like a friend who says. "Keep Christ in Xmas!" He still doesn't get it!

Prayer

Lord. it was time, and so you came to us. Help us during this Advent
season to be aware that you are already with us, even in the turmoil
and rush of the season. And help us to be ambassadors of your
awareness--an awareness of us and of all people.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!

Read Galatians 4:4-5

4 (Mk 1:15; Jn 1:14; Ge 3:15) But when the fullness of time came,
God sent forth His Son, born from a woman, born under the law,
5 (Gal 3:26; Jn 1:12) to redeem those who were under the law,
that we might receive the adoption as sons.

From <a href="https://oneagleswings.ca"> On Eagle's wings</a> Day 4

God Has The Best Plans

5 (Ps 37:3; 37:5) Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 (1Ch 28:9; Pr 16:3; Jer 10:23) in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 (MEV)

"5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart;
And lean not unto thine own understanding.
6 In all thy ways acknowledge him,
And he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

In late September, a group of nine from our church embarked on a
car journey to Fort Smith, Northwest Territories to lead a Bible
Camp for children aged 5 to 11. As a grandmother of five and
someone who loves children, I looked forward to a wonderful week
with the kids - perhaps up to 30 of them. I was eager to share
stories, build connections, and meet a few more grandmothers too.
However, God's plan was different from what I had envisioned. The
only grandmothers I encountered were two I introduced myself to
at the grocery store, and not as many children as we had planned
for attended our camp. When it became clear the week would not
unfold as I had pictured in my mind, I prayed for guidance and
wisdom so I could switch gears and adapt to the new
circumstances.
Joseph and Mary had to trust in the Lord our God for their journey
as well. Joseph wanted to release Mary from their engagement
when he found out she was with child. After he heard from God, he
had to switch gears. Together they had to trust when they were
required to make a sudden and unexpected journey to Bethlehem.
A trip that meant Jesus would be born far away from home.
Joseph and Mary submitted their ways to God and placed their
total trust in the Lord even though their circumstances were vastly
different from what they had imagined. Similarly, we can place our
trust in God and his plan even when things don’t go the way we
expect them to. God’s plan is always the best!

Wendy Mather
Bible Camp Volunteer 8
 
Conclusion:

Pray to the Lord and pray to be a bold witness about your salvation despite 
persecution. 

Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, please help me to believe and have confidence 
in You."

Pray to the Lord and pray to confess all your sins to seek His forgiveness.

Pray to the Lord and pray to know the Lord is always with you.

Pray to the Lord and pray for His help during Times of Tmeptation.

Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.

Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ. 

Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel. 

- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people - 
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims 
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days! 

Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada

Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right
use of power and the right stewardship of their positions. 

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become 
your sons and daughters. Amen.

Thank you, God, that these two women had each other! Amen.

Pray: Lord. it was time, and so you came to us. Help us during this Advent
season to be aware that you are already with us, even in the turmoil
and rush of the season. And help us to be ambassadors of your
awareness--an awareness of us and of all people.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!  

Pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for helping us find your plan for our
lives. Thank you that through prayer, worship, and submission to
you, we can adapt to the plans you have for us. Please lead and
guide us this Advent and beyond. Amen.

Pray for joy and peace on behalf of Christians like Abdu 
in Ethiopia who have suffered greatly for leaving Islam.

Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.

Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
-- 
Member - Liberal International This is [email protected] Ici [email protected]
Yahweh, King & country!Never Satan President Republic!Beware AntiChrist rising!
Look at Psalms 14 and 53 on Atheism ;
Merry Christmas 2025 and Happy New Year 2026