Be Courageous - Capitol Commission
Tuesday, 1st of August 2017
Capitol Commission Georgia
Be Courageous
Ron J. Bigalke, Ph.D. P.O. Box 244, Rincon, GA 31326-0244 (912) 659-4212 [email protected]
CAPITOL BIBLE STUDY
monthly (interim) schedule first Tuesday of the month TUESDAY, 1 AUGUST 2017 12 NOON in 123 CAP Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Studies are held the first Tuesday of each month at 12 Noon, in accordance with the Public Service Commission devotional at 9:55am. The monthly Bible study is nonpartisan and non-denominational. In lieu of Labor Day, the next Bible Study will be Thursday, 9/7. The current Bible study is the continuation of an exposition in the first part of the book of Acts (chs. 1—12). You can find archives of past Bible studies (beginning with 2010) at http://www.capitolcom.org/georgia /studies. I pray that this study will be edifying to you. My sole intent in this ministry is to serve you, and to be a resource to you for pastoral care, counsel, and prayer. Please accept my study in the Word of God as evidence of my desire to serve you. – Dr. Ron J. Bigalke, Georgia State Minister, Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study is
Tuesday, 1 August 2017 Acts 4 – “Be Courageous” Have you ever been asked to do something, yet your heart was not wholly committed to the task? During the Spanish-American War, the Navy rechristened two captured ships as the Harvard and the Yale. The Navy liked the names so much that when Admiral Dewey captured the Spanish fleet, he was instructed to continue renaming the captured ships with the names of American universities. Apparently, the Admiral did not favor the idea, which is obvious in his clever recommendation for a future nomenclature. Secretary of the Navy Long had been much interested in colleges and had evidenced this, when the [Spanish-American] war broke out, by renaming two merchant ships chartered by the navy as the Yale and the Harvard. So, in response to Admiral Dewey’s report about the Callao [having been surrendered], he cabled directions to the Admiral to suggest the name of some American educational institution for the Callao. Admiral Dewey answered, recommending the Callao be renamed The United States Ship Massachusetts Institute of Technology. As the Callao would hardly have been long
enough to have painted this name on her side, she remained the Callao [Captain Edward L. Beach, “Manila Bay in 1898,” Proceedings 46 (April 1920): 597-98].
While the Admiral obeyed his orders, he demonstrated that he was not entirely dedicated to combining educational institutions and naval warfare. Dewey was relieved of his duties to name any more ships and the College Fleet was terminated. Acts 4 depicts the early Christians as obedient to God, and also utterly devoted to their commissioning (cf. vv. 19-20, 31). Peter and John courageously proclaimed salvation exclusively “by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene” (vv. 10, 12). Despite the opposition, Peter and John prayed with confidence that the sovereign God who made everything and who is all-powerful (omnipotent) would hear and answer their petitions (vv. 24-30). The kind of boldness depicted in Acts 4 is such that can accomplish radical transformation personally and even nationally.
COURAGE IN SPEAKING (Acts 4:1-12) Acts 4 continues the account of the public reaction to the healing of the lame beggar (Acts 3:1-10). In his sermon on Pentecost (Acts 2), Peter proved from the Bible that Jesus was alive, and the Lord’s resurrection was proven by the miraculous change in the beggar’s life. The man was healed “by the name of Jesus Christ” (4:10). The response of the crowd was such that many believed the message of God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ, “and the number of the men came to be about five thousand” (v. 4). The proclamation of truth in “power” (1:8) frequently results in opposition (4:1-7) from those who are the custodians of either political and/or religious authority. For instance, the Sadducees did not believe there is any “hope and resurrection of the dead” (4:2; 23:6-8). Consequently, the Sanhedrin, which was the supreme council of the Jewish people in the time of Jesus (and exercising both political and religious authority), acted in a manner that would potentially terminate the ministry of the apostles (viz. the twelve, in addition to Paul who was “untimely born” [1 Cor 15:8], who became foundational in the establishment of the church [Eph 2:20]). Acts 4 reveals the beginning of the official persecution of Christians. Faithfulness to God is not without difficulties. Jesus instructed his disciples that challenges would arise, yet He promised to grant “utterance and wisdom” for those occasions (Matt 10:16-26; Luke 21:14-15). Peter and John were not only empowered by God, but also their love for Christ meant they could not cease their witness. What is your response when someone compels you to ignore biblical truth? The apostles were arrested for “teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus” (4:2), which agitated the Sadducees. Many people were responding to that proclamation, which resulted in fear among those who resisted truth. Often those who intend to protect themselves from anyone who might challenge them will act in desperation.
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study Tuesday (1st of August) from 12 Noon – 12:45pm, 123 CAP lunch provided from ministry partnership by Capitol Commission donors
Tuesday, 1 August 2017
Peter was delighted to address the issues (vv. 8-12). As opposed to merely answering in a manner that would have been politically and religiously correct, the apostles brought the authority of Jesus of Nazareth into their argument. Unexpected places can become important opportunities to be a witness for Christ Jesus, and God’s people may be assured they are never alone when speaking courageously during those circumstances. Determine to be faithful to God and trust the Lord to work on your behalf (cf. Prov 22:29).
encouragement to read in difficult circumstances). The prayer was based upon applying Scripture that related to the recent events of the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which were in precise fulfillment of more than 300 biblical prophecies.
[GOD] PROMISED TO GRANT “UTTERANCE AND WISDOM”. . . .
COURAGE IN LIFE (Acts 4:13-37) To “walk” with Jesus means becoming like Him (v. 13; Luke 6:40). (“Walk” is a metaphor for one’s lifestyle. To “walk” with Jesus means depending upon his authority, power, and wisdom.) The fundamental principle of discipleship is to be “with” the living Word, Jesus, through the written Word, the Bible. People become like those with whom they associate, which is why it is crucial to choose your friends conscientiously (cf. 1 Cor 15:33).
GOD’S PEOPLE RECOGNIZED THEY WERE STEWARDS OF THEIR POSSESSIONS. . . .
Not only were the believers united in “heart and soul” (Acts 4:32), but also they were unselfish (vv. 34-35). God’s people recognized they were stewards of their possessions, and their generosity was so great that “there was not a needy person among them” (v. 34). The community did not merely forfeit ownership; rather, owners voluntarily parted with possessions for the sake of needy fellow believers (e.g. vv. 36-37). When the Lord’s people act courageously by divine enabling (which is also evident in biblical prayers based upon the sovereignty of God), they are able to overcome difficulties and to care for the community of believers.
Luke 6:40 – “A pupil is not above his teacher, but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher. First Corinthians 15:33 – Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
Why should we seek to imitate Christ, or even another believer? The answer is that we all imitate someone (even without knowing), thus you cannot avoid the practice. No one is perfect, yet such a truth is not an excuse (as if we do not need to be concerned regarding our lifestyle). The qualification “as I also am of Christ” makes all the difference (1 Cor 11:1). Therefore, make a deliberate choice regarding who you imitate, in addition to what (specifically) in that person’s life is Christlike and thus worthy to imitate.
Thank you for allowing Capitol Commission the nobility in providing Bible studies to you. If we can serve you in any manner, please talk with us, or contact by email or phone.
About Capitol Commission
PEOPLE BECOME LIKE THOSE WITH WHOM THEY ASSOCIATE . . . CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS CONSCIENTIOUSLY. . . .
The elders and rulers of the people were amazed by “the confidence of Peter and John” (Acts 4:13). All believers should have a similar assurance because they too are in contact with Jesus. The Sanhedrin was powerless against Peter’s message because the reality of the miracle was undeniable (vv. 14-16). As opposed to heeding that proclamation, they took actions to limit any damaging effects upon their authority and reputation (vv. 17-18). Peter and John could not obey the command “not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus” because they could not stop giving witness to what they had seen and heard (vv. 18-20). To be silent would not only deny their prior testimony but also would disobey a direct command of God (cf. 1:8). They were released (4:21-23), and immediately directed their attention to the Lord through prayer. When you encounter troubles is your immediate response to seek divine provision? God’s people were dependant upon prayer (vv. 2331), and based their petition on Psalm 2 (which is a wonderful
The community of believers was increasing rapidly (2:47), which meant that economic needs were also enlarged. In answer to the prayer of 4:24-30, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness” (v. 31). The filling was evident in the sharing that voluntarily accompanied the divine work (vv. 32-34). They voluntarily sold property and brought the proceeds of the sales to the apostles (v. 34). No coercion was involved (cf. 5:4); rather, everything was done voluntarily and with consideration of the circumstances wherein many were deprived of their livelihoods because of their faith in Jesus (Acts 20:1-5; Rom 15:26).
Capitol Commission strives to provide a pastoral presence in the capitol communities of our nation. In these communities, we purpose to reach every person with the gospel of Jesus Christ, to disciple them, and prepare them for a lifetime of ministry in whatever arena God chooses to place them. Our mandate is to see the hearts and lives of elected officials, their staffs, and lobbyists – the entire capitol community – transformed with the Word of God. Capitol Commission, Inc is a charitable and religious nonprofit corporation operating exclusively for charitable and religious purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Romans 10-14-15 affirms, “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent. . . ?” If we desire anyone, including government leaders, to (5) call upon the Lord and to seek Him and his Word for life decisions, they must prior to that (4) believe in Him, which means they must previously have (3) heard the Word of God, which means prior to that someone needs to (2) preach to them, which requires that others have first (1) sent someone. Capitol Commission is committed to the second part: preaching (proclaiming) the good news of salvation, yet this cannot occur without someone doing the first part: sending. All funding and prayer for this work comes from people who want the light of the gospel of God’s grace brought into our State Capitol. As you do #1 and we do #2, we can rejoice together as the Lord accomplishes in the Capitol what only He can produce in someone: #3, #4, and #5. What an exciting co-mission! Please join us in this ministry!
NEXT CAPITOL COMMISSION (INTERIM) BIBLE STUDY:
Thursday, 7th of September @ 12 Noon in 123 CAP (normally the 1st Tuesday of each month, rescheduled for Labor Day)
Capitol Commission Georgia
Be Courageous
Ron J. Bigalke, Ph.D. P.O. Box 244, Rincon, GA 31326-0244 (912) 659-4212 [email protected]
CAPITOL BIBLE STUDY
monthly (interim) schedule first Tuesday of the month TUESDAY, 1 AUGUST 2017 12 NOON in 123 CAP Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Studies are held the first Tuesday of each month at 12 Noon, in accordance with the Public Service Commission devotional at 9:55am. The monthly Bible study is nonpartisan and non-denominational. In lieu of Labor Day, the next Bible Study will be Thursday, 9/7. The current Bible study is the continuation of an exposition in the first part of the book of Acts (chs. 1—12). You can find archives of past Bible studies (beginning with 2010) at http://www.capitolcom.org/georgia /studies. I pray that this study will be edifying to you. My sole intent in this ministry is to serve you, and to be a resource to you for pastoral care, counsel, and prayer. Please accept my study in the Word of God as evidence of my desire to serve you. – Dr. Ron J. Bigalke, Georgia State Minister, Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study is
Tuesday, 1 August 2017 Acts 4 – “Be Courageous” Have you ever been asked to do something, yet your heart was not wholly committed to the task? During the Spanish-American War, the Navy rechristened two captured ships as the Harvard and the Yale. The Navy liked the names so much that when Admiral Dewey captured the Spanish fleet, he was instructed to continue renaming the captured ships with the names of American universities. Apparently, the Admiral did not favor the idea, which is obvious in his clever recommendation for a future nomenclature. Secretary of the Navy Long had been much interested in colleges and had evidenced this, when the [Spanish-American] war broke out, by renaming two merchant ships chartered by the navy as the Yale and the Harvard. So, in response to Admiral Dewey’s report about the Callao [having been surrendered], he cabled directions to the Admiral to suggest the name of some American educational institution for the Callao. Admiral Dewey answered, recommending the Callao be renamed The United States Ship Massachusetts Institute of Technology. As the Callao would hardly have been long
enough to have painted this name on her side, she remained the Callao [Captain Edward L. Beach, “Manila Bay in 1898,” Proceedings 46 (April 1920): 597-98].
While the Admiral obeyed his orders, he demonstrated that he was not entirely dedicated to combining educational institutions and naval warfare. Dewey was relieved of his duties to name any more ships and the College Fleet was terminated. Acts 4 depicts the early Christians as obedient to God, and also utterly devoted to their commissioning (cf. vv. 19-20, 31). Peter and John courageously proclaimed salvation exclusively “by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene” (vv. 10, 12). Despite the opposition, Peter and John prayed with confidence that the sovereign God who made everything and who is all-powerful (omnipotent) would hear and answer their petitions (vv. 24-30). The kind of boldness depicted in Acts 4 is such that can accomplish radical transformation personally and even nationally.
COURAGE IN SPEAKING (Acts 4:1-12) Acts 4 continues the account of the public reaction to the healing of the lame beggar (Acts 3:1-10). In his sermon on Pentecost (Acts 2), Peter proved from the Bible that Jesus was alive, and the Lord’s resurrection was proven by the miraculous change in the beggar’s life. The man was healed “by the name of Jesus Christ” (4:10). The response of the crowd was such that many believed the message of God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ, “and the number of the men came to be about five thousand” (v. 4). The proclamation of truth in “power” (1:8) frequently results in opposition (4:1-7) from those who are the custodians of either political and/or religious authority. For instance, the Sadducees did not believe there is any “hope and resurrection of the dead” (4:2; 23:6-8). Consequently, the Sanhedrin, which was the supreme council of the Jewish people in the time of Jesus (and exercising both political and religious authority), acted in a manner that would potentially terminate the ministry of the apostles (viz. the twelve, in addition to Paul who was “untimely born” [1 Cor 15:8], who became foundational in the establishment of the church [Eph 2:20]). Acts 4 reveals the beginning of the official persecution of Christians. Faithfulness to God is not without difficulties. Jesus instructed his disciples that challenges would arise, yet He promised to grant “utterance and wisdom” for those occasions (Matt 10:16-26; Luke 21:14-15). Peter and John were not only empowered by God, but also their love for Christ meant they could not cease their witness. What is your response when someone compels you to ignore biblical truth? The apostles were arrested for “teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus” (4:2), which agitated the Sadducees. Many people were responding to that proclamation, which resulted in fear among those who resisted truth. Often those who intend to protect themselves from anyone who might challenge them will act in desperation.
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study Tuesday (1st of August) from 12 Noon – 12:45pm, 123 CAP lunch provided from ministry partnership by Capitol Commission donors
Tuesday, 1 August 2017
Peter was delighted to address the issues (vv. 8-12). As opposed to merely answering in a manner that would have been politically and religiously correct, the apostles brought the authority of Jesus of Nazareth into their argument. Unexpected places can become important opportunities to be a witness for Christ Jesus, and God’s people may be assured they are never alone when speaking courageously during those circumstances. Determine to be faithful to God and trust the Lord to work on your behalf (cf. Prov 22:29).
encouragement to read in difficult circumstances). The prayer was based upon applying Scripture that related to the recent events of the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which were in precise fulfillment of more than 300 biblical prophecies.
[GOD] PROMISED TO GRANT “UTTERANCE AND WISDOM”. . . .
COURAGE IN LIFE (Acts 4:13-37) To “walk” with Jesus means becoming like Him (v. 13; Luke 6:40). (“Walk” is a metaphor for one’s lifestyle. To “walk” with Jesus means depending upon his authority, power, and wisdom.) The fundamental principle of discipleship is to be “with” the living Word, Jesus, through the written Word, the Bible. People become like those with whom they associate, which is why it is crucial to choose your friends conscientiously (cf. 1 Cor 15:33).
GOD’S PEOPLE RECOGNIZED THEY WERE STEWARDS OF THEIR POSSESSIONS. . . .
Not only were the believers united in “heart and soul” (Acts 4:32), but also they were unselfish (vv. 34-35). God’s people recognized they were stewards of their possessions, and their generosity was so great that “there was not a needy person among them” (v. 34). The community did not merely forfeit ownership; rather, owners voluntarily parted with possessions for the sake of needy fellow believers (e.g. vv. 36-37). When the Lord’s people act courageously by divine enabling (which is also evident in biblical prayers based upon the sovereignty of God), they are able to overcome difficulties and to care for the community of believers.
Luke 6:40 – “A pupil is not above his teacher, but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher. First Corinthians 15:33 – Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.”
Why should we seek to imitate Christ, or even another believer? The answer is that we all imitate someone (even without knowing), thus you cannot avoid the practice. No one is perfect, yet such a truth is not an excuse (as if we do not need to be concerned regarding our lifestyle). The qualification “as I also am of Christ” makes all the difference (1 Cor 11:1). Therefore, make a deliberate choice regarding who you imitate, in addition to what (specifically) in that person’s life is Christlike and thus worthy to imitate.
Thank you for allowing Capitol Commission the nobility in providing Bible studies to you. If we can serve you in any manner, please talk with us, or contact by email or phone.
About Capitol Commission
PEOPLE BECOME LIKE THOSE WITH WHOM THEY ASSOCIATE . . . CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS CONSCIENTIOUSLY. . . .
The elders and rulers of the people were amazed by “the confidence of Peter and John” (Acts 4:13). All believers should have a similar assurance because they too are in contact with Jesus. The Sanhedrin was powerless against Peter’s message because the reality of the miracle was undeniable (vv. 14-16). As opposed to heeding that proclamation, they took actions to limit any damaging effects upon their authority and reputation (vv. 17-18). Peter and John could not obey the command “not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus” because they could not stop giving witness to what they had seen and heard (vv. 18-20). To be silent would not only deny their prior testimony but also would disobey a direct command of God (cf. 1:8). They were released (4:21-23), and immediately directed their attention to the Lord through prayer. When you encounter troubles is your immediate response to seek divine provision? God’s people were dependant upon prayer (vv. 2331), and based their petition on Psalm 2 (which is a wonderful
The community of believers was increasing rapidly (2:47), which meant that economic needs were also enlarged. In answer to the prayer of 4:24-30, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness” (v. 31). The filling was evident in the sharing that voluntarily accompanied the divine work (vv. 32-34). They voluntarily sold property and brought the proceeds of the sales to the apostles (v. 34). No coercion was involved (cf. 5:4); rather, everything was done voluntarily and with consideration of the circumstances wherein many were deprived of their livelihoods because of their faith in Jesus (Acts 20:1-5; Rom 15:26).
Capitol Commission strives to provide a pastoral presence in the capitol communities of our nation. In these communities, we purpose to reach every person with the gospel of Jesus Christ, to disciple them, and prepare them for a lifetime of ministry in whatever arena God chooses to place them. Our mandate is to see the hearts and lives of elected officials, their staffs, and lobbyists – the entire capitol community – transformed with the Word of God. Capitol Commission, Inc is a charitable and religious nonprofit corporation operating exclusively for charitable and religious purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Romans 10-14-15 affirms, “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent. . . ?” If we desire anyone, including government leaders, to (5) call upon the Lord and to seek Him and his Word for life decisions, they must prior to that (4) believe in Him, which means they must previously have (3) heard the Word of God, which means prior to that someone needs to (2) preach to them, which requires that others have first (1) sent someone. Capitol Commission is committed to the second part: preaching (proclaiming) the good news of salvation, yet this cannot occur without someone doing the first part: sending. All funding and prayer for this work comes from people who want the light of the gospel of God’s grace brought into our State Capitol. As you do #1 and we do #2, we can rejoice together as the Lord accomplishes in the Capitol what only He can produce in someone: #3, #4, and #5. What an exciting co-mission! Please join us in this ministry!
NEXT CAPITOL COMMISSION (INTERIM) BIBLE STUDY:
Thursday, 7th of September @ 12 Noon in 123 CAP (normally the 1st Tuesday of each month, rescheduled for Labor Day)
