April to June Bible Study Guide

TREASURE

Helping Women Fulfill the Great Commission

EXIT THIS REVIVAL | REACHING THOSE PEOPLE | BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

BIBLE STUDIES

TREASURE

ISSN 8960038

Volume 111, Number 2

Editorial Staff

Ruth McDonald, Editor-in-Chief

Phyllis York, Managing Editor

Tori Matlock, Design

WNAC Board

Amy Johnson, Michigan

Sharon Dickey, Texas

Jonda Patton, Kentucky

Sarah Sargent, Ohio

Tracy Payne, Oklahoma

LeeAnn Wilfong, Missouri

Khristi Shores, Oklahoma

FEATURES

TREASURE (ISSN 8960038) is produced quarterly by Women Nationally Active for Christ of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc., 5233 Mount View Road, Antioch, TN 37013-2306. Copyright privileges reserved. A 2023 Member of Evangelical Press Association.

Mail questions or comments to: Treasure, PO Box 5002, Antioch, TN 37011-5002

treasure@wnac.org | wnac.org |

@WNACFWB

Jessica Edwards, Tennessee

Katie Postlewaite, South Carolina

Contributors

Amy Johnson, Michigan

Sarah Sargent, Ohio

Elizabeth Hodges, Tennessee

Clint Morgan, Tennessee

Tracy Jennette, Tennessee

Jessica Davis, Tennessee

Kelli Penn, Illinois

Danny & Jackie Gasperson, Tennessee

Ruth McDonald, Tennessee

About the Colunnist: Amy Johnson chairs the WNAC board of directors. After being away for nearly thirty years, Amy recently moved back to her home state of Michigan. She is looking forward to all God has for her and her husband, Harlen, in this new season of life.

Thoughts From Amy

BY AMY JOHNSON

The Great Commission. How do we even begin to take on the charge? “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:19-20).

We can begin by taking great comfort in the promise that Jesus will always be with us. Sometimes we get caught up in thinking, I don’t preach, I don’t baptize, I’m not a missionary in another country, and I don’t teach…so, I guess I can do nothing in the Great Commission. Oh, how wrong we are!

The Great Commission should compel us to share the good news until everyone has heard. It should make us want to be about the business of the kingdom. The Great Commission is accomplished through witnessing, preaching, baptizing, and teaching. However, it can also be accomplished in our day-to-day lives.

The first step—be purposeful in all we do. Strive to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Not just when we are actively involved in a mission project, but as we walk and talk daily. Part of sharing the good news is simply telling your story. Everyone has a story. As a child of God, you have multiple ways God has intervened in your life. What has God done for you?

There was a season when I felt I didn’t have a testimony. I had not been rescued from a life of drugs or addiction, nor had God used a tragedy to get my attention. I had lived a boring life, it seemed. How was I ever supposed to share my story when there were no exciting, life-altering experiences to tell?

One day I shared my quandary with my class professor, and I remember his reply, “But by the grace of God.” From then, I realized God’s grace was interwoven within my story. I did not choose to be raised in a Christian home, but by the grace of God, I was. I had decided at a young age to stay away from sinful activities; by the grace of God, I did not fall prey to the schemes of Satan.

We don’t have to have a tragic rescue story in order to share what God has done in our life. Nor do we have to be on a mission field. God wants to use us where we are in this exact season of our life. While quoting Matthew 28:19-20 may seem somewhat intimidating, we need to remember that God has given unique gifts to each one of us that are to be used for His glory. Purpose in your heart to look beyond what you’ve always seen and see what God is doing. How can you join Him?

THIRTY SOMETHINGS

BY SARAH SARGENT

I love the Bible. One of my favorite traits of this beautiful book is how alive it is. I love how God opens my heart to a new perspective when I read a biblical story. (This is often when I go to my Pastor/Dad and say… what do you think about this? I want to make sure my holy imagination hasn’t taken me down the wrong path.) This beautiful experience happened to me on the way to work the other day.

I am a creature of habit. Every morning as I head for work, I listen to two devotionals. One of the two has been digging into the life of Christ. This particular morning the focus was on Luke 10:38-42. If you are a woman and have spent time in a women’s Bible study class, you are familiar with this story. Mary and Martha. (See, I told you you’d be familiar with it.) We know the common lessons here. Being with Jesus is the main priority. Don’t be too busy serving that you miss out on the message, etc.

The application God gave me that day was,

How healthy would our world, churches, and families be if we first took our issues directly to Jesus? If you have a problem with how the Sunday school teacher handles prayer requests—bring the matter to Jesus. Your feelings are hurt by what that gentleman said in his testimony—take it to Jesus. If you don’t like the pastor’s social media post—talk to Jesus. If you are heartbroken by the injustices in your community—go to Jesus. You disagree with how your brother handles an issue with your parents—take it to Jesus. I would love to see how our communities, churches, and families would begin to heal if we took our problems directly to Jesus and let Him guide our next actions.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6 ESV).

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV).

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12 ESV).

This text relates the frustration Martha had with her sister’s actions. Martha thinks Mary should be helping her serve, not sitting around. Martha may have had many reasons for approaching Jesus, but the nugget I received from the story was that Martha took her concerns straight to Jesus. She didn’t gossip with the ladies in the house about her sister. She didn’t go to those chosen friends who would rally behind her cause. She didn’t go immediately to Mary and quarrel with her. Martha went directly to Jesus with her issue.

The next time you find yourself frustrated, immediately take the issue to Jesus. Before replying with a passionate response, take your concerns to Jesus. When you want to complain to your pastor about something, take your grievance to Jesus. Jesus wants to hear from you—He is the sounding board for all our thoughts.

The verses above are His words inviting us into a conversation. He promises to guide us if we trust and acknowledge Him.

“Have an issue with someone? Take the issue to Jesus.”

Exit This Revival

BY Elizabeth Hodges Acts 8

Philip and the Revival (Acts 8:1-8)

In the first four verses, we recognize that persecution forced believers out of Jerusalem into Judea and Samaria. This fulfilled the second part of Acts 1:8, “ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria.” When this occurred, the believers took the gospel with them, thus multiplying the number of witnesses and expanding the territory that could be covered. God would bring a rich harvest from this persecution and suffering.

(Life Application Bible, page 1890*)

Philip is not the apostle of John 1:43-44, but one of the seven chosen in Acts 6:3, “Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.” These seven men were chosen to help minister to the daily needs of the widows. We refer to them as the first deacons. How are these men described? They were of “honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom.” All seven have Greek names indicating they would represent the Grecian widows well. Stephen, one of the seven, proclaims Christ to the Sanhedrin in Acts seven and is martyred.

Out of the seven, Philip is the only other one mentioned again in chapters 8 and 21. His two missionary journeys are recorded in chapter eight. During the persecution in Jerusalem, he had fled to Samaria. As an evangelist, he preached Christ to the Samaritans despite the hostility between them and the Jews. Old biases had no place in Christianity. This was a huge step for the early church.

Samaria had been the capital of the Northern Kingdom during the days of the divided kingdom of Israel. Assyria conquered it in 722 BC. The Assyrian king took many Jewish captives leaving only the poorest people, then

“Discomfort may be the best thing for us because God may be working through our hurts.”

resettling the land with foreigners who intermarried with the Jews left behind. Children from these unions were known as half-breeds, much like marriages between the settlers and American Indians during the western settlement of our country.

Half-breeds, at least in Jewish eyes, but who ministered in this area in John 4? Jesus Himself according to verses 3-4. “He left Judea, and departed again into Galilee. And he must needs go through Samaria.” I imagine this was much to the chagrin of the disciples. What happened? The woman who came to the well accepted the living water Jesus had to offer, and because of her testimony and the word of Jesus, many in the city believed (verses 39-42).

At the beginning of Acts eight we read of a revival occurring in this same area with Philip as the evangelist. (The apostles had laid their hands on the seven, indicating they commissioned these men as apostolic representatives.) Stephen and Philip not only preached the gospel, but also performed signs and wonders.

In verses 5-8 Philip, “preached Christ, and the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.” What were some of those things? Demons were cast out, and palsied and lame people were healed. Many people, both men and women, believed and were baptized as evidence of God’s blessing.

Philip and the Sorcerer (Acts 8:9-25)

As is so often the case, when God is at work Satan tries to mimic and deceive. Enter Simon, the sorcerer. During this time of early church history, sorcerers and magicians were plentiful. They worked wonders, performed healings, practiced astrology, etc. Simon had impressed the people with his power. Even though the Samaritans held him in high regard, his power did not come from God, and his approach was vastly different from Philip’s.

Verse 13 tells us that “Simon himself believed also; and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.” Simon professes belief, but we later learn differently.

Meanwhile, once the apostles in Jerusalem discovered that Samaria had heard and accepted the Word of God, they sent Peter and John to investigate. The Jerusalem Church assumed responsibility for inspecting new evangelistic efforts. The believers and apostles were still unsure if Gentiles, including the half-breed Samaritans, could receive the Holy Spirit. (This will not change until Acts 10 and Peter’s encounter with Cornelius.)

Philip was not an apostle, but he preached Jesus, the Word of God. Peter and John went to validate, bless, and support these new believers and to prevent them from becoming fragmented. What was discovered? The Samaritans were

believers but still needed to receive the Spirit by the usual signs of the Day of Pentecost. Through prayer and the laying on of hands by Peter and John, these new converts received the Holy Spirit. The half-breed Samaritans become a bridge to the Gentiles (verses 15-17).

Though we don’t have any details, Simon apparently liked what he saw and asked to buy such power. Peter responds, “Thy money perish with thee....thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God” (verses 20-21). The heart refers to one’s will, affections, and allegiance. How did Simon respond to this rebuke? “Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me” (verse 24). What can we learn? If we are rebuked for a serious mistake, it is for our good. We should admit our error, repent quickly, and ask for prayer and forgiveness. Our faith must be genuine.

Verse 25 reads, “And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.” That would indicate Philip returned with Peter and John.

Philip and the Ethiopia Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)

From a human perspective, God was doing great things in Samaria. Philip was serving faithfully, but God had another plan. Verse 26 states, “The angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.” The reference to the angel confirms that God was guiding Philip and the program of building the church.

Is God really asking Philip to leave the revival and go to the desert? Yes. How did Philip respond? Did he question God’s wisdom? Did he try to rationalize the ramifications of such behavior? Verse 27 says, “He arose and went.” Philip immediately followed the Spirit’s leading.

Would you or I have gotten up and gone to the desert?

When Philip gets to the desert, he sees an Ethiopian eunuch in his chariot on the way home. This eunuch was Queen Candace’s treasurer, a man of very great authority. Ethiopia is south of Egypt in Africa and according to Psalm 68:31 and Jeremiah 38:7, the Jews had contact with Ethiopia in ancient days.

The Ethiopian eunuch was dedicated to God, and searching for truth, since he had traveled far to worship in Jerusalem. If he was not a full-fledged proselyte, he was a God-fearing Gentile. This gentleman was an example of Isaiah 56:3-5—God’s blessings are for all people, even Gentiles and eunuchs who often were not even considered citizens in Israel. We cannot exclude in any way those whom God chooses to include in His plan of redemption.

As Philip draws near the chariot, he hears this gentleman reading aloud. Philip capitalizes on this opportunity to witness by beginning his approach with a question, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The eunuch says he cannot unless someone guides or explains it to him. This man of authority was willing to ask for help. We cannot allow insecurity and pride to hinder or subdue our understanding of God’s Word.

Philip began where the eunuch was reading (Isaiah 53:7-8), not where he thought would be more effective. This passage describes God’s servant who suffers humiliation, bears the consequences of others’ sins, and is exalted by God. Philip explained how Jesus fulfilled these prophecies. Jesus is found in both the Old and New Testaments, and God’s entire Word applies to all people of all ages. As a student of the Word, Philip could explain its meaning clearly.

“When God moves us to speak to people, we may be sure He has been dealing with their hearts and preparing the way for us.”

(NIV Study Bible, page 1639*)

Back to Acts 8:36-38, the eunuch sees water and asks what would hinder him from being baptized? Philip responds, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” The chariot is stopped, and the eunuch is baptized.

“When we share the Gospel, we should start where the other person’s concerns are focused. Then we can bring the Gospel to bear on those concerns.”

(Life Application Bible, page 1892*)

In verse 39 we learn, “the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more.” Here is another really? Did the eunuch need other instruction? Should there have been time to rejoice after the baptism? This is reminiscent of Elijah’s being caught up into heaven. Would the eunuch have known that? We are given no details. What we do know is the eunuch “went on his way rejoicing.” Joy is associated with salvation in the book of Acts and in our lives today.

Philip is next found in Azotus (verse 40), a city in Samaria 19 miles north of Gaza in Judea and 35 miles west of Jerusalem. Azotus is mentioned in 1 Samuel 5:1 as Ashdod, one of the five Philistine cities. Headed for Caesarea (60 miles further north), Philip preached in all the cities he passed through.

Revival was touching many lives, and we might reason, this enuch was just one man, but God saw a much different picture. Sent by God, Philip was the first to go outside Jerusalem to preach. This enuch, this one man of great authority, brought Christianity to the power structure of another government. He began witnessing to “the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Church history credits this eunuch with opening the continent of Africa to the gospel.

Philip and Faithful Service

Spiritual power is a gift from God to be used as a bless-

ing to the church. Philip provides examples of both mass and personal evangelism. Both are important as the gospel is spread to the uttermost parts of the earth.

Twenty years later we are given the next glimpse of Philip, when he hosts Paul and his company for many days (Acts 21:8-10). His four virgin daughters are prophetesses by this time.

Philip challenges us to faithfulness in listening, then obeying the voice of the Lord. His ability to answer questions stemmed from his knowledge of God’s Word. Note how his spiritual legacy was passed to his four daughters.

Food for Thought:

Do we have such a grasp of the Scripture?

What is our plan of action to develop a rich relationship with our Lord and His Word?

Will we leave a legacy of faith to our children and grandchildren? Are we planting seeds now? Are we sensitive to those opportunities?

Are we willing to leave our comfort zones to serve and share the gospel with others as we go about our daily lives?

*References:

Life Application Bible, KJV, Tyndale House Publishers, Wheaton, IL, 1989.

NIV Study Bible, Zondervan Press, Grand Rapids, MI, 1985.

The Wesley Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, TN, 1990.

About the Author:

Elizabeth and Eddie have three children and nine grandchildren. Both are retired but still active in ministry. Her heart’s desire is to make much of Jesus while investing in others.

Lesson Learned!

BY Clint Morgan

In our 40-plus years of ministry with IM, one of my greatest joys has been the privilege of engaging in leadership training. Just let me say, I had a rough start in this area during my rookie term in Côte d’Ivoire, Africa.

During the first four years on the field, I was fully committed to using a Paul/Timothy discipleship/ leadership training method. Carefully choosing three young men to disciple, we began what was to be a two-year program with them. My approach included in-depth, discovery-type Bible studies, many hours of discussions, and lots of practical experience. Much to my disappointment, all three of my disciples fell into sin and did not finish the two-year venture.

As the term drew to a close, I visited with our fellow missionary mentors, Eddie and Sandra Payne, and shared my disillusionment about my three disciples. I bemoaned that I wouldn’t have a story to tell on deputation about discipling African brothers and helping prepare them for ministry.

Sandra asked what I saw in these young men that pushed me to think they would make effective

leaders. I responded, “They were young, intelligent, creative, motivated, well-liked, dynamic personalities, and much more.” After a short pause to let this sink in, (probably as much for me as for them), Eddie responded. Speaking with his usual kindness and clarity, he said, “Clint, we have found that in Africa it is the quiet, reflective men that are most respected.”

I cannot express the effect those words had on me. In quick order, I realized the problem—I had brought my list of western qualifications for a leader into this African context. But even more, it pushed me to the biblical qualifications of leadership.

Too often, we attempt to work with people from other cultures within the structure of our own cultural patterns. In some cases, it works, but generally, it is much wiser and more productive to discover and accommodate as many of their cultural patterns as possible, if they do not violate God’s Word.

During our third term in Africa, I taught at the Bible Institute started by the Mission in Côte d’Ivoire. Our first course was The Biblical Qualifications for Church Leaders. What I learned through my gracious men-

mentors in our first term undoubtedly saved me from great heartache and distress throughout my 30 years of ministry there.

By the way, the most respected leaders in our churches in Côte d’Ivoire today are the quiet, reflective ones. Lesson learned!

Clint Morgan is the Director of IM, Inc. Clint and Lynette served as missionaries to Ivory Coast and France for over 30 years. The Morgans have four children and seven grandchildren.

Those REACHING People

BY Tracy Jennette

Acts 10:1-11:18 ESV

ARE YOU READY? Are you ready to “eat” God’s Word today? He has an exciting, challenging meal for us.

PRAY WITH ME – Father, we need Your food. We are self-centered and self-righteous. Show us Your ways today. Challenge us. We are focusing on You and nothing else.

Okay, let’s read the passage and digest it together. IT’S ONE STORY, but let’s take it in four parts. READ the first passage below.

Acts 10:1-8

At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, 2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. 3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” 4And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. 6He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” 7When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants

and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, 8and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.

Who is the man in verses 1-2?

Name six traits about him.

Cornelius was not a Jew; therefore, he was a Gentile. Who visited Cornelius (verse 3)?

What did the angel look like? (Look in verse 30 where Cornelius describes his experience.)

Cornelius was a devout man. What did Cornelius do that was regarded as an offering to God (verse 4)?

The angel of God told Cornelius to send men to Joppa to invite a certain man back to Cornelius’ house. Who was that man?

What do we know about Simon Peter? (See Matt 4:18-20.) Was Peter a Jew or a Gentile?

SO, LET’S SUMMARIZE

Cornelius, a very devout and righteous non-Jew (or ______________), was visited in a vision by an ________________ who was bright and shining and in the form of a man.

The angel told Cornelius to invite _________________ (who was a Jesus follower) to his house. Cornelius orders his men to travel to the city of Joppa to get Peter.

OKAY, LET’S PRESS ON

READ the next section. Cornelius’ men have begun the journey to visit and get Peter.

Acts 10:9-23

9The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. 10And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, What God has made clean, do not call common.” 16This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven. 17Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon’s house, stood at the gate 18and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there.

19And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” 21And Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?”

22And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” 23So he invited them in to be his guests.

As Cornelius’ men approached Joppa, _____________ was on his roof (verse 9). And what was he doing on the roof?

Peter fell into a trance and saw a large __________ containing lots of ________________ (verses 11-12).

In the vision, a voice commanded Peter to do what?

Peter, being a good Jew, refused to eat such unclean animals. He knew that God had deemed such animals unclean for Jews to eat or even touch. The ceremonial law of the Old Testament had set this forth. But the coming of Jesus, the final cleansing sacrifice, lifted those food restrictions. He abolished these long-held barriers between persons. (See Mark 7:17-23.)

What did Jesus say in Mark 7:17-23?

When Peter refused to eat, the voice from God said what (verse 15)?

How many times did the voice say, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean”?

And suddenly, how many “unclean” men arrived at Peter’s door?

The fact that God told Peter three times and those three men arrived is not a coincidence. What was God showing Peter by giving him the vision of the sheet?

God was equating unclean/un-kosher animals to what?

When Cornelius’ men arrived, the _______________ spoke to Peter and commanded him to ___________ ________________________ because ___________________ _____________________________________ (verse 20).

Why did the angel tell Cornelius to go and get Peter (verse 22)?

In a trance, Peter saw a large ______________ containing animals/reptiles/birds which he regarded as unclean, according to God’s dietary laws for Jews in the Old Testament.

The voice during the trance told Peter to __________ the unclean animals. Peter refused.

How many times did the voice command Peter to eat the unclean animals?

And how many “unclean” Gentile men suddenly appeared at Peter’s house? The Spirit told Peter not to hesitate to go with the Gentile men because ___________ had sent the men to Peter.

OKAY, LET’S PRESS ON

LET’S READ the next section.

Acts 10:23-48

23So he invited them in to be his guests. The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” 27And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. 29So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.” 30And Cornelius said, “Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing 31niceand said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ 33 So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord.” 34So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), 37you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, 40but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear, 41not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed

by God to be judge of the living and the dead. 43To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” 44While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47“Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.

Peter and his believing friends arrived at Cornelius’ house. Cornelius had invited many people, family, and friends, to be there to meet and hear the man mentioned by the angel in the vision (Simon Peter).

Why do you think Cornelius invited his family/friends to be there when Peter arrived (verses 22, 24)?

Why do you think Cornelius fell at Peter’s feet (verses 25-26)?

What did Peter admit in verses 27-28?

Peter asked Cornelius why he had invited him to his house and Cornelius explained about the angel’s visit. For what reason did Cornelius say that he had invited Peter to come to his home (verses 30-33)?

What lesson/revelation from God did Peter learn (verses 34-36)?

With Cornelius and all his friends and family surrounding him, Peter shared the truth of Jesus’ life, His miracles of healing, and His death and resurrection. Peter declared that Jesus of Nazareth had been anointed with the ____________ _________________ and _____________ (verse 38) and that he did good and healed all who were__________________________________ ______________.

What did Peter say that God had commanded him and others to do (verses 39-42)?

All the prophets testify that if you believe in Jesus Christ, you receive ____________________________ (verse 43)?

As Peter was speaking, the gift of the ________ ______________ came down on all the __________________ who heard Peter’s message (verses 44-46).

What people were astonished that the Holy Spirit had been poured out onto Gentiles (verse 45)?

What were the signs that the Holy Spirit had been poured out onto the people (verse 46)?

Why did Peter baptize the people (verses 46-48)?

SO, LET’S SUMMARIZE

Peter arrived at Cornelius’ home. He mentioned to all the gathered people that for him to associate with them went against ______________ law. However, God had now shown him that he shouldn’t call anything impure or unclean.

Cornelius shared his own visit from the angel. Peter again stated that God shows no _________________ among people and accepts people from every _________________ who fear and do what is right.

As Peter shared the truth of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, the ________ ____________ came upon the non-Jews, the __________________. And seeing that God had poured out His Spirit onto the Gentiles, Peter baptized each person.

OKAY, LET’S PRESS ON

LET’S READ the fourth and final section.

Acts 11:1-18

Now the apostles and the brothers who were throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God.

2So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcision party criticized him, saying, 3“You went to uncircumcised men and ate with them.” 4But Peter began and explained it to them in order: 5“I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, something like a great sheet descending, being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to me. 6Looking at it closely, I observed animals and beasts of prey

and reptiles and birds of the air. 7And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ 8But I said, ‘By no means, Lord; for nothing common or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9But the voice answered a second time from heaven, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.’ 10This happened three times, and all was drawn up again into heaven. 11And behold, at that very moment three men arrived at the house in which we were, sent to me from Caesarea. 12And the Spirit told me to go with them, making no distinction. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. 13An he told us how he had seen the angel stand in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon who is called Peter; 14 he will declare to you a message by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ 15As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning. 16And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ’John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the the Holy Spirit.’ 17If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God’s way?” 18When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.”

Peter was criticized by whom (verses 1-3)? Why?

Peter told the Jews (who were Jesus’ followers) the entire story—that as he began speaking to the Gentiles (who are unclean to Jews), the Holy Spirit came on them just like He had come on ________ (verse 15). God had given the Gentiles the same __________ He had given to the Jews who believe in Jesus Christ (verse 17).

The Holy Spirit is a ______ (verse 17).

Peter’s Jesus-following, Jewish friends came to what realization (verse 18)?

Application:

Was Cornelius a follower of Jesus in verses 10:1-5?

According to this passage, can an unsaved person receive a vision from an angel of God?

As told in this account, if unsaved individuals can receive visions from God, what is the need for a

Christian to go to them?

Was Peter wrong (or was he obedient) in being resolved to not associate with unclean people? ISee Leviticus 11:27-28).

Think about it! Peter had walked with Christ. He witnessed his death and resurrection. But God was still revealing something to him. The lightbulb came on— ding! Peter realized that the entire time God’s plan was to ultimately baptize, with the Holy Spirit, any peoplewho believed—not just God’s chosen people, the Jews.

What is the mystery of the Gospel as stated in Ephesians 3:4-6?

The Gentiles in this story experienced two baptisms. One by ______________ and one by the ______________________ (verses 10:48 and 11:16). What does this signify about water baptism?

WHOM GOD VISITED | ABOUT THE MEN

In traits and habits, what similarities do we see in Cornelius and Peter?

In this passage, what type of men did God visit? In what form did God speak to Cornelius (verses 10:30-31).

In what form did God speak to Peter (verses 10:9-13)?

Does your life reflect the same habits and devotion Cornelius and Peter exhibited? If not, note here how you’ll commit to improve your disciplines/habits so that you, too, can clearly hear from God when He speaks.

REMEMBER THIS! Before Peter visited Cornelius’ home, God had already prepared the way by speaking to Cornelius. When we, too, are on the evangelistic/ mission field, both at home and abroad, God has already planted people to whom we’ll minister (verse 10:30). You can count on that! Name a time in your life when you’ve witnessed this.

PRAYER

Ask God to send you to the places where he has prepared persons to hear the Good News. Ask Him to send you to the nations. I know He will be true to answer.

“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands,” (Revelation 7:9).

To what people group is God calling you?

The fact that 3.4 billion persons on planet earth have never ever heard the Good News is staggering and convicting. Most live overseas. Some live in the United States. Some live in your state. Is God calling you to share with them?

WAYS TO ENGAGE THE NATIONS

VOLUNTEER AT A FOOD PANTRY FOR INTERNATIONALS

Honestly, you could volunteer one time and make a friend for life. It’s so enjoyable helping and interacting with the different people groups. DON’T BE SHY; INVITE ‘EM! The rest of the world is accustomed to inviting total strangers over for lunch or dinner. Don’t be the one who never invites an international acquain-

tance over for a meal. The dinner table is one of the best spots to form a lasting friendship.

HAVE A UNIVERSITY NEARBY?

Many universities have ministries that offer English classes and conversational English sessions. Drop by sometime and speak with the international students. They’ll love your involvement in their lives and your authentic American accent.

EAT ETHNICALLY

Try a new ethnic restaurant. Then visit it weekly and form a friendship with the employees. Ask them how they say “Hello, how are you?” in their language. Invite them to hike a waterfall with you.

PRAY WITH THE LIKE-MINDED

Find a prayer group concentrated on praying for the unreached in your community….and join them! It will fuel your fire even further and keep you on focus.

TEACH ENGLISH

ESL (English as a Second Language) teachers are always needed. And you don’t have to be a vocational teacher. Search the internet for local churches proving ESL classes to internationals. Or consider starting a program at your own church. Here is an example of teacher volunteers being trained in Virginia: https:// www.sbcv.org/esl/

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS REACHING THE UNREACHED

TWR (Trans World Radio) has a radio program reaching women in unreached countries. https://give.twr.org/ woh22.html

DAILY HIGHLIGHT FOR PRAYER

To learn more and pray informatively, sign up to receive a quick blurb about the “Unreached People Group of the Day.” https://joshuaproject.net/ (Share it with your Sunday school class or prayer group.)

HOW IS YOUR CHURCH SPENDING ITS MONEY?

Encourage your church to budget monies to “unreached people groups” (UPGs), those who have no witness of Jesus whatsoever.

RESOURCES

Joshua Project has great statistics on the world’s unreached: https://joshuaproject.net

There is much work left to do. Let’s engage!

About the Author

Tracy has been involved in Information Technology for over 30 years. Also, God has given her a love for his peoples, “ethne”, worldwide. She was privileged to live and walk among one such group in the Middle East and has traveled to 20+ countries, experiencing the wonderful cultures of the world. Domestically, she involves herself in ESL, friendship/hospitality, international food pantries, leading summer high school missions among our nation’s immigrant populations, and sharing God’s love and amazing forgiveness through all things. She enjoys gardening, hiking, and cooking the world’s cuisines.

BY Jessica Davis

Clank. Clank. Clank… sounds I hear in anticipation of visiting with a dear friend over soda and snacks. However, this visit isn’t at a local coffee shop; it’s behind multiple layers of barbed wires and electric fencing.

My friend is serving time on Tennessee’s Death Row at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution in Nashville, Tennessee. Now how in the worl did I find myself here, among the worst of the worst criminals in the state? One word: God.

In August 2015, my church started hosting biblical vocational classes for incarcerated women in Davidson County. Believing that, in God’s eyes, we are more than our worst mistake, I decided to challenge myself to get out of my comfort zone and serve. As our classes blossomed, the Lord gave me a heart for ministering to those incarcerated. Our prison ministry has grown to include visiting inmates on Tennessee’s Death Row, where I visited my friend at the beginning of this story.

focused on growing in their faith while behind bars. Instead of getting distracted by all the negativity surrounding them, prayer can change attitudes and circumstances. It should be our first line of defense in supporting those in jail.

2. Write letters to those incarcerated. Out of sight, out of mind rings true. Consider writing letters following the security guidelines of the correctional facility. A simple note of encouragement and photos keep a positive connection with the outside world.

3. Physically visit those in jail and prison. Many church members don’t advertise that they have family behind bars due to fear of judgment. Serving time is isolating and depressing. What brings encouragement is when inmates are given the opportunity to visit with those on the outside. Becoming a visitor at a correctional facility may take extra time for background checks, but the ministry of simply showing up speaks volumes of how much you and your church care.

4. Invite the incarcerated to attend your church once they are released. What if our churches were a supportive network where former inmates could find assistance in reentering society? Reentry is a vulnerable time for a former inmate, and having godly friends could make the transition much easier. To ensure they are not likely to re-offend, most released inmates will need a job, housing, and support depending on probation requirements. Consider what strengths your church has that can demonstrate the love of Christ during inmate reentry?

So, how can we, as believers, reach those people, especially if we’ve never been involved in our local criminal justice systems? Remember, those incarcerated will serve their time and be released back into the community. Here are some ways your church can encourage and support them:

1. Pray. My incarcerated friends tell me how much the prayers of others help them stay positive and

Prison minnistry is just another opportunity to accomplish the Great Commission of going into all the world. Ask God if He is calling you to share His gospel with these precious souls.

About the Column

Jessica Davis is a wife, mother, and high school teacher in Columbia, Tennessee. She and her family have been involved in prison ministry since 2015, specifically focusing on building relationships with inmates on Death Row since 2017.

Rev. Kevin Burns, Pastor of Church of Life on Tennessee’s Death Row. Kevin accepted the call to ministry while serving time and was ordained on January 31, 2018. He is a godly role model to fellow inmates and the guards as well.

Best Supporting Actor

BY Danny and Jackie Gasperson

Each year the Academy of the Motion Picture Industry awards Oscars to the Best Actor and Actress. Setting aside their own identities, these highly gifted performers totally embrace a movie character’s persona. Their roles are so prominent, and their performances so convincing, they carry the story’s weight. Easily recognizable, they are the superstars of the industry.

But the Academy also knows that no matter how talented the lead actor or how powerful the performance, a single actor cannot tell the story without help. They must be surrounded by other performers who assist with the narrative; who support the leading role. Those parts may not be as noticeable, but their contribution to the story is just as critical and they are stars in their own right. Therefore, the Academy also appropriately recognizes and awards these actors with Oscars for Best ‘Supporting’ Actor/Actress.

Ministry often occurs in a similar fashion. To some God has sovereignly bestowed obvious gifts and given visible roles and responsibilities within the Kingdom. Their names and ministries are well-known and celebrated. But seldom are they working alone. Surrounding them are critical co-laborers whose roles are not as visible, but whose contributions are equally valuable. Without them, the work would be less effective or possibly non-existent.

This lesson will highlight one such supporting actor. The text is found in Acts 16.

The Context

Paul and his new traveling companion, Silas, embarked on what is commonly known as Paul’s second missionary journey. On a mission of encouragement, they revisited the churches from Paul’s first journey. Prevented by the Lord from going into new areas in Asia Minor and Galatia, they made their way to Troas. During one night, Paul had a vision of a man from Macedonia pleading with him to “Come to Macedonia and help us.” Realizing this was the Lord’s leading, the team set sail and made their way to Philippi, a Roman colony and leading city of that

district of Macedonia. Philippi, an ancient city, was renamed after Philip of Macedonia, father of Alexander the Great. As a Roman colony, her status gave the citizens of Philippi the same rights and privileges as those who lived in Rome itself.

In a new place Paul typically began his ministry by attending a Sabbath meeting at the local synagogue, a Jewish place of worship. But apparently, Philippi had no synagogue. Jewish custom required a minimum of ten men to establish a synagogue; perhaps, they did not meet that standard. Nevertheless, Paul’s team found a group, composed primarily of women, who regularly met for prayer beside the river. Paul shared with them the gospel, and Lydia, a worshiper of God from Thyatira, was saved. She and her household were converted and baptized. Lydia invited the team to stay in her home where they remained for several weeks sharing the gospel. They saw souls saved and a church established.

The Circumstance

Paul and Silas regularly traveled to that place of prayer beside the river to preach and teach. One day, a young slave girl, possessed by a demon who enabled her to predict the future, began following them, crying out and causing quite a disturbance. After several days of this, Paul, troubled by the situation, turned and in the authority of Jesus’ name, commanded the spirit to come out of the girl. She was miraculously delivered.

This wonderful healing created a problem for the slave girl’s owners. They had been exploiting her demonic ability for financial gain. When they realized their potential for making money was gone, these men became irate and seized Paul and Silas, dragging them before the magistrates. (Magistrates were officials appointed by Roman authorities who were responsible for maintaining public order. Being accountable to the Emperor of Rome explains their actions toward Paul and Silas here and later.) The slave owners did not care about Paul and Silas’ preaching, but because their loss of revenue was not a charge-

able offense, they accused them of teaching customs unlawful for Romans to practice. This was clearly a bogus charge, but when the crowds joined in the attack, the magistrates, probably motivated to restore peace quickly, ordered Paul and Silas to be stripped of their clothes, beaten with rods, imprisoned in stocks, and carefully guarded.

Around midnight, Paul and Silas, in pain and restrained, were praying and singing praises to God. Everyone in the prison heard their worship. God responded by sending a powerful earthquake that shook the foundation of the prison, opening all the doors, and loosening the prisoners’ chains. The tremor also awakened the jailer. When he saw all the doors open, he assumed everyone had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. Paul called out to stop him, assuring him that all captives were still present. This powerful demonstration brought fear and conviction to the jailer’s heart. “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (v. 30). Paul explained the gospel to him, and salvation came to him and his household.

In gratitude, the jailer brought them to his home, washed their wounds, and prepared a meal for them. He and his whole household were baptized that night.

The next morning the magistrates sent officers with orders to release the prisoners, but Paul refused to leave. His reasoning shook the magistrates more than the earthquake had shaken the jail. Paul revealed that he possessed Roman citizenship and their unjust trial and his public punishment violated his rights as a Roman citizen. Because the consequences of their actions could be severe, the magistrates personally came and sheepishly escorted Paul and his friends out of prison, requesting they leave the city.

The Characters

Several important characters contributed significantly to this story, but we will limit our focus to only two.

The Apostle Paul plays the lead role. His gifts, calling,

and commitment are extraordinary and obvious. God used him to accomplish great things for the Kingdom. Although most would feel unqualified to play a role of such magnitude, we can learn much from Paul to help us in the important parts God has assigned to us.

Many glaring questions must be addressed with Paul in this story. Why did he wait until the next day to claim his rights as a Roman citizen? He had the ultimate get-out-of-jail-free card, yet he refused to play it. How and why could Paul and his friends offer prayer and even praise to God under such unimaginable circumstances? Why, when their chains were loosened, did they not escape? We are not told Paul’s reasoning, but some clues point us in the right direction.

One answer is: Paul had learned to live with kingdom perspective. Because of his trust in God and his obedient submission to the leading of the Lord in his circumstances, the jailer was exposed to the gospel and was converted. Years later, in his letter to the church that eventually grew out of this series of events, Paul, again in chains for the Lord, explains that his circumstances were serving to advance the gospel. Some might say Paul was chained to the prison guards. Paul understood it was the prison guards who were chained to him! He proclaimed the gospel to a captive audience. He realized this God-ordained situation allowed the gospel to be made clear throughout

the entire palace guard (Philippians 1:12-13). This perspective taught him to be content whatever the circumstances of his life (Philippians 4:11). He understood that for him to live is Christ and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21). Our Lord taught him to pray, “Nevertheless, not my will but Thine, be done” (Luke 22:42). And just like Paul, living with kingdom perspective enables us to remain faithful and praise the Lord in the most challenging circumstances.

Application:

What is our natural response to adversity or hardship? How can we gain God’s perspective?

Paul’s admonition to the church in Philippi applies to us as well, “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents. This is a clear sign to them of their destruction, but of your salvation, and that from God. For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ, you should not only believe in Him but also suffer for his sake, engaged in the same conflict that you saw I had and now hear that I still have” (Philippians 1:27-30 ESV).

Paul understood it was the prison gaurds who were chained to him.

Now we come to the main focus of our lesson—the role of the prison guard, someone with whom most of us can identify. Who was he? We are given little information, so we must fill in the gaps. His name appears nowhere in the credits, but he plays a critical role in the story. His life can also teach us valuable lessons. How did he get this part in the story? He was just an average guy. His position carried a level of responsibility that he probably earned by working hard and being faithful. Philippi was a destination for many retired Roman officers and soldiers, so perhaps he merited the position from his honorable military service. He had a family and obviously influenced them for the gospel successfully. Others may have described him as a good man.

Regardless of the accuracy of our speculation, we can be sure his inclusion in this story was not accidental. This man was loved by God and in need of salvation, and God was at work orchestrating his inclusion in this exciting drama.

Application:

Can you think of times when God ordered your steps to lead you to unexpected divine appointments? What led this man to a place of faith?

Let’s look at the series of important events that preceded his salvation. Try to imagine how this eventful day transpired for him. No doubt he expected it to be just another typical day. On this night he worked the graveyard shift. No doubt he was hoping for a quiet, uneventful evening. We do not know if he witnessed the accusation and punishment of his new prisoners, but at some point, he knew they would be spending the night with him. He was probably also aware the charges against them had no merit and braced himself for a long night of constant groaning, complaining, and cursing (typical behavior of his usual clientele). But when these men, who had been falsely accused, brutally beaten, shackled, and chained in a filthy jail, lifted their voices in prayer and praise to their God, it must have shaken him as much as the subsequent

earthquake. Neither did they escape when given the opportunity and even showed concern for him when he was about to take his own life. In response to their praise, the power that God displayed surely convinced him their God was far superior to the marble figurines the Romans worshiped. This was a God that he wanted to know and needed to know, so he asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” (v. 30)

Application:

Is your life marked with distinctions that make others want to know your God?

The Contribution

As soon as someone is saved, God adds the new believer’s name to the cast of characters in the grand drama of His will. That night the jailer played an easily overlooked, but very important role in this story.

I am confident the jailer was saved, and this was not just an emotional response. His was not just a decision, but a commitment. His new faith was evident in his actions; he took the prisoners to his home. He shared his experience with his family and encouraged them to join him in his commitment to faith. He offered care and hospitality to his new friends. All these things placed the jailer and his family at great risk. Just hours before, he had considered suicide out of fear for what the authorities might do to him; now, he is willing to risk all to do the right things. This jailer had gained a new ‘perspective.’ He trusted the Lord the way he had seen modeled by Paul and Silas.

Application:

What is the difference between making a decision for the Lord and making a commitment? How does your life demonstrate a committed life?

The jailer’s contribution to Paul’s ministry is far from insignificant. He cared for their physical needs. Paul and Silas had been stripped and brutally beaten, possi-

bly repeatedly thrashed with a cane or stick, resulting in bruised muscles, open lacerations, and perhaps broken bones. Tossed into a damp and dirty prison cell, they were susceptible to dangerous infections and other physical problems. This new believer’s medical care may have saved their lives. It undoubtedly hastened their recovery.

He ministered to their emotional needs with food, hospitality, and, most importantly, love and kindness to his new brothers in Christ. And he did all this at personal expense and great risk for him and his family.

Some might say the jailer only played a small role. But I suspect Paul and Silas would claim at that moment in time, he was the “Best Supporting Actor.”

Application:

When our role is not in the limelight, do we give our full diligence to fulfill our responsibilities?

How can we encourage and show appreciation to someone who faithfully serves and makes essential contributions in a less visible ministry role?

The Continuation

The Bible does not say what became of this man and his family. But we know that following this event,

more people came to faith, and a church was born in Philippi. Very possibly this man played an important role in that. Sometimes great supporting actors are given a larger role. It is probably not coincidental that this same compassionate, generous support for Paul demonstrated on this night by the Philippian jailer, became the ongoing nature and practice of the church that became so dear to Paul’s heart and instrumental in his ministry. Later, Paul would write to this church that became his “Best Supporting Actor” (Philippians 1:3-6).

Application:

Read Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi, imagining that the jailer might be part of the original recipients. Can you find ways that his ‘Best Supporting’ role may have influenced how this church ministered to Paul?

About the Writer: Danny and Jackie Gasperson have been married for 41 years. Danny serves as the Director of The Hanna Project, and Jackie works for both IM and WNAC. The Lord has blessed them with two grown children and two wonderful grandsons.

BY Kelli Penn

One of the beautiful parts of living in America is the rich diversity of cultures surrounding us. People are packing up and moving their families from their home countries to seek new opportunities in our country. Students are boarding planes to fly to America to study. Some are seeking refuge here as a haven from the country they left. Believers are presented with a unique opportunity to build friendships with all the internationals coming to America. Many are coming with little or no knowledge about the gospel. Taking the time to befriend those around you will create unique pathways to share the love of Jesus with them.

Here are ten ways you can build friendships with the internationals in your community:

1.) Volunteer in the ESL (English as a Second Language) program in your local schools. Offer to sit and read with students as they work on their English skills.

2.) Visit a local park and connect with young moms. Many of these young mothers are lonely and in need of a friend. This is a great way to interact with them.

3.) Start a cooking class at your church. Invite internationals to learn how to create common American dishes, then ask them to teach you how to make something from their culture.

4.) Start a weekly or bi-weekly ‘Lunch Club.’ Invite internationals to join you in trying out different restaurants in your community. This will help them navigate a menu or learn how to tip in America.

5.) Invite internationals to your home for the holidays. They love learning about American holiday traditions

(Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, Fourth of July, etc.).

6.) Host a baking day at Christmas and teach internationals how to make your favorite holiday treats.

7.) Host a bonfire at your home or church and invite internationals to roast wieners for hot dogs and marshmallows for s’mores. Cooking food over an open fire and tasting s’mores may be a new experience for them.

8.) Be a conversation partner. Contact your local college or university and ask about helping international students practice their English.

9.) Go to local restaurants and befriend the wait staff who are from different countries. Find out their names and build friendships with them.

10.) Invite your international neighbors to enjoy your favorite hobbies with you: hiking, fishing, shopping, book club, photography, sewing, etc. Use these outlets to connect with them as they try something new.

As you read through this list, two words should come to your mind: be available. Our willingness to reach out and connect with our international neighbors might be the very factor that leads to their salvation.

About the Author:

Kelli and her husband Tyler serve as International Missionaries to the international students at the University of Illinois. She’s a proud mother to three incredible teens, Mason, Millie, and Madden. She enjoys photography, home decor, trying new recipes, and secretly thinks she’s best friends with Joanna Gaines.

BEHIND THE SCENES

with Brandon and Shelly Smith

I listened to my fellow teachers talk excitedly about the upcoming weekend. At the top of their list was rest. However, I knew a laid-back weekend was not on my agenda. I rushed home that evening to begin packing. We would leave the next day to travel across North Carolina to our next church service, where we would present the new work that God had called us to.

We left for our destination around noon. I briefly breathed a sigh of relief once again that we had everything and everyone in the car, and then began the task of grading papers as I often did on our weekend trips. Approximately four hours later, we arrived. After settling in our hotel room, we went out to find something to eat for dinner before returning to the hotel to rest and finish preparing for the next morning.

Sunday mornings in a hotel with three kids are always interesting. Sometimes you sleep well the night before. Sometimes your child falls out of bed in the middle of the night. Breakfast is usually eaten in a hurry as we pack all our belongings in the car and make it to the church in time to set up our display table for the morning service. On a typical Sunday morning, my

husband will present our vision for the new church, my children and I will sing, he will preach, and then we stand at our table and answer questions.

This weekend was no different, and when the service was over, and we had packed up our display, we went out to eat with the pastor’s family. Later that afternoon, we began the trek back home. We were tired, but we were also feeling very blessed. We had seen God work in an amazing way once more. We had new partners who had committed in prayer and finances to help us start the new church. We met wonderful people who had been an encouragement to our family. We were one weekend closer to fulfilling the call on our lives to plant a church.

Brandon and Shelly Smith and their children

(Landon, Jordan, and Joshua) are missionaries to Hickory, North Carolina. They have just recently come off itinerant and are getting ready to start having preview services in May. Pray for them and their fellow church planters, Jonathan and Heather Huff, as they form their ministry team and prepare to launch Equip Church.

Just Being Ruthful*

BY Ruth McDonald

I find that many Christians don’t have a lot of unsaved friends, and that makes sense. We naturally love to hang out with people who share our faith. During my years in Japan, I was surrounded by people of different—or no— faith, so I got pretty comfortable having friends who were “not yet believers.” I’m finding, though, that’s it not so easy in my new routine in the U.S. I know, though, that I still want to share the gospel and impact those around me who don’t yet know Jesus.

We hear a lot about “gospel conversations” these days. I don’t know what that phrase means to you, but I think of it as a dialogue with someone yet unsaved that points them to Christ. It doesn’t necessarily have to include the entire Romans Road or end with an altar call, but it is a friendly, non-threatening opportunity to bring someone closer to the cross.

A few things to consider:

1.) Don’t be shocked at sinful behavior. People without Christ live like… well, people without Christ. They cuss, cohabitate with their significant others, drink excessively, and behave like sinners. Try to tell your face to behave and listen for the heart needs behind the sins.

2.) Express interest in them. I have yet to find anyone who doesn’t want to tell me about their tattoo… you don’t have to approve to ask them about it. After all, they felt so strongly about it as to have it permanently and painfully stamped on their flesh. Hearing what they’re passionate about shows that you care about them and helps you understand who they are. Show that you’re interested in their story and not just in telling yours.

3.) Find a connection. Though challenging, to be sure, you can usually find something in common with almost anyone. Buying the same product? Waiting in the same long line or lobby? Enjoy the same sport or hobby? Do both have kids or grandkids?

4.) Be a signpost to point people to Jesus. Tell a story that includes something God has done for you, being careful not to preach. Being sensitive to the response helps us sense how the Holy Spirit is working in this person’s life. I have found that trying to force open a heart that is not ready can be detrimental.

5.) Pray over the things you have learned during the encounter. Salvation comes through the Holy Spirit’s work. “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ saith the LORD Almighty.” Ask God to be at work between now and your next conversation.

Look forward to your next conversation as the Spirit leads.

As we continue our “Faith in Culture” theme this year, I am praying for every one of you that God will open doors for you to engage in gospel conversations. Let’s pray that the Lord would bring many to faith through our collective witness.

*“Ruthful is an archaic English word (the opposite of ruthless) meaning “full of compassion.”

A p r i l 3 - 7 , 2 0 2 3 A p r i l 3 - 7 , 2 0 2 3

P r a y e r R e q u e s t s P r a y e r R e q u e s t s

Monday

T h e E a s t e r e v e n t s a t K a m i f u k u o k a

C h r i s t C h u r c h i n T o k y o , J a p a n

T h e c h u r c h i n S e s i a , K e n y a , w h i l e t h e y p a r t a k e i n R e s u r r e c t i o n S u n d a y , t h e

L o r d ' s S u p p e r , a n d f e e t w a s h i n g

A R u s s i a n c o u p l e w h o h a s s t a r t e d a t t e n d i n g T h e B r i d g e C h u r c h i n I l l i n o i s

Tuesday

D e b b i e D r i s c o l l a s s h e h o s t s a n E a s t e r B r e a d H o u s e f o r s o m e w o m e n i n C a l i f o r n i a a n d s h a r e s a b o u t h e r m i n i s t r y i n B u l g a r i a

D a v i d R e e v e s a s h e p r e a c h e s a n

E a s t e r M e s s a g e t o a g r o w i n g c r o w d o f s e e k e r s i n F r a n c e

WNAC groups around the country are participating in a missions-focused week of prayer leading up to Easter.

4

Wednesday

H o p e A l i v e C h u r c h E a s t e r e v e n t s i n T o k y o , J a p a n , s u c h a s E a s t e r E g g H u n t o u t r e a c h , G o o d F r i d a y S e r v i c e , a n d t h e i r t w o E a s t e r s e r v i c e s J o i n t s e r v i c e i n S p a i n w i t h t h e G a l a p a g a r a n d A l p e d r e t e c o n g r e g a t i o n s

Thursday

T h e W N A C G i v i n g T r e e c a m p a i g n , w h i c h i s d e s i g n e d t o i n c r e a s e a n n u a l i n c o m e t o t h e o f f i c e , r e l i e v i n g f i n a n c i a l p r e s s u r e , a n d m a k i n g f u t u r e g r o w t h p o s s i b l e

5

Friday

T h e W o r l d M i s s i o n s O f f e r i n g , w h i c h s u p p o r t s m i s s i o n a r i e s a n d m i n i s t r i e s g l o b a l l y t o h e l p t a k e t h e G O S P E L t o t h e e n d s o f t h e E a r t h

Resources available or contact IM for a mailed packet

W e i n v i t e y o u t o d o w n l o a d t h e r e s o u r c e s b y

s c a n n i n g t h e Q R c o d e b e l o w o r c o n t a c t i n g S t a c i e b y e m a i l ( s t a c i e @ i m i n c . o r g ) t o h a v e t h e

m a t e r i a l s m a i l e d t o y o u o r y o u r g r o u p / c h u r c h .

C

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