Based on Sunday class

Acts 23:12-21

In an attempt to uphold the integrity of the Law, the 40 Jews were willing to desecrate the Law in order to stop Paul. They took the oath of fasting, and instead of focusing on God, they focus on killing Paul. Do I make up my mind and do things my way, for my purpose, instead of focusing on God and His will? The Jews' zeal was based on upholding God's law, but that was only used as a surface excuse, they had given up seeking God's will and began to seek their own. 

Although Jesus had promised Paul that he would make it to Rome, when his nephew came to him with news of the plot, he sent his nephew to tell the news to the Commander. Just because we have a promise from God, it does not mean we sit back and not participate in the events of our life.

Notes from bible study in Maryland

There is no one greater than God. Therefore, He gives His oath and swears by Himself. This makes His promises as great as He is.

There is no need for us to go outside God's word. We can not make suppositions and assumptions about the will of God. Any ideas we may have about what may be are inferior to what really is.

1. God can not lie - Hebrews 6:18

- Anything that falsifies the Word is not from God.

2. God knows all things - Hebrews 4:13

- Anything that implies God does not know something is against doctrine.

3. God's Word is truth - John 17:17

- God can not be wrong.

Because of these things, we can believe God's promises. Only on Him can we place our trust. Only by His Word and His Word only can we discover sound doctrine.

The Jews demanded the release of Barabbas, and that Jesus be crucified. They would rather have a murderer among them than the Author of the universe, the One who had the power to save them and who loved them. How many times do I choose that which is lesser over the One who is greatest? How often do I choose death over life?

Jesus' blood cleanses me from all my sin. I do not deserve it, yet I act as though I do. When I ask for forgiveness do I recognize that God grants it because He loves me, and not for anything I've done to deserve it? Am I thankful and humble that He is willing to pardon my impurities? How often am I like the pardoned servant, who refused to forgive His fellow servant, but instead focus on the impurities of others?