CFM: July 10–16
Conversion on the Way to Damascus, by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio
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Resources and Insights about this Week's Lesson
The Book of Acts, written as the second part of Luke's gospel, serves as a crucial historical narrative of the early Christian church. The Book of Acts covers the significant period between the resurrection of Jesus and the death of the apostle Paul, highlighting the formulation of Christian beliefs and the expansion of the church into a worldwide movement. This account provides essential context that can help one to better understand the Gospels and the context of the other New Testament writings.
The name "Acts" is derived from the Latin name Actūs Apostolōrum. In Greek, the name for this book originates from Acts 19:18 INT, Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων (práxeis apostolon). The Greek term "práxeis" signifies "deeds, works, or doings" and is the root of the English word "practice" derived from the Greek root πράσσω (praso). Understanding the use of the term "practice" in relation to the apostles in the Book of Acts enhances our comprehension of the account. It emphasizes the active nature of the apostles' faith and how their choices, policies, standards, and practices were shaped by exercising the the principles and lessons they learned from the Savior and his doctrine. The apostles were not simply preaching doctrines or engaging in theoretical discussions; they were actively embodying their faith through their actions and interactions with others.
The term "practice" conveys the idea of actively living out one's beliefs, highlighting the practical application of doctrine across various contexts and circumstances. It serves as a reminder that the apostles' commitment to their faith extended beyond mere words, as their faith was evident in their actions. They performed miracles, showed compassion, and remained dedicated to spreading the gospel message despite immense dangers, persecution, and adversity. By emphasizing "practice," we recognize the transformative power of faith, while simultaneously acknowledging the presence of fallibility and vulnerability. This perspective allows us to better connect with the early saints as we delve into their lives, challenges, choices, consequences, successes, and failures. Moreover, this process encourages us to find parallels between these stories and our own life experiences, fostering powerful opportunities for personal reflection, insight, and growth.
While commonly referred to as "The Acts of the Apostles," the book primarily focuses on the activities of the apostle Paul, with limited information about the original Twelve Apostles. Scholars hold varying opinions regarding authorship, with Luke being credited for parts of the book. The inclusion of certain "we sections" has raised questions among scholars about additional contributors. It is likely that Luke was the original author, but subsequent editors and redactors may have influenced the final form of the text.
The Book of Acts consists of twenty-eight chapters. The initial twelve chapters recount events from the last meeting of Jesus with his disciples to the beginning of Paul's missionary work. The remaining sixteen chapters provide a detailed account of Paul's activities, including his mission to the church in Antioch and his eventual imprisonment in Rome.
The first section of Acts covers significant events that were discussed in last week's lesson, such as Jesus' ascension, the selection of a replacement for Judas, the Feast of Pentecost and the gift of tongues, Peter's sermons, the arrest of Peter and John, the deceit of Ananias and Sapphira, and an introduction to the disciple Stephen, which is expanded upon in this week's lesson.
The second section of Acts continues the narrative by addressing the challenges encountered by early members of the Church as they embraced Christianity. As the message of the gospel spread, people from diverse cultures and backgrounds united to form a new community of converts. This was a new experiment for the Jewish people, who had historically been isolated and tribal within their community and culture. By opening their doors to the gentile nations, they had to learn how to prioritize and adjust several policies and procedures that had been important parts of their culture to align with both the doctrines of Jesus Christ and the individual and collective needs of the people. Political, cultural, and social expectations, needs, traditions, and prejudices frequently conflicted and these were challenges common among every single member of this growing community. Members of Christ's Church had to learn how to put their differences aside in order to unite as a single and unified body of Saints.
Within this community, many intriguing and captivating figures from all walks of life emerged, including Simon, the sorcerer, and an influential unnamed Ethiopian delegate who served as an ambassador for the Queen Regent (Candace/ Kentake). These individuals faced significant adjustments and sacrifices in their lifestyles and livelihoods as they embraced Christ's gospel. Many had to sacrifice their jobs, families, friends, homes, possessions, cultures, traditions, and prior beliefs and expectations. All had to reevaluate their past traditions and experiences to better align their practices with the teachings of the gospel.
Many of these stories bear resemblance to our more recent pioneer history and echo the challenges encountered in the Restored Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The enduring relevance of these lessons can also be seen among new converts to the Church today, who encounter similar challenges on their journeys of faith. Even long-standing members can relate to similar experiences, as changes to policies and readjustments to cultural and social expectations continue to progress, expand, and develop within a growing international Church. This is an essential and important part of the refining process of the Restoration.
In the chapters we explore this week, we have the opportunity to observe the organizational structure of the primitive church and the roles of the priesthood within it. Specifically, we encounter the roles of apostles, deacons, elders, and priests. It becomes evident how the apostles delegated these positions to address both the temporal and spiritual needs of the community. We witness the structure of these roles and the process of calling, ordaining, and setting apart individuals to fulfill their respective duties and functions.
Upon exploring the provided cross-references, remarkable parallels can be drawn between the organization and function of the priesthood then and now. This resemblance should come as no surprise, as the restoration of the Church sought to align with the ministry patterns established by Christ and His apostles in previous dispensations. Throughout the chapters, we encounter numerous examples of faithful and devoted priesthood holders who exemplified their callings even under the most challenging circumstances, driven by their love for the Lord. Many of these individuals displayed unwavering dedication, giving everything they had, including their own lives, to build and fortify the Lord's kingdom here on earth.
The challenges that the early Christian community faced were not limited to internal struggles within the Church. External pressures from Jewish and Roman authorities escalated, leading to increased persecution against the followers of Christ's doctrine. We learn about the serious and tragic nature of this persecution with the story of the disciple Steven, who is frequently regarded as the first martyr of the Christian Church following the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
As a follower of Jesus Christ, Stephen was a shining example of the calling and role he served. Known for his wisdom, faith, and the power of the Holy Spirit working through him, Steven was appointed as one of the seven deacons to serve his community. He oversaw the temporal needs of his area and was specifically assigned to preside over the equitable distribution of food to the widows and families in his area. Stephen's powerful and educated teachings demonstrated his deep understanding of the Scriptures and he boldly proclaimed that Jesus was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
Several religious leaders were threatened by Stephen's message, and they began to stir up contention within the community, bringing forth multiple false witnesses to testify against him. This eventually led to his arrest. In his defense before the Jewish council, Stephen delivered a powerful speech recounting the history of Israel and their continued resistance to God's messengers, which he proclaimed ultimately culminated in the rejection and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. He boldly accused the religious leaders of betraying and murdering the Just, or Righteous One, echoing Jesus' own words condemning those who persecuted God's elect. Stephen's speech acknowledged the guilt and corruption of the religious counsel, it warned them of the devastating consequences of their actions and emphasized Jesus' role as the long-awaited Messiah. Stephen preached repentance, forgiveness, and faith in Christ for salvation up until his last breath.
Stephen's teachings highlighted the continuity between the Old Testament and the Christian faith. He demonstrated how Jesus' life, death, and resurrection fulfilled the prophecies and promises of the Hebrew Scriptures, and they formed the foundation for Christian beliefs. In many ways, Stephen's story can be related to Abenidi's. There are many parallels in the lessons they taught, and both had similarly tragic outcomes. At Abenidi's trial and execution, Alma was present, and he would become a powerful missionary. At Stephen's trial and execution, Saul was present. Only Saul was not repentant at that time. Saul was a willing contributor to the persecution and execution of Stephen, and he erroneously believed he was doing the Lord's will.
Saul's persecution against the Christians did not end with Stephen. Saul wreaked havoc on the Church as he mercilessly hunted down, arrested, persecuted, and even slaughtered many Christian disciples. As a result, many believers were compelled to leave Jerusalem and seek refuge in the surrounding regions of Judea and Samaria. This relocation became a means to ensure their safety and preserve the spreading message of Christianity in the face of mounting opposition. It also fulfilled the Savior's prophecy that the Church would spread first in Jerusalem, then into Judea and Samaria, and finally to the broader regions.
As the Christians began to spread out, the Jewish council continued to hunt them down, and Saul became one of their chief enforcers. One day as Saul was traveling to Damascus with the intention of arresting believers, Saul experienced a profound encounter with the risen Savior. Struck by a blinding light, he heard a voice asking, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" (Acts 9:4-5). When Saul asked who was speaking to him, the Lord answered, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks." Saul then asked the Lord, "What wilt thou have me do?"
It is interesting that the Lord did not answer Saul's question by revealing the bigger plan initially; he only gave Saul enough information to take the next step. The Lord instructed Saul to go into the city and await further instructions. This profound encounter left Saul blind, both physically and spiritually. Saul was forced to reevaluate his beliefs and past assumptions as he had to come to terms with his haunting past and devastating mistakes.
Saul was in terrible shape. Refusing all food and water, Saul continued his supplications before the Lord. Finally, after three days of blindness, the Lord showed mercy upon Saul. In a vision, the Lord called Ananias to help Saul. Ananias was initially afraid because he knew Saul's reputation; he knew Saul had done many terrible things. However, in the vision, the Lord explained that Paul was a chosen vessel and that in spite of, and because of, Paul's complicated past, he would become a great missionary and asset for the Lord's work, and that he would bear God's name before the Gentiles, kings and the children of Israel.
Ananias was instructed to restore Saul's sight and baptize him. As the scales fell from Saul's eyes, he was shown great things that he would be called to suffer on behalf of the Lord. This was a calling that he had been prepared for. Saul was among the most educated of the disciples; he had trained under Gamaliel in the most prestigious religious institutions. He had worked closely with members of the Sanhedrin; he knew their motives, tactics, politics, assets, strengths, and weaknesses. Saul also knew how to officiate in political matters of State, and how to navigate complicated political and legal obstacles.
The wording in Acts 9:17-18 regarding the scales falling from Saul's eyes is rather intriguing because this parallels one of the miracles Christ performed with the blind man who was healed in stages. In John 9:6 INT, the account explains that when Jesus healed a man who had been blind from birth, he did so in a manner that seemed rather unconventional. The Lord made clay out of spit and dirt and anointed it over the blind man's eyes. The man was then instructed to go wash the clay off in the pool of Siloam, and over the course of several experiences, the man's vision was gradually restored to the point of being fully open. The stages of enlightenment experienced by the blind man and Saul follow a clear and familiar pattern, as presented below:
Faith: the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Both Paul and the blind man had to exercise faith, by hearing and choosing to follow the audible instructions of the Savior.
The vision of self: at the pool of Siloam, the blind man received his physical vision. Perhaps the first thing the man saw was his own reflection. As Paul underwent physical blindness for three days, he was forced to look inward, to evaluate his own choices and actions. He felt the anguish and weight of his guilt and continually petitioned the Lord for forgiveness
A vision of God as a prophet and teacher: Over the course of several trials and experiences, the blind man's vision continued to improve. He began to realize that Jesus, the man who healed him, must have been a prophet.
A vision of Family: When the authorities questioned the man, they brought his parents before the council; this was the first time the man saw his parents, his family. He saw their fears, anxieties, and concerns. He tried to comfort and protect them in spite of their shortcomings.
A vision of Community: During intense questioning, the man began to see the cruelty and corruption of the world that encompassed him. He saw through the pretentious facades of several religious and political leaders, as he and his family experienced their unjust judgment and condemnation.
A vision of Jesus as the Son of God: After enduring persecution from adversarial forces, the man who was once blind gained a profound realization. He came to recognize that Jesus, the one who had miraculously healed him, was not only a prophet but also the Son of God. This revelation bestowed upon him a renewed sense of strength and courage, enabling him to persevere through the various hardships and obstacles he did and would encounter.
Christ appears to the man in Person: Following his expulsion from the synagogue, the man whom Jesus healed had an encounter with Christ in person. Since the man had never physically seen Jesus before, he did not initially recognize Him. Jesus approached the man and inquired if he believed in the Son of God. Curious and eager to worship Him, the man asked for Jesus' identity. At that moment, the Lord unveiled Himself to the man, allowing him to see and fully comprehend that Jesus was indeed his Savior and Redeemer. With this profound revelation, the man's physical and spiritual eyes were fully opened, and he recognized and knew the true identity of the one who had healed him.
The process of scales falling from the eyes is quite interesting; it is a phenomenon that occurs in nature with snakes. Snakes do not have eyelids. They have specially adapted scales called eye caps or spectacles that protect their eyes and these caps create a layer of moisture that also provides hydration for the eye, as snakes do not blink. During a normal shedding cycle, the eye caps typically come off and are replaced. However, sometimes the eye caps don't come off, and this can cause serious problems, including blindness, infection, and death. A snake must shed its skin to grow and survive.
In the Garden of Eden, one reads that Lucifer was symbolically represented as a serpent, and this serpent beguiled Eve. In the account of Exodus, one reads that the Israelites were being inflicted by snake bites in the wilderness. Moses was instructed to make a brazen serpent that was to be attached to a staff. The people were told to look to the staff, to be healed. The snake was a symbol of both the curse and the cure, the venom, and the anti-venom. By partaking of the Tree of Knowledge, of good and evil, humankind was cursed. They would have to experience death, pain, and suffering. Like venom, the only way to counteract the damaging effects of the poison is to neutralize the venom.
When a person is bitten or stung by a venomous creature, the venom is injected into the body. Venom typically contains a mixture of various proteins and enzymes that can cause damage to tissues, disrupt bodily functions, and lead to systemic effects and failures. Antivenom is created by immunizing another animal, such as a sheep or horse, with small and controlled doses of venom. These animals develop an immune response and produce antibodies against the venom.
The process of producing anti-venom involves extracting blood from the immunized animals and isolating the antibodies specific to the venom. These antibodies are then purified and processed into a medication that can be administered to humans. When anti-venom is given to a person who has been envenomed, the antibodies in the anti-venom bind to the venom toxins, effectively neutralizing their harmful effects.
Jesus Christ is the lamb that provided humanity with the anti-venom to the curse of the Fall. As the Israelites looked to the brazen serpent, who represented Jesus Christ, they were able to receive the healing tonic, the living waters, to be made whole. As they demonstrated faith in following Christ, and as they learned to trust him, they grew; they changed and progressed. They shed their proverbial skin, and their eyes were opened in stages, as they began to develop the wisdom necessary to use the knowledge they had obtained appropriately by learning and living God's laws.
Through Saul's painful experience, he underwent a complete transformation very quickly, a mighty change of heart and mind. He became a fervent disciple of Christ and dedicated his life to preaching the gospel and establishing Christian communities throughout the Mediterranean world. Saul's transformative journey led others to Jesus Christ.
While it is uncommon for individuals to undergo rapid and dramatic transformations akin to the experiences of Paul or Alma the Younger, we can still obtain the blessings of salvation and exaltation by diligently seeking to learn and live the gospel. Progression in our spiritual journey typically occurs gradually, as we faithfully and continually advance through the various stages. Powerful parallels can be drawn to the story of the blind man who actively participated in his own progression by shedding the metaphorical scales that both obstructed and enhanced his vision. Similarly, as we strive to shed and learn from our own challenges and limitations, we can develop the ability to see.
Through our spiritual journey, we have the potential to develop a new way of seeing ourselves as beloved children of God. We can learn the transformative power of forgiveness and self-improvement, allowing us to grow and become better individuals. Furthermore, we can extend our improved vision to our families and loved ones, learning to appreciate them and empathize with their needs and struggles. By establishing healthy boundaries with grace and compassion, we can support them and cultivate meaningful and eternal relationships.
Expanding our sight, we can also learn to see our communities in a new light. By faithfully serving Jesus Christ and one another, we gain a deeper understanding of our shared responsibilities. Guided by God's laws of love, we become positive influences by upholding principles of integrity, justice, mercy, and charity. As we progress along this path, we develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, recognizing Him as our Savior and Redeemer.
Consistent effort and active participation in this process of refinement allow us to shed the metaphorical scales that hinder our spiritual growth. Through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ, we find strength, purification, and inoculation. By embracing this journey, we can ultimately attain the promised blessings of salvation and exaltation.
Major Topics & Events
Major Topic/ Events | Location | Scripture | Cross-references | Videos & Resources |
Challenges facing those living Law of Consecration, Greek widows were being neglected in the daily ministrations of food. | Jerusalem, Galilee | | ||
Twelve held a counsel to address concerns. 7 Deacons were appointed to serve over local and temporal matters so that the Apostles could focus on their ministering duties. | Jerusalem, Galilee | Acts 6:2-4 | , διάκονος "Deacon," χρείας "business, need, duty" μαρτυρουμένους, "witness, honest report," πνεύματος Ἅγιου "Holy Ghost" καταστήσομεν "appointed, set apart," προσκαρτερέω "give ourselves continually" | |
Steven and Phillip were chosen and ordained, among the others, to serve in this Priesthood calling. Steven served with faith and power, performing many wonders and miracles | Jerusalem | Acts 6:5-9 | | |
Several people from the synagogue were threatened and upset by Steven's teachings. They accused him with blasphemy, threatening destruction of the temple, and changing traditional customs. | Jerusalem | Acts 6:9-14 | ||
Steven appeared as an angel | Jerusalem | Acts 6:15 | | |
Steven's sermon | Jerusalem | |||
An account of Abraham: persecuted by Chaldeans, established promised land, prophesy of bondage in Egypt, the covenant of circumcision introduced (8th day). | Jerusalem (Chaldea, Ur, Haran, Canaan map) | Acts 7:2-8 | Gen 11-25, The Book of Abraham 1-5, Chaldea, Charran, Canaan Mesopotamia, land of promise, inheritance; covenant of circumsision מוּל בְּרִית | |
Isaac, Jacob, and 12 patriarchs | Jerusalem (Canaan) | Acts 7:8 | Gen 22-36 | |
Joseph sold into Egypt, Israelites fall into bondage | Jerusalem (Canaan, Egypt) | Acts 7:9-19 | Gen 37-50 | |
Moses: childhood, position, remembrance of heritage, death of a soldier, flight into the wilderness, burning bush, calling as prophet, forshadow of future prophet (vs.37), receiving of oracles (vs.38), Exodus, fathers rebelled against Moses (calf, idolatry), God has compassion for the people, reestablishes a covenant with Israel by giving them the Torah and tabernacle. After a propbationary period of 40 years, the Isrealites are finally allowed to go into the Promised Land. | Jerusalem (Egypt, Moab, Sinai, wilderness) | Acts 7:20-42 | Exodus - Deuteronomy, ἀποστέλω apostelo "apostle, I will send" (thee into Egypt). "A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren" (Deut 18:15-19 INT, Acts 3:22-23 INT, JS History 1:40) ἐκκλησίᾳ "church," λόγια "oracles," Idols: Israelites engaged in worshiping the works of their own hands, the host of heaven, and priestcrafts, Tabernacle of Molech (cult of Moloch), Star of Remphan כִּיּוּן Amos 5:26 INT) | |
After several generations in the promised land, the Israelites lost the blessing of the Tabernacle due to their pride and idolatry. David restored the kingdom and Tabernacle. Solomon built the temple, soon thereafter, the fathers again persecute the prophets and lost the Temple. After the first diaspora, it is rebuilt, but now the Jewish leaders have just killed the "Just One." | Jerusalem | Acts 7:43-50 | | |
Stephen's history demonstrates the reoccurring pattern of pride and rebellion leading to the loss of Temple blessings, pointing out that those present had received the law by the disposition of angels, but the did not keep it. | Jerusalem | Acts 7:50-53 | | |
Mob outraged. | Jerusalem | Acts 7:54 | | |
Stephen receives a vision of Jesus standing on the right-hand side of God the Father. | Jerusalem | Acts 7:55-56 | | |
The mob attacks, strips Stephen of his clothing, and lays the clothes at Saul's feet. | Jerusalem | Acts 7:57-58 | | |
During the stoning, Stephen calls upon Jesus to forgive those who are killing him, and Stephen dies. | Jerusalem | Acts 7:59-60 | | |
Major Event/ Theme | Location | Scripture | Cross-Reference | Videos & References |
Saul persecutes the Church | | |||
Phillip preaches in Samaria, many accept the gospel. | Samaria | Acts 8:4-7 | | |
Simon the Sorcerer is baptized and makes significant changes to his life and livelihood to become a member of the Church | Samaria | Acts 8:8-24 | | |
Simon accompanies Phillip as a missionary to Jerusalem to teach Samaritans | Samaria | Acts 8:25 | | |
Phillip called to teach in Gaza, where he teaches and baptized a eunuch who served as a diplomatic ambassador for the Queen Regent of Ethiopia. | Gaza | Acts 8:26-39 | | |
Phillip winds up in Azotus, and is then called to Caesarea | Just North East of Gaza | Acts 8:40 | | |
Saul addresses the elders of the high priests to obtain warrants for arrests against Christians on his way to Damascus. | | |||
Jesus intercepts Saul and confronts Saul, asking him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? | On the road to Damascus | Acts 9:3-4 | | |
"Who art thou, Lord?" "I Am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard to kick against the pricks." | On the road to Damascus | Acts 9:5 | | |
"What wilt thou have me do? | On the road to Damascus | Acts 9:6 | | |
Saul is instructed to go into the city and wait for further instructions. | On the road to Damascus | | | |
Men with Saul heard the voice but saw no man. | On the road to Damascus | Acts 9:7 | | |
Saul loses his sight; his companions lead him to Damascus. Saul refuses to eat or drink anything for three days. | On the road to Damascus | Acts 9:8-9 | | |
Disciple Ananias receives a vision, "Behold, I am here, Lord." | Damascus | Acts 9:10 | | |
Ananias instructed to find Saul and heal him. | Damascus | Acts 9:11-12 | | |
Ananias knows Saul's reputation and is scared. | Damascus | Acts 9:13-14 | | |
The Lord reassures Ananiass, telling him that Paul is a chosen vessel, that he would bear Christ's name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel, and that he would suffer great things in God's name. | Damascus | Acts 9:15-16 | | |
Ananias finds Saul & heals him. | The house of Judas on Straight Street, Damascus | Acts 9:17 | | |
Major Event/ Theme | Location | Scripture | Cross-Reference | Videos & Resources |
Scales fall from Saul's eyes; he receives his sight and is baptized and confirmed with the gift of the Holy Ghost. | The house of Judas on Straight Street, Damascus | Acts 9:18 | | |
Saul is strengthened and immediately begins to teach about Jesus in the synagogues and surrounding areas. | Damascus & Syria | Acts 9:19-22 | | |
Jewish leaders hear about Saul and started plotting his assasination. | Jerusalem & Damascus | Acts 9:23 | | |
Saul knows of the plot against him and averts the ambush | Damascus | Acts 9:24-25 | | |
Saul returns to Jerusalem and seeks out the apostles who are afraid of him and his motives. Barnabas convinces the apostles to trust Saul. | Jerusalem | Acts 9:26-28 | | |
The apostles help Saul escape, taking him first to Caesarea with the intention of sending him to Tarsus (Turkey). | Jerusalem, Caesarea, and beyond | Acts 9:29-30 | | |
Church grows throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria | Judea, Galilee, and Samaria | Acts 9:30-31 | | |
Peter goes to Lydda and Saron, heals a man with Palsey | Lydda and Saron | Acts 9:32-35 | | |
Peter raised Tabitha from the dead | Joppa | Acts 9:36-42 | | |
Peter stays with Simon, a tanner. | Joppa | Acts 9:43 | | |
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