MY TWO HEARTBREAKING HORRIBLE WEEKS IN REVIEW – 11/17 to 11/30/2025

Posted on December 1, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

MY TWO HEARTBREAKING HORRIBLE WEEKS IN REVIEW: 11/17 TO 11/30/2025

Monday November 17th started off happily as it was my Daughter Becky’s Birthday, so I took her a dozen Duncan Donuts and her birthday gift. Then I came back home to begin my routine Monday through Wednesday Church duties.

I was making plans to take her and her family out for dinner when just two hours later she sent me a note that she was at the ER with her husband Tim who was experiencing stroke-like symptoms. As you likely already know, Tim was diagnosed with a brain tumor and was taken to Springfield Memorial Hospital where he had surgery on Tuesday November 25th.

Austin came home on emergency leave and will be able to stay until next Friday, 12/5.

Tim is still at the hospital recovering and doing post-surgery physical therapy. He will meet with his medical team Monday or Tuesday morning (12-1 or 12/2) to discuss the treatments he will require in the future.

A late November storm brought 10.2” of snow to Decatur making travel to and from Springfield more difficult. Due to the snow, extremely cold temperatures and high winds, we cancelled our worship services on Sunday.

Please keep Tim and Becky and Austin and his wife Jadan and Aric and all of Tim’s family in your prayers.

I am so very thankful beyond words for your interest in my life and ministry and adventures and for your faithful prayers for Tim and all our family.

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“4 BIG Questions about Heaven!”

Posted on November 23, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

#1 – What is Heaven?

Hebrew – “sha-ma-yin” * The dwelling place of GOD.

Greek – “ouranos” * Basically, it means “beyond.” It is where we get the English word “horizon.”

It is used of three distinct places that were created by GOD!

Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

#2 – Where is Heaven?

Note: as stated above, there are three specific places created by GOD that are called “heaven.”

The First Heaven (The Physical Atmosphere of the Earth)

Genesis 1:6-8

(6) “And God said, “Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters.” (7) And God made the expanse and separated the waters that were under the expanse from the waters that were above the expanse. And it was so. (8) And God called the expanse Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, the second day.”

The Second Heaven (The Physical Universe)

Genesis 15:4-6

(4) “Then the word of the LORD came to Abram, saying, “This one will not be your heir, but one who comes from your own body will be your heir.”

(5) And the LORD took him outside and said, “Now look to the heavens and count the stars, if you are able.” Then He told him, “So shall your offspring be.” (6) Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”

Psalm 8:3-4

(3) “When I behold Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place— (4) what is man that You are mindful of him, or the son of man that You care for him?”

Psalm 19:1-6

(1) “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. (2) Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. (3) There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. (4) Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun, (5) which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. (6) Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat.”

Isaiah 55:10-11

(10) ““For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,

(11) so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”

The Third Heaven (The Eternal and Immaterial Dwelling of GOD)

2nd Corinthians 12:1-4

(1) “I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to gain, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord. (2) I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of it I do not know, but God knows.

(3) And I know that this man—whether in the body or out of it I do not know, but God knows— (4) was caught up to Paradise. The things he heard were inexpressible, things that man is not permitted to tell.”

#3 – Who is going to be in Heaven?

GOD is and will always be in Heaven!

Matthew 6:9 “Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

The holy Angels will always be in Heaven!

Luke 2:13-15

(13) “And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: (14)“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!”           (15) When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

Every human who has ever lived and repented of their sins and came to believe in Jesus as their Savior and LORD will be in Heaven!

Mark 1:14-15

(14) “Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, (15) and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

Acts 16:31 “And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

Every human ever conceived and who died before they were mentally capable of understanding their sinfulness and the gospel will be in Heaven!

Theological Note: Infants and those who are mentally incapable of understanding WHO GOD is and what HE commands have not sinned as Adam did!

Such people are declared by JESUS as believing!

Mark 9:42 “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.”

Note: “little ones” is “mikros” or “tiny” It is where we get the English word, “micron.” A micrometer is one-millionth of a meter.

Matthew 19:14 “but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”

Theological Note: Which humans have not sinned “in the way Adam did?”

Romans 5:12-14

(12) “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned. (13) For sin was in the world before the law was given; but sin is not taken into account when there is no law.

(14) Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam until Moses, even over those who did not sin in the way that Adam transgressed. He is a pattern of the One to come.”

Adam sinned knowing WHO GOD is and what HE commanded.

Who will be in Heaven? A great multitude of people from every tribe and people group on earth will be in Heaven!

Revelation 7:9-10

(9) “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, (10) and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

#4 – How can a person go to Heaven?

We must turn away from our sins!

Luke 13:5 “No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”

We must believe in JESUS!

John 8:24 “I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.”

John 14:1-6

 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.  (2) In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? (3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. (4) And you know the way to where I am going.” (5) Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” (6) Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Amen!

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Heaven – Sermon ONE 11-9-25

Posted on November 9, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

“HEAVEN – OUR HAPPY HOME!” Sermon ONE, Part ONE:

“WE HAVE A BODY, BUT WE ARE MORE THAN OUR BODY!”

1. As humans, created in the image of GOD, we have an earthly physical body! Our earthly physical body is an “earth suit” that we need to exist in this present physical world. So, we exist temporarily in an earthly physical body.

Illustration: Dr. Story Musgrave. STS61, December 2nd to 13th, 1993.

2. While we live out our earthly lives in our earthly physical body, we are spiritual beings created in the image of GOD and like GOD will live forever! Since we are created in the image of GOD, we are also three-part beings!

Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

3. We are spiritual beings. This is the “us” that lives within our earthly physical body!

– We “have” a spirit, but we are not “spirits” (as are angels.)  As living beings, our spirit is our nature as a living being and the source of our ability to relate to and with GOD.

4. We are a soul, and we are described as “having a soul.”

Genesis 2:7 “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” (KJV)

Genesis 2:7 “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.” (ESV)

Genesis 2:7 “Then the Lord God formed the man out of the dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being.” (CSB)

Hebrew – “nephesh” (literally, a breathing / living creature)

Definition – a soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion.

As souls (living beings created in the image of GOD) we share some, but not all, godlike characteristics including a mind, emotions, will, (although our will is limited while GOD’s is not) and eternality.

5. As living beings created in the image of GOD, WHO is a Spirit; we also have a spirit!

Our spirit is that part of us that is often called our “nature” as in “human nature.” Is the part of us through which we relate to GOD. Because we are sinners by nature, before we are regenerated our human spirit is described as, “being dead.”

Ephesians 2:1-3

(1) “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins (2) in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—

(3) among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.”

Theological Note: When GOD describes unregenerated humans as “dead” HE must be speaking of the spirit (or nature) since if either the body of the soul were dead we could neither “walk” nor “follow” anyone or anything!

In these verses, our deadness is from our “spirit” which being dead to GOD, lives “in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind…”

Amen!

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Summary Overview of Acts!

Posted on November 2, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

1:1a Luke, the physician who accompanied Paul and was his amanuensis (secretary), is the author of The Book of Acts and The Gospel of Luke!

 “In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach…”

1:2 JESUS ascended into Heaven and gave commands to the remaining eleven Apostles!

“until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen.”

1:3 JESUS was seen alive by eyewitnesses after HIS death on the cross!

“He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.”

Cf. 1st Corinthians 15: 3-6

(3) “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, (4) that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures,

(5) and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. (6) Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep.”

1:4-5 Being “baptized with the Holy Spirit” and “being filled with the Holy Spirit” are synonyms!

(4) “And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; (5) for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

1:6-7 We do not know (and indeed cannot know) when the LORD will return to set up HIS Kingdom!

(6) “So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” (7) He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.”

1:8 We exist to carry out the Great Commission!

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

1:9 – 11 JESUS is coming again!

(9) “And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. (10) And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, (11) and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

Chapter 2 The Holy Spirit indwells every believer and empowers GOD’s people to accomplish HIS will and work!

Chapters 3 – 28 “GOD allows what HE hates to accomplish what HE loves!” © Joni Eareckson Tada

Chapters 6 – 8 (and all of the rest of the New Testament) Deacons are a blessing to GOD’s Kingdom work!

Chapter 9 No one, NO ONE, is beyond GOD’s ability to save!

Chapters 10 – 28 GOD is also the Savior of Gentiles, and we are grafted with the Jews into HIS Body, the Church!

Chapters 12 – 28 In GOD’s Kingdom work, suffering is often the price of serving!

Chapters 13 – 28 The biblical way to win the world is to plant Bible-believing, Bible-preaching, reproducing Churches!

Chapters 21 – 28 Godless people and their godless politicians will always “team up” against GOD, HIS people, and HIS Kingdom work!

23:11 GOD is always working through providence in the lives of HIS people, and HIS will will be done in the world!

“The following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.”

Amen!

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Acts 28 – “The Perils of Paul!”

Posted on October 26, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

INTRODUCTION:

1. Even as his journey neared its end, Paul faced great adversity!

2. Unbelievers will respond to GOD’s people based solely on what benefits them!

3. Even after arriving in Rome, most of the people still rejected Paul and his teaching!

EXPOSITION:

28:1 – 6 Nothing can stop a child of GOD doing the work of GOD in the will of GOD until GOD HIMSELF permits it!

(1) “After we were brought safely through, we then learned that the island was called Malta. (2) The native people showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold.

(3) When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened on his hand. (4) When the native people saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer. Though he has escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.” (5) He, however, shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. (6) They were waiting for him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But when they had waited a long time and saw no misfortune come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.

28:7 – 10 The suffering that came into Paul’s life did not come into his life because he had failed GOD or because GOD had failed Paul!

(7) “Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days.

(8) It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him healed him. (9) And when this had taken place, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases also came and were cured. (10) They also honored us greatly, and when we were about to sail, they put on board whatever we needed.”

28:11 – 16 When GOD declares that something is going to happen, it is going to happen!

(11) “After three months we set sail in a ship that had wintered in the island, a ship of Alexandria, with the twin gods as a figurehead. (12) Putting in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days.         

(13) And from there we made a circuit and arrived at Rhegium. And after one day a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli. (14) There we found brothers and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome. (15) And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage. (16) And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier that guarded him.”

Cf. Acts 23:11 “The following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.”

28:17 – 28 Even when we are doing the work of GOD in the will of GOD and GOD is working mightily through us, many will still refuse to accept us and our testimony!

(17) “After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. (18) When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. (19) But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar–though I had no charge to bring against my nation. (20) For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.”

(21) And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you.

(22) But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”

(23) When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. (24) And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. (25) And disagreeing among themselves, they departed after Paul had made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet:

(26) “‘Go to this people, and say, You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.

(27) For this people’s heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed; lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.’

(28) Therefore, let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”

28:30 – 31 Regardless of our circumstances, we ought to take every opportunity to do the will of GOD for our life!

(30) “He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, (31) proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.”

Amen!

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Acts 27 – Being in the will of GOD does not guarantee Smooth Sailing!

Posted on October 20, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

INTRODUCTION:

1. In Acts 23:11, GOD told Paul that he was going to Rome!                

2. In Acts 23 through 26, dozens of unbelievers, two Roman Governors, and a godless pagan King tried to keep stop Paul!                    

3. In Acts 27:13 – 41, a horrific storm nearly stopped Paul!                

4. In Acts 28:3, a snake tried to stop Paul!                                              

5. In Acts 28:14, Paul arrived in Rome!

EXPOSITION:

27:1 – 6 Remember! A happy beginning and a happy ending does not guarantee that everything will be happy along the way!

(1) “And when it was decided that we should sail for Italy, they delivered Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion of the Augustan Cohort named Julius. (2) And embarking in a ship of Adramyttium, which was about to sail to the ports along the coast of Asia, we put to sea, accompanied by Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica.

(3) The next day we put in at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him leave to go to his friends and be cared for. (4) And putting out to sea from there we sailed under the lee of Cyprus, because the winds were against us. (5) And when we had sailed across the open sea along the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra in Lycia. (6) There the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing for Italy and put us on board.”     

27:7 – 12 It is always wise heed the words of an Apostle!

(7) “We sailed slowly for a number of days and arrived with difficulty off Cnidus, and as the wind did not allow us to go farther, we sailed under the lee of Crete off Salmone.

(8) Coasting along it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens, near which was the city of Lasea. (9) “Since much time had passed, and the voyage was now dangerous because even the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, (10) saying, “Sirs, I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.” (11) But the centurion paid more attention to the pilot and to the owner of the ship than to what Paul said. (12) And because the harbor was not suitable to spend the winter in, the majority decided to put out to sea from there, on the chance that somehow they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete, facing both southwest and northwest, and spend the winter there.”

27:13 – 20 GOD really does allow real storms to come into the lives of HIS people, even while we are doing HIS will!

(13) “Now when the south wind blew gently, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, they weighed anchor and sailed along Crete, close to the shore. (14) But soon a tempestuous wind, called the northeaster, struck down from the land. (15) And when the ship was caught and could not face the wind, we gave way to it and were driven along. (16) Running under the lee of a small island called Cauda, we managed with difficulty to secure the ship’s boat. (17) After hoisting it up, they used supports to undergird the ship. Then, fearing that they would run aground on the Syrtis, they lowered the gear, and thus they were driven along. (18) Since we were violently storm-tossed, they began the next day to jettison the cargo. (19) And on the third day they threw the ship’s tackle overboard with their own hands. (20) When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned.”

27:21 – 24 Even in the midst of our storms, GOD is with us!

(21) “Since they had been without food for a long time, Paul stood up among them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and incurred this injury and loss. (22) Yet now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. (23) For this very night there stood before me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship, (24) and he said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you.’ “

27:25 – 26 When GOD has decreed something, it is going to happen!

(25) So take heart, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. (26) But we must run aground on some island.”

27:27 – 32 Those who refuse to believe GOD’s promises put themselves and those around them in real danger!

(27) “When the fourteenth night had come, as we were being driven across the Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors suspected that they were nearing land. (28) So they took a sounding and found twenty fathoms. A little farther on they took a sounding again and found fifteen fathoms. (29) And fearing that we might run on the rocks, they let down four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come. (30) And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, and had lowered the ship’s boat into the sea under pretense of laying out anchors from the bow, (31) Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved.” (32) Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the ship’s boat and let it go.”

27:33 – 41 Even as we trust the promises of GOD, we still need to take reasonable and rational steps for our good!

(33) “As day was about to dawn, Paul urged them all to take some food, saying, “Today is the fourteenth day that you have continued in suspense and without food, having taken nothing. (34) Therefore I urge you to take some food. For it will give you strength, for not a hair is to perish from the head of any of you.” (35) And when he had said these things, he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat. (36) Then they all were encouraged and ate some food themselves. (37) (We were in all 276 persons in the ship.) (38) And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, throwing out the wheat into the sea.        (39) Now when it was day, they did not recognize the land, but they noticed a bay with a beach, on which they planned if possible to run the ship ashore. (40) So they cast off the anchors and left them in the sea, at the same time loosening the ropes that tied the rudders. Then hoisting the foresail to the wind they made for the beach.

(41) But striking a reef, they ran the vessel aground. The bow stuck and remained immovable, and the stern was being broken up by the surf.”           

27:42 – 44 Even unbelievers will help us when they see the blessings of GOD on our lives!

(42) “The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any should swim away and escape. (43) But the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for the land,

(44) and the rest on planks or on pieces of the ship. And so it was that all were brought safely to land.”

Amen!

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Posted on October 12, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

Acts 26 “To be Almost Persuaded is to be Totally Lost!”

INTRODUCTION:

This is a continuation of Paul’s hearing before King Agrippa and Governor Portius Festus from Chapter 25.

EXPOSITION:

26:1 – 7 When we defend ourselves and what we believe, we must be both respectful and truthful!

(1) “So Agrippa said to Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself.” Then Paul stretched out his hand and made his defense: (2) “I consider myself fortunate that it is before you, King Agrippa, I am going to make my defense today against all the accusations of the Jews, (3) especially because you are familiar with all the customs and controversies of the Jews. Therefore, I beg you to listen to me patiently. (4) “My manner of life from my youth, spent from the beginning among my own nation and in Jerusalem, is known by all the Jews.

(5) They have known for a long time, if they are willing to testify, that according to the strictest party of our religion I have lived as a Pharisee. (6) And now I stand here on trial because of my hope in the promise made by God to our fathers, (7) to which our twelve tribes hope to attain, as they earnestly worship night and day. And for this hope I am accused by Jews, O king!”

26:8 – 11 Testimony Part 1: My life before I knew JESUS!

(8) “Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead? (9) “I myself was convinced that I ought to do many things in opposing the name of Jesus of Nazareth. (10) And I did so in Jerusalem. I not only locked up many of the saints in prison after receiving authority from the chief priests,

but when they were put to death I cast my vote against them.     (11) And I punished them often in all the synagogues and tried to make them blaspheme, and in raging fury against them I persecuted them even to foreign cities.”

26:12 – 18 Testimony Part 2: How I came to know JESUS!

(12) “In this connection I journeyed to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests. (13) At midday, O king, I saw on the way a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, that shone around me and those who journeyed with me. (14) And when we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’ (15) And I said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And the Lord said, ‘I am Jesus whom you are persecuting.

(16) But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, (17)  delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles– to whom I am sending you (18)  to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’

26:19 – 24  Testimony Part 3: The difference that JESUS has made in my life!

(19) “Therefore, O King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, (20) but declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all the region of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance. (21) For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me.      

(22) To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass: (23) that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.”

Theological Note: This is the Gospel as revealed in the Old Testament… The death and resurrection of the Messiah!

26:24 – 29 When should understand that when we share our testimony, some people will think we are mad and others get mad!

(24) “And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.”

(25) But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. (26) For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. (27) King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.”

Theological Note: In the context of this passage, the thing that Paul says Agrippa believes ishis statement in verses 22-23…

(22) “To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass:

(23) that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.”

In other words, “Do you believe in a coming Messiah?”

(28) “And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” (29) And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am–except for these chains.”

Theological Note: Verse 28 in the Greek is, “Then Agrippa [said] to Paul, within so little do you persuade me a Christian to become?”

26:30 – 32

Even when unbelievers recognize our Christlike lives, many will still reject JESUS!

(30) “Then the king rose, and the governor and Bernice and those who were sitting with them. (31) And when they had withdrawn, they said to one another, “This man is doing nothing to deserve death or imprisonment.” (32) And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

Historical Notes:

King Agrippa II died in 93 AD and there is no evidence of him ever coming to believe in JESUS.

Governor Festus apparently served from 59 AD to 62 AD. Historians do not record much of anything of his life other than his service as Governor of Judea. There is no evidence that he ever came to believe in JESUS.

Sadly, Just because great and powerful people hear the gospel does not guarantee that they will come to believe in JESUS!

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ACTS 24 “Paul’s Defense before the Governor and his Declaration of the Gospel!”

Posted on September 28, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

INTRODUCTION:

1. Following Paul’s arrest, beating, and rescue in Jerusalem, he is taken in custody to Caesarea to be tried before Governor Felix.

2. “Governor Felix, known formally as Antonius Felix, served as the Roman procurator of Judea from approximately AD 52 to AD 58. He was appointed by the Emperor Claudius and was known for his harsh and often corrupt administration.” © BibleHub.com

3. Ananias the High Priest and some of the leaders of the Jews came to Caesarea to testify against Paul and seek his execution.

4. An orator named Tertullus brought the charges against Paul.

5. After Paul’s defense, he takes the opportunity to share his testimony as JESUS had commanded him to do!

EXPOSITION:

24:1 – 9 Two of the weapons most often used against Christians are flattery and lies!

(1) “And after five days the high priest Ananias came down with some elders and a spokesman, one Tertullus. They laid before the governor their case against Paul. (2 ) And when he had been summoned, Tertullus began to accuse him, saying: “Since through you we enjoy much peace, and since by your foresight, most excellent Felix, reforms are being made for this nation,        (3) in every way and everywhere we accept this with all gratitude. (4) But, to detain you no further, I beg you in your kindness to hear us briefly. (5) For we have found this man a plague, one who stirs up riots among all the Jews throughout the world and is a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes.

(6) He even tried to profane the temple, but we seized him. (8) By examining him yourself you will be able to find out from him about everything of which we accuse him. (9) The Jews also joined in the charge, affirming that all these things were so.”

24:10 – 13 The two best weapons Christian have for our defense is respect for authority and telling the truth!

(10) “And when the governor had nodded to him to speak, Paul replied: “Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I cheerfully make my defense. (11) You can verify that it is not more than twelve days since I went up to worship in Jerusalem, (12) and they did not find me disputing with anyone or stirring up a crowd, either in the temple or in the synagogues or in the city. (13) Neither can they prove to you what they now bring up against me.”

24:14 – 21 Christians should not waste our suffering, but we should use every opportunity – including unjust suffering – to share the gospel through our testimony!

(14) “But this I confess to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets,    (15) having a hope in God, which these men themselves accept, that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust. (16) So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man. (17) Now after several years I came to bring alms to my nation and to present offerings. (18) While I was doing this, they found me purified in the temple, without any crowd or tumult. But some Jews from Asia—(19) they ought to be here before you and to make an accusation, should they have anything against me. (20) Or else let these men themselves say what wrongdoing they found when I stood before the council,

(21) other than this one thing that I cried out while standing among them: ‘It is with respect to the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial before you this day.'”

24:22 – 27 In spite of knowing and even being deeply moved by the truth, corrupt people usually continue their corrupt behaviors!

(22) “But Felix, having a rather accurate knowledge of the Way, put them off, saying, “When Lysias the tribune comes down, I will decide your case.” (23) Then he gave orders to the centurion that he should be kept in custody but have some liberty, and that none of his friends should be prevented from attending to his needs. (24) After some days Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, and he sent for Paul and heard him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. (25) And as he reasoned about righteousness and self-control and the coming judgment, Felix was alarmed and said, “Go away for the present. When I get an opportunity I will summon you.” (26) At the same time he hoped that money would be given him by Paul. So he sent for him often and conversed with him. (27) When two years had elapsed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And desiring to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.”

Amen.

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ACTS 23 “Paul on Trial!”

Posted on September 21, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

INTRODUCTION:

1. Following his three missionary journeys, (Acts 13:1- 21:16) and his journey to and arrival in Jerusalem, Paul was arrested in the Temple.

2. After his arrest and beating, Paul was rescued from the mob by a Roman Tribune and his soldiers and before they tortured him, they learned that Paul was a Roman Citizen.

3. The Roman Tribune allowed the Jewish leaders to question Paul and Paul was allowed to speak in his own defense.

4. GOD used both spiritual and practical means to rescue Paul and continue the process of sending him to Rome!

EXPOSITION:

23:1 – 5 One of the ways that we know the Bible is inspired is that the writers do not cover up their own faults, failures, ignorance, and sins!

(1) “And looking intently at the council, Paul said, “Brothers, I have lived my life before God in all good conscience up to this day.” (2) And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. (3) Then Paul said to him, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Are you sitting to judge me according to the law, and yet contrary to the law you order me to be struck?” (4) Those who stood by said, “Would you revile God’s high priest? (5) And Paul said, “I did not know, brothers, that he was the high priest, for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’”

**Anonymous quote: “Mere men could not have written the Bible. Good men could not have written it because the writers claim it is GOD’s word and if they are telling a lie they are not good men. Bad men could not have written it because it condemns their behavior and dooms them to eternal judgment.”

23:6 – 10 It is both biblical and practical to use ordinary human means to defend oneself when those means are legal and ethical!

(6) Now when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees. It is with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial.” (7) And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided. (8) For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all. (9) Then a great clamor arose, and some of the scribes of the Pharisees’ party stood up and contended sharply, “We find nothing wrong in this man. What if a spirit or an angel spoke to him?” (10) And when the dissension became violent, the tribune, afraid that Paul would be torn to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him away from among them by force and bring him into the barracks.”

23:11 Even when it appears that the LORD is not with us, HE is!

(11) “The following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.”

23:12 – 24

Even though (as we have just seen in verse 11) GOD uses supernatural means to encourage, protect, and lead HIS people, HE also – and usually – uses ordinary means to do so!

(12) When it was day, the Jews made a plot and bound themselves by an oath neither to eat nor drink till they had killed Paul. (13) There were more than forty who made this conspiracy. (14) They went to the chief priests and elders and said, “We have strictly bound ourselves by an oath to taste no food till we have killed Paul (15) Now therefore you, along with the council, give notice to the tribune to bring him down to you, as though you were going to determine his case more exactly. And we are ready to kill him before he comes near.”

(16) Now the son of Paul’s sister heard of their ambush, so he went and entered the barracks and told Paul. (17) Paul called one of the centurions and said, “Take this young man to the tribune, for he has something to tell him.” (18) So he took him and brought him to the tribune and said, “Paul the prisoner called me and asked me to bring this young man to you, as he has something to say to you.” (19) The tribune took him by the hand, and going aside asked him privately, “What is it that you have to tell me? (20) And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though they were going to inquire somewhat more closely about him.   (21) But do not be persuaded by them, for more than forty of their men are lying in ambush for him, who have bound themselves by an oath neither to eat nor drink till they have killed him. And now they are ready, waiting for your consent. (22) So the tribune dismissed the young man, charging him, “Tell no one that you have informed me of these things.”

(23) Then he called two of the centurions and said, “Get ready two hundred soldiers, with seventy horsemen and two hundred spearmen to go as far as Caesarea at the third hour of the night. (24) Also provide mounts for Paul to ride and bring him safely to Felix the governor.”             

23:25 – 35 When GOD uses ordinary means to bless HIS people, the means HE uses may – and often does – include non-believers!

(25) “And he wrote a letter to this effect: (26) “Claudius Lysias, to his Excellency the governor Felix, greetings. (27) This man was seized by the Jews and was about to be killed by them when I came upon them with the soldiers and rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman citizen. (28) And desiring to know the charge for which they were accusing him, I brought him down to their council. (29) I found that he was being accused about questions of their law, but charged with nothing deserving death or imprisonment. (30) And when it was disclosed to me that there would be a plot against the man, I sent him to you at once, ordering his accusers also to state before you what they have against him.”

(31) So the soldiers, according to their instructions, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris. (32) And on the next day they returned to the barracks, letting the horsemen go on with him. (33) When they had come to Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor, they presented Paul also before him.     (34) On reading the letter, he asked what province he was from. And when he learned that he was from Cilicia, (35) he said, “I will give you a hearing when your accusers arrive.” And he commanded him to be guarded in Herod’s praetorium.”

JESUS clearly warned HIS people that “GOD allows what HE hates to accomplish what HE loves!” – Joni Eareckson Tada

Cf. Matthew 10:16-20

(16) “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. (17) Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, (18) and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.

(19) When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. (20) For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”

Amen.

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ACTS 22 – Paul Shares His Personal Testimony!

Posted on September 13, 2025 by Lanny Faulkner

INTRODUCTION:

1. Even after being falsely arrested, beaten, and threatened with death, Paul’s desire was to share his faith with unbelievers!

2. Paul shares his faith with them by sharing his personal testimony of salvation!

3. Paul uses a simple (and simply perfect) means of sharing his testimony following a three-part outline…

“My life before I knew Jesus.”

“How I came to know Jesus!”

“The difference that knowing Jesus has made in my life!”

4. Every Christian should share our personal testimony following this same three-part outline!

EXPOSITION – ACTS 22

22:1 – 21 Paul’s Three Part “Evangelistic” Testimony!

(Recounting Acts 9:1-22)

(1) “Brothers and fathers, hear the defense that I now make before you.” (2) And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even more quiet. And he said:

TESTIMONY PART ONE – MY LIFE BEFORE KNOWING JESUS!

(3) “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day. (4) I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prison both men and women, (5) as the high priest and the whole council of elders can bear me witness.

From them I received letters to the brothers, and I journeyed toward Damascus to take those also who were there and bring them in bonds to Jerusalem to be punished.

TESTIMONY PART TWO – HOW I CAME TO KNOW JESUS!

(6) “As I was on my way and drew near to Damascus, about noon a great light from heaven suddenly shone around me. (7) And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’ (8) And I answered, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’ (9) Now those who were with me saw the light but did not understand the voice of the one who was speaking to me.

TESTIMONY PART THREE – THE DIFFERENCE THAT KNOWING JESUS HAS MADE IN MY LIFE!

(10) And I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise, and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.’

(11) And since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus. (12) “And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there,

(13) came to me, and standing by me said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that very hour I received my sight and saw him. (14) And he said, ‘The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth; (15) for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard. (16) And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.’

(17) “When I had returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance (18) and saw him saying to me,

‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about me.’ (19) And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves know that in one synagogue after another I imprisoned and beat those who believed in you. (20) And when the blood of Stephen your witness was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving and watching over the garments of those who killed him.’ (21) And he said to me, ‘Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'”

22:22 – 30 Those who hate GOD also hate HIS people and will do all they can to prevent us from speaking about JESUS!

(22) “Up to this word they listened to him. Then they raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth! For he should not be allowed to live.” (23) And as they were shouting and throwing off their cloaks and flinging dust into the air,       (24) the tribune ordered him to be brought into the barracks, saying that he should be examined by flogging, to find out why they were shouting against him like this.

(25) But when they had stretched him out for the whips Paul said to the centurion who was standing by, “Is it lawful for you to flog a man who is a Roman citizen and uncondemned?” (26) When the centurion heard this, he went to the tribune and said to him, “What are you about to do? For this man is a Roman citizen.”

(27) So the tribune came and said to him, “Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?” And he said, “Yes.” (28) The tribune answered, “I bought this citizenship for a large sum.” Paul said, “But I am a citizen by birth.” (29) So those who were about to examine him withdrew from him immediately, and the tribune also was afraid, for he realized that Paul was a Roman citizen and that he had bound him.

(30) But on the next day, desiring to know the real reason why he was being accused by the Jews, he unbound him and commanded the chief priests and all the council to meet, and he brought Paul down and set him before them.”

Amen.

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