Definition: Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as [he did] unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 11:17. It's a really interesting and somewhat philosophical statement! Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is about someone who was initially skeptical or doubtful about Jesus Christ – and then believed in him. It’s asking, “How can I stand against God when I’m already believing?” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Forasmuch then…who gave them the like gift as [he did] unto us…” : This means that we , the early Christians, were given a similar gift – a spiritual blessing – to believe in Jesus. It's suggesting that we too had been blessed with faith and belief. “…who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ” : This is the core of the point. It’s about someone who actually believed in Jesus as Savior. “What was I, that I could withstand God?” : This is the really challenging part. It's a question of power and authority. The speaker is asking: “If I’m already believing, why am I still facing God’s judgment or authority?” It’s essentially saying: "I'm experiencing faith, but I'm afraid of what might happen if my belief is challenged." What it means in a broader sense: This verse speaks to the early church's struggle with doubt and fear. It highlights the importance of: Faith over Fear: Belief isn’t just about knowing something; it’s about trusting it, even when things get scary. Standing Firm in Faith: It encourages believers to hold firm to their beliefs despite potential opposition or challenges. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a reflection of the early church's vulnerability – they were facing persecution and uncertainty. It’s a moment of deep faith and awareness of the risks involved. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Give you some context about the situation in Acts 11:17?