Definition: As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Acts 13:2. It's a really important part of how Jesus started his ministry in the early church! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says that when the people who were leading the service – the leaders – prayed and fasted (took a time out to be quiet and reflect), the Holy Spirit (God's power) spoke to them. Let’s unpack it further: “As they ministered to the Lord…” - This means they were giving thanks, praising God, and doing their best work. They were focused on God and his will. “…and fasted…” – This means they took a time out to be quiet and reflect, often in prayer and repentance. It shows humility and a desire to connect with God. “The Holy Ghost said…” - This is the key part! The Holy Spirit (God’s power) spoke directly to them. Then, it says… “Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.” “Separate me” : This means that God wanted to specifically choose a few people – Barnabas and Saul – to be focused on a particular task or mission. “…and Saul…” - Saul was a teacher who had been doubting and questioning Jesus. "...for the work whereunto I have called them.” - This is really important! It means that God specifically wanted to call Saul to be part of this ministry, to help spread the good news about Jesus. In short, this verse tells us that God was actively involved in guiding and preparing a group of people – Barnabas and Saul – for a specific mission. It’s like God knew they were meant to be involved and wanted to help them get started. Why is this important? This is the beginning of how Jesus' ministry would grow. It shows that God doesn't just want to be involved, but he also wants to guide and empower people to share his message with the world. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can answer for you? For example, are you curious about: What "work" does God mean? Why did God choose Barnabas and Saul specifically?

Definition: And after that he gave [unto them] judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Acts 13:20. It’s a really important part of understanding how God’s plan unfolds in the story of the early church. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is choosing a group of people to lead and guide his followers. Let's unpack that a little further: “He gave [unto them] judges…” – This doesn’t mean giving them direct power or authority. Instead, “judges” refers to a group of trusted leaders – specifically, the elders of the church – who were chosen to watch over and guide the people God had called. “…about the space of four hundred and fifty years…” – This is a long time! It’s a significant amount of time, stretching back nearly 2000 years. It shows how much God has planned for his people. “until Samuel the prophet.” – This is the key part! Samuel was a very important prophet in the Old Testament who spoke to King David and warned him about the dangers of disobedience. God chose Samuel to be a leader of these elders, and he would guide them for nearly 2000 years. So, what’s the big takeaway? God is deliberately setting up a long period of time where a specific group of people – guided by trusted leaders like Samuel – will play a crucial role in leading and shaping the future of his church. It's about careful planning and establishing a foundation for growth and faithfulness. In essence, it’s a promise that God is working steadily through his people over a very long period. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Give you some examples of the kinds of leaders God chose in this time? Or perhaps delve into a specific aspect of this verse, like its connection to the Old Testament?

Definition: And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Acts 13:21. It’s a bit complex, but here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse says that after Jesus had sent out his disciples to spread the good news of the Gospel (the message of love and salvation), they started asking for a leader or king. Here's a breakdown of what’s happening: "And afterward they desired a king..." – This means they were thinking about establishing some kind of rule over the new faith. They weren’t just passively accepting Jesus’ message, they wanted something to govern it with. "...God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years." – This is the key part! God decided that He would choose Saul as their leader. Let's unpack this: Saul: This was a Jewish man who had been a prominent figure in the early church and was known for his boldness and leadership. son of Cis: This means he came from a specific branch of the Cis tribe, which was a significant and important group within the Israelite community. by the space of forty years: This is a really important detail! It means that Saul was appointed as leader for 40 years . That's a long time – almost 40 years – to guide the church. So, what’s the significance? This verse shows that God chose Saul to be their leader, and it took a significant amount of time (40 years) for him to fully understand and embrace the message of Jesus. It emphasizes that God has a plan for things and often chooses people to lead us in ways we don't always anticipate. In essence, it’s about God’s providence – His guiding hand throughout history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give more context around this passage (like its historical setting)? Discuss the reasons behind God choosing Saul?

Definition: And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the [son] of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 13:22. It’s a really significant passage that speaks about God’s plan for the future! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is setting David up as king. Let’s look at each part of the verse: “And when he had removed him…” – This refers to Jesus Christ being crucified. It was a painful event that showed God’s power and sacrifice. “…he raised up unto them David to be their king.” – Jesus is now seen as the rightful King of Israel, and David is chosen to be his heir. It's like giving someone a special role within the kingdom. “To whom also he gave testimony…” - Jesus tells David that He has found him! This is a powerful declaration – He’s not just choosing David; He knows who David is and why he’s important. “…and said, I have found David the [son] of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.” – This is the most important part. "After mine own heart" means exactly what it sounds like: He's chosen for a specific purpose that perfectly aligns with God’s plan. It emphasizes that David is the one God wants to rule and lead. So, what does this mean in a nutshell? It shows that Jesus is coming to redeem Israel. He's not just a historical figure; He's chosen to be king and will fulfill God's purpose for the nation, guided by His wisdom and plan. It’s a beautiful picture of God’s sovereignty and a promise of future fulfillment! It’s a really important verse because it emphasizes: God’s Sovereignty: God is in control and making things happen. Divine Purpose: God has a specific plan for His people and for the world. Chosen Leadership: David, chosen by God, will play a crucial role in leading the nation. Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of "David the son of Jesse"? Talk about why this verse is considered important in the Bible?

Definition: Of this man’s seed hath God according to [his] promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 13:23: “Of this man’s seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse is saying that Jesus was the result of a special and significant plan set by God. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Of this man’s seed…” - This refers to Joseph, who was born to King Jacob (yes, the same guy as David!). It’s about tracing back the lineage of Jesus. “… hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel…” – “His promise” means God had a plan for Jesus. And "raised" means He brought Him into existence and made Him a part of that plan. "...a Saviour, Jesus..." – This is the big one! “Savior” means someone who saves people from their problems or sins. And “Jesus” is the name of Jesus Christ, the central figure in Christianity. So, putting it all together: God created Jesus as a savior for Israel (the Jewish people). It’s like saying that through Joseph, God brought about the birth of a special person – Jesus – who will ultimately save and redeem humanity. Why is this important? This verse emphasizes that Jesus isn't just a human being; He is divine (God-related) and has a specific purpose in salvation history. It’s a foundational teaching in Christian belief. Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this verse within a particular religious tradition?

Definition: When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 13:24. It’s a really important one about Jesus’ ministry and how he prepared for his work. Here's what it means in simple terms: “When John had first preached before his coming, the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.” Basically, this verse describes what happened before Jesus started preaching with a big group of people. John was already doing some ministry – teaching and sharing the good news – but he wasn't yet a fully-fledged leader or figure in the church. Here’s the breakdown: “When John had first preached…” This means John began his ministry, started sharing the message of Jesus, and started to teach people about God’s love and forgiveness. “…before his coming…” This is key! He was already preaching, but it wasn't yet the big, influential role he would later have. It was a small beginning. “the baptism of repentance…” This refers to a special kind of cleansing – a call to turn away from sin and follow God’s way. Think of it as a wake-up call. So, what does this tell us? It shows that Jesus wasn't just starting out with a huge following. He was already planting seeds of faith and repentance! It suggests he understood the importance of leading people to change their lives and turn away from wrong doing. In essence, it’s about John beginning his ministry with a gentle reminder – a call to start changing your life for good. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time this verse was written? Explore what this verse might mean in a broader sense of biblical teaching?

Definition: And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not [he]. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of [his] feet I am not worthy to loose.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 13:25. It's a really important and slightly poetic passage about Jesus’s future role. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means in plain language: Jesus is telling John (a disciple) that he isn’t the one he thinks he is. He’s not the Messiah, the one prophesied to come. Instead, there’s someone else coming who will be more important and worthy of his attention. Let's unpack it further: “And as John fulfilled his course…” – This refers to John’s ministry, which was focused on proclaiming Jesus. John was a key messenger and teacher. “…he said, ‘Whom think ye that I am?’” – He’s addressing John and saying, “You think I am?” “I am not he.” – This is the core of the verse. Jesus isn't the person John was describing. “…But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of [his] feet I am not worthy to loose.” - This is where it gets a little more symbolic. “Shoes” here refers to his authority and position. He’s saying that he is destined for something greater than just being a messenger. "Not worthy to loose" means he's not allowed to be discarded or left behind. What does this mean in the grand scheme of things? This verse speaks to Jesus’s future role and destiny. It suggests: Jesus is rising: It’s a foreshadowing of his resurrection and ascension into heaven. Jesus will be elevated: The “shoes” represent his authority, power, and position. He's being given something more significant than just being a teacher or leader. A greater purpose awaits him: There’s a future where Jesus’s influence and importance will be even greater. In short, this verse is saying that Jesus is about to become more powerful and important than anyone who came before him. It's a beautiful and hopeful statement about the future of salvation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Give an example of how this verse might be interpreted in different ways?

Definition: Men [and] brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Acts 13:26. It's a really important part of how the early church started spreading their message. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse says: “To you, and to all of you who are faithful to God, is the message of salvation – the good news about how we can be saved from sin and eternal punishment.” Let's unpack that a little further: “Men and brethren…” : This refers to the early Christian leaders – Paul and the other apostles. “Brothers” means they were working together as one. “…and children of the stock of Abraham…” : Abraham is a very important figure in Jewish history, known for his faith and promise. "Children of the stock of Abraham" means we are all part of a lineage that God chose to follow. It’s about our connection to God's chosen people. “…and whosoever among you…feareth God…” : This is the core of the message. “Whosoever” means everyone . "Feares God" means they have a respect and fear of God – that’s a key part of being a good person. So, putting it all together: This verse is saying that those who are faithful to God – those who believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and accept him as Savior – are specifically invited to receive the message of salvation. It's like a special invitation to come into relationship with God. Why was this important? In the early church, it wasn’t enough just to believe in God. They needed to understand who God was and what He offered. This verse emphasized that faith in Jesus is a way to receive the “word of salvation” – which essentially means the good news of forgiveness, eternal life, and a new relationship with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you a quick summary of its context?

Definition: For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled [them] in condemning [him].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Acts 13:27. It’s a really significant and powerful statement about Jesus’s ministry and the early church. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, this verse says that the Jewish leaders at Jerusalem – those who were focused on tradition and didn't understand Jesus – successfully brought him to judgment. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For they that dwell at Jerusalem…” - This refers specifically to the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem. They were the ones who had been following Jesus for a long time, interpreting his teachings through their own traditions and laws. “…and their rulers…” – This is important because it highlights that these weren't just any Jewish leaders; they were the ones in positions of power and influence. “Because they knew him not, nor yet the voices of the prophets which are read every sabbath day.” - This is the core of the message. The "prophets" are essentially the Old Testament scriptures – the books that gave the Jewish people guidance and warning about Jesus. The phrase “read every sabbath day” means they were repeatedly reciting these texts. It’s like a ritual, a constant reminder of what they thought was important. So, what does this mean in practical terms? It means that the Jewish leaders, through their repeated readings and focus on tradition, had essentially made it so Jesus was condemned – that is, they were actively preventing him from being understood and accepted by many people. They were creating a situation where his message couldn’t be received or truly grasped. Why is this important? This verse is a key moment in the early church's history. It demonstrates that even when Jesus was preaching, the Jewish leaders weren’t open to him. Their focus on old laws and traditions kept them from understanding and embracing his message of love and forgiveness. It’s a powerful illustration of how faith needs to be rooted in understanding and accepting the truth revealed through God's word. In short, this verse describes a situation where the Jewish leaders actively suppressed Jesus’s message by clinging to outdated beliefs. --- Do you want me to: Explain it further with an analogy? Discuss its significance in more detail (like its connection to the coming of Christ)?

Definition: And though they found no cause of death [in him], yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important passage from Acts 13:28. It's a fascinating and complex part of the story of Jesus’ ministry in Jerusalem. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Core Idea: This verse describes a moment of intense pressure on Pilate – the Roman governor – to have Jesus executed. It’s not about fear for Jesus’ life; it’s about desire for him to be killed. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And though they found no cause of death” : This is a crucial part. The Jewish people, who were watching the events, were concerned that Jesus was dying. They were worried he might be crucified – a very gruesome death. They thought there was no reason for him to die. “Yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain” : This is where it gets interesting. The Jewish leaders, and particularly the throng of people gathered before Pilate, were actively wanting for him to kill Jesus. They weren't necessarily asking for his death; they were expressing a strong desire for it. What does this suggest? This verse is a powerful example of political pressure . It shows that even when people are worried about the fate of a person, they can still exert influence on those in power – particularly the authorities. It highlights that people can try to manipulate events to achieve their own goals, even if it means causing harm. Why is this significant? This passage is considered one of the most important in early Christian history because: It shows Jesus’ influence: He was skillfully manipulating the situation to draw attention to himself and his message. It demonstrates the power of political pressure: It illustrates how even seemingly ordinary people could be influential, especially when they have a strong desire for something. It lays the groundwork for Jesus' arrest and trial: This scene is a key moment that led to Jesus being arrested and ultimately crucified. In short, this verse shows that even when people are worried about someone’s life, they can still push for their death – it demonstrates the power of political influence. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story from Acts 13? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail?