The gospel is good news about God’s saving action in Jesus Christ. Scripture gives both the message to announce and the manner of life that belongs with it. The apostles’ preaching, their encounters with particular hearers, and the instructions addressed to Christian communities help us understand faithful witness.
Make Jesus Christ and his saving work clear
Begin with what Jesus has done. In 1 Corinthians 15:1–5, Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel they received, in which they stand, and through which they are being saved as they hold to it. Its central events are that Christ died for our sins, was buried, rose again the third day, and appeared to witnesses. The words “for our sins” explain the saving purpose of his death; the burial and appearances belong to the account of his real death and resurrection. Help your hearer understand these events and their meaning. The message concerns the crucified and risen Christ who saves.
Explain who this Jesus is. John 1:1–3 says that the Word was with God, was God, and was the one through whom all things were made. John 1:14–18 then describes the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, making the Father known in grace and truth. Romans 1:1–4 identifies the gospel as God’s promised message concerning his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord: descended from David according to the flesh and declared Son of God with power by the resurrection. The one who came among us is God’s Son and Israel’s promised Christ. Trusting him means receiving the Lord whom God has made known.
Paul locates this good news within God’s earlier promises. Twice in 1 Corinthians 15:3–4 he says that Christ’s death and resurrection happened according to the Scriptures. Isaiah 52:7–10 announces to Zion that God reigns, comforts and redeems his people, and makes his salvation visible to the nations. Its first setting is the promised restoration of Jerusalem. Mark 1:14–15 records Jesus announcing the fulfillment of the time and the nearness of God’s kingdom, and calling for repentance and belief. God’s saving rule gives the good news its setting: in Jesus, the God who promised deliverance acts to bring people under his gracious reign.
Give the resurrection its full place. In 1 Corinthians 15:5–11, Paul names Cephas, the Twelve, more than five hundred brethren, James, the apostles, and finally himself among those who saw the risen Christ. His account directs the church to testimony it received. Paul then reasons in 1 Corinthians 15:12–19 that if Christ has not been raised, the preaching and faith are empty, believers remain in their sins, and those who died in Christ have perished. The resurrection is therefore essential to the salvation being proclaimed. Explain it as God’s action in raising Jesus from death.
The good news also gives hope beyond death. In 1 Corinthians 15:20–28, Christ is the firstfruits of those who have died: his resurrection begins the harvest that includes those who belong to him at his coming. Paul describes Christ’s reign and the final destruction of death. When you explain salvation, include this living hope. Christ brings forgiveness and a future with him, and his reign will overcome the enemy that human strength cannot defeat.
Further study: C. Clifton Black · N. T. Wright
Explain the call to turn to God and trust Christ
Explain our need for Christ with the humility of someone who also needs mercy. Romans 3:19–23 brings the whole world under accountability to God: his law makes sin known, and all have sinned and fallen short of his glory. Sin is wrongdoing before God, and the passage closes the door to boasting over another person. Verses 24–26 announce that sinners are justified freely by grace through Christ’s redemption. To be justified is to be declared righteous before God. Through Christ’s blood, God deals with sin while remaining just and justifying the believer. The saving help you offer is grounded in God’s action through Jesus.
Make God’s love and the seriousness of salvation understandable together. John 3:16–21 says that God gave his Son so that those who believe have everlasting life, while unbelief remains under condemnation and the coming of light exposes evil. Romans 5:6–11 explains the love behind Christ’s death: he died for the ungodly, while we were sinners and enemies. Through him believers receive peace with God, reconciliation and deliverance from wrath. Reconciliation means that those who were enemies are brought into peace with God. Tell people of the mercy offered in Christ and the real need to receive him.
Call for repentance and faith as the response to this grace. In Acts 20:20–25, Paul recalls teaching Jews and Greeks repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ; he describes the same ministry as testifying to God’s grace and preaching the kingdom. Repentance turns a person toward God and away from sin; faith relies on Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:1–10 explains why this response gives God the glory: people dead in sins are made alive with Christ through God’s mercy, saved by grace through faith, and created in Christ for good works. Those works belong to the new life God gives. Encourage trust and a willing turn toward obedience without presenting moral improvement as the price of salvation.
Help the hearer respond to Christ himself. Romans 10:8–13 connects believing in the heart that God raised Jesus with confessing him as Lord and calling upon him. Paul then explains in Romans 10:14–17 why the message must be heard: calling presupposes believing, and believing presupposes hearing the proclamation. Give words their meaning by explaining the Lord being confessed and the saving work being trusted. In 2 Corinthians 5:18–6:2, Paul describes his entrusted ministry as an earnest appeal for people to be reconciled to God through Christ. Share that urgency with sincerity, inviting a response of faith that reaches the heart and life.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Receive your part in Christ’s mission
Receive the mission under Jesus’ authority and with confidence in his presence. Matthew 28:16–20 records the risen Jesus addressing the eleven disciples in Galilee. Because all authority in heaven and earth belongs to him, they are to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost and teaching them to observe his commands. The KJV’s “teach all nations” includes making disciples, as the following baptism and continuing instruction show. Jesus promises to be with them to the end of the world. Witness serves his purpose of bringing people into a continuing life of learning and obedience.
The first witnesses have a particular place in that mission. In Luke 24:36–49, Jesus shows the disciples his hands and feet, eats before them, and opens their understanding of the Scriptures. His suffering, resurrection, and the preaching of repentance and forgiveness to the nations belong together. He calls them witnesses and tells them to wait for power from on high. Acts 1:1–11 continues this account, naming the apostles and the Spirit’s promised power for witness from Jerusalem outward. Christian witness today hands on their testimony to the Lord they saw; their original encounter and commission remain part of the foundation.
The wider church also takes part. Acts 8:1–4 says that believers were scattered by persecution while the apostles remained in Jerusalem, and that the scattered believers went about preaching the word. First Peter 2:9–12 addresses God’s people together: having received mercy and been called from darkness into light, they are to show forth his praises and live honorably among their neighbors. Ephesians 4:11–16 names different gifts, including evangelists, pastors and teachers, for the building up and maturity of the whole body. Share what you know of Christ, grow in your ability to explain Scripture, and receive the help of those equipped to teach. Shared responsibility has room for different forms of service.
Let the breadth of God’s purpose shape your concern for people. Genesis 12:1–3 promises blessing to all families of the earth through Abraham. Galatians 3:6–14 explicitly connects that promise with God justifying the nations through faith and with Christ’s redeeming work. Psalm 96:1–13 calls for God’s salvation and glory to be declared among the nations because he is Creator, King and righteous Judge. These texts join the mission’s worldwide reach to God’s own promise and worth. Bring the same saving message to people beyond familiar boundaries, honoring the Lord who calls people of every nation.
Further study: Matt Skinner · N. T. Wright
Listen carefully and help people understand Scripture
Pay attention to what a person understands and what the person is asking. Acts 8:26–35 describes Philip being directed to an Ethiopian official returning from worship in Jerusalem. Philip hears him reading Isaiah and asks whether he understands. The official invites him to sit beside him and asks whether the prophet is speaking about himself or someone else. Philip begins at that Scripture and explains Jesus. The encounter joins readiness to speak with attention to an actual question. Help your hearer follow the passage rather than assuming that familiar religious words already communicate their meaning.
Explain the reasoning within the Scripture you use. The words read in Acts 8:32–33 describe a sufferer led like a sheep to slaughter, silent before his oppressors, humiliated and deprived of justice. Isaiah 53:4–12 explains that the servant bears others’ griefs and sins, suffers despite his innocence, and brings righteousness to many. That is the larger setting for Philip’s proclamation of Jesus from this passage. Show how the servant’s suffering for others helps explain Christ’s saving death. Philip’s angelic direction and sudden removal belong to his recorded experience; his careful response to the reader shows the value of explaining the biblical text.
Apostolic preaching takes account of what the hearers already know. At Pentecost, Peter speaks to people addressed as men of Israel. In Acts 2:22–36, he recalls Jesus’ deeds, death and resurrection, then reasons from David’s words: David died and his tomb remained, so the promise concerning freedom from death’s corruption points beyond David to the risen Christ. Peter then explains Jesus’ exaltation and the outpouring of the Spirit. The conclusion is that the crucified Jesus is Lord and Christ. The Scripture citations have an argument; they show why the hearers should recognize what God has done.
In Athens, Paul begins with the hearers’ worship and an altar to an unknown god. Acts 17:16–31 shows him explaining that the Creator gives everyone life and breath and therefore does not depend on human provision. He uses their poets’ language about being God’s offspring to challenge the making of divine images from metal or stone: the giver of human life cannot be reduced to an object humans manufacture. The speech then calls everyone to repent because God will judge the world through the man he raised from the dead. Paul had already been proclaiming Jesus and the resurrection in Acts 17:18. His point of contact leads into a clear challenge and the news about Christ. Explain needed foundations while keeping the hearer moving toward the Lord.
Personal testimony can help people attend to Jesus. In John 4:16–30, after Jesus speaks truthfully about the Samaritan woman’s life and identifies himself as the Messiah, she invites the town to come and see him. John 4:39–42 distinguishes the stages: many believe through her testimony, then more believe through Jesus’ own word after asking him to stay. They come to confess him as the Saviour of the world. Tell truthfully of the mercy you have received and direct people to Christ’s word.
Further study: Mikeal C. Parsons · Biblical Studies Press
Speak with grace and let your conduct serve the truth
Let your way of speaking help the person hear the truth. Colossians 4:5–6 tells believers to walk wisely toward those outside the church, make good use of their opportunities, and let their speech be gracious and seasoned with salt, so that they know how to answer each person. The seasoning image commends speech fitted to its purpose; the stated result is an appropriate answer to the particular hearer. Listen, speak plainly, and consider what explanation is needed. Grace belongs in the manner of the conversation as well as in its message.
Prepare to explain your hope with gentleness. First Peter 3:13–17 addresses believers who may suffer for doing right. Peter calls them to honor the Lord in their hearts, remain ready to give a reason for their hope, and answer with meekness and fear. Their confidence before God should govern their manner toward people. A good conscience and good conduct in Christ belong with the answer, even when they are falsely accused. Readiness means learning the truth you confess and becoming able to explain why you trust Christ; it also means cultivating the character with which you speak.
Care for the people receiving the message. In 1 Thessalonians 2:1–12, Paul recalls courage after suffering, faithfulness to God’s trust, and a ministry free from deceit, flattery and greed. He describes gentleness through the image of a nursing mother caring for her children and says that the believers had become dear to him. He also recalls encouraging, comforting and charging them as a father, so that they would live worthily of God. These are Paul’s descriptions of his ministry. They show why truthful witness and personal care belong together: the gospel is entrusted to servants who seek the good of those they address.
Keep conviction joined to patience when there is disagreement. Second Timothy 2:22–26 tells Timothy to pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, avoid quarrels that produce strife, and correct opponents with gentleness. The purpose is that God may grant repentance and a knowledge of the truth. Paul’s charge concerns Timothy’s teaching ministry, and its patient manner accords with the instruction to all believers in 1 Peter 3:15–16. Explain what you can establish from Scripture, hear the objection accurately, and seek the other person’s understanding and good.
Let a truthful life accompany truthful speech. In 2 Corinthians 4:1–7, Paul describes open presentation of the truth before God and people’s consciences, with Christ Jesus as Lord at the center of the preaching. In Matthew 5:14–16, Jesus compares his disciples to light that is put where it benefits others; their good works are to lead people to glorify the Father. First Peter 2:11–12 likewise joins honorable conduct to God’s praise. Practice the honesty, mercy and love that Christ teaches, and give the explanation that makes their source known.
Further study: Jeannine K. Brown
Invite a response and help believers begin a life of discipleship
Help the hearer understand the response the gospel calls for. After Peter’s message in Acts 2:37–41, his hearers are pierced to the heart and ask what to do. He tells them to repent and be baptized in Jesus Christ’s name for the remission of sins, and speaks of receiving the Holy Ghost. Remission means forgiveness. He extends the promise to them, their children and those far away, as many as the Lord calls. Those who receive the word are baptized and added to the community. Peter’s answer joins the inward response to God, baptism in Christ’s name, and the gifts God promises; each deserves a place in Christian instruction.
Recognize the welcome God gives to people of every nation. In Acts 10:34–43, Peter proclaims Jesus’ ministry, death, resurrection and appointment as Judge, and promises forgiveness through his name to everyone who believes. While he is still speaking, the Holy Ghost comes upon the Gentile hearers, astonishing the Jewish believers with him. Peter then commands water baptism because these people have received the Spirit as they have (Acts 10:44–48). The story shows God welcoming Gentiles and the church recognizing his work. Teach new believers to respond to Christ in faith and baptism, and welcome them into the life of his people.
Give the message to the people being invited to believe. In Acts 16:25–34, an earthquake opens the prison, and Paul prevents the jailer from harming himself. Asked what he must do to be saved, Paul and Silas tell him to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, extending the promise to his household. They then speak the word to him and to everyone in his house. The account continues with his washing their wounds, the household’s baptism, and rejoicing. The promise belongs within this telling and hearing of the gospel. Help family members hear about Christ themselves; the story provides no general guarantee that one relative’s response automatically secures another’s salvation.
Continue caring after the first response. Acts 2:42–47 describes the baptized believers continuing in the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers, with generosity toward those in need. Matthew 28:19–20 likewise joins baptism to learning to obey Jesus’ commands. In Acts 14:21–28, Paul and Barnabas return to strengthen disciples, encourage them to continue in faith through tribulation, and establish elders in the churches. Help new believers learn Scripture and share in the church’s worship, care and instruction. The aim of witness includes people being established in the faith they have received.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press · Matt Skinner
Pray for open doors and depend on God’s power
Pray out of concern for the people who need the Lord. In Matthew 9:35–38, Jesus sees the crowds as sheep without a shepherd and is moved with compassion. He tells the disciples to ask the Lord of the harvest to send workers. Romans 10:1 likewise records Paul’s desire and prayer for Israel’s salvation. Let this concern shape your own praying: ask for people to hear and receive the good news, and for faithful workers to help them.
Ask for opportunities, clarity and courage. Colossians 4:2–4 calls the church to persevering prayer with thanksgiving, including prayer that God will open a door for Paul’s message and help him make it clear. Ephesians 6:18–20 asks the church to pray for his bold speech while he is in chains. Even an apostle asks for help in speaking as he ought. Dependence on God belongs with preparation and willingness to speak.
Bring opposition before God with the church. Acts 4:23–31 records believers hearing the threats against Peter and John, addressing God as Creator, and recalling the opposition to his Christ foretold in Scripture. They ask for boldness and for God’s hand to act through Jesus. Luke records their being filled with the Holy Ghost and speaking the word boldly. Their prayer seeks help to remain faithful amid the threat. Join others in asking God to strengthen the witness he has entrusted to his people.
Trust God to act as his word is made known. Acts 16:13–15 says that Lydia heard Paul and that the Lord opened her heart to attend to his message. Second Corinthians 4:5–7 describes God shining light into hearts through the knowledge of his glory in Christ, while the messengers remain fragile vessels. In 1 Corinthians 2:1–5, Paul recalls coming in weakness, fear and trembling, with his message centered on Jesus Christ crucified, so that faith would rest in God’s power. Speak faithfully with the strength you have, asking God to give understanding and life. These passages place your confidence in him.
Continue faithfully and share the work with others
Give yourself to faithful work while leaving the growth with God. First Corinthians 3:1–9 addresses a church divided around Paul and Apollos. Paul describes both as servants through whom the Corinthians believed: one planted, another watered, and God gave the increase. Their work is real, and each answers for that labor, but the life and growth are God’s gift. Receive another person’s contribution with gratitude and take your own part without making a listener’s response a measure of your importance.
Expect people to respond in different ways, and seek lasting understanding. Acts 17:32–34 records mockery, willingness to hear more, and actual belief after Paul speaks of resurrection in Athens. Matthew 13:18–23 contrasts the person who hears and understands the word with hearers who lose it, receive it only briefly and fall away under trouble, or are choked by cares and riches. Jesus describes the understanding hearer as bearing fruit. Keep giving patient attention to the word and helping others do the same. An immediate reaction does not reveal the whole course of a person’s response.
Share in the work through concrete support as well as speech. Third John 1:5–8 commends Gaius for caring for traveling believers and urges him to help them on their journey in a manner worthy of God. Because they have gone out for the Lord’s name, those who receive them become fellowhelpers to the truth. Such support enables the message to reach others. Welcome faithful workers, help meet their needs, and take part in the church’s common service.
Continue in the faith you commend. Philippians 1:27–30 calls the church to a manner of life worthy of the gospel, standing together and remaining steadfast amid opposition. In 2 Timothy 2:8–10, Paul remembers Jesus Christ, risen from the dead and descended from David, while enduring imprisonment for the sake of others’ salvation; God’s word remains unbound. Keep your attention on the living Lord, learn his word, pray, speak with love, and help others follow him. The mission belongs to the one who promises his presence in Matthew 28:20.
Further study: Mikeal C. Parsons
Read the passages
Scripture in context
49 contextual selections for this subject, including the passages cited above and further related reading. Every selected range is reproduced in full from the KJV. Context notes identify the setting and kind of evidence.
Covenant promise 1 selections
Genesis 12:1–3 KJV · In this guide
Context: God calls Abram to leave and promises a people, blessing and blessing for all families through him.
12:1 Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee:
12:2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:
12:3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.
Praise poetry 1 selections
Psalms 96:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: The whole song summons worldwide declaration and worship because the LORD creates, reigns and comes to judge rightly.
96:1 O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth.
96:2 Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day.
96:3 Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.
96:4 For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods.
96:5 For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens.
96:6 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.
96:7 Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.
96:8 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.
96:9 O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.
96:10 Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.
96:11 Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.
96:12 Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice
96:13 Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.
Prophetic salvation announcement 1 selections
Isaiah 52:7–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: News of God’s reign brings joy to ruined Jerusalem and summons departure under his protecting presence.
52:7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!
52:8 Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion.
52:9 Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the LORD hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem.
52:10 The LORD hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.
52:11 Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.
52:12 For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight: for the LORD will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward.
Prophetic servant poem 1 selections
Isaiah 52:13–53:12 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete servant poem moves through exaltation, rejection, innocent suffering for others and vindication.
52:13 Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.
52:14 As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men:
52:15 So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider.
53:1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
53:2 For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
53:3 He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
53:5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.
53:7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.
53:8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.
53:9 And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.
53:10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.
53:11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.
53:12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
Prophetic commission and covenant exhortation 1 selections
Ezekiel 33:1–20 KJV
Context: The watchman analogy is applied to Ezekiel’s appointment for Israel and followed by a call for the wicked to turn and live.
33:1 Again the word of the LORD came unto me, saying,
33:2 Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say unto them, When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman:
33:3 If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people;
33:4 Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head.
33:5 He heard the sound of the trumpet, and took not warning; his blood shall be upon him. But he that taketh warning shall deliver his soul.
33:6 But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman’s hand.
33:7 So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me.
33:8 When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.
33:9 Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it; if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.
33:10 Therefore, O thou son of man, speak unto the house of Israel; Thus ye speak, saying, If our transgressions and our sins be upon us, and we pine away in them, how should we then live?
33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
33:12 Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth.
33:13 When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it.
33:14 Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right;
33:15 If the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die.
33:16 None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely live.
33:17 Yet the children of thy people say, The way of the Lord is not equal: but as for them, their way is not equal.
33:18 When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby.
33:19 But if the wicked turn from his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall live thereby.
33:20 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. O ye house of Israel, I will judge you every one after his ways.
Jesus’ teaching 1 selections
Matthew 5:13–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: In the Sermon on the Mount, salt and light describe the disciples’ visible presence and the purpose of their good works.
5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
5:15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Gospel narrative and instruction 1 selections
Matthew 9:35–38 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus’ teaching, proclamation and healing lead to compassion for shepherdless crowds and prayer for workers.
9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
9:36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
9:37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
9:38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
Mission discourse 1 selections
Matthew 10:1–23 KJV
Context: The Twelve receive a particular mission to Israel with instructions about travel, reception and coming opposition.
10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
10:2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
10:3 Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus;
10:4 Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.
10:5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:
10:6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
10:7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.
10:8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
10:9 Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,
10:10 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.
10:11 And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.
10:12 And when ye come into an house, salute it.
10:13 And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you.
10:14 And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
10:15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.
10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.
10:17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;
10:18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.
10:19 But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.
10:20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.
10:21 And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.
10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.
10:23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.
Parable and explanation 1 selections
Matthew 13:1–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus tells the sower parable, explains why he teaches in parables, then interprets the soils as responses to the kingdom word.
13:1 The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.
13:2 And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.
13:3 And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;
13:4 And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:
13:5 Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:
13:6 And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.
13:7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:
13:8 But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
13:9 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
13:10 And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?
13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
13:12 For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
13:13 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.
13:14 And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:
13:15 For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
13:16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.
13:17 For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
13:18 Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.
13:19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
13:20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
13:21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
13:22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
13:23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
Commission narrative 2 selections
Matthew 28:16–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: The risen Jesus meets the Eleven in Galilee and grounds the final commission in his authority and continuing presence.
28:16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
28:17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.
28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Acts 1:1–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: Luke recalls Jesus’ instruction to the apostles, the promised Spirit and worldwide witness before the ascension.
1:1 The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach,
1:2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen:
1:3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:
1:4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.
1:5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
1:6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?
1:7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.
1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
1:9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.
1:10 And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;
1:11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Gospel proclamation 1 selections
Mark 1:14–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: After John’s arrest, Jesus comes into Galilee announcing fulfilled time, God’s kingdom and the call to repent and believe.
Resurrection and mission narrative 1 selections
Mark 16:1–20 KJV
Context: The pinned chapter includes the empty-tomb account and the longer ending’s appearances, commission, signs and ascension.
16:1 And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.
16:2 And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.
16:3 And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?
16:4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.
16:5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
16:6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
16:7 But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.
16:8 And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.
16:9 Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.
16:10 And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.
16:11 And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not.
16:12 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.
16:13 And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.
16:14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.
16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
16:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
16:17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
16:18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.
16:19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
16:20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.
Resurrection and commission narrative 1 selections
Luke 24:36–53 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus appears bodily, explains Scripture and the mission, promises power, blesses his followers and ascends.
24:36 And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
24:37 But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.
24:38 And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?
24:39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.
24:40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.
24:41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?
24:42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.
24:43 And he took it, and did eat before them.
24:44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
24:45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
24:46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
24:48 And ye are witnesses of these things.
24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
24:50 And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
24:51 And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.
24:52 And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:
24:53 And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.
Gospel prologue 1 selections
John 1:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: The Gospel’s prologue identifies the Word, creation, life, witness, reception, incarnation and revelation of the Father.
1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
1:2 The same was in the beginning with God.
1:3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
1:4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
1:5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
1:6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
1:7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.
1:8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
1:9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.
1:10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.
1:11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
1:12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
1:15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.
1:16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.
1:17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.
1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.
Gospel discourse 1 selections
John 3:14–21 KJV · In this guide
Context: The lifted-up Son is connected with life, God’s giving love, belief, condemnation and coming into the light.
3:14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:
3:15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
3:20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
3:21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Gospel encounter narrative 1 selections
John 4:1–42 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus speaks with a Samaritan woman; she invites the town, he teaches the disciples about harvest, and the townspeople hear him.
4:1 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John,
4:2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)
4:3 He left Judæa, and departed again into Galilee.
4:4 And he must needs go through Samaria.
4:5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.
4:6 Now Jacob’s well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour.
4:7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.
4:8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)
4:9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
4:10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.
4:11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?
4:12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?
4:13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:
4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
4:15 The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.
4:16 Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.
4:17 The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband:
4:18 For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.
4:19 The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.
4:20 Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.
4:21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.
4:22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.
4:23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
4:25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.
4:26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.
4:27 And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her?
4:28 The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men,
4:29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?
4:30 Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.
4:31 In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat.
4:32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.
4:33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat?
4:34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.
4:35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.
4:36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.
4:37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.
4:38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.
4:39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.
4:40 So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days.
4:41 And many more believed because of his own word;
4:42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.
Pentecost narrative and apostolic speech 1 selections
Acts 2:1–47 KJV · In this guide
Context: Pentecost’s signs prompt Peter’s scriptural explanation, proclamation of Jesus, call to respond and the church’s shared life.
2:1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
2:2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
2:3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.
2:6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.
2:7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilæans?
2:8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?
2:9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judæa, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,
2:10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,
2:11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
2:12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?
2:13 Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.
2:14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judæa, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:
2:15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.
2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;
2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
2:18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:
2:19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:
2:20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:
2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
2:22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:
2:23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
2:24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.
2:25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:
2:26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:
2:27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
2:28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
2:29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
2:30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;
2:31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.
2:32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
2:33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.
2:34 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
2:35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.
2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
2:40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2:43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
2:44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Church prayer narrative 1 selections
Acts 4:23–31 KJV · In this guide
Context: After the apostles report threats, the gathered believers pray from Scripture for God’s action and bold speech.
4:23 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.
4:24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:
4:25 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?
4:26 The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.
4:27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,
4:28 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.
4:29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,
4:30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.
4:31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.
Mission narrative 1 selections
Acts 8:1–8 KJV · In this guide
Context: Persecution scatters the church while the apostles remain; scattered believers proclaim the word and Philip ministers in Samaria.
8:1 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judæa and Samaria, except the apostles.
8:2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him.
8:3 As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison.
8:4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.
8:5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.
8:6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.
8:7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed.
8:8 And there was great joy in that city.
Conversion narrative 2 selections
Acts 8:26–40 KJV · In this guide
Context: The Spirit-directed meeting moves from a reader’s question about Isaiah through proclamation of Jesus to baptism and rejoicing.
8:26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.
8:27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,
8:28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.
8:29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
8:30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
8:31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
8:32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:
8:33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.
8:34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
8:35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
8:36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
8:37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
8:38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
8:39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
8:40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Cæsarea.
Acts 16:11–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s party arrives at Philippi and speaks at a place of prayer; Lydia hears, the Lord opens her heart, and baptism and hospitality follow.
16:11 Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;
16:12 And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.
16:13 And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.
16:14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.
16:15 And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.
Gentile reception narrative 1 selections
Acts 10:24–48 KJV · In this guide
Context: Cornelius gathers relatives and friends; Peter explains his coming, preaches Jesus, witnesses the Spirit’s gift and commands baptism.
10:24 And the morrow after they entered into Cæsarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.
10:25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him.
10:26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.
10:27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together.
10:28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.
10:29 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?
10:30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,
10:31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.
10:32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.
10:33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.
10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
10:35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
10:36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)
10:37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judæa, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;
10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
10:41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
10:42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
10:44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
10:45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
10:46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
10:47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
10:48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Church mission narrative 1 selections
Acts 14:21–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul and Barnabas revisit disciples, appoint elders, pray and return to report to the sending church.
14:21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,
14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
14:23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.
14:24 And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.
14:25 And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:
14:26 And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.
14:27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
14:28 And there they abode long time with the disciples.
Conversion and release narrative 1 selections
Acts 16:16–40 KJV · In this guide
Context: After deliverance of an enslaved girl, Paul and Silas suffer imprisonment; an earthquake leads to the jailer’s question, household instruction and response.
16:16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:
16:17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.
16:18 And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.
16:19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,
16:20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city,
16:21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
16:22 And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.
16:23 And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:
16:24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.
16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.
16:26 And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed.
16:27 And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.
16:28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.
16:29 Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,
16:30 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
16:31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
16:32 And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.
16:33 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.
16:34 And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.
16:35 And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying, Let those men go.
16:36 And the keeper of the prison told this saying to Paul, The magistrates have sent to let you go: now therefore depart, and go in peace.
16:37 But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out.
16:38 And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that they were Romans.
16:39 And they came and besought them, and brought them out, and desired them to depart out of the city.
16:40 And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.
Mission speech and narrative 1 selections
Acts 17:16–34 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s encounter with idolatry and philosophical hearers leads to the Areopagus speech and its varied responses.
17:16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.
17:17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.
17:18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.
17:19 And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?
17:20 For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean.
17:21 (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)
17:22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.
17:23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.
17:24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
17:25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
17:26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
17:27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
17:29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.
17:30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
17:32 And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will hear thee again of this matter.
17:33 So Paul departed from among them.
17:34 Howbeit certain men clave unto him, and believed: among the which was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman named Damaris, and others with them.
Apostolic farewell narrative 1 selections
Acts 20:17–38 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul reviews his ministry before the Ephesian elders, anticipates suffering, charges them to care for the flock and parts in prayer.
20:17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
20:18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,
20:19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
20:20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,
20:21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
20:22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
20:23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
20:24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
20:25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
20:26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
20:27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
20:30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
20:31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
20:32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
20:33 I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.
20:34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
20:35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
20:36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
20:37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,
20:38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
Apostolic introduction 1 selections
Romans 1:1–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: The greeting identifies God’s promised gospel concerning his Son; thanksgiving and travel intentions lead to its saving power for believers.
1:1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,
1:2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)
1:3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;
1:4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:
1:5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:
1:6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:
1:7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
1:8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
1:9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;
1:10 Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.
1:11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;
1:12 That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
1:13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.
1:14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.
1:15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.
1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
Apostolic argument 4 selections
Romans 3:9–31 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul places Jews and Gentiles under sin through a sequence of scriptural citations, then explains righteousness through Christ and faith and excludes boasting.
3:9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin;
3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
3:11 There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.
3:12 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.
3:13 Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips:
3:14 Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:
3:15 Their feet are swift to shed blood:
3:16 Destruction and misery are in their ways:
3:17 And the way of peace have they not known:
3:18 There is no fear of God before their eyes.
3:19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.
3:20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
3:21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;
3:22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:
3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
3:26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
3:27 Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.
3:28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.
3:29 Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:
3:30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.
3:31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.
Romans 5:1–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: Justification leads to peace, hope amid suffering, and assurance from Christ’s death for enemies.
5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
5:2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
5:3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
5:4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
5:7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
5:10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
5:11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
Romans 10:1–21 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s concern for Israel leads through righteousness, confession and calling to the need for proclamation and the problem of unbelief.
10:1 Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
10:2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
10:3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
10:5 For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.
10:6 But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)
10:7 Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)
10:8 But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;
10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
10:11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
10:12 For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
10:15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
10:16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?
10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
10:18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.
10:19 But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.
10:20 But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.
10:21 But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.
1 Corinthians 15:12–28 KJV · In this guide
Context: The argument tests denial of resurrection, then affirms Christ as firstfruits and his reign until death’s defeat.
15:12 Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead?
15:13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:
15:14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.
15:15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not.
15:16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:
15:17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.
15:18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished.
15:19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
15:20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.
15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.
15:22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
15:23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.
15:24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.
15:25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.
15:26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.
15:27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.
15:28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.
Apostolic argument and testimony 1 selections
1 Corinthians 1:18–2:5 KJV · In this guide
Context: The argument about the cross, God’s wisdom and the believers’ calling leads to Paul’s own manner of preaching.
1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
1:19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
1:20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.
1:22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
1:23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
1:24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
1:26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
1:27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
1:28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
1:29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.
1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
1:31 That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
2:1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2:2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
2:3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
2:4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Apostolic correction 1 selections
1 Corinthians 3:1–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul diagnoses factions and redefines himself and Apollos as servants working in God’s field.
3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
3:2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
3:4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?
3:5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
3:6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
3:7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.
3:8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
3:9 For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.
Apostolic teaching 2 selections
1 Corinthians 15:1–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul recalls the received proclamation and witnesses before addressing some Corinthians’ denial of resurrection.
15:1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
15:2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
15:3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
15:4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
15:5 And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve:
15:6 After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.
15:7 After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.
15:8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.
15:9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
15:10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
15:11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.
Ephesians 2:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: Former death in sin is contrasted with God’s mercy, life with Christ, grace through faith and a new course of good works.
2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
2:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Apostolic ministry explanation 2 selections
2 Corinthians 4:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: After the ministry contrast in chapter 3, Paul explains open proclamation and God’s light, then the messengers’ weakness, suffering, resurrection hope and inward renewal.
4:1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
4:3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
4:5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
4:8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
4:9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
4:10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
4:11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
4:12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
4:13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
4:14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
4:16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
4:17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
4:18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
2 Corinthians 5:11–6:2 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul defends the motives and message of his ministry through Christ’s love, new creation and God’s reconciling action.
5:11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
5:12 For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.
5:13 For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.
5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
5:15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
5:16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.
5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
5:19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.
5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
6:1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
Apostolic scriptural argument 1 selections
Galatians 3:6–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: Abraham’s faith and promised blessing are connected with justification, the law’s curse and Christ’s redeeming work.
3:6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.
3:7 Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.
3:8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.
3:9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.
3:10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
3:11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
3:12 And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.
3:13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
3:14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
Apostolic teaching and exhortation 1 selections
Ephesians 4:1–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: One body and shared calling precede Christ’s varied gifts and the whole body’s growth toward maturity in love.
4:1 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
4:3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4:4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
4:5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
4:6 One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.
4:8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
4:9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?
4:10 He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)
4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
4:12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
4:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Apostolic exhortation 1 selections
Ephesians 6:10–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: The armor exhortation locates strength in the Lord and culminates in persevering prayer for believers and Paul’s bold proclamation.
6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
6:13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
6:14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
6:15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
6:17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
6:19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,
6:20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Apostolic communal exhortation 2 selections
Philippians 1:27–30 KJV · In this guide
Context: After considering life and death in Christ’s service, Paul urges shared gospel-worthy life in the face of opposition.
1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
1:28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
1:30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
1 Peter 2:4–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: The living-stone imagery leads to the people’s identity, received mercy, praise and honorable life among Gentiles.
2:4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,
2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
2:7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,
2:8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
2:10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Apostolic instruction 1 selections
Colossians 4:2–6 KJV · In this guide
Context: Prayer for opportunity and clear proclamation leads into wise conduct and gracious speech toward outsiders.
4:2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
4:3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:
4:4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
4:6 Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
Apostolic testimony 1 selections
1 Thessalonians 2:1–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul reviews his companions’ courageous proclamation, tested motives, affectionate care, work and fatherly encouragement.
2:1 For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
2:2 But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.
2:3 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:
2:4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.
2:5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:
2:6 Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.
2:7 But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:
2:8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.
2:9 For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.
2:10 Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:
2:11 As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,
2:12 That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.
Ministerial charge 1 selections
2 Timothy 2:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: Timothy is charged to entrust teaching to faithful people and endure, remembering the risen Davidic Christ and God’s unbound word.
2:1 Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
2:4 No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
2:5 And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.
2:6 The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.
2:7 Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
2:8 Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:
2:9 Where in I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.
2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
2:11 It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:
2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:
2:13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he can not deny himself.
Ministerial instruction 1 selections
2 Timothy 2:22–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: Timothy’s instruction joins shared pursuit of righteousness to patient correction of opponents and hope for God-given repentance.
2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
2:23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
Apostolic exhortation and Christological encouragement 1 selections
1 Peter 3:8–22 KJV · In this guide
Context: Shared compassion and peace lead to answering under pressure, a good conscience and hope grounded in Christ’s suffering and exaltation.
3:8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
3:9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
3:10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
3:11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
3:13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?
3:14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
3:16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
3:17 For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
3:18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
3:19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
3:20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water.
3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
3:22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
Epistolary commendation and instruction 1 selections
3 John 1:5–8 KJV · In this guide
Context: The elder commends Gaius’s care for traveling brethren and instructs support for those serving the Name.
1:5 Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers;
1:6 Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well:
1:7 Because that for his name’s sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.
1:8 We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
Go deeper
Sources & interpretation
The teaching starts with the cited Scripture. These consulted works inform wording, context, and interpretive questions. No qualified human review has been recorded for this guide.
How do Christ’s reign and the forgiveness of sins belong together?
Mark 1:14–15 announces God’s kingdom; Romans 1:1–4 identifies the promised Son and Lord. First Corinthians 15:1–5 expressly includes salvation and death for sins, while 15:20–28 explains reign and future resurrection. Romans 3:24–26 and 5:1–11 develop the saving benefits.
- A narrow account can concentrate on individual forgiveness while leaving Jesus’ identity, reign and future victory unclear.
- Wright emphasizes royal proclamation; Black draws attention to received saving testimony. These emphases can illuminate different explicit features of the passages.
- Romans 3:25 is rendered through propitiation or mercy-seat language. NET prefers the latter while acknowledging alternatives; either requires attention to blood, faith and God’s righteousness in the immediate argument.
STRONG: explain the crucified and risen Lord, forgiveness and reconciliation through him, and the coming defeat of death together. PROBABLE: the precise cultic metaphor in Romans 3:25 remains debated; the main explanation states its evident saving purpose without pretending to settle all atonement theories.
Further study: C. Clifton Black · N. T. Wright · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: What does each passage say God has done, who is Jesus in that action, and what does the news offer and require of its hearers?
Which parts of the mission belong to particular witnesses, and which to the church?
Matthew 10:5–6 initially sends the Twelve to Israel; Matthew 28:19 explicitly includes all nations. Luke 24 and Acts 1 identify original resurrection witnesses. Acts 8:1–4 includes scattered believers beyond the apostles, and 1 Peter addresses a whole Christian people. Ezekiel 33:7 explicitly appoints Ezekiel as watchman to Israel.
- An apostles-only account recognizes the initial audience but fails to account for wider proclamation and the church’s continuing instruction.
- An identical-duty account gives every Christian every apostolic travel instruction, prophetic responsibility and ministerial gift; it overlooks the texts’ named recipients and changed mission setting.
- A shared-mission account receives apostolic testimony, honors particular ministries and sees ordinary believers participating in praise, explanation, conduct and practical support.
STRONG: the third account best preserves the combined evidence. Matthew 28’s teaching and continuing-presence clauses support an ongoing mission, but do not appoint every believer to the same office. No universal travel schedule or Ezekiel-like personal bloodguilt claim is made.
Further study: Matt Skinner
Further examination: Which words identify each commission’s recipients, audience, task and time? What evidence extends participation without erasing distinct callings?
How should repentance, faith, baptism and household accounts be taught together?
Acts 2:38 joins repentance, baptism, forgiveness and the Spirit. In Acts 10:43–48, the Spirit comes while Peter speaks, then baptism is commanded. Acts 16:31–34 joins the household promise to proclamation to everyone present, baptism and rejoicing. First Peter 3:21 explicitly connects baptism with salvation through Christ’s resurrection, distinguishing it from bodily washing.
- Sacramental readings understand baptism as a means through which God gives grace; this need not mean that a human act earns salvation.
- Other readings understand baptism as the commanded outward expression of repentant faith, closely joined to the saving reality without being its cause.
- Household-baptism readings differ over infants. Acts 16:34 also permits different syntactic attachments of the household phrase; NET broadens its connection by interpretation. Neither household narrative supplies an age list.
VERY_STRONG: repentance, faith, baptism and continuing instruction belong in the teaching, and the sequence of each narrative must remain intact. STRONG: no automatic salvation guarantee for relatives follows from Acts 16:31 in isolation. UNRESOLVED: this package does not settle sacramental efficacy, infant baptism or the complete order of receiving the Spirit; its main guidance does not require such a settlement.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: What does each passage command, what does it promise, and what sequence does it narrate? Which conclusions require evidence beyond the household account?
How can a witness adapt an explanation while preserving the message?
Philip begins from the reader’s question about Isaiah. Peter reasons with Israel’s Scriptures at Pentecost. Paul discusses creation and idolatry in Athens before repentance and resurrection. The Samaritan woman’s testimony leads to the townspeople hearing Jesus. Colossians 4:6 calls for an answer suited to each person.
- One fixed sequence can make the speaker clear but is not imposed by these diverse accounts.
- Adaptation can faithfully explain shared truth from an appropriate starting point.
- Changing the central message or replacing it with personal experience would fail to account for the movement toward Jesus and his word in the narratives.
STRONG: attend to the hearer and explain the truth intelligibly. Parsons’ contextual reading helps distinguish adaptation from the claim that Paul’s speech abandoned the gospel. The article draws no universal method from a single narrative’s miraculous direction or response.
Further study: Mikeal C. Parsons · Jeannine K. Brown
Further examination: What question or misunderstanding does the speaker address, and how does the explanation lead to Jesus? Which details are description rather than a command to repeat the encounter?
How should the KJV’s Acts 8:37 and Mark 16:9–20 be handled?
The pinned KJV includes the confession in Acts 8:37 and the longer ending of Mark. NET’s inspected notes omit the former and bracket the latter on textual grounds. Their differences must not be concealed by silently changing displayed KJV selections.
- The received-text tradition retains both passages as Scripture; the KJV selections here reproduce that text exactly.
- NET’s critical judgment treats Acts 8:37 as secondary and considers Mark’s longer ending probably secondary. This package has inspected the notes, not collated manuscripts or read the full defenses they cite.
VERY_STRONG: preserve the chosen display corpus. The ordinary duties of faith, confession, baptism, teaching and witness are also established in Romans 10, Matthew 28 and Luke 24. The guide makes no required evangelistic technique or personal guarantee of signs from Mark 16:17–18. The textual history remains a further-study question.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: Which teaching is also explicit in the other linked passages? How can a reader acknowledge a material textual difference without treating a translation note as a fresh collation of the evidence?
How do faithful effort, God’s action and the hearer’s response relate?
First Corinthians 3:5–9 distinguishes servants and God’s increase while retaining responsibility for labor. Acts 16:14 joins Lydia’s hearing with the Lord’s opening her heart. Second Timothy 2:24–26 joins patient correction to God-given repentance. Matthew 13 distinguishes responses to the same word.
- A technique guaranteeing conversion exceeds these accounts and displaces their dependence on God.
- Passivity would neglect the planting, watering, teaching and proclamation the same passages affirm.
- Christian traditions differ over the precise relation of divine initiative and human response; these passages explicitly retain both God’s agency and meaningful hearing, faith and labor.
STRONG: work, pray and speak faithfully, seek real understanding, and entrust growth to God. A complete account of election and human freedom is beyond this guide. First Corinthians 3 corrects factions and pride, not merely anxiety about numerical results.
Further examination: Who acts in each passage, and what responsibility does the text assign? What encouragement remains when a hearer resists or when another servant sees the eventual fruit?
- Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:1–11
C. Clifton Black · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2018-04-01
Connects received proclamation, resurrection witnesses, Scripture and the Acts 10 speech.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body and publication note; originally published April 12, 2009. Accessed 2026-09-25.
His proposed gaps in Paul’s knowledge and psychological descriptions of Paul are not established by these verses and are not adopted.
- Gospel and Theology in Galatians
N. T. Wright · Sheffield Academic Press; author-hosted reprint of chapter in Gospel in Paul, pp. 222–239, JSNTSup 108 · 1994
Argues for Isaianic and royal dimensions of gospel, with Jesus’ Messiahship central.
What was reviewed
PDF pages 1–11, sections 1–3 through the start of section 4; English argument read. Later conclusion and endnotes not fully inspected. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Imperial and Pauline-biographical reconstructions remain arguments. His distinction between proclamation and justification does not remove the explicit saving benefits in Romans 1:16 and 1 Corinthians 15:2.
- NET Bible: Romans 3, notes on 3:19–31
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible, hosted by Bible Gateway · Online edition; copyright 1996–2017
Compares works-of-law, faith/faithfulness and propitiation/mercy-seat readings; clarifies justification language.
What was reviewed
Romans 3:19–31 and footnotes 21–46, particularly 23, 27–33 and 39. Accessed 2026-09-25.
A translator apparatus, not independent access to Dunn, Cranfield, Hays, Bailey or its other cited works. It offers interpretive preferences, not uncontested grammar.
- Commentary on Matthew 28:16–20
Matt Skinner · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2026-05-31
Explains disciple-making as learning that issues in obedience, within the risen Jesus’ authority.
What was reviewed
Complete body, especially Make disciples, and all three notes. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The proposed late origin of the baptismal wording and his restriction of conversion language are reconstructions, not conclusions adopted here. Culpepper was not independently read.
- Commentary on Acts 17:22–31
Mikeal C. Parsons · Working Preacher; adapted by permission from Acts, Paideia, Baker Academic, 2008 · 2014-05-25
Explains the speech’s movement from creation and familiar language to repentance, judgment and resurrection, with varied responses.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body, outline and adaptation notice. Accessed 2026-09-25.
His classical references and the full Paideia volume were not independently read. The compliment reading of 17:22 is an interpretation; main teaching does not depend on it.
- NET Bible: Acts 8:37, textual note 1
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible · Undated online notes
Explains why NET omits the confession verse that appears in the KJV.
What was reviewed
Complete verse entry and textual note 1. Accessed 2026-09-25.
No independent manuscript collation. The package preserves the pinned KJV and bases faith and confession also on Romans 10.
- Commentary on 1 Peter 3:13–22
Jeannine K. Brown · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2017-05-21
Locates respectful explanation of hope within good conduct, slander and allegiance to the Lord.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body and three notes; particular attention to 3:13–17 and the concluding Christological encouragement. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Her Enochian reconstruction of 3:19–20 and modern comparisons are not adopted; Jobes and 1 Enoch were not independently inspected.
- NET Bible: Acts 2:38, notes 1–4
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible · Undated online notes
Preserves the baptismal imperative and compares readings of its relation to forgiveness.
What was reviewed
Full verse entry and notes 1–4 at the accessible commentary URL. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Its judgment that one sacramental reading entails earned salvation is a theological premise requiring separate evaluation; its cited works were not read.
- NET Bible: Acts 16:34, notes 1–5
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible · Undated online notes
Makes explicit the translation choice linking the household to both belief and rejoicing.
What was reviewed
Complete verse entry and notes, especially note 5 on the attachment of the household phrase. Accessed 2026-09-25.
That linkage includes an inference from baptism, as the note acknowledges; the narrative does not disclose every household member’s age.
- NET Bible: Mark 16, textual note at 16:9
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible, hosted by Bible Gateway · Online edition; copyright 1996–2017
Summarizes the textual alternatives and NET’s judgment that the longer ending is probably secondary.
What was reviewed
Mark 16 and footnotes, especially footnote 9 on the longer ending and its double brackets. Accessed 2026-09-25.
This apparatus and its own qualification were inspected; cited monographs, manuscripts and alternative defenses were not independently read.
