Good morning,

Acts 9 stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the divine intervention of the Lord. The chapter showcases not only the miraculous conversion of Saul, a man once infamous for persecuting Christians, but also the miraculous healings performed by Peter. These stories inspire believers, reminding them that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love, forgiveness, and transformative power. 

Acts 9:1-31

The Transformative Power of Faith: Saul’s Damascus Road Encounter

Saul’s Conversion on the Road to Damascus (V1-9) 

And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,² And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.³ And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:⁴ And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?⁵ And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.⁶ And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.⁷ And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.⁸ And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.⁹ And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

Saul is still persecuting the disciples of the Lord, when suddenly, a light from heaven shines around him on the road to Damascus. He hears the voice of Jesus asking why Saul persecutes Him. Saul, blinded by the light, is led by his companions into Damascus where he remains for three days without sight, and neither eats nor drinks. (Bible Hub Chapter Summaries-Acts 9)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip witnesses to the Ethiopian Eunuch (v26-40)

Philip sent (v26-27)

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.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,

Philip’s witness (v28-40)

²⁸ Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.²⁹ Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.³⁰ And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?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.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:³³ In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.³⁴ And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?³⁵ Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.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?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.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.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.40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

An angel of the Lord directs Philip to the road from Jerusalem to Gaza, where he encounters an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official and a man of authority. Philip explains Isaiah’s prophecy that the eunuch was reading, leading to the eunuch’s baptism and conversion. Subsequently, the Spirit takes Philip away, and he continues to preach the Gospel in other towns. (Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Acts 8 presents the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, driven largely by persecution. It introduces us to Philip’s successful ministry in Samaria, the account of Simon the sorcerer, and the significant conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch. The chapter offers a multifaceted view of the early church’s experience: persecution, miracles, conversions, and challenges. (Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip witnesses to the Ethiopian Eunuch (v26-40)

Philip sent (v26-27)

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.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,

Philip’s witness (v28-40)

²⁸ Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.²⁹ Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.³⁰ And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?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.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:³³ In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.³⁴ And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?

The Ethiopian eunuch was reading Isaiah 53:7-8 but did not understand who it was speaking about. He asks Philip to interpret. 

Tomorrow we find out who Isaiah was speaking. 

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip’s Ministry and Simon the Sorcerer (v4-25) 

Philip preaches in Samaria (v5-8)

⁵ Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.⁶ And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.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 And there was great joy in that city.

Philip’s ministry to Simon the sorcerer and Peter’s rebuke of Simon the sorcerer(v9-25)

Simon believes (v9-13)

⁹ But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:¹⁰ To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.¹¹ And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.¹² But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.¹³ Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Simon’s rebuke by Peter (v14-25)

¹⁴ Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:¹⁵ Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:¹⁶ (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)¹⁷ Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.¹⁸ And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,¹⁹ Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.²⁰ But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.²¹ Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. ²² Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.²³ For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.²⁴ Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.²⁵ And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

Those scattered preach the word wherever they go. Particularly, Philip goes to Samaria, where he preaches Christ and performs miracles, bringing joy to the city. Many Samaritans believe and are baptized, including Simon, a man formerly known for sorcery. Seeing the apostles Peter and John bestow the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, Simon offers money to possess this power, leading to Peter’s stern rebuke.(Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Philip witnesses to the Ethiopian Eunuch (v26-40)

Philip sent (v26-27)

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.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,

Philip’s witness (v28-40)

²⁸ Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.²⁹ Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.³⁰ And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?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.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:³³ In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.³⁴ And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?³⁵ Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.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?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.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.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.40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

An angel of the Lord directs Philip to the road from Jerusalem to Gaza, where he encounters an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official and a man of authority. Philip explains Isaiah’s prophecy that the eunuch was reading, leading to the eunuch’s baptism and conversion. Subsequently, the Spirit takes Philip away, and he continues to preach the Gospel in other towns. (Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Acts 8 presents the expansion of the Gospel beyond Jerusalem, driven largely by persecution. It introduces us to Philip’s successful ministry in Samaria, the account of Simon the sorcerer, and the significant conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch. The chapter offers a multifaceted view of the early church’s experience: persecution, miracles, conversions, and challenges. (Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip’s Ministry and Simon the Sorcerer (v5-25) 

Simon’s rebuke by Peter (v14-25)

¹⁴ Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:¹⁵ Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:¹⁶ (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)¹⁷ Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.¹⁸ And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,¹⁹ Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.²⁰ But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.²¹ Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. ²² Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.²³ For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.²⁴ Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.²⁵ And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.

Those scattered preach the word wherever they go. Particularly, Philip goes to Samaria, where he preaches Christ and performs miracles, bringing joy to the city. Many Samaritans believe and are baptized, including Simon, a man formerly known for sorcery. Seeing the apostles Peter and John bestow the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, Simon offers money to possess this power, leading to Peter’s stern rebuke.(Bible Hub chapter summary Acts 8)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Acts 8 showcases how God can use even persecution to spread His word. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, its availability to everyone, and the importance of genuine belief. Philip’s unwavering obedience, the openness of the Ethiopian eunuch, and the striking correction of Simon the sorcerer all serve to underscore the extraordinary growth and challenges of the early church.

Acts 8:5-40

Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. (Acts 8:35)

Philip’s Ministry and Simon the Sorcerer (v5-25) 

Philip preaches in Samaria (v5-8)

⁵ Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.⁶ And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.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 And there was great joy in that city.

Philip’s ministry to Simon the sorcerer and Peter’s rebuke of Simon the sorcerer(v9-25)

Simon believes (v9-13)

⁹ But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:¹⁰ To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.¹¹ And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.¹² But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.¹³ Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Simon gets saved, baptized, and is following Philip’s ministry. When he sees all the miracles, he wonders how they were all done. He still had a lot to learn. 

His past life will cause him to make a request that the Apostle Peter rebukes.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

Even in the midst of life’s trials, uncertainties, and sorrows 

(Anonymous) LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

The doctrine of Divine Providence is a profound and comforting truth, that reminds us of God’s sovereign control over all things. This principle assures us that our Heavenly Father is not a distant, unconcerned deity–but rather a loving, all-powerful Creator, who intimately governs all the affairs of His universe, and every detail of our individual lives.

Nothing happens by luck, or chance, or accident–but rather by the wise, good, and purposeful hand of our Almighty Governor. Even in the midst of life’s trials, uncertainties, and sorrows, we can take solace in the knowledge that our steps are ordered by the Lord, that He works all things together for the eternal good of those who love Him, and that His providential care extends to the most insignificant sparrow and the flowers of the field.

Though His ways are incomprehensible, we can trust . . .
  that God’s Providence is perfect,
  that His timing is impeccable, and
  that His plans for us are for our eternal good, and His glory!

As we walk by faith and not by sight, let us continually praise the Lord for His sovereign and loving oversight–resting in the assurance that our lives are safely held in the palm of His almighty hand. Though the future may be uncertain from our limited perspective, we can be certain that our Heavenly Father’s Providence will unfailingly come to pass!

“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

The smallest viper in the nest of your heart!

(Charles Spurgeon, “The Old Man Crucified!”)  LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

(You will find it helpful to listen to the audio above, as you read the text below.)

Depend upon it, if ever your sins are to die, it must be with the power of Christ. You will find that you cannot kill the smallest viper in the nest of your heart, if you get away from the cross.

There is no death for sin, except in the death of Christ. Stand and look up to His dear wounds, trust in the merit of His blood. If you love Jesus with a perfect heart, then sin killing will not be difficult.

The killing of your sin is not in your power, but if Jesus goes with you, it will be done.

I have known some people struggle against a horrible temper, and they never quite overcame it until they grew into closer communion with Christ.

The mightiest gun to blow down the strongholds of sin within me, is to flee to the cross of Christ!

I am persuaded that nothing but the blood of Jesus will kill sin.

You must get to Christ, nearer to Christ–and you will overcome sin.

Fight with your sins! Hack them in pieces, as Samuel did Agag. Let not one of them escape. Take them as Elijah took the prophets of Baal, and hew them in pieces before the Lord.

Think more of Jesus’ cross, spend more time in contemplation of His blessed person, drink in more of His life, and live more upon Him!

If I had but one sentence that I might utter to you believers, I think I should make it this: live nearer to Christ!  If you get away from your Master, you will be undone.

All virtues flourish, in the atmosphere of the cross.
All vices die, beneath the shade of the cross.

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me!” Galatians 2:20

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

The Lamb’s bride!

(Henry Law, 1854)  LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

(You will find it helpful to listen to the audio above, as you read the text below.)

Revelation 19:7, “Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready!”

Every true Christian is part of the redeemed Church–the Bride, the Lamb’s wife!

She was beloved by the Heavenly Bridegroom before time began, with an unfathomable and immutable love!

She is endowed by Him with all that He has, and with all that He is.

She has a priceless inheritance reserved in Heaven for her–pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay!

He has placed all the precious  promises as a treasure in her hands.

His providences guide and defend her path.

His righteousness is her beauteous robe, rendering her fit to shine forever in the palace of the heavenly King.

Her seat is prepared beside Him on His throne.

It would exhaust all time to give a brief survey of the glories which adorn her!

Jesus enriches His chosen bride with the best of gifts!
He withholds nothing precious from her.

All of His attributes are her grand inheritance! 

  His wisdom is hers to guide her!

His power is hers to uphold her!

      His love is as the sun to cheer her!

        His faithfulness and truth are her shield and support!

His Spirit is hers, to comfort, to teach, to solace, and to bless her!

His righteousness is hers, to be her spotless robe.

His Heaven is hers, to be her home!

His throne is hers, to be her seat!

His glory is hers, to be her crown!

His eternity is hers, that she may rejoice forever!

“Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” Revelation 19:9

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This truth should fill us with a profound sense of awe and reverence!

(Anonymous)  LISTEN to audio!  Download Audio

(You will find it helpful to listen to the audio above, as you read the text below.)

In the book of Isaiah, the prophet delivers a powerful message from the Lord, that speaks to His sovereignty and authority of God over all things in His creation!

In Isaiah 45:7, we read these profound words:
“I form the light and create darkness,
I make peace and create calamity;
I, the Lord, do all these things.”

This verse reminds us of the absolute supremacy of our Almighty God, who is in complete control of everything that transpires in His universe. He is the source of both light and darkness, of peace and calamity. Nothing escapes His divine oversight and purpose.

As believers, this truth should fill us with a profound sense of awe and reverence for the Creator and Governor of our world. It means that even in the midst of life’s most difficult trials and tribulations, we can find solace in knowing that our sovereign God is orchestrating all things according to His perfect will.

The light may give way to darkness, and peace may give way to calamity–but through it all, we can trust that the Lord is working out His eternal plan.

This verse calls us to humbly submit to God’s authority, and to find our refuge in Him alone; for He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End–the One who holds all things in the palm of His hand! As we cling to this truth, it will strengthen our faith, even in the darkest of circumstances.

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose!” Romans 8:28

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Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com