Though a solemn chapter about a murderous king and his downfall, there are also comic elements here which help to expose the foolish arrogance of Herod through mockery (Ps 2:4,5). However, the chapter has other themes too, including an emphasis
Timely gifts
Christians learn from the words and example of Jesus to help the needy. But these verses are more than just a tale of such kindness in action in the church’s early years. They also contribute to Luke’s description of the
Two new arrivals
For nearly 2000 years Jesus followers have been known as ‘Christians’. Where did the name come from? An ancient city called Antioch (sited near to modern Antakya in Turkey), where not only that nick-name but also the first local church
Preparing for change
Times of change turn up in all our lives and in a variety of ways. However, knowing how to handle them is not always easy. These verses show us the Lord dealing brilliantly with change, as he prepares his church
Liar, liar
Deceit is used throughout society to manipulate, persuade and control others. But just because it is commonplace, that does not make it right. God would have us question our honesty levels. In Acts Israel is seen to have two sides:
Laying a foundation
God’s home is heaven (Is 66:1,2); Israel’s temple was only a place he occasionally visited (1Ki 8:10,11). But Jesus’ body became the permanent earthly home of God (Jo 2:18-21): a living temple, later extended when the Holy Spirit came to