Author: Robert Spiller

Married to Pam my wife for 57 Years, we have 2 married daughters and six grandchildren. In 1983 we were called into Christian ministry at Crossroad Christian Fellowship. After serving as pastor for 28 years I handed over this responsibility to Pastor Jon Sibley and continued to serve as an elder until August 2020. We both remain active members of Crossroads.

The Plot To Kill Paul Acts 22:22-23:35

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

When the Roman Commander was told that Paul was born a Roman citizen, he treated Paul better than if Paul had simply been a Jewish prisoner.
The Holy Spirit was able to use Paul’s Roman Citizenship to good purpose. Paul escaped the attempt on his life, because of the protection of the soldiers. He was able to receive visitors while under arrest, another privilege of being a citizen of Rome. later standing before before Festus, Paul was allowed to appeal to Caesar. Paul used his Roman citizenship to good effect 23:11.

Paul angered the Sanhedrin by addressing them as Fathers and brothers, he was showing himself as equal, to the leaders, ( he was a leading Pharisee himself, and it was members of this group that had sent him to Damascus years before to arrest Christian’s) Paul was aware of what Ananias was truly like, that was why he said Ananias was like a white washed tomb looking fine on the outside, but filthy on the inside. 23:3
When Paul says he hadn’t realised that Ananias was high priest, he was probably meaning that he didn’t recognise that a man so unclean as Ananias could possibly be the High Priest ( William Barclay)

Paul’s strategy was to divide and conquer the opposition. He appealed to the Pharisees being once a Pharisee himself who believed in the resurrection. Immediately a division occurred between the Sadducee’s who did not believe in spirits, Angels or the resurrection. And the Pharisee’s who believed in both 23:8.

The Holy Spirit’s purpose was that Paul should testify before Gentiles, Kings, and Israel. Paul’s Roman citizenship and his Pharisaic Jewish heritage were both used by God to bring about Gods purpose in Paul’s life and ministry.


A verse to remember

Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid of them! The Lord your God will go ahead of you, He will be with you, He will neither fail you nor forsake you Deuteronomy 31:6. N.L.T.

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Paul’s Testimony Acts 22:1-21.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

When Paul addressed the Jewish crowd in their own language they became very quiet. There were the usual trouble makers who had made a point in criticising Paul as he preached in foreign cities, now they had followed Paul to Jerusalem. They were not surprised to hear him addressing the mob in their own language they already knew full well who Paul was. Nevertheless Paul identified with the people he was addressing, 1 he was a Jew and he never forgot it, 2 Although he was born in Tarsus he was educated in Jerusalem by the great Jewish teacher Gamaliel in the strictness of Jewish Law. 3 He was not only a persecutor of Christians he pursued them to death.

Up to this point Paul had shown the crowd that he was entirely like them. Now he stresses his differences with the crowd, 1 Paul proclaimed that Jesus Christ was God and the saviour of all men, they did not believe Jesus to be God or that any other nation could experience salvation. 2 Paul was called to evangelise the Gentiles, they wanted to keep God to themselves 22:21

Like Paul we identify with those who live in this world, but there the difference ends, Christ has redeemed and called us for a special task to spread the good news of Gods love to anyone who will listen.

Memory verse

You are to take His message everywhere, telling the whole world what you have seen and heard Acts 22:15 N.L.B.

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Compromise In Jerusalem. Acts 21-15-40.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Although the decree of the Jerusalem counsel was written and decided (Acts 15) there was still controversy both within the Jerusalem church (Acts 21:20) and in the wider Jewish community. Fearing trouble from baseless accusations that Paul was teaching against not just circumcision and the Law but the Temple and Judaism. The Jerusalem leaders headed by James the Lords brother persuaded Paul to accompany and pay for four Jewish men who were making a vow over seven days in the Temple, this they hoped would show that Paul still kept and honoured the Law 21:24. I feel sure that the relevancy of these things to Paul were gone, but for the sake of the Jerusalem church Paul agreed to their plan. I believe Paul’s compromise was not weakness but a sign of strength.

At the time of Pentecost Jews from the whole Roman Empire were in Jerusalem. Some who were at odds with Paul and had seen him in Asia preaching the gospel, mistakenly thought Paul had taken Trophimus a Greek into the Temple, they started a riot and then tried to kill Paul. Compromise on this occasion almost led to disaster!

Paul was rescued by the Roman garrison, and was given permission to address the crowd. It’s noticeable that no mention of the Holy Spirit is made although He obviously caused Luke to write about these events. However when Paul motioned with his hand It was at that moment and during Paul’s address that the anointing of the Holy Spirit was evident 21:40

Compromise is sometimes needed to avoid disagreements about minor issues getting out of hand, like Paul we need to be firm about the essentials of our faith but flexible on those non essentials!

Memory verse

When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression so that I might bring them to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ 1 Corinthians 9:22 N.L.T.

Please send any comments, questions, or prayer requests to jesusinprint@gmail.com

Compromise In Jerusalem. Acts 21-15-40.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Although the decree of the Jerusalem counsel was written and decided (Acts 15) there was still controversy both within the Jerusalem church (Acts 21:20) and in the wider Jewish community. Fearing trouble from baseless accusations that Paul was teaching against not just circumcision and the Law but the Temple and Judaism. The Jerusalem leaders headed by James the Lords brother persuaded Paul to accompany and pay for four Jewish men who were making a vow over seven days in the Temple, this they hoped would show that Paul still kept and honoured the Law 21:24. I feel sure that the relevancy of these things to Paul were gone, but for the sake of the Jerusalem church Paul agreed to their plan. I believe Paul’s compromise was not weakness but a sign of strength.

At the time of Pentecost Jews from the whole Roman Empire were in Jerusalem. Some who were at odds with Paul and had seen him in Asia preaching the gospel, mistakenly thought Paul had taken Trophimus a Greek into the Temple, they started a riot and then tried to kill Paul. Compromise on this occasion almost led to disaster!

Paul was rescued by the Roman garrison, and was given permission to address the crowd. It’s noticeable that no mention of the Holy Spirit is made although He obviously caused Luke to write about these events. However when Paul motioned with his hand It was at that moment and during Paul’s address that the anointing of the Holy Spirit was evident 21:40

Compromise is sometimes needed to avoid disagreements about minor issues getting out of hand, like Paul we need to be firm about the essentials of our faith but flexible on those non essentials!

Memory verse

When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression so that I might bring them to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ 1 Corinthians 9:22 N.L.T.

Please send any comments, questions, or prayer requests to jesusinprint@gmail.com

Personal Prophecy. Acts 21:1-14.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

The Holy Spirit warned the believers of Paul’s coming suffering if he went to Jerusalem. But they came to the wrong conclusion saying Paul should not go to Jerusalem and begged him to change his mind! However shortly after his conversion Paul was told by the Holy Spirit through Ananias that he would bring the gospel to the Gentiles and Kings and that he would suffer greatly for his Lord. Paul already knew the Lords will for his life, These prophetic words were not new but confirming words for Paul. The events that followed his arrest in Jerusalem did indeed bring Paul before rulers and Gentiles leading him eventually before the Emperor. These events in Paul’s life remind us of the Lords promise in Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them”

Although personal prophecy is a valid way that the Lord does sometimes speak to individuals. King David was reprimanded by God through Nathan (Old Testament) or as was in the case of Agabus and his enacted prophecy warning Paul what was to soon happen if he continued on his Jerusalem journey. Please note that personal prophecy must never dictate or manipulate, nor should the “Word” be given hastily, or have to be given in public! If the prophecy is genuine it will probably be confirming what the recipient already is aware of as was in the case of Paul. And will always accord to written scripture, never leading the recipient to disregard the Word of God in favour of the “words” of some prophet.

When we are unsure about Prophecy then Acts 21:14 is good to remember “ The will of the Lord be done.”

Memory verse

When it was clear that we couldn’t persuade him, we gave up and said, “ The will of the Lord be done.” Acts 21:14. N.L.T.

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It Is Better To Give Than Receive. Acts Chapter 20.

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Pause for thought

Paul sent for the Ephesian church elders asking them to meet him at Miletus, he told them that this would be their last meeting and declared to them his life’s mission since first he set foot in Asia. 1 he had served the Lord in humility with many tears and trials 20:19.

2 He kept nothing back but told them everything that would be helpful to them. 20:20,27.

3 He preached the same message about repentance and faith in Jesus to both Jews and Greeks 20:21.

4 Now in obedience to the Holy Spirit he was on his way to Jerusalem (he did not please himself) indeed he placed little value on his own life, he just desired to end his ministry with Joy 20:22.

5 The thoughts of what might lie ahead in Jerusalem did not move him away from finishing what Christ had called him for 20:24.

6 God supplied all Paul’s need’s including enabling him to give to the poor through his own labours as a tent maker. He was able to preach the gospel freely 20:34-35.

Paul now gives these leaders some sound advice. 1 Guard yourself (first) then you will be able to guard the Lords people, Remember the Lord gave His life blood for everyone in your care 20:26.

2 Watch! and remember satan will attempt to attack the church from within 20:29-30. Resist him in Jesus name.

3 Paul commends them to the word of His grace for it always builds us up, and the expectation of our inheritance in Jesus Christ 20:32.

A verse to remember

You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” Acts 20:35 N.L.T.

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The Powerful Name Of Jesus Acts 19:11-20.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

When Paul reached an impasse in the synagogue, he withdrew along with the believers to the lecture hall of Tyrannous. It is believed that Paul would have taught during mid day at a time when the hall was vacant because of the uncomfortable mid day heat. The gospel preached in the Holy Spirits power will always draw the hungry if not the comfortable. The message of the Kingdom of God revealed in the powerful name of Jesus was confirmed by the signs of healing and deliverance that God wrought at the hands of Paul 19:11.

Cloths taken from Paul’s body and laid on the sick as an act of faith in Jesus, brought about many healings and deliverances. Some see in these verses the validity for prayer clothes. Whatever our view we must beware of anything that becomes a formula.

The Authority of the Powerful name of Jesus is given only to those who believe in Him. The name of Jesus is not a magic charm, and no one can direct Gods power. These exorcists were trying to use Jesus Name, but they didn’t know Him. Only Jesus can heal and deliver, He chooses who He works through and gives them the authority to minister in His name 19:1

Those who were caught up in evil practices were convicted of their sins, having repented, they burnt the books they showed by their actions the results of true repentance. Demons have no legal right to harass Christian’s who have truly repented 19:20.

Memory verse

The story of what happened spread quickly all through Ephesus, to Jews and Greeks alike. A solemn fear descended on the city, and the name of the Lord Jesus was greatly honoured. Many who became believers confessed their sinful practices. Acts 17-18 N.L.T.

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I’m A Disciples Of Jesus, Whose Disciple Are You? Acts 18:18-19:10

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Were Apollos of Acts 18, or the disciples of John the Baptist Acts 19 Christians? Bible commentators seem to be at odds. Generally Pentecostal and some Charismatics think they were already Christians but lacking the Holy Spirit. I take a different view, these were disciples of John the Baptist and were still waiting for the Messiah and the promised Holy Spirit. John’s baptism was a sign of repentance from sin, but did not make a person a Christian. When Paul came across these disciples he realised that their believing was incomplete, they had not been “Born again” Only the Holy Spirit gives new birth 18:26, 19:-3, John 3:3.

How refreshing was the reaction of Apollos He was a truly great teacher but he became a greater and more useful man in the church after receiving correction from Priscilla and Aquila 18:7-28.

we can see a similar reaction from the twelve disciples of John the Baptist. They took no offence from Paul’s observation 19:2, but readily got baptised (this is not a re baptism) in the name of the LORD JESUS. Then with the laying on of Paul’s hands, the Holy Spirit came upon them. ( in them at new birth, now on them as they each receive baptism with the Spirit 19: 5-6.

A Verse to remember

Paul said, “ John’s baptism was to demonstrate a desire to turn from sin and turn to God, John himself told the people to believe in Jesus , the one John said would come later” As soon as they heard this, they were baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. Acts 19:4-5 N.L.T.

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Appreciate The Friends God Has given You.Acts 18.

~ Robert Spiller ~ Leave a comment

Pause for thought

Corinth was a thriving commercial City situated on a narrow isthmus about 5 miles wide that separated the Corinthian Gulf and the Saronic Gulf. Sailors often chose to haul their boats overland rather than take the longer journey which could be very perilous as they rounded the southern Cape of Malea. The Temple of Aphrodite dominated the City, with a thousand priestesses (sacred prostitutes) it was here that Paul lived worked and planted the Corinthian Church Acts 18:7-8.

Paul found a Christian couple Aquila and Priscilla who had been expelled from Rome along with all the Jews by Emperor Claudius about A.D. 49. I think this relationship was a divine intervention for they had so much in common, 1 Their faith in Jesus. 2 Their shared nationality. 3 Their trade, tent making. Paul was reminded that he was not alone in Corinth. Real friends are a blessing from the Lord 18:10.

Ever feel on you own? Or feeling under pressure for sharing your faith? We all need likeminded friends. The Lord reminded Paul these two things 1 Jesus is always with us. 2 we are not alone there are other believers where we live. So don’t let the devil get you down, Rejoice in the presence of the Lord and don’t give up on your local church there might be someone who needs your encouragement Acts 18:10.

Memory Verse

“Don’t be afraid! Speak out! Don’t be silent! For I am with you, and no one will harm you because many people here in this city belong to me.” Acts 18:9b-10 N.L.T.

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