Today we read Acts 16. Note how the Holy Spirit now calls Paul and the other apostles into Europe (Macedonia). Thus, the Gospel spreads onto a new continent! Praise God!

Today we read Acts 15. We recently met the “circumcision party” (Acts 11), those Christians from a Jewish background who had incorrectly believed that one must believe in Jesus Christ “AND” hold to the civil ceremonial Old Testament laws (that Jesus fulfilled) to be saved. In this chapter, their false teaching is called out and corrected (Acts 15:23-29). How wonderful that Jesus has fulfilled the entire Old Testament law for us, including the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17). Indeed, we are saved *by faith* in Jesus Christ alone!

Today we read Acts 14. Here, Paul experiences more persecution for preaching about Jesus. But look how God blessed Paul’s steadfastness, opening a “door of faith to the Gentiles” (verse 27). Depending on our surroundings, being a Christian can be tough for us too. Dear Lord, have mercy on us and give us strength to remain faithful to You!

Today we read Acts 13 and learn about the first missionary journey of the apostles Barnabas and Saul. Note how from verse 13 on, Saul is called Paul, who would later go on to write most of the New Testament. It is astounding how the Lord turned a former enemy of Jesus into the most productive Apostle of all time! The regions in which they share the Good News of Jesus Christ are what we today know as Cyprus and Turkey.