August 9, 2013

From Gary... Eyes front!!!


















Many thanks to brother Walter Vogt for this picture!!!

Rear view mirrors are marvelous things; without them there would be many, many more car accidents!!!  But using them too much is also a danger that should be avoided.  It is very good to think about the past- to learn from it, but then MOVE ON!!!  This same principle should be applied to our Christian life as well. The past is the past- whatever we used to be or do before we submitted to the Christ of God is over.  Time to press on.  I know this is true because the Bible tells me so in Paul's letter to the Philippians... 

Philippians, Chapter 3

 1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not tiresome, but for you it is safe.  2 Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the false circumcision.  3 For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh;  4 though I myself might have confidence even in the flesh. If any other man thinks that he has confidence in the flesh, I yet more:  5 circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; 6 concerning zeal, persecuting the assembly; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, found blameless. 

  7  However, what things were gain to me, these have I counted loss for Christ.  8 Yes most certainly, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, my Lord, for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and count them nothing but refuse, that I may gain Christ  9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own, that which is of the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith;  10 that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, becoming conformed to his death;  11 if by any means I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.  12 Not that I have already obtained, or am already made perfect; but I press on, if it is so that I may take hold of that for which also I was taken hold of by Christ Jesus. 

  13  Brothers, I don’t regard myself as yet having taken hold, but one thing I do. Forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before,  14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.  15 Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, think this way. If in anything you think otherwise, God will also reveal that to you. 


Each day is a new day, filled with possibilities for spiritual growth.  Our pre-Christian days may have seemed pleasant and enjoyable, but they are past.  Our focus should not be on old sinful habits, but on a new life that abhors sin.  Press on for this- try, really try to love and obey God more each day.  Now, I know that I will never be perfect, but I am trying to be the best I can be.  With God's help, today, starting right now, I intend to be the best I can be!!!  Join with me in this commitment.  Eyes forward- forget that rear view mirror- NOW!  

From Mark Copeland... The Spectacle Of The Apostles (1 Corinthians 4:9-16)





                 "THE FIRST EPISTLE TO THE CORINTHIANS"

                 The Spectacle Of The Apostles (4:9-16)

INTRODUCTION

1. As Christians, we owe a great debt to the apostles of our Lord...
   a. Men chosen (Lk 6:12-16) and sent out by Jesus into the world (Mk
      16:15-16)
   b. Who suffered greatly as they carried out the great commission

2. The apostle Paul says that God has made them a "spectacle" to the
   world (1Co 4:9)...
   a. The Greek word is theatron, from which we get our word "theater"
   b. "a theatre, a place in which games and dramatic spectacles are
      exhibited, and public assemblies held (for the Greeks used the
      theatre also as a forum)" - Thayer
   c. "metaphorically, a man who is exhibited to be gazed at and made
      sport of" - ibid.

[In what way has the Lord presented His apostles a "spectacle", an
exhibition to the world?  Especially so in regards to our faith!  To see
why, consider the basis of our faith..]

I. OUR FAITH DEPENDENT ON THEIR TESTIMONY

   A. THE BASIS FOR OUR FAITH...
      1. We know virtually nothing of Jesus without the apostles
      2. Outside the NT there is scant evidence of who He was
      3. Without the apostles we would know only:
         a. That He lived, died, and had many disciples, as attested to
            by historians
         b. Tales told many years after the events occurred, by fanciful
            storytellers

   B. THROUGH THE APOSTLES WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS...
      1. They reveal what we know of His life, teachings, death and
         resurrection
         a. Either through their own writings (e.g., Matthew, John)
         b. Or through the writings of close associates (e.g., Mark,
            Luke)
      2. Our faith is truly dependent on the apostles
         a. As Jesus indicated in His prayer - cf. Jn 17:20
         b. We come to believe in Jesus through the words of the
            apostles

[Like Muslims, our faith is dependent upon the testimony of
first-generation followers.  In the case of the apostles, however, we
see...]

II. THEIR TESTIMONY STRENGTHENED BY THEIR SACRIFICE

   A. THE NATURE OF THEIR TESTIMONY...
      1. The apostles were eyewitnesses to the events - cf. 2Pe 1:
         16-18; Ac 10:39-42
      2. They present empirical testimony (derived from observation
         rather than theory)
         a. They saw Jesus, they touched Him, ate with Him - Ac 10:41;
            1Jn 1:1-3
         b. For forty days they were given infallible proofs of His
            resurrection - Ac 1:1-3
      3. Their testimony strengthened by additional eyewitnesses - 1Co 15:3-8

   B. MADE CREDITABLE BY THEIR SACRIFICE...
      1. They were telling the truth, or a boldface lie (nature of their
         testimony leaves no alternative)
      2. Some will tell a lie, if they can gain fame, fortune, or power
         (e.g., first-generation Muslims)
      3. During their life, the apostles of Christ gained neither fame,
         fortune, or power
      4. They suffered greatly, even appointed for such - 1Co 4:9-10;
         Php 1:29-30

[Why would God allow, even ordain, the apostles of Christ to suffer so
much?  Because of how their sacrifice serves as a spectacle to us and to
the world...]

III. THEIR SACRIFICE A SPECTACLE FOR OUR FAITH

   A. CONSIDER THE SACRIFICES THEY MADE...
      1. By the apostles in general - 1Co 4:11-13
         a. They hungered and thirsted, poorly clothed, beaten and
            homeless
         b. They supported themselves, blessed when reviled, endured
            when persecuted
         c. When defamed, they entreated, though made the filth and
            offscouring of the world
      2. By Paul in particular - 2Co 11:23-28
         a. Imprisoned, beaten, shipwrecked
         b. Imperiled by dangerous journeys, false brethren, lack of
            food, sleep, and clothing
         c. Filled with anxiety for his brethren

   B. THE IMPACT IT SHOULD HAVE ON US...
      1. Believe in their testimony, if you have not done so already!
         a. Their testimony in the resurrection of Jesus Christ
         b. Offered by qualified and trustworthy eyewitnesses
         c. Their gospel of salvation from the condemnation to come - 
            Ac 10:42; 17:30-31
      2. Be inspired to imitate their example
         a. If we let little things hinder our service, we should be
            ashamed!
         b. Yet the sufferings of the apostles are presented as a
            spectacle, not to shame, but to admonish and inspire - 1Co 4:14-16

CONCLUSION

1. As we gaze upon "The Spectacle Of The Apostles", what do we see...?
   a. Men suffering greatly, but not defeated - cf. 2Co 4:8-9
   b. Men demonstrating the power of Christ living in them - cf. 2Co 4:
      10-11

2. Having seen "The Spectacle Of The Apostles", what will we do...?
   a. Believe in the Lord Jesus with a much stronger faith!
   b. Serve the Lord with a willingness to press on, no matter the cost!

That would certainly accomplish God's design in allowing them to suffer.
Why not heed the apostle's urging (1Co 4:16) to imitate him and his
brethren...!

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

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From Jim McGuiggan... I feel like Dancing



I feel like Dancing

I’ve tried to persuade Ethel down the years that I’m not worth much and God knows I’ve behaved badly enough to have made my point with a host of others. She’s not buying it—seems she’s heard that God thinks I’m worth dying for.
Still, what I’m about to say is risky and those who have known the worst side of me on occasions (should they by some remote chance ever read anything I write) will curl their lip at the next few remarks because they’ll make me sound like Mr. Wonderful—fat chance of that being true!
If I weren’t already in love with Ethel, listening to Rod Stewart’s version of the old classic Long Ago & Far Away would make we want to be in love. I who have never danced feel like dancing when I listen to it.
I’ve never forgotten the power of romance—I’m not built to be able to do that—but I haven’t always remembered how warming and enriching and sustaining a lovely romance can be.
Many Christians tend to think—so I judge—that everyone has an equal chance to live life in the celebration mode. I know better; and so should they! Loneliness, social isolation, the sense of being unwanted, the absence of tenderness, tender words, touches and kisses and glances—how could life not be tough in the absence of these? Those who have a profound need for such gifts but don't experience them wage an uphill battle and those who are in a happy and honourable and fulfilling romance should take that into account rather than assuming that their own religious devotion would be as real and deep if they were without a lovely companion. [It makes no sense for us to rejoice in a gift God has given us and at the same time begrudge it to the entire human family. Instead of berating people for enjoying romance maybe we should remind them that it’s God’s gift to them.]
I accept the fact that we as a society are excessively interested in sex and all the “liberties” that go with it but that truth shouldn’t lead us to idiotic conclusions that deny the richness of the gift God has offered to us as humans in offering us romance. And I’m aware that there are those who are in relationships that are crushing them—a tragic circumstance; but none of that is what I wish to deal with here. I just feel the need to express my pleasure at the sound of music and the warmth of romance.
To dismiss the sheer pleasure in a love relationship between two people is to do more than God would do. He uses the metaphors of marriage and romance, of human lovers and happy brides and bridegrooms to express his own joy and when he came to us in and as Jesus he was no stranger to the happy mystery of a wedding.
As it is, I have a difficult enough time trying to please God and be like him; but if I were without the joys of a loving relationship—I’m talking about me—I don’t think I could make it.
I think my Ethel used to dance when she was a girl and I wish she could get out of her wheelchair and show me how. Oh well. Think I’ll put Rod Stewart on and mime the words to her. Set her little heart all aflutter, don’t you know.

©2004 Jim McGuiggan. All materials are free to be copied and used as long as money is not being made.

Many thanks to brother Ed Healy, for allowing me to post from his website, the abiding word.com.

From Gary... Bible Reading and Study, August 9




Bible Reading and Study, August 9


The World English Bible



Aug. 9
Nehemiah 4-6

Neh 4:1 But it happened that when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.
Neh 4:2 He spoke before his brothers and the army of Samaria, and said, What are these feeble Jews doing? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, seeing they are burned?
Neh 4:3 Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they are building, if a fox go up, he shall break down their stone wall.
Neh 4:4 Hear, our God; for we are despised: and turn back their reproach on their own head, and give them up for a spoil in a land of captivity;
Neh 4:5 and don't cover their iniquity, and don't let their sin be blotted out from before you; for they have provoked you to anger before the builders.
Neh 4:6 So we built the wall; and all the wall was joined together to half the heightof it: for the people had a mind to work.
Neh 4:7 But it happened that when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabians, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites heard that the repairing of the walls of Jerusalem went forward, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very angry;
Neh 4:8 and they conspired all of them together to come and fight against Jerusalem, and to cause confusion therein.
Neh 4:9 But we made our prayer to our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.
Neh 4:10 Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and there is much rubbish; so that we are not able to build the wall.
Neh 4:11 Our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, until we come into the midst of them, and kill them, and cause the work to cease.
Neh 4:12 It happened that when the Jews who lived by them came, they said to us ten times from all places, You must return to us.
Neh 4:13 Therefore set I in the lowest parts of the space behind the wall, in the open places, I set there the people after their families with their swords, their spears, and their bows.
Neh 4:14 I looked, and rose up, and said to the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, Don't be afraid of them: remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses.
Neh 4:15 It happened, when our enemies heard that it was known to us, and God had brought their counsel to nothing, that we returned all of us to the wall, everyone to his work.
Neh 4:16 It happened from that time forth, that half of my servants worked in the work, and half of them held the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the coats of mail; and the rulers were behind all the house of Judah.
Neh 4:17 They all built the wall and those who bore burdens loaded themselves; everyone with one of his hands worked in the work, and with the other held his weapon;
Neh 4:18 and the builders, everyone had his sword girded by his side, and so built. He who sounded the trumpet was by me.
Neh 4:19 I said to the nobles, and to the rulers and to the rest of the people, The work is great and large, and we are separated on the wall, one far from another:
Neh 4:20 in whatever place you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally there to us; our God will fight for us.
Neh 4:21 So we worked in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning until the stars appeared.
Neh 4:22 Likewise at the same time said I to the people, Let everyone with his servant lodge within Jerusalem, that in the night they may be a guard to us, and may labor in the day.
Neh 4:23 So neither I, nor my brothers, nor my servants, nor the men of the guard who followed me, none of us put off our clothes, everyone went with his weapon to the water.
Neh 5:1 Then there arose a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brothers the Jews.
Neh 5:2 For there were that said, We, our sons and our daughters, are many: let us get grain, that we may eat and live.
Neh 5:3 Some also there were that said, We are mortgaging our fields, and our vineyards, and our houses: let us get grain, because of the dearth.
Neh 5:4 There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's tribute onour fields and our vineyards.
Neh 5:5 Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brothers, our children as their children: and behold, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought into bondagealready: neither is it in our power to help it; for other men have our fields and our vineyards.
Neh 5:6 I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words.
Neh 5:7 Then I consulted with myself, and contended with the nobles and the rulers, and said to them, You exact usury, everyone of his brother. I held a great assembly against them.
Neh 5:8 I said to them, We after our ability have redeemed our brothers the Jews, that were sold to the nations; and would you even sell your brothers, and should they be sold to us? Then held they their peace, and found never a word.
Neh 5:9 Also I said, The thing that you do is not good: ought you not to walk in the fear of our God, because of the reproach of the nations our enemies?
Neh 5:10 I likewise, my brothers and my servants, do lend them money and grain. Please let us leave off this usury.
Neh 5:11 Please restore to them, even this day, their fields, their vineyards, their olive groves, and their houses, also the hundredth part of the money, and of the grain, the new wine, and the oil, that you exact of them.
Neh 5:12 Then said they, We will restore them, and will require nothing of them; so will we do, even as you say. Then I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they would do according to this promise.
Neh 5:13 Also I shook out my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labor, that doesn't perform this promise; even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. All the assembly said, Amen, and praised Yahweh. The people did according to this promise.
Neh 5:14 Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even to the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that is, twelve years, I and my brothers have not eaten the bread of the governor.
Neh 5:15 But the former governors who were before me were supported by the people, and took bread and wine from them, besides forty shekels of silver; yes, even their servants ruled over the people: but I didn't do so, because of the fear of God.
Neh 5:16 Yes, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered there to the work.
Neh 5:17 Moreover there were at my table, of the Jews and the rulers, one hundred fifty men, besides those who came to us from among the nations that were around us.
Neh 5:18 Now that which was prepared for one day was one ox and six choice sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine: yet for all this I didn't demand the bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy on this people.
Neh 5:19 Remember to me, my God, for good, all that I have done for this people.

Neh 6:1 Now it happened, when it was reported to Sanballat and Tobiah, and to Geshem the Arabian, and to the rest of our enemies, that I had built the wall, and that there was no breach left therein; (though even to that time I had not set up the doors in the gates;)
Neh 6:2 that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, Come, let us meet together inone of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief.
Neh 6:3 I sent messengers to them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I can't come down: why should the work cease, while I leave it, and come down to you?
Neh 6:4 They sent to me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner.
Neh 6:5 Then sent Sanballat his servant to me in like manner the fifth time with an open letter in his hand,
Neh 6:6 in which was written, It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu says it, that you and the Jews think to rebel; for which cause you are building the wall: and you would be their king, according to these words.
Neh 6:7 You have also appointed prophets to preach of you at Jerusalem, saying, There is a king in Judah: and now shall it be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together.
Neh 6:8 Then I sent to him, saying, There are no such things done as you say, but you imagine them out of your own heart.
Neh 6:9 For they all would have made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it not be done. But now, God, strengthen my hands.
Neh 6:10 I went to the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to kill you; yes, in the night will they come to kill you.
Neh 6:11 I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there that, being such as I, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in.
Neh 6:12 I discerned, and behold, God had not sent him; but he pronounced this prophecy against me: and Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him.
Neh 6:13 For this cause was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin, and that they might have matter for an evil report, that they might reproach me.
Neh 6:14 Remember, my God, Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and also the prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have put me in fear.
Neh 6:15 So the wall was finished in the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days.
Neh 6:16 It happened, when all our enemies heard of it, that all the nations that were about us feared, and were much cast down in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was worked of our God.
Neh 6:17 Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters to Tobiah, and the letters of Tobiah came to them.
Neh 6:18 For there were many in Judah sworn to him, because he was the son-in-law of Shecaniah the son of Arah; and his son Jehohanan had taken the daughter of Meshullam the son of Berechiah as wife.
Neh 6:19 Also they spoke of his good deeds before me, and reported my words to him. Tobiah sent letters to put me in fear.


The Composite Bible
The World English Bible
Darby's Translation
Young's Literal Translation

The Composite Bible is a effort to understand the Bible by considering it from different perspectives and different levels of literalcy. First, read the World English Bible (the least literal-black text) for comprehension of the text. Next, read both the World English Bible with the Darby Translation (more literal-blue text)to make comparisons and lastly, read all three versions (Young's is the most literal translation- red text) at one time to obtain an overview of the text. Doing this will make you think about what the Scriptures are actually saying and avoid reading in a superficial manner.

Nehemiah


Nehemiah 4 1
But it happened that when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry, and
took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.
And it came to pass that when Sanballat heard that we built the wall, he was angry and
very indignant, and mocked the Jews.
And it cometh to pass, when Sanballat hath heard that we are building the wall,
that it is displeasing to him, and he is very angry and mocketh at the Jews,
Nehemiah 4 2
He spoke before his brothers and the army of Samaria, and said, What are these feeble Jews
doing? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will
they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, seeing they are burned?
And he spoke before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble
Jews? shall they be permitted to go on? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a
day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, when they are burned?
and saith before his brethren and the force of Samaria, yea, he saith, `What [are]
the weak Jews doing? are they left to themselves? do they sacrifice? do they
complete in a day? do they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish? -- and
they burnt!`
Nehemiah 4 3
Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they are building, if a fox
go up, he shall break down their stone wall.
And Tobijah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox
went up, it would break down their stone wall. --
And Tobiah the Ammonite [is] by him and saith, `Also, that which they are
building -- if a fox doth go up, then it hath broken down their stone wall.`
Nehemiah 4 4
Hear, our God; for we are despised: and turn back their reproach on their own head, and give
them up for a spoil in a land of captivity;
Hear, our God, for we are despised, and turn their reproach upon their own head, and
give them for a prey in a land of captivity!
Hear, O our God, for we have been despised; and turn back their reproach on their
own head, and give them for a spoil in a land of captivity;
Nehemiah 4 5
and don`t cover their iniquity, and don`t let their sin be blotted out from before you; for they
have provoked [you] to anger before the builders.
And cover not their iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from before thee; for
they have provoked the builders.
and do not cover over their iniquity, and their sin from before Thee let not be
blotted out, for they have provoked to anger -- over-against those building.
Nehemiah 4 6
So we built the wall; and all the wall was joined together to half [the height] of it: for the people
had a mind to work.
But we built the wall; and all the wall was joined together to the half thereof; for the
people had a mind to work.
And we build the wall, and all the wall is joined -- unto its half, and the people
have a heart to work.
Nehemiah 4 7
But it happened that when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabians, the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites
heard that the repairing of the walls of Jerusalem went forward, [and] that the breaches began
to be stopped, then they were very angry;
And it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobijah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites,
and the Ashdodites heard that the walls of Jerusalem were being repaired, that the
breaches began to be stopped, then they were very wroth,
And it cometh to pass, when Sanballat hath heard, and Tobiah, and the Arabians,
and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, that lengthening hath gone up to the
walls of Jerusalem, that the breeches have begun to be stopped, then it is very
displeasing to them,
Nehemiah 4 8
and they conspired all of them together to come and fight against Jerusalem, and to cause
confusion therein.
and conspired all of them together to come to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it.
and they conspire, all of them together, to come in to fight against Jerusalem, and
to do to it injury.
Nehemiah 4 9
But we made our prayer to our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.
Then we prayed to our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.
And we pray unto our God, and appoint a watch against them, by day and by night,
because of them.
Nehemiah 4 10
Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and there is much rubbish; so that
we are not able to build the wall.
And Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens faileth, and there is much
rubbish; so that we are not able to build at the wall.
And Judah saith, `The power of the burden-bearers hath become feeble, and the
rubbish [is] abundant, and we are not able to build on the wall.`
Nehemiah 4 11
Our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, until we come into the midst of them,
and kill them, and cause the work to cease.
And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come into the midst of
them and kill them, and put an end to the work.
And our adversaries say, `They do not know, nor see, till that we come in to their
midst, and have slain them, and caused the work to cease.`
Nehemiah 4 12
It happened that when the Jews who lived by them came, they said to us ten times from all
places, You must return to us.
And it came to pass that when the Jews that dwelt by them came and told us so ten times,
from all the places whence they returned to us,
And it cometh to pass, when the Jews have come who are dwelling near them, that
they say to us ten times from all the places whither ye return -- [they are] against
us.
Nehemiah 4 13
Therefore set I in the lowest parts of the space behind the wall, in the open places, I set [there]
the people after their families with their swords, their spears, and their bows.
I set in the lower places behind the wall in exposed places, I even set the people,
according to their families, with their swords, their spears and their bows.
And I appoint at the lowest of the places, at the back of the wall, in the clear
places, yea, I appoint the people, by their families, with their swords, their
spears, and their bows.
Nehemiah 4 14
I looked, and rose up, and said to the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people,
Don`t be you afraid of them: remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your
brothers, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses.
And I looked, and rose up, and said to the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the
people, Be not afraid of them: remember the Lord who is great and terrible, and fight
for your brethren, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your houses.
And I see, and rise up, and say unto the freemen, and unto the prefects, and unto
the rest of the people, `Be not afraid of them; the Lord, the great and the fearful,
remember ye, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your
wives, and your houses.`
Nehemiah 4 15
It happened, when our enemies heard that it was known to us, and God had brought their
counsel to nothing, that we returned all of us to the wall, everyone to his work.
And it came to pass that when our enemies heard that it was known to us, and that God
had defeated their counsel, we returned all of us to the wall, every one to his work.
And it cometh to pass, when our enemies have heard that it hath been known to
us, and God doth frustrate their counsel, and we turn back, all of us, unto the wall,
each unto his work;
Nehemiah 4 16
It happened from that time forth, that half of my servants worked in the work, and half of them
held the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the coats of mail; and the rulers were behind all
the house of Judah.
And from that time forth the half of my servants wrought in the work, and the other half
of them held the spears, and the shields, and the bows, and the corslets; and the captains
were behind all the house of Judah.
yea, it cometh to pass, from that day, half of my servants are working in the
business, and half of them are keeping hold of both the spears, the shields, and the
bows, and the coats of mail; and the heads [are] behind all the house of Judah.
Nehemiah 4 17
They all built the wall and those who bore burdens loaded themselves; everyone with one of his
hands worked in the work, and with the other held his weapon;
They that built on the wall, and they that bore burdens, with those that loaded, wrought
in the work with one hand, and with the other they held a weapon.
The builders on the wall, and the bearers of the burden, those lading, [each] with
one of his hands is working in the business, and one is laying hold of the missile.
Nehemiah 4 18
and the builders, everyone had his sword girded by his side, and so built. He who sounded the
trumpet was by me.
And the builders had every one his sword girded by his side, and built. And he that
sounded the trumpet was by me.
And the builders [are] each with his sword, girded on his loins, and building, and
he who is blowing with a trumpet [is] beside me.
Nehemiah 4 19
I said to the nobles, and to the rulers and to the rest of the people, The work is great and large,
and we are separated on the wall, one far from another:
And I said to the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, The work is great
and extended, and we are scattered upon the wall, one far from another:
And I say unto the freemen, and unto the prefects, and unto the rest of the people,
`The work is abundant, and large, and we are separated on the wall, far off one
from another;
Nehemiah 4 20
in whatever place you hear the sound of the trumpet, resort you there to us; our God will fight
for us.
in what place ye hear the sound of the trumpet, thither shall ye assemble to us; our God
will fight for us.
in the place that ye hear the voice of the trumpet thither ye are gathered unto us;
our God doth fight for us.`
Nehemiah 4 21
So we worked in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning until
the stars appeared.
And we laboured in the work; and half of them held the spears from the rising of the
dawn till the stars appeared.
And we are working in the business, and half of them are keeping hold of the
spears, from the going up of the dawn till the coming forth of the stars.
Nehemiah 4 22
Likewise at the same time said I to the people, Let everyone with his servant lodge within
Jerusalem, that in the night they may be a guard to us, and may labor in the day.
Likewise at the same time I said to the people, Let every one with his servant lodge
within Jerusalem, that in the night they may be a guard to us, and [be for] labour in the
Also, at that time I said to the people, `Let each with his servant lodge in the
midst of Jerusalem, and they have been to us by night a guard, and by day [for] the
work:`
Nehemiah 4 23
So neither I, nor my brothers, nor my servants, nor the men of the guard who followed me, none
of us put off our clothes, everyone [went with] his weapon [to] the water.
And neither I, nor my brethren, nor my servants, nor the men of the guard that followed
me, none of us put off our garments: every one had his weapon on his right side.
and there are none -- I and my brethren and my servants, the men of the guard
who [are] after me -- there are none of us putting off our garments, each [hath] his
vessel of water.
Nehemiah 5 1
Then there arose a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brothers the Jews.
And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the
And there is a great cry of the people and their wives, concerning their brethren
the Jews,
Nehemiah 5 2
For there were that said, We, our sons and our daughters, are many: let us get grain, that we may
eat and live.
And there were that said, We, our sons and our daughters, are many, and we must
procure corn that we may eat and live.
yea, there are who are saying, `Our sons, and our daughters, we -- are many, and
we receive corn, and eat, and live.`
Nehemiah 5 3
Some also there were that said, We are mortgaging our fields, and our vineyards, and our
houses: let us get grain, because of the dearth.
And there were that said, We have had to pledge our fields, and our vineyards, and our
houses, that we might procure corn in the dearth.
And there are who are saying, `Our fields, and our vineyards, and our houses, we
are pledging, and we receive corn for the famine.`
Nehemiah 5 4
There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king`s tribute [on] our fields and our
vineyards.
And there were that said, We have borrowed money for the king`s tribute upon our fields
and vineyards;
And there are who are saying, `We have borrowed money for the tribute of the
king, [on] our fields, and our vineyards;
Nehemiah 5 5
Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brothers, our children as their children: and, behold, we
bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are
brought into bondage [already]: neither is it in our power to help it; for other men have our
fields and our vineyards.
yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children; and
behold, we must bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some
of our daughters are brought into bondage [already]; neither is it in the power of our
hand [to redeem them], for other men have our fields and our vineyards.
and now, as the flesh of our brethren [is] our flesh, as their sons [are] our sons, and
lo, we are subduing our sons and our daughters for servants, and there are of our
daughters subdued, and our hand hath no might, and our fields and our vineyards
[are] to others.`
Nehemiah 5 6
I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words.
And I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words.
And it is very displeasing to me when I have heard their cry and these words,
Nehemiah 5 7
Then I consulted with myself, and contended with the nobles and the rulers, and said to them,
You exact usury, everyone of his brother. I held a great assembly against them.
And I consulted with myself; and I remonstrated with the nobles and the rulers, and said
to them, Ye exact usury, every one of his brother! And I set a great assembly against them.
and my heart reigneth over me, and I strive with the freemen, and with the
prefects, and say to them, `Usury one upon another ye are exacting;` and I set
against them a great assembly,
Nehemiah 5 8
I said to them, We after our ability have redeemed our brothers the Jews, that were sold to the
nations; and would you even sell your brothers, and should they be sold to us? Then held they
their peace, and found never a word.
And I said to them, We, according to our ability, have redeemed our brethren the Jews,
who were sold to the nations; and will ye even sell your brethren? or shall they be sold
unto us? And they were silent and found no answer.
and say to them, `We have acquired our brethren the Jews, those sold to the
nations, according to the ability that [is] in us, and ye also sell your brethren, and
they have been sold to us!` and they are silent, and have not found a word.
Nehemiah 5 9
Also I said, The thing that you do is not good: ought you not to walk in the fear of our God,
because of the reproach of the nations our enemies?
And I said, The thing that ye do is not good. Ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God, so
as not to be the reproach of the nations our enemies?
And I say, `Not good [is] the thing that ye are doing; in the fear of our God do ye
not walk, because of the reproach of the nations our enemies?
Nehemiah 5 10
I likewise, my brothers and my servants, do lend them money and grain. Please let us leave off
this usury.
I also, my brethren and my servants, we might exact usury of them, money and corn. I
pray you, let us leave off this usury.
And also, I, my brethren, and my servants, are exacting of them silver and corn; let
us leave off, I pray you, this usury.
Nehemiah 5 11
Please restore to them, even this day, their fields, their vineyards, their olive groves, and their
houses, also the hundredth part of the money, and of the grain, the new wine, and the oil, that
you exact of them.
Restore, I pray you, to them this very day their fields, their vineyards, their olive-
gardens, and their houses, also the hundredth [part] of the money, and of the corn, the
wine and the oil, that ye have exacted of them.
Give back, I pray you, to them, as to-day, their fields, their vineyards, their olive-
yards, and their houses, and the hundredth [part] of the money, and of the corn, of
the new wine, and of the oil, that ye are exacting of them.`
Nehemiah 5 12
Then said they, We will restore them, and will require nothing of them; so will we do, even as
you say. Then I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they would do according to this
promise.
And they said, We will restore [them], and will require nothing of them; so will we do, as
thou hast said. And I called the priests, and took an oath of them, that they should do
according to this promise.
And they say, `We give back, and of them we seek nothing; so we do as thou art
saying.` And I call the priests, and cause them to swear to do according to this
thing;
Nehemiah 5 13
Also I shook out my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house, and from his labor,
that doesn`t perform this promise; even thus be he shaken out, and emptied. All the assembly
said, Amen, and praised Yahweh. The people did according to this promise.
Also I shook my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his house and from his
earnings, that performeth not this promise: even thus be he shaken out and emptied!
And all the congregation said, Amen! And they praised Jehovah. And the people did
according to this promise.
also, my lap I have shaken, and I say, `Thus doth God shake out every man, who doth
not perform this thing, from his house, and from his labour; yea, thus is he
shaken out and empty;` and all the assembly say, `Amen,` and praise Jehovah; and
the people do according to this thing.
Nehemiah 5 14
Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the
twentieth year even to the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, [that is], twelve years,
I and my brothers have not eaten the bread of the governor.
Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah,
from the twentieth year even to the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes the king, twelve
years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor.
Also, from the day that he appointed me to be their governor in the land of Judah,
from the twentieth year even unto the thirty and second year of Artaxerxes the
king -- twelve years -- I, and my brethren, the bread of the governor have not
eaten:
Nehemiah 5 15
But the former governors who were before me were chargeable to the people, and took of them
bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver; yes, even their servants bore rule over the
people: but I didn`t do so, because of the fear of God.
But the former governors that were before me had been chargeable to the people, and
had taken of them bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver: even their servants
bore rule over the people. But I did not so, because of the fear of God.
the former governors who [are] before me have made themselves heavy on the
people, and take of them in bread and wine, besides in silver forty shekels; also,
their servants have ruled over the people -- and I have not done so, because of the
fear of God.
Nehemiah 5 16
Yes, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants
were gathered there to the work.
Yea, also I applied myself to this work of the wall, and we bought no fields; and all my
servants were gathered thither for the work.
And also, in the work of this wall I have done mightily, even a field we have not
bought, and all my servants are gathered there for the work;
Nehemiah 5 17
Moreover there were at my table, of the Jews and the rulers, one hundred fifty men, besides
those who came to us from among the nations that were round about us.
And there were at my table a hundred and fifty of the Jews and the rulers, besides those
that came to us from among the nations that were about us.
and of the Jews, and of the prefects, a hundred and fifty men, and those coming in
unto us of the nations that [are] round about us, [are] at my table;
Nehemiah 5 18
Now that which was prepared for one day was one ox and six choice sheep; also fowls were
prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine: yet for all this I didn`t demand
the bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy on this people.
And that which was prepared daily was one ox [and] six choice sheep; also fowls were
prepared for me, and once in ten days all sorts of wine in abundance. Yet for all this I
demanded not the bread of the governor; for the service was heavy upon this people.
and that which hath been prepared for one day [is] one ox, six fat sheep, also fowls
have been prepared for me, and once in ten days of all wines abundantly, and with
this, the bread of the governor I have not sought, for heavy is the service on this
people.
Nehemiah 5 19
Remember to me, my God, for good, all that I have done for this people.
Remember for me, my God, for good, all that I have done for this people.
Remember for me, O my God, for good, all that I have done for this people.
Nehemiah 6 1
Now it happened, when it was reported to Sanballat and Tobiah, and to Geshem the Arabian, and
to the rest of our enemies, that I had built the wall, and that there was no breach left therein;
(though even to that time I had not set up the doors in the gates;)
And it came to pass when Sanballat, and Tobijah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of
our enemies, heard that I had built the wall, and that there was no breach left in it
(though at that time I had not set up the doors in the gates),
And it cometh to pass, when it hath been heard by Sanballat, and Tobiah, and by
Geshem the Arabian, and by the rest of our enemies, that I have builded the wall,
and there hath not been left in it a breach, (also, till that time the doors I had not
set up in the gates,)
Nehemiah 6 2
that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, Come, let us meet together in [one of] the villages
in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief.
that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, Come, let us meet together in the villages
in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief.
that Sanballat sendeth, also Geshem, unto me, saying, `Come and we meet together
in the villages, in the valley of Ono;` and they are thinking to do to me evil.
Nehemiah 6 3
I sent messengers to them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I can`t come down: why
should the work cease, while I leave it, and come down to you?
And I sent messengers to them, saying, I am doing a great work, and I cannot come down.
Why should the work cease, whilst I leave it and come down to you?
And I send unto them messengers, saying, `A great work I am doing, and I am not
able to come down; why doth the work cease when I let it alone, and have come
down unto you?`
Nehemiah 6 4
They sent to me four times after this sort; and I answered them after the same manner.
And they sent to me four times after this sort; and I answered them in the same manner.
and they send unto me, according to this word, four times, and I return them
[word] according to this word.
Nehemiah 6 5
Then sent Sanballat his servant to me in like manner the fifth time with an open letter in his
hand,
Then sent Sanballat his servant to me in this manner the fifth time, with an open letter
in his hand,
And Sanballat sendeth unto me, according to this word, a fifth time, his servant,
and an open letter in his hand;
Nehemiah 6 6
in which was written, It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu says it, that you and the
Jews think to rebel; for which cause you are building the wall: and you would be their king,
according to these words.
in which was written: It is reported among the nations, and Gashmu says [it, that] thou
and the Jews think to rebel, for which cause thou buildest the wall, and according to
these words thou wilt become their king.
it is written in it, `Among the nations it hath been heard, and Gashmu is saying:
Thou and the Jews are thinking to rebel, therefore thou art building the wall, and
thou hast been to them for a king -- according to these words!
Nehemiah 6 7
You have also appointed prophets to preach of you at Jerusalem, saying, There is a king in Judah:
and now shall it be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let
us take counsel together.
And thou hast also appointed prophets to proclaim concerning thee at Jerusalem saying,
There is a king in Judah! And now it will be reported to the king according to these
words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together.
And also, prophets thou hast appointed to call for thee in Jerusalem, saying, A
king [is] in Judah, and now it is heard by the king according to these words; and
now come, and we take counsel together.`
Nehemiah 6 8
Then I sent to him, saying, There are no such things done as you say, but you feign them out of
your own heart.
And I sent to him, saying, There are no such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest
them out of thine own heart.
And I send unto him, saying, `It hath not been according to these words that thou
art saying, for from thine own heart thou art devising them;`
Nehemiah 6 9
For they all would have made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work,
that it not be done. But now, [God], strengthen you my hands.
For they all would have made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be slackened from the
work, that it be not carried out. -- Now therefore strengthen my hands!
for all of them are making us afraid, saying, `Their hands are too feeble for the
work, and it is not done;` and now, strengthen Thou my hands.
Nehemiah 6 10
I went to the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabel, who was shut up; and he
said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the
temple: for they will come to kill you; yes, in the night will they come to kill you.
And I came to the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabeel, who had
shut himself up. And he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple,
and let us shut the doors of the temple; for they are coming to kill thee; even in the
night are they coming to kill thee.
And I have entered the house of Shemaiah son of Delaiah, son of Mehetabeel -- and
he is restrained -- and he saith, `Let us meet at the house of God, at the inside of
the temple, and we shut the doors of the temple, for they are coming in to slay
thee -- yea, by night they are coming in to slay thee.`
Nehemiah 6 11
I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there that, being such as I, would go into the
temple to save his life? I will not go in.
And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being as I am, could go into
the temple, and live? I will not go in.
And I say, `A man such as I -- doth he flee? and who as I, that doth go in unto the
temple, and live? -- I do not go in.`
Nehemiah 6 12
I discerned, and, behold, God had not sent him; but he pronounced this prophecy against me: and
Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him.
And I perceived, and behold, God had not sent him; for he pronounced this prophecy
against me; and Tobijah and Sanballat had hired him.
And I discern, and lo, God hath not sent him, for in the prophecy he hath spoken
unto me both Tobiah and Sanballat hired him,
Nehemiah 6 13
For this cause was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin, and that they might have
matter for an evil report, that they might reproach me.
Therefore was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin, and that they might
have wherewith to spread an evil report, that they might reproach me.
so that he [is] an hireling, that I may fear and do so, and I had sinned, and it had
been to them for an evil name that they may reproach me.
Nehemiah 6 14
Remember, my God, Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and also the
prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have put me in fear.
My God, remember Tobijah and Sanballat according to these their works, and also the
prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets who would have put me in fear.
Be mindful, O my God, of Tobiah, and of Sanballat, according to these his works,
and also, of Noadiah the prophetess, and of the rest of the prophets who have been
making me afraid.
Nehemiah 6 15
So the wall was finished in the twenty-fifth [day] of [the month] Elul, in fifty-two days.
So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth of Elul, in fifty-two days.
And the wall is completed in the twenty and fifth of Elul, on the fifty and second
day;
Nehemiah 6 16
It happened, when all our enemies heard [of it], that all the nations that were about us feared,
and were much cast down in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was worked of our
God.
And it came to pass that when all our enemies heard [of it], all the nations that were
about us were afraid and were much cast down in their own eyes, and they perceived
that this work was wrought by our God.
and it cometh to pass, when all our enemies have heard, and all the nations who
are round about us see, that they fall greatly in their own eyes, and know that by
our God hath this work been done.
Nehemiah 6 17
Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters to Tobiah, and [the letters] of
Tobiah came to them.
Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters to Tobijah, and those of
Tobijah came to them.
Also, in those days the freemen of Judah are multiplying their letters going unto
Tobiah, and those of Tobiah are coming in unto them;
Nehemiah 6 18
For there were many in Judah sworn to him, because he was the son-in-law of Shecaniah the son
of Arah; and his son Jehohanan had taken the daughter of Meshullam the son of Berechiah as
wife.
For there were many in Judah sworn to him; for he was a son-in-law of Shechaniah the son
of Arah; and his son Johanan had taken the daughter of Meshullam the son of Berechiah.
for many in Judah are sworn to him, for he [is] son-in-law to Shechaniah son of
Arah, and Jehohanan his son hath taken the daughter of Meshullam son of
Berechiah;
Nehemiah 6 19
Also they spoke of his good deeds before me, and reported my words to him. Tobiah sent letters
to put me in fear.
Also they spoke of his good deeds before me, and reported my words to him. [And] Tobijah
sent letters to put me in fear.
also, his good deeds they have been saying before me, and my words they have

been taking out to him; letters hath Tobiah sent to make me afraid.



Study Questions

Tobiah thought a dog would break down the wall, true or false? 4:3

The people wanted to ___________? 4:6

Why was Nehemiah angry? 5:6 (with 5:1-5)

Nehemiah was appointed ____________? 5:14

What good did Nehemiah do? (Chapter 5)

How did Nehemiah reply to the open letter? 6:8

How long did it take to finish the wall? 6:15



The World English Bible

Aug. 9, 10
Acts 23

Act 23:1 Paul, looking steadfastly at the council, said, "Brothers, I have lived before God in all good conscience until this day."
Act 23:2 The high priest, Ananias, commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth.
Act 23:3 Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to judge me according to the law, and command me to be struck contrary to the law?"
Act 23:4 Those who stood by said, "Do you malign God's high priest?"
Act 23:5 Paul said, "I didn't know, brothers, that he was high priest. For it is written, 'You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.' "
Act 23:6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Men and brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees. Concerning the hope and resurrection of the dead I am being judged!"
Act 23:7 When he had said this, an argument arose between the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the assembly was divided.
Act 23:8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit; but the Pharisees confess all of these.
Act 23:9 A great clamor arose, and some of the scribes of the Pharisees part stood up, and contended, saying, "We find no evil in this man. But if a spirit or angel has spoken to him, let's not fight against God!"
Act 23:10 When a great argument arose, the commanding officer, fearing that Paul would be torn in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them, and bring him into the barracks.
Act 23:11 The following night, the Lord stood by him, and said, "Cheer up, Paul, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must testify also at Rome."
Act 23:12 When it was day, some of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul.
Act 23:13 There were more than forty people who had made this conspiracy.
Act 23:14 They came to the chief priests and the elders, and said, "We have bound ourselves under a great curse, to taste nothing until we have killed Paul.
Act 23:15 Now therefore, you with the council inform the commanding officer that he should bring him down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to judge his case more exactly. We are ready to kill him before he comes near."
Act 23:16 But Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, and he came and entered into the barracks and told Paul.
Act 23:17 Paul summoned one of the centurions, and said, "Bring this young man to the commanding officer, for he has something to tell him."
Act 23:18 So he took him, and brought him to the commanding officer, and said, "Paul, the prisoner, summoned me and asked me to bring this young man to you, who has something to tell you."
Act 23:19 The commanding officer took him by the hand, and going aside, asked him privately, "What is it that you have to tell me?"
Act 23:20 He said, "The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down to the council tomorrow, as though intending to inquire somewhat more accurately concerning him.
Act 23:21 Therefore don't yield to them, for more than forty men lie in wait for him, who have bound themselves under a curse neither to eat nor to drink until they have killed him. Now they are ready, looking for the promise from you."
Act 23:22 So the commanding officer let the young man go, charging him, "Tell no one that you have revealed these things to me."
Act 23:23 He called to himself two of the centurions, and said, "Prepare two hundred soldiers to go as far as Caesarea, with seventy horsemen, and two hundred men armed with spears, at the third hour of the night."
Act 23:24 He asked them to provide animals, that they might set Paul on one, and bring him safely to Felix the governor.
Act 23:25 He wrote a letter like this:
Act 23:26 "Claudius Lysias to the most excellent governor Felix: Greetings.
Act 23:27 "This man was seized by the Jews, and was about to be killed by them, when I came with the soldiers and rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman.
Act 23:28 Desiring to know the cause why they accused him, I brought him down to their council.
Act 23:29 I found him to be accused about questions of their law, but not to be charged with anything worthy of death or of imprisonment.
Act 23:30 When I was told that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him to you immediately, charging his accusers also to bring their accusations against him before you. Farewell."
Act 23:31 So the soldiers, carrying out their orders, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris.
Act 23:32 But on the next day they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the barracks.
Act 23:33 When they came to Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor, they also presented Paul to him.
Act 23:34 When the governor had read it, he asked what province he was from. When he understood that he was from Cilicia, he said,

Act 23:35 "I will hear you fully when your accusers also arrive." He commanded that he be kept in Herod's palace. 




The Composite Bible
The World English Bible
Darby's Translation
Young's Literal Translation

The Composite Bible is a effort to understand the Bible by considering it from different perspectives and different levels of literalcy. First, read the World English Bible (the least literal-black text) for comprehension of the text. Next, read both the World English Bible with the Darby Translation (more literal-blue text)to make comparisons and lastly, read all three versions (Young's is the most literal translation- red text) at one time to obtain an overview of the text. Doing this will make you think about what the Scriptures are actually saying and avoid reading in a superficial manner.

Acts


Acts 23 1
Paul, looking steadfastly at the council, said, "Brothers, I have lived before God in all good
conscience until this day."
And Paul, fixing his eyes on the council, said, Brethren, I have walked in all good
conscience with God unto this day.
And Paul having earnestly beheld the sanhedrim, said, `Men, brethren, I in all
good conscience have lived to God unto this day;`
Acts 23 2
The high priest, Ananias, commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth.
But the high priest Ananias ordered those standing by him to smite his mouth.
and the chief priest Ananias commanded those standing by him to smite him on
the mouth,
Acts 23 3
Then said Paul to him, "God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to judge me
according to the law, and command me to be struck contrary to the law?"
Then Paul said to him, God will smite thee, whited wall. And *thou*, dost thou sit judging
me according to the law, and breaking the law commandest me to be smitten?
then Paul said unto him, `God is about to smite thee, thou whitewashed wall, and
thou -- thou dost sit judging me according to the law, and, violating law, dost
order me to be smitten!`
Acts 23 4
Those who stood by said, "Do you malign God`s high priest?"
And those that stood by said, Dost thou rail against the high priest of God?
And those who stood by said, `The chief priest of God dost thou revile?`
Acts 23 5
Paul said, "I didn`t know, brothers, that he was high priest. For it is written, `You shall not
speak evil of a ruler of your people.`"
And Paul said, I was not conscious, brethren, that he was high priest; for it is written,
Thou shalt not speak evilly of the ruler of thy people.
and Paul said, `I did not know, brethren, that he is chief priest: for it hath been
written, Of the ruler of thy people thou shalt not speak evil;`
Acts 23 6
But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out
in the council, "Men and brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees. Concerning the hope and
resurrection of the dead I am being judged!"
But Paul, knowing that the one part [of them] were of the Sadducees and the other of the
Pharisees, cried out in the council, Brethren, *I* am a Pharisee, son of Pharisees: *I* am
judged concerning the hope and resurrection of [the] dead.
and Paul having known that the one part are Sadducees, and the other Pharisees,
cried out in the sanhedrim, `Men, brethren, I am a Pharisee -- son of a Pharisee --
concerning hope and rising again of dead men I am judged.`
Acts 23 7
When he had said this, there arose an argument between the Pharisees and Sadducees, and the
assembly was divided.
And when he had spoken this, there was a tumult of the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and
the multitude was divided.
And he having spoken this, there came a dissension of the Pharisees and of the
Sadducees, and the crowd was divided,
Acts 23 8
For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit; but the Pharisees
confess all of these.
For Sadducees say there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit; but Pharisees confess
both of them.
for Sadducees, indeed, say there is no rising again, nor messenger, nor spirit, but
Pharisees confess both.
Acts 23 9
A great clamor arose, and some of the scribes of the Pharisees part stood up, and contended,
saying, "We find no evil in this man. But if a spirit or angel has spoken to him, let`s not fight
against God!"
And there was a great clamour, and the scribes of the Pharisees` part rising up
contended, saying, We find nothing evil in this man; and if a spirit has spoken to him, or
an angel ...
And there came a great cry, and the scribes of the Pharisees` part having arisen,
were striving, saying, `No evil do we find in this man; and if a spirit spake to him,
or a messenger, we may not fight against God;`
Acts 23 10
When a great argument arose, the commanding officer, fearing that Paul would be torn in
pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them,
and bring him into the barracks.
And a great tumult having arisen, the chiliarch, fearing lest Paul should have been torn
in pieces by them, commanded the troop to come down and take him by force from the
midst of them, and to bring [him] into the fortress.
and a great dissension having come, the chief captain having been afraid lest
Paul may be pulled to pieces by them, commanded the soldiery, having gone down,
to take him by force out of the midst of them, and to bring [him] to the castle.
Acts 23 11
The following night, the Lord stood by him, and said, "Cheer up, Paul, for as you have testified
about me at Jerusalem, so you must testify also at Rome."
But the following night the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good courage; for as thou
hast testified the things concerning me at Jerusalem, so thou must bear witness at Rome
also.
And on the following night, the Lord having stood by him, said, `Take courage,
Paul, for as thou didst fully testify the things concerning me at Jerusalem, so it
behoveth thee also at Rome to testify.`
Acts 23 12
When it was day, some of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying
that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul.
And when it was day, the Jews, having banded together, put themselves under a curse,
saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they should kill Paul.
And day having come, certain of the Jews having made a concourse, did
anathematize themselves, saying neither to eat nor to drink till they may kill
Acts 23 13
There were more than forty people who had made this conspiracy.
And they were more than forty who had joined together in this oath;
and they were more than forty who made this conspiracy by oath,
Acts 23 14
They came to the chief priests and the elders, and said, "We have bound ourselves under a great
curse, to taste nothing until we have killed Paul.
and they went to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have cursed ourselves with a
curse to taste nothing until we kill Paul.
who having come near to the chief priests and to the elders said, `With an
anathema we did anathematize ourselves -- to taste nothing till we have killed
Paul;
Acts 23 15
Now therefore, you with the council inform the commanding officer that he should bring him
down to you tomorrow, as though you were going to judge his case more exactly. We are ready to
kill him before he comes near."
Now therefore do ye with the council make a representation to the chiliarch so that he
may bring him down to you, as about to determine more precisely what concerns him,
and we, before he draws near, are ready to kill him.
now, therefore, ye, signify ye to the chief captain, with the sanhedrim, that to-
morrow he may bring him down unto you, as being about to know more exactly
the things concerning him; and we, before his coming nigh, are ready to put him
to death.`
Acts 23 16
But Paul`s sister`s son heard of their lying in wait, and he came and entered into the barracks
and told Paul.
But Paul`s sister`s son, having heard of the lying in wait, came and entered into the
fortress and reported [it] to Paul.
And the son of Paul`s sister having heard of the lying in wait, having gone and
entered into the castle, told Paul,
Acts 23 17
Paul summoned one of the centurions, and said, "Bring this young man to the commanding
officer, for he has something to tell him."
And Paul, having called one of the centurions, said, Take this youth to the chiliarch, for
he has something to report to him.
and Paul having called near one of the centurions, said, `This young man lead unto
the chief captain, for he hath something to tell him.`
Acts 23 18
So he took him, and brought him to the commanding officer, and said, "Paul, the prisoner,
called me to himself, and asked me to bring this young man to you, who has something to tell
you."
He therefore, having taken him with [him], led him to the chiliarch, and says, The
prisoner Paul called me to [him] and asked me to lead this youth to thee, who has
something to say to thee.
He indeed, then, having taken him, brought him unto the chief captain, and saith,
`The prisoner Paul, having called me near, asked [me] this young man to bring
unto thee, having something to say to thee.`
Acts 23 19
The commanding officer took him by the hand, and going aside, asked him privately, "What is it
that you have to tell me?"
And the chiliarch having taken him by the hand, and having gone apart in private,
inquired, What is it that thou hast to report to me?
And the chief captain having taken him by the hand, and having withdrawn by
themselves, inquired, `What is that which thou hast to tell me?`
Acts 23 20
He said, "The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring down Paul tomorrow to the council, as though
intending to inquire somewhat more accurately concerning him.
And he said, The Jews have agreed together to make a request to thee, that thou mayest
bring Paul down to-morrow into the council, as about to inquire something more precise
concerning him.
and he said -- `The Jews agreed to request thee, that to-morrow to the sanhedrim
thou mayest bring down Paul, as being about to enquire something more exactly
concerning him;
Acts 23 21
Therefore don`t yield to them, for more than forty men lie in wait for him, who have bound
themselves under a curse neither to eat nor to drink until they have killed him. Now they are
ready, looking for the promise from you."
Do not thou then be persuaded by them, for there lie in wait for him of them more than
forty men, who have put themselves under a curse neither to eat nor drink till they kill
him; and now they are ready waiting the promise from thee.
thou, therefore, mayest thou not yield to them, for there lie in wait for him of
them more than forty men, who did anathematize themselves -- not to eat nor to
drink till they kill him, and now they are ready, waiting for the promise from
thee.`
Acts 23 22
So the commanding officer let the young man go, charging him, "Tell no one that you have told
these things to me."
The chiliarch then dismissed the youth, commanding [him], Utter to no one that thou
hast represented these things to me.
The chief captain, then, indeed, let the young man go, having charged [him] to
tell no one, `that these things thou didst shew unto me;`
Acts 23 23
He called to himself two of the centurions, and said, "Prepare two hundred soldiers to go as far
as Caesarea, with seventy horsemen, and two hundred men armed with spears, at the third hour
of the night."
And having called to [him] certain two of the centurions, he said, Prepare two hundred
soldiers that they may go as far as Caesarea, and seventy horsemen, and two hundred
light-armed footmen, for the third hour of the night.
and having called near a certain two of the centurions, he said, `Make ready
soldiers two hundred, that they may go on unto Caesarea, and horsemen seventy,
and spearmen two hundred, from the third hour of the night;
Acts 23 24
He asked them to provide animals, that they might set Paul on one, and bring him safely to Felix,
the governor.
And [he ordered them] to provide beasts, that they might set Paul on them and carry
[him] safe through to Felix the governor,
beasts also provide, that, having set Paul on, they may bring him safe unto Felix
the governor;`
Acts 23 25
He wrote a letter like this:
having written a letter, couched in this form:
he having written a letter after this description:
Acts 23 26
"Claudius Lysias to the most excellent governor Felix: Greetings.
Claudius Lysias to the most excellent governor Felix, greeting.
`Claudius Lysias, to the most noble governor Felix, hail:
Acts 23 27
"This man was seized by the Jews, and was about to be killed by them, when I came on them with
the soldiers and rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman.
This man, having been taken by the Jews, and being about to be killed by them, I came up
with the military and took out [of their hands], having learned that he was a Roman.
This man having been taken by the Jews, and being about to be killed by them --
having come with the soldiery, I rescued him, having learned that he is a Roman;
Acts 23 28
Desiring to know the cause why they accused him, I brought him down to their council.
And desiring to know the charge on which they accused him, I brought him down to
their council;
and, intending to know the cause for which they were accusing him, I brought
him down to their sanhedrim,
Acts 23 29
I found him to be accused about questions of their law, but to have nothing laid to his charge
worthy of death or of bonds.
whom I found to be accused of questions of their law, but to have no charge laid against
him [making him] worthy of death or of bonds.
whom I found accused concerning questions of their law, and having no
accusation worthy of death or bonds;
Acts 23 30
When I was told that the Jews lay in wait for the man, I sent him to you immediately, charging
his accusers also to bring their accusations against him before you. Farewell."
But having received information of a plot about to be put in execution against the man
[by the Jews], I have immediately sent him to thee, commanding also his accusers to say
before thee the things that are against him. [Farewell.]
and a plot having been intimated to me against this man -- about to be of the Jews
-- at once I sent unto thee, having given command also to the accusers to say the
things against him before thee; be strong.`
Acts 23 31
So the soldiers, carrying out their orders, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris.
The soldiers therefore, according to what was ordered them, took Paul and brought him
by night to Antipatris,
Then, indeed, the soldiers according to that directed them, having taken up Paul,
brought him through the night to Antipatris,
Acts 23 32
But on the next day they left the horsemen to go with him, and returned to the barracks.
and on the morrow, having left the horsemen to go with him, returned to the fortress.
and on the morrow, having suffered the horsemen to go on with him, they
returned to the castle;
Acts 23 33
They, when they came to Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor, presented Paul also
before him.
And these, having entered into Caesarea, and given up the letter to the governor,
presented Paul also to him.
those having entered into Caesarea, and delivered the letter to the governor, did
present also Paul to him.
Acts 23 34
When the governor had read it, he asked what province he was from. When he understood that
he was from Cilicia, he said,
And having read [it], and asked of what eparchy he was, and learned that [he was] of
Cilicia,
And the governor having read [it], and inquired of what province he is, and
understood that [he is] from Cilicia;
Acts 23 35
"I will hear you fully when your accusers also arrive." He commanded that he be kept in Herod`s
palace.
he said, I will hear thee fully when thine accusers also are arrived. And he commanded
him to be kept in Herod`s praetorium.
`I will hear thee -- said he -- when thine accusers also may have come;` he also

commanded him to be kept in the praetorium of Herod.


Study Questions

Who had Paul stricken? 23:2

Where was Paul taken for safekeeping? 23:33