QT 25/05/2026 Mon Acts 14 Stoned, Struck Down… Still Standing
READ http://www.esv.org/acts14

Imagine getting attacked, left for dead… and then getting up to keep going. That’s not a movie—that’s Acts 14. Today we’re looking at a faith that refuses to quit, no matter the cost.

In see in Acts 14 courage in the face of opposition and faithfulness in the mission. Here Paul the Apostle and Barnabas continue their missionary journey through cities like Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe. They preach the gospel, perform miracles, face persecution, and strengthen new believers.

(1) Bold Faith Despite Division (Acts 14:1–7)
Paul and Barnabas preach boldly, and many believe—but opposition rises quickly. The city becomes divided.

Reflection: Faithfulness to the gospel doesn’t guarantee acceptance—it often brings tension. Yet they remained and continued speaking boldly for the Lord. Where might God be calling you to stay faithful even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular?

(2) Power Points to God, Not Man (Acts 14:8–18)
In Lystra, Paul heals a crippled man. The crowd tries to worship them as gods—calling Barnabas “Zeus” and Paul “Hermes.” But they immediately reject the praise and redirect it to God.

Reflection: It’s easy to subtly take credit for what God does through us—whether success, recognition, or influence. When good things happen through your life, do you point others to God—or absorb the glory?

(3) Perseverance Through Suffering (Acts 14:19–20)
Paul is stoned and dragged out of the city, presumed dead. Yet he gets up and goes right back to the work.

Reflection: Following Christ is not always safe or easy. But Paul’s resilience shows that purpose outweighs comfort. What would it look like to keep going—not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it?

(4) Strengthening Others in Faith (Acts 14:21–23)
They revisit the new believers, encouraging them with this powerful truth: “Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” (ESV) They appoint elders and commit the believers to the Lord.

Reflection: Christian life isn’t just about starting strong—it’s about enduring and helping others endure too. Who are you strengthening in their faith right now?

(5) God’s Work Beyond Us (Acts 14:24–28)
Returning to Antioch of Syria, they report all that God has done—and how He opened a door of faith to the Gentiles.

Reflection: The mission belongs to God. We are participants, not the source. Celebrate what God is doing—even beyond your direct involvement.

Acts 14 reminds us:

• Faithfulness may bring opposition
• God deserves all glory
• Perseverance matters deeply
• Encouraging others is part of the mission

The question isn’t whether the path is hard—it’s whether we will stay faithful on it.

🙏 Prayer

Lord, give me boldness like Paul and Barnabas. Help me to remain faithful in hardship, humble in success, and committed to strengthening others. Remind me that the mission is Yours—and I am simply called to obey. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 25/05/2026 星期一. 使徒行传 14 被石头打，倒下……依然站立
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/14/

试想一下：遭到袭击，被弃如敝屣……然后却能站起来继续前行。这不是电影情节——这是《使徒行传》第14章。今天，我们要探讨一种无论付出多大代价都绝不放弃的信仰。

在《使徒行传》第14章中，我们看到了面对反对时的勇气以及对使命的忠心。使徒保罗和巴拿巴继续他们的传教之旅，途经以哥念、路司得和德尔贝等城市。他们传讲福音、行神迹、面对逼迫，并坚固新信徒。

(1) 尽管面临分裂，仍怀大胆的信心（使徒行传14:1–7）
保罗和巴拿巴大胆传道，许多人信了——但反对声浪迅速高涨。城中因此分裂。

反思：对福音的忠心并不保证会被接纳——它往往会带来紧张。然而他们仍留下来，继续为主大胆说话。当处境令人不适或不受欢迎时，神或许正呼召你在何处持守忠心？

(2) 神迹彰显神，而非人（使徒行传 14:8–18）
在吕斯特拉，保罗医治了一位瘸腿的人。人群试图将他们当作神来敬拜——称巴拿巴为“宙斯”，保罗为“赫尔墨斯”。但他们立刻拒绝了这些赞美，并将荣耀归给神。

反思：我们很容易在潜移默化中将神借着我们所做的事据为己有——无论是成功、认可还是影响力。当美好的事情发生在你生命中时，你会引导他人归向神——还是将荣耀据为己有？

(3) 在患难中持守（使徒行传 14:19–20）
保罗被用石头打，拖出城外，众人以为他已经死了。但他却站起来，立刻回到事工中。

反思：跟随基督并不总是安全或容易的。但保罗的坚韧表明，使命比安逸更重要。若非因事易行，而是因事值得，坚持前行会是怎样的光景？

(4) 坚固他人的信心（使徒行传 14:21–23）
他们再次探访新信徒，用这有力的真理鼓励他们：“我们进入神的国，必须经历许多艰难。”他们按立长老，并将信徒交托给主。

反思：基督徒的生命不仅在于开局强劲，更在于持守到底，并帮助他人一同持守。此刻，你正在坚固谁的信心？

(5) 超越我们的神的工作（使徒行传 14:24–28）
回到叙利亚的安提阿后，他们报告了神所做的一切——以及祂如何为外邦人敞开了信心的门。

反思：传道使命属于神。我们只是参与者，而非源头。要为神正在做的事欢庆——即使那超出了你直接参与的范围。

《使徒行传》14章提醒我们：

• 忠心可能会招致反对
• 神配得一切荣耀
• 坚持到底至关重要
• 鼓励他人是使命的一部分

问题不在于道路是否艰难——而在于我们是否会在路上保持忠心。

🙏 祷告

主啊，求祢赐我像保罗和巴拿巴那样的胆量。求祢帮助我在患难中持守忠心，在成功时保持谦卑，并致力于扶持他人。求祢提醒我，这使命是祢的——而我只是蒙召顺服。奉耶稣的名求。阿们。

QT 24/05/2026 Sun Acts 13  Sent by the Spirit, Sustained Through Resistance
READ http://www.esv.org/acts13

What if the biggest breakthroughs in your life start with prayer—and lead straight into opposition? In Acts 13, the Holy Spirit sends ordinary people on an extraordinary mission… and nothing—not resistance, not rejection—can stop the gospel. Let’s unpack Acts 13.

Ever wonder what happens when God tells a church, ‘Go’? Acts 13 shows us: bold faith, fierce resistance, and a message so powerful it reaches the highest levels of society. The Holy Spirit calls, sets apart, and sends God’s people to proclaim the gospel—and that mission advances despite resistance, reaching even the most unlikely hearts.

Acts 13 shows a turning point: the church moves from reactive witness to intentional mission. What began with moments like Peter and Cornelius now becomes a Spirit-directed movement outward to the nations.

Reflection

(1) A Praying Church Becomes a Sending Church
The church in Antioch was worshiping, fasting, and praying when the Holy Spirit spoke (Acts 13:2). Mission was not born from strategy meetings, but from spiritual sensitivity.

Fasting and prayer weren’t rituals—they were acts of surrender. By quieting worldly distractions, the church positioned itself to receive God’s promptings clearly. And when God led them in this way, they obeyed. If we want clarity in direction, we must cultivate depth in devotion.

(2) The Gospel Advances Through Both Opposition and Opportunity
In Cyprus, Paul encounters both spiritual resistance (Elymas the magician) and unexpected openness (the Roman proconsul). This pattern continues in Pisidian Antioch. Wherever the gospel goes, it exposes falsehood and invites transformation. Resistance is not a sign of failure—it often confirms that the message is confronting darkness.

At the same time, God opens doors in surprising places—even among political elites and outsiders. The gospel is not limited by culture, status, or background.

(3) The Message: Jesus Is the Fulfillment, Not the Law
Paul’s sermon traces God’s faithfulness through Israel’s history, culminating in Jesus. The message is clear:

• God kept His promises
• Jesus died and rose again
• Forgiveness is offered through Him
• The law cannot justify—only faith can

This is radical: salvation is not earned but received. And this grace extends beyond Israel to the Gentiles.

(4) A Dividing Line: Acceptance or Rejection
When the message spreads to the Gentiles, many rejoice—but others resist. The Jewish leaders’ rejection is sobering: “Since you thrust it aside… you judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life” (Acts 13:46)

Rejecting the gospel isn’t neutral—it is decisive. Yet even rejection cannot stop God’s plan. The mission continues, and the message spreads.

Application

(a) Are you cultivating space to hear from the Holy Spirit? Prayer and fasting aren’t optional extras—they are essential for spiritual clarity.

(b) How do you respond to resistance? Do you retreat, or do you trust that God is still at work?

(c) Is your confidence in the law (performance) or in Christ? Salvation comes through faith alone—not effort.

(d) Are you willing to be sent? The Spirit still calls people today—sometimes across the world, sometimes across the street.

Prayer

Lord. Teach me to seek You with a heart that listens. Strip away distractions that keep me from hearing Your voice. Give me courage to follow where You send me, even when I face resistance. Help me trust fully in Jesus—not in my efforts—for salvation. And use my life to carry Your gospel to others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 24/05/2026 星期日. 使徒行传 13 受圣灵差遣，在抵挡中持守
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/13/

如果生命中最大的突破始于祷告——并直接引向抵挡，会怎样？在《使徒行传》13章中，圣灵差遣平凡的人去完成非凡的使命……没有任何事物——无论是抵挡，还是拒绝——能阻挡福音。让我们深入探讨《使徒行传》第13章。

你是否曾好奇，当神对教会说“去”时会发生什么？《使徒行传》第13章向我们展现了：刚强的信心、激烈的抵制，以及一个如此有力的信息，以至于触及了社会最高层。圣灵呼召、分别为圣并差遣神的子民去传扬福音——而这一使命尽管面临抵制，依然不断推进，甚至触及了那些最意想不到的心灵。

《使徒行传》第13章展现了一个转折点：教会从被动见证转向了主动宣教。起初像彼得与哥尼流那样的个别事件，如今已发展成为圣灵引导的、向外邦人扩展的运动。

反思

(1) 祷告的教会成为差遣的教会
当圣灵发声时，安提阿的教会正在敬拜、禁食和祷告（《使徒行传》13:2）。宣教并非源于策略会议，而是源于属灵的敏锐。

禁食和祷告并非仪式——而是顺服的行动。通过静默世俗的干扰，教会使自己能够清晰地领受神的感动。当神以此方式引导他们时，他们便顺服。若我们渴望方向的清晰，就必须在敬虔上追求深度。

(2) 福音在反对与机遇中并行推进
在塞浦路斯，保罗既遭遇了属灵的抵挡（行法术的以利马），也遇到了意想不到的接纳（罗马总督）。这种模式在庇推尼的安提阿继续上演。无论福音传到何处，它都会揭露虚假，并带来改变。抵挡并非失败的标志——它往往印证了这信息正在直面黑暗。

与此同时，神在令人意想不到的地方敞开大门——甚至在政治精英和外邦人中间。福音不受文化、地位或背景的限制。

(3) 信息：耶稣是应许的成就，而非律法
保罗的讲道追溯了神在以色列历史中的信实，最终指向耶稣。信息清晰明确：

• 神信守了祂的应许
• 耶稣死了又复活了
• 赦免是借着祂赐下的
• 律法不能称义——唯有信心才能

这是颠覆性的：救恩不是靠赚取，而是靠领受。而且这恩典不仅限于以色列，更延伸至外邦人。

(4) 一条分界线：接受或拒绝
当这信息传到外邦人中，许多人欢喜——但也有人抵挡。犹太领袖们的拒绝令人警醒： “既然你们弃绝这福音……就自断了永生的资格”（使徒行传 13:46）

拒绝福音并非中立——而是决定性的。然而，即便是拒绝也无法阻挡神的计划。使命仍在继续，福音仍在传扬。

应用

(a) 你是否在为聆听圣灵的声音留出空间？祷告和禁食并非可有可无的附加事项——它们是保持属灵清明不可或缺的要素。

(b) 你如何应对阻力？是退缩，还是相信神仍在动工？

(c) 你的信心是建立在律法（行为）上，还是建立在基督身上？救恩唯独来自信心——而非靠自己的努力。

(d) 你愿意被差遣吗？圣灵今日仍在呼召人——有时是远在天边，有时就在街角。

祷告

主啊，求祢教导我以一颗倾听的心寻求祢。求祢除去那些使我无法听见祢声音的干扰。赐我勇气，让我能跟随祢的差遣，即使面对阻力也不退缩。帮助我全然信靠耶稣——而非自己的努力——来得救。并使用我的生命，将祢的福音传给他人。奉耶稣的名求。阿们。

QT 22/05/2026 Fri. John 6:60–71 When Disciples Walk Away from the Bread They Once Received.
READ http://www.esv.org/john6:60–71

Jesus just fed thousands with a miracle… and then many of His disciples walked away. Not strangers—followers. How do you witness supernatural provision and still turn your back? And more importantly—could we be doing the same without realizing it? Let’s unpack John 6:60-71.

The shock of the passage is intentional: People can experience real proximity to Jesus—
see miracles, hear teaching, be called “disciples”—and still walk away. The difference isn’t exposure. It’s whether you receive Him on His terms.

After the miracle of the loaves, the crowd is full, satisfied, and following. But when Jesus interprets the sign—when He says, in effect, “I am the bread; you must receive Me”—the tone shifts. What was exciting becomes offensive. What was tangible becomes spiritual. And many who had walked with Him turn back. This is the surprising self-severance: to step away from the very source of life after having tasted its provision. How can this happen?

(1) Confusing the gift with the Giver
They loved the bread; they resisted what the bread meant. When Jesus redirects them from provision to Person, their interest collapses.

Warning: It is possible to follow Christ for what He gives, yet resist who He is.

(2) Resisting hard teaching
“This is a hard saying” (v.60). The issue isn’t lack of evidence—it’s the cost of receiving it. Jesus’ words remove control and call for dependence.

Warning: Offense at truth can masquerade as intellectual difficulty. Therefore, readers today are to be honest with themselves, for proper self-evaluation and avoid self-deception. Furthermore, believers today are to be wise in responding to “technical” or other “difficulties” of followers Christ, so as not to be misled by others.

(3) Interpreting spiritually in purely natural terms
Jesus says His words are “spirit and life” (v.63). They hear Him literally and miss the reality He’s pointing to–which is Himself.

Warning: Without spiritual discernment, even clear teaching feels unreasonable.

(4) A divided heart revealed over time

Jesus notes that some “do not believe” (v.64). The crisis doesn’t create unbelief—it exposes it.

🛡️ So how do we guard ourselves?

(a) Follow Christ for Christ: Return often to the question: If the gifts were stripped away, would I still want Him? True discipleship clings to the Giver, not just the gifts.
(b) Stay when you don’t fully understand: When many leave, Simon Peter answers: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (v.68) Peter doesn’t claim full comprehension—he chooses continued trust.

(c) Receive, don’t master, the Word
Jesus’ teaching is not something we stand over but something we submit to. Let Scripture correct you, not just comfort you.

(d) Depend on God’s enabling grace
“No one can come… unless it is granted” (v.65). Perseverance is not self-generated; it is sustained by God. Ask for a heart that keeps coming to God in humility.

(e) Watch for quiet drifting away: The text says they “turned back and no longer walked with Him.” Drift often looks ordinary before it becomes decisive.

✨ Closing thoughts: The dividing line in this passage is simple but searching:

• Some say, “This is hard,” and leave.
• Others say, “We don’t fully understand—but we’re staying.”
  What is yours? Guard your heart not by chasing experiences, but by abiding in Christ Himself—the true and lasting supply of goodness.

🙏 Prayer

Lord Jesus, keep me from loving Your gifts more than You. When Your words are hard, give me a heart that stays. Open my eyes to receive what is spiritual, and hold me fast by Your grace. To whom else could I go? You have the words of eternal life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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QT 22/05/2026 星期五. 约翰福音6:60–71 当门徒背离他们曾经领受的“生命之粮”时。
阅读 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john6%3A60-71&version=CNVS

耶稣刚刚行神迹喂饱了数千人……随后，许多门徒却离他而去。他们并非陌生人——而是跟随者。目睹超自然的供应，为何仍会背弃主？更重要的是——我们是否也在不知不觉中重蹈覆辙？让我们深入探讨约翰福音6:60-71。

这段经文带来的震撼是刻意为之的：人们可以亲身经历与耶稣的真实亲近——
看见神迹，听见教导，被称为“门徒”——却依然转身离去。关键不在于接触的多少，而在于你是否按祂的条件领受祂。

五饼二鱼的神迹之后，众人吃饱了，心满意足，并跟随耶稣。但当耶稣阐释这神迹——当祂实质上宣告“我是那粮；你们必须领受我”时——气氛骤变。原本令人振奋的变得刺耳，原本触手可及的变得属灵。许多曾与祂同行的人转身离去。这就是令人惊讶的自我割裂：在尝过生命供应之后，却远离了生命的源头。这怎么可能发生？

(1) 将礼物与赐予者混为一谈
他们爱那饼，却抗拒那饼所代表的意义。当耶稣引导他们从“供应”转向“位格”时，他们的兴趣便消散了。

警告：人可能因基督所赐之物而跟随祂，却抗拒祂的本质。

(2) 抗拒严厉的教导
“这话很难”（第60节）。问题不在于缺乏证据，而在于接受它的代价。耶稣的话语剥夺了人的掌控权，要求人全然倚靠祂。

警告：对真理的抵触可能伪装成理性的困惑。因此，今天的读者应当诚实面对自己，进行恰当的自我评估，避免自欺。此外，今天的信徒在面对跟随基督所遇到的“技术性”或其他“困难”时，应当明智地应对，以免被他人误导。

(3) 用纯粹属世的眼光来解释属灵的事
耶稣说祂的话是“是灵、是生命”（第63节）。他们只听字面意思，却错过了祂所指的实质——那就是祂自己。

警告：若缺乏属灵的分辨力，即便是清晰的教导也会让人觉得不合情理。

(4) 随着时间推移显露的分心

耶稣指出有些人“不信”（第64节）。这场危机并非制造了不信，而是将其暴露出来。

🛡️ 那么，我们该如何自守？

(a) 为基督而跟随基督：时常自问：若恩赐被剥夺，我是否仍要祂？真正的门徒生活是紧抓赐恩者，而非仅是恩赐。
(b) 即便不完全明白也要留下来：当许多人离开时，西门彼得回答说：“主啊，我们往哪里去？你有永生的话。”（第68节）彼得并不声称自己完全明白——他选择的是持续的信靠。

(c) 领受神的话语，而非掌控它
耶稣的教导不是让我们居高临下地对待，而是要我们顺服的。让圣经来纠正你，而不仅仅是安慰你。

(d) 倚靠神赐予的能力
“若不是蒙恩赐的，谁也不能到我这里来”（第65节）。持守并非源于自身，而是由神所维系。求神赐予一颗谦卑的心，使我们不断归向祂。

(e) 警惕悄然背离：经文说他们“转身不再跟从祂”。背离在成为决定性事件之前，往往看似寻常。

✨ 结语：这段经文的分水岭简单却发人深省：

• 有人说：“这太难了”，便离开了。
• 有人说：“我们虽不完全明白——但我们会留下。”
  你的选择是什么？守护你的心，不是去追逐经历，而是住在基督里面——祂才是真正且永恒的良善之源。

🙏 祷告

主耶稣，求祢保守我，不要爱祢的恩赐胜过爱祢。当祢的话语令人难受时，求祢赐我一颗坚守的心。求祢开启我的眼睛，领受属灵的事物，并用祢的恩典紧紧抓住我。我还能往哪里去呢？祢有永生的话语。奉耶稣的名求。阿们。

QT 21/05/2026 Thu Acts 12  The Unchained Gospel, Even Through Chained Servants
READ http://www.esv.org/acts12

A dead apostle. A jailed preacher. A powerful king. Who wins? Not who you expect. In Acts 12, the gospel breaks every chain—even when God’s people don’t. Let unpack Acts 12.

The book of Acts of the Apostles begins in Jerusalem and ends in Rome—a movement that mirrors the unstoppable advance of the gospel. By the time we reach Acts 28, the message is described as “unhindered,” even though its messenger, Paul the Apostle, is under guard. This paradox—a bound servant proclaiming an unbound Saviour—is already on display in Acts 12.

In Acts 12, we encounter a sobering contrast. James the Apostle is executed by Herod Agrippa I, while Peter the Apostle is imprisoned. From a human perspective, this raises a difficult question: Why does God allow one servant to die while delivering another? Scripture does not give a direct answer—but it does show us something deeper: God’s purposes are not hindered by human power, persecution, or even death.

While Peter is in chains, the church is not passive. “Earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church” (Acts 12:5). This is not casual prayer—it is persistent, unified, and faith-filled. And God responds. An angel of the Lord enters the prison, light fills the cell, Peter’s chains fall off, and locked gates open on their own. The message is unmistakable: no earthly chain can restrain God’s will. We can learn:-

(1) God’s sovereignty transcends our understanding.
James dies, Peter lives—both are faithful. God’s plan is not measured by immediate outcomes but by eternal purposes. Faith trusts God even when His ways are not explained.

(2) The church’s first response is prayer, not panic.
In crisis, the believers gathered—not to strategize politically, but to seek God spiritually. Prayer is not a last resort; it is the church’s primary weapon.

(3) God’s power is not limited by human restriction.
Chains, prisons, and rulers cannot stop the gospel. Whether through miraculous deliverance or steadfast witness in suffering, Christ is proclaimed.

(4) The mission always moves forward.
Even when individual stories seem tragic or unresolved, the larger story—the spread of the gospel—continues unhindered.

Application: When facing uncertainty, opposition, or loss, remember Acts 12. You may feel “chained” by circumstances—limitations, setbacks, or unanswered questions. But the gospel is not chained. God is still working, still advancing His kingdom, still answering prayer in ways seen and unseen.

So pray earnestly. Trust deeply. And live boldly—knowing that the same God who opened prison doors is still opening hearts today. That contrast in Acts 12 brings the chapter to a powerful and sobering climax.

Herod Agrippa I, who exalted himself and accepted the people’s praise as if he were a god, is suddenly struck down—“eaten by worms and breathed his last” (Acts 12:23). His story is one of apparent power, public glory, and swift judgment. In contrast, the church appears weak—its leaders imprisoned or killed, its members gathered quietly in prayer.

Yet Luke immediately shifts the focus: “But the word of God increased and multiplied” (Acts 12:24). This is not accidental. It is the theological heartbeat of the passage. We learn:-

(5) Earthly power is fragile; God’s kingdom is unstoppable.
Herod sits on a throne, receives applause, and seems untouchable—until he isn’t. His authority collapses in a moment. Meanwhile, the gospel—spoken by ordinary, pressured believers—keeps spreading. What looks strong in the world often proves temporary; what seems weak in God’s hands proves eternal.

(6) God opposes pride but advances His word.
Herod’s downfall is tied to his pride—he “did not give God the glory.” The gospel, however, advances precisely because it glorifies God, not man. This is a warning and a comfort: God resists the proud, but He actively sustains His mission.

(7) The real story is never just about individuals.
James dies. Peter is delivered. Herod is judged. These are dramatic and personal events but Luke directs our attention beyond them all to one unifying reality: the Word of God is advancing. Human stories rise and fall, but God’s redemptive plan continues without interruption.

Application: It’s easy to measure life by visible outcomes—success, influence, security. Acts 12 redirects that perspective. Herod had all three, yet lost everything. The early believers had none, yet were part of something that could not be stopped. So the question becomes: What are you aligning your life with—the fading power of this world, or the multiplying Word of God?

Live for what endures. Seek God’s glory, not your own. And take heart: no matter how chaotic or unjust circumstances may appear, God’s Word is still increasing and multiplying.

Prayer

Heavenly Father. You reign above all earthly power, and Your Word cannot be chained. Teach me to trust You in every circumstance—whether in loss or deliverance. Guard my heart from pride, and help me seek Your glory alone. Strengthen my faith to pray earnestly and live boldly, knowing Your purposes will always stand. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

QT 21/05/2026 星期四. 使徒行传 12 即使通过被囚的仆人，福音依然无拘无束
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/12/

一位殉道的使徒。一位身陷囹圄的传道人。一位权倾一时的君王。谁将胜出？答案并非你所预料。在《使徒行传》第12章中，福音打破了每一道枷锁——即使神的子民未能挣脱。让我们一同深入解读《使徒行传》第12章。

《使徒行传》始于耶路撒冷，终于罗马——这一历程恰如福音势不可挡的推进。当我们读到《使徒行传》第28章时，福音被描述为“毫无阻碍”，尽管它的使者——使徒保罗——正身陷囹圄。这种悖论——被捆绑的仆人宣讲那位不受捆绑的救主——在《使徒行传》第12章中已初现端倪。

在《使徒行传》第12章中，我们目睹了一个发人深省的对比。使徒雅各被希律·亚基帕一世处死，而使徒彼得则被囚禁。从人的角度来看，这引发了一个棘手的问题：为何神容许一位仆人殉道，却拯救另一位？圣经虽未给出直接答案，却向我们揭示了更深层的真理：神的旨意不会因人的权势、逼迫，甚至死亡而受阻。

当彼得身陷囹圄时，教会并未袖手旁观。“但教会却为他迫切地祈求　神”（使徒行传12:5）。这绝非随意的祷告——而是持之以恒、同心合意且充满信心的祷告。而神回应了。主的使者进入监狱，光芒充满牢房，彼得的锁链脱落，紧闭的门也自行敞开。信息不言而喻：世上的任何锁链都无法束缚神的旨意。我们可以学到：-

(1) 神的主权超越我们的理解。
雅各死了，彼得活着——两人都忠心耿耿。神的计划并非以眼前的结果来衡量，而是以永恒的旨意为准则。信心就是即使神的方式无法解释，依然信靠神。

(2) 教会的第一反应是祷告，而非惊慌。
在危机中，信徒们聚集起来——不是为了制定政治策略，而是为了在灵里寻求神。祷告并非最后的手段；它是教会的首要武器。

(3) 神的大能不受人类限制的约束。
锁链、监狱和统治者都无法阻挡福音。无论是通过神迹般的拯救，还是在患难中坚定不移的见证，基督都得以被传扬。

(4) 使命永远向前推进。
即使个别故事看似悲惨或悬而未决，更大的故事——福音的传播——仍不受阻碍地继续着。

应用：面对不确定、反对或损失时，请记住《使徒行传》第12章。你或许会感到被环境“捆绑”——无论是限制、挫折，还是未解的疑问。但福音并未被捆绑。神仍在工作，仍在推进祂的国度，仍在以可见与不可见的方式回应祷告。

因此，要热切祷告。要深信不疑。并要勇敢地活出生命——要知道，那位曾开启监狱之门的上帝，今日仍在开启人心。使徒行传第12章中的这种对比，使整章达到了一个有力且发人深省的高潮。

希律·亚基帕一世自高自大，将百姓的赞美当作神明的荣光，却突然遭天谴——“他被虫咬，就断了气”（使徒行传12:23）。他的故事展现了表面上的权势、公众的荣耀，以及迅速的审判。与此形成鲜明对比的是，教会看似软弱——领袖们或被囚禁或遭杀害，信徒们则静静地聚集祷告。

然而，路加随即转移了焦点：“神的道日渐兴旺，越发广传”（使徒行传12:24）。这绝非偶然，而是本段经文的神学核心。我们从中领悟到：

(5) 世上的权势脆弱易碎；神的国度势不可挡。
希律端坐王座，接受喝彩，看似不可撼动——直到他不再如此。他的权柄转瞬即逝。与此同时，由那些平凡且身处压力之下的信徒所传讲的福音，却持续扩散。世上看似强盛的事物往往只是暂时的；而在神手中看似软弱的事物，却终将永存。

(6) 神抵挡骄傲，却推进祂的话语。
希律的覆灭源于他的骄傲——他“不归荣耀给神”。然而，福音之所以得以推进，恰恰是因为它荣耀的是神，而非人。这既是警告，也是安慰：神抵挡骄傲的人，却积极地维系着祂的使命。

(7) 真实的故事从来不仅仅关乎个人。
雅各死了。彼得得救了。希律受到了审判。这些都是戏剧性的个人事件，但路加引导我们的目光超越这一切，聚焦于一个贯穿始终的现实：上帝的道正在推进。人的故事起起落落，但上帝的救赎计划却持续不断。

应用：我们很容易用可见的结果来衡量生命——成功、影响力、安全感。《使徒行传》第12章纠正了这种视角。希律拥有这三样，却失去了所有；初代信徒一无所有，却参与了无法阻挡的大事。因此，问题在于：你正将生命与什么对齐——是这世界日渐衰微的权势，还是不断增多的上帝之道？

为永恒而活。寻求神的荣耀，而非自己的荣耀。并要鼓起勇气：无论环境看似多么混乱或不公，神的话语仍在增长、倍增。

祷告

天父。祢的权柄高过世上一切权势，祢的话语无法被捆绑。求祢教导我在任何境遇中都信靠祢——无论是遭遇损失，还是得蒙拯救。求祢保守我的心免于骄傲，帮助我唯独寻求祢的荣耀。求祢坚固我的信心，使我能热切祷告、勇敢生活，深知祢的旨意必永远长存。奉耶稣的名祷告，阿们。

QT 20/05/2026 Wed Acts 11 From Vision to Action: Growing in Christ and Unity
READ http://www.esv.org/acts11

What if the key to real growth in your faith is stepping up and taking action? Let’s explore how the early church shows us that true mission work and friendship come from sacrificial love and shared resources. Stay tuned!

(1) Seeing and Reviewing—The Way to Growth, Maturity in Christ, and Spirit-led Mission Work (Acts 11:1–18)

Understand God's Guidance! In Acts 11:1–18, we see the apostle Peter explaining to the Jerusalem church why he shared the gospel with Gentiles, referencing his vision and the clear instruction from God. The key takeaway here is that God’s will is often clear, but we need to be actively engaged—observing, being present, and being obedient to His direction. Peter’s openness to God’s voice led to a monumental shift in early church history: the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's salvation plan.

Application: Be Present and Attentive. Just as Peter didn’t act on his own understanding but waited for God’s clear guidance (and vision), our growth and spiritual maturity depend on waiting on the Lord and being sensitive to His voice. In our own lives, we often look for direction without realising God is already speaking. Being present in prayer, worship, and the Word opens our hearts to discern His will.

Action Is Needed. It's not enough to just see or hear God’s direction; we must also act upon it. The church's response to Peter’s account shows a willingness to embrace God's plan, even if it challenged their previous understanding (Acts 11:18). True maturity in Christ involves not just hearing His voice but making directional changes when needed—whether it’s shifting our attitudes, priorities, or actions.

(2) The Inter-flow of Material and Human Resources Reflect the Unity in the Spirit (Acts 11:19–30)

We see unity in the Spirit through generosity. In Acts 11:19–30, we see the church in Antioch sending relief to the believers in Judea. The sharing of resources—both material (food and supplies) and human (Barnabas and Saul)—reflects the unity of the body of Christ. This mutual support wasn’t just about material needs but about recognizing the spiritual bond between believers, regardless of geographical or cultural differences.

Application: Talk Is Cheap; Action Proves Friendship. It's easy to say we care about others or are unified in Christ, but true unity is demonstrated in action. The church in Antioch didn’t just pray for the believers in Judea—they acted. They gave what they had and sent resources to meet the needs of others. Similarly, true friendship and fellowship within the body of Christ are shown through sacrifice and the willingness to support one another. This kind of active love and unity is far beyond words; it requires real commitment.

Resources Reflect Unity. Our resources—whether they be time, money, skills, or prayers—reflect the depth of our spiritual connection to others in the body of Christ. The church in Antioch didn’t hoard what they had; they shared it freely, showing that they were not isolated in their faith but were part of a larger, interconnected body. The flow of resources isn’t just material—it’s spiritual unity at work.

Sacrificial Giving. The believers didn’t just give out of their abundance, but likely from their own need. Sacrificial giving always demonstrates a deep commitment to God’s mission and the well-being of others. When we give sacrificially—whether in time, effort, or financial resources—we show the world what true love and unity in Christ look like.

Closing Reflections:

(a) In both individual spiritual growth and communal unity, it’s not enough to just "talk the talk." As the church in Antioch demonstrated, true friendship and unity in Christ are visible in the actions we take—the resources we share, the lives we support, and the work we do in His name.

(b) God’s guidance and His will are clear—if we are willing to take action. This kind of active devotion is the hallmark of mature believers in the church today.

(c) How do you see this message playing out in your own life or church community? Are there specific ways you’ve seen God guide you to take action, or where you’ve experienced the sacrificial love of others?

Prayer

Heavenly Father. Thank You for Your guidance and love. Help us to grow in Christ, not just through words, but through actions that reflect Your will. Unite us in Your Spirit, and empower us to serve one another sacrificially, living out our faith with boldness and compassion. May we always be attentive to Your direction and act in love as You lead us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

QT 20/05/2026 星期三. 使徒行传 11 从异象到行动：在基督里成长与合一
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/11/

如果信仰真正成长的关键在于挺身而出、付诸行动，会怎样呢？让我们一同探索早期教会如何向我们展示：真正的宣教事工与友谊源于牺牲的爱与资源的共享。敬请期待！

(1) 察看与省思——通往成长、在基督里成熟及圣灵引导的宣教之路（使徒行传 11:1–18）

领悟神的引导！在使徒行传 11:1–18 中，我们看到使徒彼得向耶路撒冷教会解释为何向外邦人传福音，并援引了他的异象以及神明确的指示。这里的关键启示是：神的旨意往往很明确，但我们需要积极参与——观察、保持警醒，并顺服祂的引导。彼得对神声音的敞开，带来了早期教会历史上的重大转折：外邦人被纳入神的救赎计划之中。

应用：保持专注与警醒。正如彼得没有凭自己的理解行事，而是等候神的明确引导（以及异象），我们的成长与属灵成熟也取决于等候耶和华，并敏锐地聆听祂的声音。在我们的生活中，我们常常寻求指引，却没有意识到神早已在说话。在祷告、敬拜和神的话语中保持专注，能开启我们的心，辨明祂的旨意。

必须付诸行动。仅仅看见或听见神的指引是不够的；我们还必须付诸行动。教会对彼得讲述的回应，展现了他们愿意接纳神的计划，即使这挑战了他们先前的理解（使徒行传 11:18）。在基督里的真正成熟，不仅在于听见祂的声音，更在于在必要时调整方向——无论是改变我们的态度、优先事项，还是行动。

(2) 物质与人力资源的互通反映了圣灵里的合一（使徒行传11:19–30）

我们通过慷慨之举看见了圣灵里的合一。在使徒行传11:19–30中，我们看到安提阿教会向犹太地的信徒发送救济物资。这种资源的分享——无论是物质上的（食物和物资），还是人力上的（巴拿巴和扫罗）——都反映了基督身体的合一。这种相互扶持不仅关乎物质需求，更在于认识到信徒之间那超越地理和文化差异的属灵纽带。

应用：空谈无益；行动证明友谊。说我们关心他人或在基督里合一很容易，但真正的合一必须通过行动来彰显。安提阿教会不仅为犹太地的信徒祷告——他们付诸行动。他们奉献所拥有的，并派遣物资以满足他人的需要。同样，基督身体内的真友谊与团契，也体现在牺牲和彼此扶持的意愿上。这种积极的爱心与合一远非言语所能及；它需要真正的委身。

资源体现合一。我们的资源——无论是时间、金钱、技能还是祷告——都反映了我们在基督身体中与他人灵性联结的深度。安提阿的教会并没有囤积自己的资源；他们慷慨分享，表明他们的信仰并非孤立存在，而是属于一个更宏大、彼此相连的身体。资源的流动不仅是物质层面的，更是属灵合一在运作。

牺牲性的奉献。信徒们不仅从富余中奉献，更可能是从自己的需要中奉献。牺牲性的奉献总是彰显出对神使命及他人福祉的深切委身。当我们牺牲性地奉献——无论是时间、精力还是金钱——我们就向世界展示了基督里的真爱与合一是什么样子。

结语反思：

(a) 无论是个人的属灵成长，还是群体的合一，光说不练是不够的。正如安提阿教会所展现的，在基督里的真友谊与合一，体现在我们的行动中——我们所分享的资源、所扶持的生命，以及我们奉祂的名所做的工作。

(b) 神的引导与旨意是明确的——只要我们愿意付诸行动。这种积极的奉献精神，正是当今教会中成熟信徒的标志。

(c) 你认为这个信息在你的个人生活或教会群体中是如何体现的？你是否曾看到神以具体的方式引导你采取行动，或者经历过他人的牺牲之爱？

祷告

天父。感谢您赐予的引导与慈爱。求您帮助我们在这基督里成长，不仅通过言语，更要通过体现您旨意的行动。求您藉着圣灵使我们合而为一，并赐给我们力量，让我们能以牺牲精神彼此服侍，以刚强和怜悯之心活出我们的信仰。愿我们时刻留心您的指引，并在您引领下以爱行事。奉耶稣的名祷告，阿们。

QT 19/05/2026 Tue Acts 10 When God Breaks the Boundaries
READ http://www.esv.org/acts10

God is already working on both sides of the story—preparing the messenger and the listener. Acts 10 shows how the Holy Spirit breaks barriers in ways we never expect.

Acts 10 reveals how the Holy Spirit directs God’s mission across boundaries, working in both the messenger and the recipient, and extending the reach of the gospel to all nations.

(1) The Holy Spirit Acts and Directs God’s Mission—Believers Are to Be Sensitive and Follow Along (Acts 10:1-8)

In Acts 10, we are introduced to Cornelius, a centurion in the Italian Cohort, who "feared God with all his household" (Acts 10:2). This man, despite not being a Jew, lived with a reverence for the God of Israel and prayed regularly. It was a significant moment in the early church, as Cornelius, though devout, had not yet heard the full gospel of Jesus Christ. God, in His grace, chose to reveal Himself to Cornelius, sending an angel to tell him to send for Simon Peter.

Reflection: The Holy Spirit was already at work in Cornelius, preparing his heart for the gospel. However, notice that God did not just leave it to Cornelius’ prayer life and devotion. He directed him to seek out Peter, the apostle, to hear the message of salvation. The Holy Spirit was also at work in Peter’s life. Peter’s willingness to break from Jewish tradition and go to a Gentile’s home was a monumental shift. It speaks to the reality that sometimes God calls us to move beyond our comfort zones, even when it may feel uncomfortable or counter-cultural.

Application: Are we, like Peter, sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading, even when it takes us into unfamiliar, even controversial, spaces? Do we recognize the hand of God at work in people who are seeking Him, but may not yet have heard the gospel clearly? Ever felt like God was leading you somewhere uncomfortable? In Acts 10, Peter faces that exact moment—and it changes the mission of the church forever.

(2) The Holy Spirit Prepares Both the Witness and the Recipients of the Gospel, But One Step at a Time (Acts 10:9-33)

In verses 9-33, the narrative shifts to Peter. As he prayed, Peter experienced a vision in which a sheet descended from heaven containing all kinds of animals, both clean and unclean according to Jewish law. God commanded him to kill and eat, but Peter, being a devout Jew, refused. Yet God responded, “What God has made clean, do not call common” (Acts 10:15). This threefold vision broke down Peter’s preconceived notions of purity and the boundaries of God’s mission.

Reflection: Peter's hesitance was understandable. The law of Moses had clearly defined which animals were clean and unclean, and maintaining these distinctions was part of Israel's holiness. But God’s message was clear: the gospel is not restricted by Jewish laws or cultural boundaries. God was preparing Peter to take the gospel beyond Israel—to the Gentiles.

Application: The Holy Spirit prepares us step by step. Sometimes God calls us to go places and reach people we never expected. In what ways are we allowing the Holy Spirit to challenge our own boundaries—whether cultural, racial, or even denominational? Are we willing to take the next step, even when it’s not fully clear, trusting that the Holy Spirit is guiding us?

(3) The Phenomenon of "Speaking in Tongues and Extolling God" as the Gospel Crosses Significant Boundaries (Acts 10:46-48)

When Peter finally arrives at Cornelius' house, the Holy Spirit descends upon all who heard the message, and they begin to speak in tongues and extol God (Acts 10:46). This was a powerful moment, confirming that the gospel was for all people, not just the Jews. It was the same sign that had accompanied the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The same Holy Spirit that had poured out on the Jews now poured out on the Gentiles, breaking down any remaining walls between the two groups.

Reflection: The speaking in tongues was not just an isolated phenomenon. It was a sign, a visible endorsement from the Holy Spirit, that these Gentiles were now part of God’s family. Peter’s words—“Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” (Acts 10:47)—highlight the unifying power of the Holy Spirit, confirming that Gentiles, just like Jews, could be fully integrated into the household of faith.

Application: As believers, we are part of a global family, bound together by the Holy Spirit. The gospel is not just for us or those like us—it is for every tribe, nation, and language. Are we open to seeing the Holy Spirit at work in unexpected places and people? Are we willing to extend the same grace that God has extended to us?

Conclusion: Acts 10 serves as a powerful reminder that the Holy Spirit is active and intentional in directing the mission of God. From preparing the heart of the messenger (Peter) to opening the heart of the recipient (Cornelius), the Spirit moves in ways that break down barriers and extend the gospel to all people. The church, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is called to follow the Spirit’s lead, no matter where it may take us.

Prayer

Lord, we thank You for Your faithful leading and for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help us to be sensitive to Your direction and to follow You wherever You may lead. Open our hearts to see all people as You see them—valuable and worthy of the gospel. Break down the barriers in our lives that hinder us from sharing Your love with everyone, and empower us to speak boldly in Your name. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 19/05/2026 星期二. 使徒行传 10 当神打破界限
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/10/

神早已在故事的两端同时动工——既预备使者，也预备听众。《使徒行传》第10章展现了圣灵如何以我们意想不到的方式打破藩篱。

《使徒行传》第10章揭示了圣灵如何引导神的使命跨越疆界，在差遣者和受领者两方面同时做工，并将福音的范围扩展至万国。

(1) 圣灵运行并引导神的使命——信徒当敏锐察觉并顺服跟随（使徒行传10:1-8）

在《使徒行传》第10章中，我们认识了百夫长哥尼流，他是意大利营的一名百夫长，他“和全家都敬畏神”（《使徒行传》10:2）。尽管这位百夫长并非犹太人，但他敬畏以色列的神，并经常祷告。这对早期教会而言是一个重要的时刻，因为哥尼流虽然虔诚，却尚未听闻耶稣基督完整的福音。神在祂的恩典中，拣选向哥尼流显明自己，差遣天使告诉他去请西门彼得。

反思：圣灵早已在哥尼流心中动工，为他预备好接受福音的心。然而，请注意，上帝并没有仅仅将此事交由哥尼流的祷告生活和虔诚来完成。祂引导他去寻找使徒彼得，聆听救恩的信息。圣灵也在彼得的生命中动工。彼得愿意打破犹太传统，前往外邦人的家中，这是一种巨大的转变。这说明了一个事实：有时神呼召我们走出舒适区，即使这可能让我们感到不自在，甚至与主流文化相悖。

应用：我们是否像彼得一样，对圣灵的引导保持敏锐，即使这会带我们进入陌生甚至充满争议的领域？我们是否能认出，在那些寻求神却尚未清楚听闻福音的人身上，神的手正在动工？你是否曾感到神正引导你走向一个令你感到不自在的地方？在《使徒行传》第10章中，彼得正面临着这样的时刻——而这一刻永远改变了教会的使命。

(2) 圣灵同时预备传福音的见证人和接受福音的人，但是一步一个脚印（《使徒行传》10:9-33）

在第9至33节中，叙事转向了彼得。彼得祷告时，看见异象：一张布从天而降，上面有各种动物，既有按犹太律法视为洁净的，也有视为不洁的。上帝吩咐他宰杀并吃下，但身为虔诚犹太人的彼得拒绝了。然而上帝回应道：“神所洁净的，你不可当作俗物”（使徒行传10:15）。这三重异象打破了彼得关于洁净的成见，也打破了神使命的界限。

反思：彼得的犹豫是可以理解的。摩西律法明确界定了哪些动物是洁净的、哪些是不洁净的，维持这些区分是以色列圣洁的一部分。但神的信息很明确：福音不受犹太律法或文化界限的限制。神正在预备彼得，将福音传向以色列以外——传给外邦人。

应用：圣灵一步步地预备我们。有时神呼召我们前往意想不到的地方，接触意想不到的人。在哪些方面，我们正让圣灵挑战我们自身的界限——无论是文化、种族，甚至是宗派上的界限？即使前路尚未完全明朗，我们是否愿意迈出下一步，信靠圣灵的引导？

(3) 福音跨越重大界限时出现的“讲方言，尊　神为大”现象（使徒行传 10:46-48）

当彼得终于抵达哥尼流的家时，圣灵降临在所有听道的人身上，他们便说起方言，赞美上帝（使徒行传 10:46）。这是一个充满力量的时刻，证实了福音是为所有人的，而不仅仅是为犹太人。这与五旬节圣灵降临时的神迹如出一辙。那曾浇灌在犹太人身上的圣灵，如今也浇灌在外邦人身上，拆毁了这两个群体之间残存的隔阂。

反思：说方言并非孤立的现象。这是圣灵赐下的记号，是圣灵可见的印证，表明这些外邦人如今已成为神家的一员。彼得的话——“谁能禁止他们受水的洗礼呢？”（使徒行传10:47）——彰显了圣灵的合一大能，证实外邦人正如犹太人一样，能够完全融入信仰之家。

应用：作为信徒，我们属于一个由圣灵联结的全球大家庭。福音不仅是为了我们或与我们相似的人——它是为万族、万民、万方而预备的。我们是否愿意敞开心扉，看见圣灵在出人意料的地方和人群中动工？我们是否愿意将神赐予我们的恩典同样施予他人？

结论：《使徒行传》第10章有力地提醒我们，圣灵在引导神的使命时是积极且有目的的。从预备使者（彼得）的心，到开启受领者（哥尼流）的心，圣灵以打破隔阂、将福音传给万民的方式行事。蒙圣灵赋予能力的教会，被呼召跟随圣灵的引导，无论这引导将我们带往何处。

祷告

主啊，我们感谢祢信实的引导，也感谢祢赐下圣灵的恩赐。求祢帮助我们敏锐察觉祢的指引，无论祢引领我们去往何处，我们都愿跟随祢。求祢开启我们的心，使我们能像祢一样看待所有人——他们都是宝贵的，都配得福音。求祢拆毁我们生命中那些阻碍我们向众人分享祢之爱的隔阂，并赐给我们力量，使我们能奉祢的名大胆传讲。奉耶稣的名祷告。阿们。

QT 18/05/2026 Mon Acts 9  From The Persecutor to The Promoter
READ http://www.esv.org/acts9

What if the most passionate person in the room is actually fighting against God? In Acts 9, a violent persecutor meets Jesus—and in one moment, everything flips. This isn’t just his story… it might be yours. Let’s look at some learnings from Acts 9 today.

Ever been 100% sure you were right… and completely wrong? Acts 9 shows a man with unstoppable zeal—until he collides with Jesus. And that encounter changes his purpose forever. Paul hunted Christians. Jesus stopped him. Three days of blindness—and a lifetime of purpose. Acts 9 proves this: your passion means nothing if it’s pointed the wrong way.

Saul’s story confronts us with a sobering truth: passion alone is not righteousness. Before his encounter with Christ, Saul was intensely devoted—zealous, disciplined, and unwavering. Yet all that energy was directed against God’s people.

Reflection: Paul’s life reminds us that diligence and fervor are spiritually neutral; what matters is who we serve. A heart fully committed can still be fully wrong if it is not surrendered to Christ.

On the road to Damascus, everything changed. A blinding light from heaven stopped Saul in his tracks, and a voice called out, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” In that moment, Saul learned something profound: to harm the church is to wound Christ Himself. Jesus so identifies with His people that their suffering becomes His own. This should sober us. Our attitudes, words, and actions toward fellow believers are never trivial—they are personal to the Lord.

Saul’s physical blindness for three days mirrored his spiritual condition. The very light that revealed Christ also exposed his darkness. Sometimes God must interrupt us, even humble us, to open our eyes. What feels like disorientation may actually be divine mercy, preparing us to truly see.

When Saul asks, “Who are you, Lord?” we sense the tension—he recognizes authority, but not identity. It is possible to use the language of surrender without truly knowing the One we claim to follow. Genuine transformation begins when Jesus is not just acknowledged as “Lord” in word, but known in truth.

Then comes one of the most comforting and humbling revelations: God had already chosen Saul. Before Damascus, before repentance, before understanding—God had a purpose for him. The same is true for us. God’s calling is not an afterthought; it precedes our awareness. Our role is not to manufacture purpose, but to respond with sensitivity and obedience when He reveals it.

From persecutor to promoter, Saul’s life became a testimony of grace. The man who once tried to destroy the church would spend his life building it. That is the power of the gospel—it does not just redirect behavior; it transforms identity.

Reflections

(a) Where is your zeal being directed today—toward Christ or toward something else?
(b) How do your actions toward fellow believers reflect your relationship with Jesus?
(c) Is there an area where God may be trying to open your eyes, even through discomfort?
(d) Are you living with awareness that God has already called you for His purposes?

Prayer

Lord, redirect my zeal so that it is fully surrendered to You. Guard my heart in how I treat others, especially Your people. Open my eyes to see You clearly, and make me sensitive to Your calling. Transform me, as You did Saul, into someone who advances Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 18/05/2026 星期一. 使徒行传 9  从迫害者到传道者
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/9/

如果房间里那个最热情洋溢的人，其实正在与神为敌，会怎样？在《使徒行传》第9章中，一位凶残的迫害者遇见了耶稣——转瞬之间，一切都发生了翻天覆地的变化。这不仅仅是他个人的故事……也可能是你的故事。今天，让我们从《使徒行传》第9章中汲取一些启示。

你是否曾百分之百确信自己是对的……结果却完全错了？《使徒行传》第9章展现了一位充满不可阻挡的热忱之人——直到他与耶稣相遇。那次相遇永远改变了他的使命。保罗曾追捕基督徒。耶稣制止了他。三天的失明——换来一生的使命。《使徒行传》第9章证明了这一点：如果你的热情指向了错误的方向，它便毫无意义。

扫罗的故事向我们揭示了一个发人深省的真理：单凭热情并非公义。在遇见基督之前，扫罗全心投入——热忱、自律、坚定不移。然而，他所有的精力都指向了神的子民。

反思：保罗的一生提醒我们，勤勉与热忱在属灵层面是中性的；关键在于我们侍奉的是谁。若不向基督降服，一颗全然委身的心仍可能完全偏离正道。

在大马士革路上，一切都改变了。一道来自天上的耀眼光芒使扫罗停下了脚步，有声音呼唤道：“扫罗，扫罗，你为什么逼害我？”就在那一刻，扫罗领悟到一个深刻的道理：伤害教会，就是伤害基督自己。耶稣与祂的子民如此紧密相连，以致他们的苦难也成了祂的苦难。这应当使我们警醒。我们对待弟兄姊妹的态度、言语和行为绝非小事——它们与主息息相关。

扫罗连续三天肉眼失明，恰恰映照出他灵里的光景。那显明基督的光，同时也揭露了他的黑暗。有时神必须打断我们，甚至使我们谦卑，才能开启我们的眼睛。看似迷失方向的经历，其实可能是神的怜悯，正预备我们真正看清。

当扫罗问：“主啊，你是谁？”我们能感受到其中的张力——他承认了权柄，却不认识那身份。我们可能口头上说出顺服的话语，却并未真正认识那位我们声称跟随的主。真正的改变始于不仅在言语上承认耶稣是“主”，更是在真理中认识祂。

随后，一个最令人安慰且谦卑的启示出现了：神早已拣选了扫罗。在大马士革事件之前，在悔改之前，在明白之前——神对他已有旨意。对我们而言也是如此。神的呼召并非事后才想到的；它早于我们的觉察。我们的角色不是去制造目的，而是在祂显明时，以敏锐和顺服来回应。

从迫害者到传道者，扫罗的一生成为了恩典的见证。这个曾经试图摧毁教会的人，余生却致力于建造教会。这就是福音的大能——它不仅能改变行为，更能重塑身份。

反思

(a) 今天，你的热忱指向何方——是基督，还是其他事物？
(b) 你对待弟兄姊妹的行为，如何反映出你与耶稣的关系？
(c) 是否有某个领域，神正试图开启你的眼界，哪怕这过程伴随着不适？
(d) 你是否时刻意识到，神早已呼召你，为要成就祂的旨意？

祷告

主啊，求祢引导我的热忱，使它全然顺服于祢。求祢保守我的心，让我在待人接物上，特别是对待祢的子民时，都能合乎祢的心意。求祢开启我的眼睛，使我能清晰地看见祢，并让我对祢的呼召保持敏锐。求祢像改变扫罗那样改变我，使我成为一位推进祢国度的人。奉耶稣的名祷告。阿们。

QT 17/05/2026 Sun. Acts 8  Scattered but Sent: The Spirit Leads the Gospel Across Boundaries
READ http://www.esv.org/acts8

They ran for their lives. The early church was scattered overnight. But wherever they went… the message of Jesus went with them. Acts 8 shows us how the Spirit uses disruption to reach the nations. Let’s unpack Acts 8 and focus on the Acts of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 8 marks a turning point in the story of the early church. What begins in crisis becomes a catalyst for mission. After the martyrdom of Stephen, persecution scatters the believers—but instead of silencing them, it multiplies their witness. The Spirit is not hindered by opposition nor human fallenness (Acts 8:9-25); He uses it to move the gospel outward.

Philip goes down to Samaria (Acts 8:4–8), a place marked by deep historical and cultural hostility with the Jews. Yet the Spirit empowers him to preach Christ with boldness, and the people respond with joy. This is no small moment—the gospel is crossing ethnic and religious lines, fulfilling the trajectory Jesus set in Acts 1:8. The Spirit is making it clear: the good news is not confined to one people group.

Then we see the Spirit’s personal leading in a striking way in Acts 8:26–40. Philip is directed to a desert road where he encounters an Ethiopian official—a man of influence, yet spiritually searching. As the official reads Isaiah, the Spirit prompts Philip to draw near and explain the Scriptures, revealing Jesus as the fulfillment. The man believes and is baptized immediately. Here, the gospel crosses not only geography but also race, status, and nationality. The nations are beginning to come in.

Meanwhile, Saul, a fierce persecutor of the church, is introduced as a looming figure (Acts 8:1–3). Though not yet converted in this chapter, his presence reminds us that the Spirit’s work often unfolds in ways we do not yet see. The one who tries to destroy the church will soon be sent to build it among the Gentiles.

Reflection

The Spirit is always on the move, pushing the church beyond comfort zones. He leads believers into unexpected places and toward unexpected people. Acts 8 challenges us to ask: are we attentive to His leading, even when it disrupts our plans or prejudices?

The gospel is not bound by cultural, political, or social barriers. The same Spirit who sent Philip still sends us—to neighbors, strangers, and even those we might naturally avoid. The question is not whether the Spirit is moving, but whether we are willing to follow.

Application

(a) Ask God to open your eyes to people outside your usual circle who need the gospel.
(b) Be ready to explain the hope of Christ when the Spirit creates an opportunity.
(c) Trust that God can use disruption and difficulty to advance His mission.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your Spirit who leads, empowers, and sends. Give me a heart that is willing to go wherever You direct, crossing boundaries for the sake of the gospel. Help me to see people as You see them and to speak boldly of Jesus. Use my life as part of Your mission to reach the nations. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 17/05/2026 星期日. 使徒行传 8 四散却被差遣：圣灵引领福音跨越疆界
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/8/

他们为了保命而奔逃。初代教会在一夜之间四散。但无论他们走到哪里……耶稣的福音都与他们同在。《使徒行传》第8章向我们展示了圣灵如何利用动荡来触及万国。让我们深入探讨《使徒行传》第八章，聚焦于圣灵的作为。

《使徒行传》第八章标志着早期教会历史的转折点。始于危机的事件，竟成了宣教的催化剂。斯蒂芬殉道后，迫害使信徒四散——但这非但没有使他们噤声，反而使他们的见证倍增。圣灵既不受反对的阻碍，也不受人类软弱的限制（《使徒行传》8:9-25）； 祂反而利用这些来推动福音向外扩展。

腓力前往撒玛利亚（使徒行传8:4–8），那里与犹太人有着深厚的历史和文化敌意。然而圣灵赋予他能力，使他能大胆地传讲基督，而人们也满怀喜乐地回应。这绝非微不足道的一刻——福音正在跨越种族和宗教的界限，成就了耶稣在使徒行传1:8所设定的轨迹。圣灵在明确表明：这好消息并不局限于某个特定族群。

与此同时，作为教会激烈迫害者的扫罗，以一个令人警惕的人物形象登场（使徒行传8:1–3）。尽管在本章中他尚未归信，但他的出现提醒我们：圣灵的工作往往以我们尚未察觉的方式展开。那个试图摧毁教会的人，很快将被差遣去在外邦人中建立教会。

反思

圣灵始终在行动，推动教会走出舒适区。祂引领信徒前往意想不到的地方，接触意想不到的人。《使徒行传》第八章挑战我们自问：即使祂的引导打乱了我们的计划或挑战了我们的成见，我们是否依然留心聆听？

福音不受文化、政治或社会壁垒的束缚。那位差遣腓力的圣灵，如今仍差遣我们——去向邻舍、陌生人，甚至那些我们本能上会避而远之的人。问题不在于圣灵是否在动工，而在于我们是否愿意跟随。

应用

(a) 求神开启你的眼睛，让你看见那些在你日常圈子之外、却需要福音的人。
(b) 当圣灵创造机会时，要随时准备好传讲基督的盼望。
(c) 相信神能使用混乱与困难来推进祂的使命。

祷告

主啊，感谢祢那引导、赋予能力并差遣我们的圣灵。求祢赐我一颗甘愿遵从祢指引的心，为着福音跨越一切界限。求祢帮助我像祢一样看待他人，并大胆传讲耶稣。求祢使用我的生命，作为祢向万国传福音使命的一部分。奉耶稣的名祷告。阿们。

QT 15/05/2026 Fri. John 6:25–59 The Only Work That Matters
READ http://www.esv.org/john6:25-59

Ever feel like you’re constantly trying to be ‘good enough’ for God? Doing more, fixing yourself, trying harder? Jesus gives a shocking answer in John 6—the most important work isn’t what you do… it’s what you believe. Let’s unpack John 6:25–59.

When the crowd finally finds Jesus, their question sounds spiritual: “Rabbi, when did you come here?” But Jesus sees deeper. They aren’t really seeking Him—they’re seeking what He can give them. Full stomachs. Easy provision. A more comfortable life.

Jesus responds with a startling redirection: “Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life…” (John 6:27)

Immediately, they ask the natural follow-up: “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?”

That question still echoes today. We often assume the “most important work” must be something we accomplish—serving more, giving more, fixing ourselves, proving our worth. But Jesus gives an unexpected answer:

“This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” (John 6:29)

(1) The Work That Isn’t Work

Jesus reframes everything. The most important “work” is not striving—it’s trusting. Not achieving—but believing.

This cuts against our instincts. We want measurable progress, visible results, something we can point to and say, “I did this.” But Jesus points us away from self-reliance and toward Himself. Faith feels too simple, even too passive. Yet it is the hardest thing of all—because it requires surrender.

Reflection: What if the most important thing God asks of you… isn’t to work harder—but to stop working altogether and exit the rat race? In John 6, Jesus flips everything we think we know about earning God’s approval. The one ‘work’ that actually matters is to believe in Jesus, isn’t it?

(2) The Bread That Truly Satisfies

The crowd brings up Moses and manna, hinting they want another miracle. Jesus corrects them: “My Father gives you the true bread from heaven.” (John 6:32) Then He makes the bold claim: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger…” (John 6:35)

They were focused on temporary provision. Jesus offers eternal satisfaction. We still chase “perishable bread”—success, comfort, approval, security. None of it lasts. None of it fills the deeper hunger of the soul. Only Christ does.

(3) Receiving, Not Earning

Jesus pushes even further, using vivid and challenging language about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. At its core, He is emphasising this truth: Salvation is not earned—it is received.

Just as food must be taken in to give life, Christ must be personally received by faith. Not admired from a distance. Not understood intellectually alone. But embraced fully.

(4) Why This Matters

Many in the crowd struggle with this teaching. It’s offensive because it removes human effort from the centre and places Jesus there instead. But this is the heart of the gospel:

• You don’t work your way to life.
• You don’t earn God’s favor.
• You don’t fix yourself first.
• You believe. You come. You receive.

And in doing so, you find the only One who truly satisfies.

Reflection Questions

(a) What “perishable bread” am I currently working for that cannot truly satisfy?
(b) Do I subtly believe my standing with God depends on my performance?
(c) What would it look like today to simply trust Christ more deeply?

Prayer

Dear Lord, I confess how easily I chase after things that don’t last. I try to prove myself, to earn what You already offer freely. Teach me the true work of faith—to believe in You, to rest in You, to receive Jesus as the Bread of Life. Satisfy the deepest hunger of my soul, and help me to live from that fullness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 15/05/2026 星期五. 约翰福音6:25–59 唯一重要的工作
阅读 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john6%3A25-59&version=CNVS

你是否曾觉得自己总在努力成为“足够好”的信徒？做更多事、修饰自己、更加努力？耶稣在约翰福音第6章给出了一个令人震惊的答案——最重要的事工并非你所做的事……而是你所相信的。让我们来深入探讨约翰福音6:25–59。

当人群终于找到耶稣时，他们的问题听起来很属灵：“拉比，你几时到这里来的？” 但耶稣看透了他们的内心。他们并非真正寻求祂——而是寻求祂能给予他们的东西。饱足的肚子。轻松的供应。更舒适的生活。

耶稣以一个令人震惊的转向回应道：“不要为那必朽坏的食物操劳，却要为那存到永生的食物操劳……”（约翰福音 6:27）

随即，他们提出了顺理成章的追问： “我们应该作什么，才算是作　神的工作呢？”

这个问题至今仍在回响。我们常以为“最重要的工作”必定是某种我们能成就的事——多做些事、多施舍、自我完善、证明自身价值。但耶稣给出了一个出人意料的答案：““信　神所差来的，就是作　神的工了。”（约翰福音 6:29）

(1) 那并非劳作的“工作”

耶稣重新定义了一切。最重要的“工作”并非努力奋斗——而是信靠。不是成就——而是相信。

这与我们的本能背道而驰。我们渴望可衡量的进步、看得见的成果，渴望能指着某件事说：“这是我做的。”但耶稣引导我们远离自力更生，转向祂自己。信心看似过于简单，甚至过于被动。然而，它却是世上最难之事——因为它需要全然顺服。

反思：倘若神对你的最大要求……不是更努力地工作，而是彻底停止劳碌，退出这场无休止的竞争？在《约翰福音》第六章中，耶稣颠覆了我们关于如何赢得神认可的一切认知。真正重要的“工作”，其实就是信靠耶稣，不是吗？

(2) 真正能使人满足的饼

人群提起摩西和吗哪，暗示他们想要另一个神迹。耶稣纠正他们：“而是我父把天上来的真食物赐给你们”（约翰福音6:32）随后，祂大胆宣告：““我就是生命的食物，到我这里来的，必定不饿；信我的，永远不渴。”（约翰福音6:35）

他们关注的是暂时的供应。耶稣所赐的却是永恒的满足。我们至今仍在追逐“会朽坏的饼”——成功、安逸、认可、安全。这些都无法持久，也无法填满灵魂深处的饥渴。唯有基督能做到。

(3) 领受，而非赚取

耶稣更进一步，用“吃我的肉，喝我的血”这一生动而发人深省的比喻。其核心在于，祂强调了这样一个真理：救恩并非靠赚取——而是靠领受。

正如必须摄入食物才能获得生命，我们也必须凭着信心亲自领受基督。不是远远地仰望，不是仅凭理智理解，而是全然接纳。

(4) 为何这至关重要

人群中许多人对这一教导感到难以接受。它之所以令人反感，是因为它将人的努力从中心位置移开，取而代之的是耶稣。但这正是福音的核心：

• 你无法靠自己的努力获得生命。
• 你无法靠自己的功劳赢得神的恩宠。
• 你不必先自我完善。
• 你要信。你要来。你要领受。

如此行，你便会遇见那位唯一能真正满足你的人。

反思问题

(a) 我目前正在为哪种“会朽坏的饼”而劳苦，却无法真正得到满足？
(b) 我是否潜意识里认为自己在神面前的地位取决于我的表现？
(c) 今天，若要更深地信靠基督，具体该如何实践？

祷告

亲爱的主，我承认自己多么容易追逐那些转瞬即逝的事物。我试图证明自己，试图赚取你早已白白赐予的恩典。求你教导我信心的真义——信靠你，安息于你，领受耶稣作为生命的粮。求你满足我灵魂最深的饥渴，并帮助我活出那丰盛的生命。奉耶稣的名求。阿们。

QT 14/05/2026 Thu. Acts 7 A Faith That Remembers, Rebukes, and Reaches Heaven
READ http://www.esv.org/acts7

He’s surrounded, accused, and moments from death… but instead of fear, he tells a story—God’s story. And what he sees next changes everything. Let’s step into Acts 7.

Would you still speak the truth if it cost you everything? In Acts 7, one man stands fearless—recounting God’s faithfulness, confronting hard truth, and fixing his eyes on heaven. This is a faith that doesn’t back down. We see that in Stephen’s life, one of the first martyrs in the early church.

(1) Remember and Recount God’s Faithfulness (Acts 7:1–50)

Stephen’s speech is not random—it is a sweeping retelling of God’s redemptive work through Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and the prophets. In the face of accusation, he anchors himself in God’s history with His people.

This reminds us that faith is not built on vague feelings but on the concrete acts of God in history. Stephen recounts how God called Abraham, preserved Joseph through suffering, and raised Moses as a deliverer—even when Israel resisted.

We, too, are called to remember and retell. Rehearsing God’s faithfulness—both in Scripture and in our own lives—strengthens our trust when we face uncertainty. Testimony is not optional; it is a vital expression of faith. When we recount what God has done, we proclaim who He is.

Reflection: What specific works of God—biblical or personal—can you recount today to strengthen your faith and encourage others?

(2) Speak Truth with Courage (Acts 7:51–53)

Stephen’s tone shifts dramatically. After recounting Israel’s history, he confronts his audience: “You stiff-necked people…” He exposes a painful pattern—resisting the Holy Spirit and rejecting God’s messengers.

This is not harshness for its own sake; it is truth spoken in love and conviction. Stephen refuses to dilute reality to preserve comfort or safety. He calls sin what it is.

For believers today, this is a call to courageous clarity. In a world that often blurs moral lines, we are tempted to soften truth to avoid conflict. Yet genuine love does not ignore reality—it names it. Like Stephen, we are called to speak truth faithfully, even when it is costly.

Reflection: Where might you be avoiding necessary truth? How can you speak with both courage and grace?

(3) Fix Your Eyes on the Risen Christ (Acts 7:54–60)

As Stephen is condemned, heaven opens to him. He sees “the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” This vision transforms his death into a testimony of hope.

Instead of fear or bitterness, Stephen responds with Christlike grace—entrusting his spirit to Jesus and praying for his persecutors. His future is secure, and that certainty shapes his present response.

This final scene reminds us that the Christian life is forward-looking. Our ultimate hope is not in earthly vindication but in the risen and reigning Christ. Because Jesus stands for us, we can stand firm—even in suffering.

Reflection: How does the reality of Christ’s reign and your future with Him shape the way you face trials today?

Prayer

Lord. Teach us to remember Your faithfulness, to speak Your truth with courage, and to fix our eyes on Jesus. Strengthen us to live boldly and die faithfully, trusting in the hope of Your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 14/05/2026 星期四. 使徒行传 7 一种铭记、谴责并直达天上的信心
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/7/

他被包围、被指控，距离死亡仅有片刻……但他没有恐惧，而是讲述了一个故事——上帝的故事。而他接下来所见的一切，彻底改变了一切。让我们进入《使徒行传》第7章。

若要付出一切代价，你还会说出真理吗？在《使徒行传》第七章中，有一位无所畏惧的人——他述说神的信实，直面残酷的真相，并将目光定睛在天上。这是一种绝不退缩的信心。我们在斯蒂芬的生命中看到了这一点，他是早期教会中最早的殉道者之一。

(1) 铭记并述说神的信实（使徒行传7:1–50）

司提反的讲道并非信口开河——而是对神通过亚伯拉罕、约瑟、摩西及众先知所成就的救赎工作的宏大重述。面对指控，他将自己锚定在神与祂子民同在的历史中。

这提醒我们，信心并非建立在模糊的感觉之上，而是建立在神在历史中的具体作为之上。司提反述说了神如何呼召亚伯拉罕，如何在苦难中保全约瑟，又如何兴起摩西作拯救者——即便以色列人曾抗拒祂。

我们同样被呼召去记念并述说。无论是从圣经还是我们自身的生活中，反复默想神的信实，都能在面对不确定性时坚固我们的信心。见证并非可有可无；它是信仰至关重要的表达。当我们述说神所行的作为时，就是在宣告祂是谁。

反思：今天，你能讲述哪些具体的上帝作为——无论是圣经记载的，还是你亲身经历的——来坚固你的信心并鼓励他人？

(2) 勇敢地说出真理（使徒行传 7:51–53）

司提反的语气发生了戏剧性的转变。在回顾了以色列的历史之后，他直指听众：““你们颈项刚硬、心和耳都未受割礼的人哪！” 他揭露了一个令人痛心的模式——抵挡圣灵，拒绝神的使者。

这并非为了苛刻而苛刻；而是出于爱与确信所说出的真理。斯蒂芬拒绝为了维持舒适或安全而淡化现实。他直指罪的本质。

对于今天的信徒而言，这是对勇敢明晰的呼召。在这个常常模糊道德界限的世界里，我们常受诱惑去软化真理以避免冲突。然而，真爱不会忽视现实——它会直面现实。像司提反一样，我们被呼召要忠实地讲真理，即使代价高昂。

反思：你可能在哪些方面回避了必要的真理？你如何既能勇敢又能恩慈地说话？

(3) 定睛于复活的基督（使徒行传 7:54–60）

当司提反被定罪时，天向他敞开了。他看见“人子站在神的右边”。这一异象将他的死亡化作了希望的见证。

司提反没有选择恐惧或怨恨，而是以基督般的恩典作出回应——将自己的灵交托给耶稣，并为迫害他的人祷告。他的未来是确定的，而这份确信塑造了他当下的回应。

这一最终场景提醒我们，基督徒的生活是面向未来的。我们最终的盼望不在于世上的得胜，而在于那位复活并掌权的基督。正因耶稣为我们站立，我们才能站立得稳——即使在患难中也是如此。

反思：基督掌权的现实以及你与祂同在的未来，如何塑造了你今日面对试炼的方式？

祷告

主啊，求祢教导我们铭记祢的信实，勇敢地传讲祢的真理，并将目光定睛在耶稣身上。求祢坚固我们，使我们能活得勇敢、死得忠心，信靠祢荣耀的盼望。奉耶稣的名求。阿们。

QT 13/05/2026 Wed. Acts 6. Called to Serve, Strengthened to Stand
READ http://www.esv.org/acts6

What if doing less actually made the church stronger—and what if being falsely accused revealed the clearest evidence of God’s presence in your life? In Acts 6, we see why you can’t be everything to everyone… and how God gives unshakable courage when your faith is tested. Let’s dive in.

Acts 6 gives us a clear and grounded picture of how God orders His church and sustains His people under pressure.

(1) Faithfulness in Calling (Acts 6:1–7)

As the early church grew, so did its needs—and tensions. The apostles recognized a crucial truth: they could not meet every demand without neglecting their primary calling to prayer and the ministry of the Word. Rather than overextending themselves, they wisely delegated responsibility to others who were gifted for practical service.

This moment wasn’t a sign of weakness, but of Spirit-led wisdom. The church flourished not because a few did everything, but because many served faithfully in different roles. God distributes gifts intentionally. When each believer embraces their calling—whether seen or unseen—the whole body is strengthened.

We are reminded here to resist comparison and distraction. It is easy to look at other ministries or roles and feel drawn away by what seems more visible or impactful. But fruitfulness in God’s kingdom comes from faithfulness, not prominence. Stay anchored in what God has entrusted to you.

(2) Steadfast Witness Under Pressure (Acts 6:8–15)

Stephen stands as a powerful example of Spirit-filled courage. Full of grace and power, he spoke with wisdom that his opponents could not refute. Yet truth did not shield him from opposition—it invited it. False witnesses arose, and he was dragged before the council under serious accusations.

Still, something remarkable marked him: his countenance. Even in the face of hostility and injustice, his face “was like the face of an angel.” This was not mere composure—it was the visible evidence of God’s presence with him.

Stephen’s calm assurance reminds us that the Spirit not only equips us to speak truth but also sustains us when that truth is rejected. When we are misunderstood, misrepresented, or opposed, we are not abandoned. God’s presence steadies the heart and shapes our response.

Reflection: Acts 6 calls us to two enduring commitments: to serve faithfully where God has placed us, and to stand firmly when our faith is tested. Whether in quiet service or public witness, the same Spirit empowers, guides, and sustains.

Prayer

Lord, help me to be faithful in the calling You have given me. Guard my heart from distraction and comparison. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may serve with humility and stand with courage. Let my life reflect Your presence, even in difficulty. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

QT 13/05/2026 星期三. 使徒行传 6 蒙召服侍，得力站立
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/6/

倘若少做些事反而使教会更刚强——倘若遭受诬告竟成了神在你生命中同在的最清晰明证？在《使徒行传》第6章中，我们看到为何你无法成为所有人的一切……以及当你的信心受试炼时，神如何赐下坚不可摧的勇气。让我们深入探讨。

《使徒行传》第6章为我们清晰而扎实地展现了神如何治理祂的教会，并在压力之下扶持祂的子民。

(1) 呼召中的忠心（使徒行传 6:1–7）

随着早期教会的成长，需求与矛盾也随之增加。使徒们认识到一个至关重要的真理：若要满足所有需求，他们就无法不忽视自己首要的呼召——即祷告和传讲神的话语。他们没有勉强自己承担过多，而是明智地将责任委派给那些在实际事工上有恩赐的人。

这一时刻并非软弱的标志，而是圣灵引导的智慧。教会之所以兴旺，并非因为少数人包揽一切，而是因为许多人都在不同的岗位上忠心事奉。神有目的地分赐恩赐。当每位信徒都拥抱自己的呼召——无论显明与否——整个身体便得着坚固。

这提醒我们当抵挡比较与分心。我们很容易看到其他事工或角色，就被那些看似更显眼或更有影响力的事物所吸引。但在神的国度里，结出果子源于忠心，而非显赫。要扎根于神所托付给你的事工。

(2) 受压迫时的坚定见证（使徒行传 6:8–15）

司提反是被圣灵充满的勇气的有力典范。他满有恩典和能力，以智慧说话，使对手无法反驳。然而，真理并未使他免于反对——反而招致了反对。假见证人站出来，他便在严重的指控下被拖到公会面前。

然而，有一件事令他与众不同：他的面容。即使面对敌意与不公，他的面容“如同天使的面容”。这不仅仅是镇定自若——这是神与他同在的可见明证。

司提反那份从容的坚定提醒我们：圣灵不仅装备我们说出真理，更在真理被拒绝时扶持我们。当我们被误解、被曲解或遭遇反对时，我们并未被撇下。神的同在稳固我们的心，并塑造我们的回应。

反思：《使徒行传》第六章呼召我们作出两项持久的承诺：在神所安置的地方忠心事奉，并在信心受试炼时坚定站立。无论是默默事奉还是公开见证，同一位圣灵都在赋予能力、引导并扶持我们。

祷告

主啊，求祢帮助我忠于祢所赐的呼召。求祢保守我的心，不被分心与比较所扰。求祢用祢的圣灵充满我，使我能谦卑地服侍，勇敢地站立。愿我的生命反映祢的同在，即使在艰难中也是如此。奉耶稣的名求。阿们。

QT 12/05/2026 Tue. Acts 5. The Cost of Pretending. The honour of suffering.
READ http://www.esv.org/acts5

What if one lie could cost you your life—and one act of obedience could put you in prison? Acts 5 isn’t a gentle chapter. It’s about truth, power, and a God you can’t fool—and a mission you can’t stop. Let’s unpack Acts 5.

This is one of the most unsettling passages in the New Testament, and it’s meant to be. In Acts 5:1–11, the narrative isn’t mainly about money—it’s about integrity, hypocrisy, and the seriousness of God’s presence among His people.

(1) The sin was deception, not partial giving

Peter makes it clear: the property and money were theirs to do with as they wished. The problem wasn’t that they gave some instead of all—it’s that they pretended total devotion while secretly holding back. “While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own?” (v.4). This shows generosity was voluntary, not forced.

👉 So the issue is hypocrisy—trying to appear more sacrificial or spiritual than they really were.

(2) Lying to the church = lying to God

Peter says Ananias lied “to the Holy Spirit” and “to God.” This reflects how the early church understood itself: The community wasn’t just a human group—it was a place where God’s Spirit was actively present.

👉 Deception within the community is treated as a direct offense against God, not just against people.

(3) The severity highlights God’s holiness

The immediate deaths feel extreme. The text doesn’t soften that—it emphasizes it. “Great fear came upon the whole church” (v.11) This mirrors moments in the Old Testament (like Nadab and Abihu in Book of Leviticus 10) where God acts decisively at the beginning of a new phase of worship.

👉 The point isn’t that God always acts this way, but that: God is not to be treated casually. The early church’s foundation was marked by seriousness and purity.

(4) Hypocrisy is spiritually dangerous

Ananias and Sapphira act together, reinforcing each other’s deception. Peter asks, “How is it that you have agreed together…?” This suggests: (a) Sin can be mutually reinforced and (b) Spiritual compromise often involves self-justification with others.

👉 It’s a warning about how easily people can normalize dishonesty when it’s shared. Self-check: any such things going on in our midst?

(5) The role of “fear”

The repeated phrase “great fear came upon…” doesn’t mean panic alone. In biblical terms, it often implies: Awe, reverence and awareness of God’s reality and authority.

👉 The event shapes the church into a community that understands: God is present. God is holy. Integrity matters deeply.

Application:  This passage isn’t teaching that every sin leads to immediate death or that giving must be total. Rather, it is teaching that God values truthfulness over appearances, spiritual life isn’t about performing righteousness and the presence of God among His people is real and weighty.

(6) God’s mission can’t be stopped. The apostles are arrested—but then miraculously freed by an angel and told to go right back to preaching. They don’t hide or lay low. They return to the same public place (the temple).  The message is clear: Human attempts to suppress God’s work ultimately fail.

This idea is later echoed by Gamaliel: “If it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them.”

(7) Obedience to God over human authority

When ordered to stop, Peter responds: “We must obey God rather than men.” (v.29) This is one of the clearest statements in Scripture about conflicting authorities. Civil/religious leaders might say “Stop speaking”. However, God told Peter, “Go and speak.”

👉 The principle: When human authority contradicts God’s command, obedience to God comes first. This doesn’t promote rebellion in general—but it sets a boundary: earthly authority is real but not ultimate.

(8) Suffering as part of faithfulness

The apostles are beaten and threatened—but their reaction is striking: They rejoice. Not because pain is good—but because: they were “counted worthy” to suffer for Jesus. This reflects a deep shift in values: Honour isn’t comfort or approval but faithfulness, even at a cost!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your truth and Your presence. Help me to live with honesty, courage, and faith. Teach me to obey You above all else and to trust You in every situation. Guide my heart, guard my words, and make my life reflect Your will. In Jesus’ name, amen.

QT 12/05/2026 星期二. 使徒行传 5 伪装的代价。受苦的荣耀。
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/5/

如果一个谎言可能让你丢掉性命——而一次顺服可能让你身陷囹圄？《使徒行传》第5章并非温和的篇章。它关乎真理、权能，以及一位你无法欺骗的上帝——还有一项你无法阻挡的使命。让我们来深入探讨《使徒行传》第5章。

这是新约中最令人不安的经文之一，而这正是它的本意。在《使徒行传》5:1–11中，叙事的核心并非金钱——而是关于正直、虚伪，以及神在祂子民中间同在的严肃性。

(1) 罪在于欺骗，而非只捐出一部分

彼得说得很清楚：那产业和钱财本是他们可以随心处置的。问题不在于他们只捐了一部分而非全部——而在于他们假装全心奉献，却暗中保留了一部分。“田地还没有卖，不是你自己的吗？”（第4节）。这表明慷慨是出于自愿，而非被迫。

👉 因此，问题在于虚伪——试图表现得比实际更牺牲或更属灵。

(2) 欺骗教会 = 欺骗神

彼得说亚拿尼亚是“欺骗圣灵”和“欺骗神”。这反映了早期教会对自身的理解：这个群体不仅仅是一个人的集合——它是一个神圣灵积极同在的地方。

👉 群体内部的欺骗被视为直接冒犯神，而不仅仅是冒犯人。

(3) 这种严厉凸显了上帝的圣洁

当场死亡的情景显得极其残酷。经文并未对此加以缓和——反而着重强调了这一点。“全教会都甚惧怕”（第11节）。这与旧约中的某些时刻（如《利未记》10章中的拿答和亚比户）相呼应，当时上帝在敬拜进入新阶段之初便果断行事。

👉 重点不在于神总是这样行事，而在于：不可轻慢神。早期教会的根基正是建立在严肃与纯洁之上。

(4) 伪善在属灵上极其危险

亚拿尼亚和撒非拉同谋，彼此助长欺骗。彼得问道：“你们怎么同心合意……？”这表明：(a) 罪恶可能相互助长；(b) 属灵上的妥协往往伴随着与他人互相开脱。

👉 这警示我们：当不诚实行为被共同参与时，人们会多么轻易地将其视为常态。自我省察：我们中间是否存在此类情况？

(5) “惧怕”的作用

反复出现的“大惧怕临到……”这一短语，并非仅指恐慌。在圣经语境中，它通常意味着：敬畏、尊崇，以及对上帝真实存在与权柄的觉察。

👉 这一事件将教会塑造成一个明白以下真理的群体：神同在；神是圣洁的；正直至关重要。

应用：这段经文并非教导说每一种罪都会导致立即死亡，也不是说奉献必须毫无保留。相反，它教导我们：上帝看重诚实胜过表面文章；属灵的生命不在于表演义行；上帝在他子民中的同在是真实而庄重的。

(6) 上帝的使命无法被阻挡。使徒们被捕——但随后被天使奇迹般地释放，并奉命立即回去传道。他们没有躲藏或低调行事，而是回到同一个公共场所（圣殿）。信息很明确：人试图压制神的工作终将失败。

加玛列后来也呼应了这一观点：“若是出于神，你们就不能制伏他们。”

(7) 顺服神胜于顺服人间权柄

当被命令停止时，彼得回应道：“我们应当顺从神，不顺从人。”（第29节）这是圣经中关于权柄冲突最明确的表述之一。世俗或宗教领袖或许会说“停止讲道”。然而，神却对彼得说：“你去讲道。”

👉 原则：当人的权柄与神的命令相冲突时，顺服神是首要的。这并非鼓吹普遍的叛逆——而是划定了一条界限：世上的权柄是真实的，但并非至高无上的。

(8) 苦难是忠心的体现

使徒们遭受殴打和威胁——但他们的反应却令人惊叹：他们欢喜。并非因为痛苦是好事——而是因为：他们被“视为配得”为耶稣受苦。这反映出价值观的深刻转变：荣耀不在于安逸或认可，而在于忠心，即使要付出代价！

祷告：天父，感谢祢的真理与同在。求祢帮助我以诚实、勇气和信心生活。教导我将顺服祢置于一切之上，并在任何处境中信靠祢。引导我的心，保守我的言语，使我的生命彰显祢的旨意。奉耶稣的名祷告，阿们。

QT 11/05/2026 Mon. Acts 4. When death is no longer ultimate, fear loses its leverage.
READ http://www.esv.org/acts4

The shift in Peter from denial to bold proclamation isn’t personality growth or education catching up; it’s something far more decisive.

The tension is clear. In Gospel of Luke 22:57, Peter the Apostle denies Jesus out of fear, in the shadow of arrest and possible execution. By the time we reach Acts 4, that same man stands in front of authorities and speaks with clarity and courage. That kind of reversal demands an explanation deeper than “he became braver.”

The turning point is the resurrection—not just as an idea, but as an encounter. Peter didn’t just hear that Jesus rose; he saw the risen Christ. That matters because fear of death is the root beneath his earlier denial. When death is no longer ultimate, fear loses its leverage.  Following a Master who overcame death reorders reality itself.

But Acts gives us an additional layer. The boldness in Acts 4 is not just post-resurrection confidence; it is Spirit-empowered witness. Between Luke 22 and Acts 4 stands Pentecost (Acts 2), where the Holy Spirit fills the disciples. So the transformation is not merely psychological (“I feel braver now”) but theological and experiential:

• The resurrection redefines truth.
• The Spirit empowers speech.
• The community reinforces courage.

That’s why Acts 4:13 emphasizes they “had been with Jesus.” It doesn’t mean only past companionship; it implies an ongoing reality. The risen Christ is not absent. Their boldness flows from continued fellowship, now mediated by the Spirit.

For today, reading with Psalm 2 in mind is also crucial. The early believers interpret opposition through Scripture: rulers opposing God’s Anointed is not a surprise—it’s expected. That reframes persecution from threat to confirmation. Instead of shrinking back, they pray for more boldness (Acts 4:29), and generosity follows (Acts 4:32–37). When Christ is truly King, possessions and safety both loosen their grip.

So what caused their transformation? Not time. Not education. Not personality change. It was:

• Encounter with the risen Jesus
• Filling of the Holy Spirit
• Reframing reality through Scripture
• Living within a bold, unified community

Reflection: Have you experienced the resurrected LORD? In Acts, that experience isn’t abstract. It shows up in observable ways—clarity about Jesus, courage under pressure, and open-handed living. Where did fear shape my choices? Where did the reality of the risen Christ shape them instead?

If the same power that transformed Peter the Apostle is at work today, it will leave visible marks. In Acts of the Apostles, resurrection experience isn’t hidden—it spills out. Here are a few evidences you can actually examine in your own life:

(1) Clarity about Jesus (not just belief, but conviction).

Peter moves from confusion to certainty: “there is salvation in no one else” (Acts 4:12). A resurrection-shaped life doesn’t treat Jesus as optional or one truth among many. There’s a settled confidence—not arrogance, but anchored clarity.

(2) Courage in pressure

In Gospel of Luke 22, fear of people silences Peter. In Acts 4, threats don’t. This doesn’t mean personality boldness—it means you speak or stand when it costs something: reputation, comfort, opportunity.

(3) A redefined view of risk and security.

If Jesus truly conquered death, then the worst-case scenario has already been overturned.
That shifts decision-making. You stop asking, “Is this safe?” and start asking, “Is this faithful?”

(4) A prayer life that asks for boldness—not escape.

Notice they don’t pray, “Lord, remove the opposition,” but “grant your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness” (Acts 4:29). That’s a diagnostic question: when pressure comes, do your prayers aim at comfort or faithfulness?

(5) Open-handed generosity

The theology in Psalm 2 (Jesus is King) leads to the economics in Acts 4 (resources are shared). If Jesus reigns, ownership loosens. Giving becomes natural, not forced.

Prayer

Lord, you are the true King. You see every pressure I face. Grant me boldness to speak and live for you today. Let my life show that Jesus is alive. In Jesus name, Amen.

QT 11/05/2026 星期一. 使徒行传 4 当死亡不再是终极结局时，恐惧便失去了施压的手段。
阅读 http://m.bbintl.org/bible/ncv/act/4/

你的反思已经指向了正确的方向——彼得从否认到大胆宣讲的转变，并非源于性格成长或知识的积累；而是某种更为决定性的因素。

这种张力显而易见。在《路加福音》22章57节中，使徒彼得因恐惧而否认耶稣，当时他正身处被捕及可能被处决的阴影之下。当我们读到《使徒行传》4章时，同一个人却站在当局面前，言辞清晰而充满勇气。这种转变需要比“他变得更勇敢了”更深层的解释。

转折点在于复活——不是作为一种观念，而是作为一次相遇。彼得不仅听闻耶稣复活，更亲眼看见了复活的基督。这一点至关重要，因为对死亡的恐惧正是他先前否认基督的根源。当死亡不再是终极结局时，恐惧便失去了施压的支点。跟随那位战胜死亡的主，会重塑现实本身。

但《使徒行传》为我们揭示了更深一层。使徒行传4章中的胆量，不仅是复活后的自信，更是圣灵赋予的见证。在《路加福音》第22章与《使徒行传》第4章之间，是五旬节（《使徒行传》第2章），圣灵在那里充满门徒。因此，这种转变不仅是心理层面的（“我现在感觉更勇敢了”），更是神学层面的和经验层面的：

• 复活重新定义了真理。
• 圣灵赋予言语能力。
• 群体强化了勇气。

正因如此，《使徒行传》4章13节才强调“他们是跟耶稣一伙的”。这不仅指过去的相伴，更暗示着一种持续存在的现实。复活的基督并未缺席。他们的胆量源于持续的团契，如今这团契是由圣灵来维系的。

对于今天而言，在阅读时铭记《诗篇》第2篇也至关重要。初代信徒通过圣经来解读反对：统治者反对神的受膏者并不令人惊讶——这是意料之中的事。这将迫害的性质从威胁重新定义为印证。他们非但没有退缩，反而祈求更大的胆量（使徒行传4:29），随之而来的便是慷慨（使徒行传4:32–37）。当基督真正成为王时，财物与安全对他们的束缚便会松动。

那么，是什么促成了他们的转变？不是时间。不是教育。也不是性格的改变。而是：

• 与复活的耶稣相遇
• 被圣灵充满
• 通过圣经重新诠释现实
• 活在一个勇敢、合一的群体中

反思：你经历过复活的主吗？在《使徒行传》中，这种经历并非抽象的。它以可观察的方式显现出来——对耶稣的清晰认识、在压力下的勇气，以及慷慨的生活。恐惧在哪些方面影响了我的选择？复活基督的现实又在哪些方面塑造了我的选择？

若那曾改变使徒彼得的大能今日仍在运行，它必会留下可见的印记。在《使徒行传》中，复活的经历并非隐秘——而是溢于言表。以下是你在自己生命中可以实际察验的几项证据：

(1) 对耶稣的清晰认知（不仅是信仰，更是确信）

彼得从困惑走向确信：“除他以外，别无拯救”（使徒行传 4:12）。一个由复活塑造的生命，不会把耶稣视为可有可无的选择，或众多真理中的一种。其中有一种坚定不移的信心——不是傲慢，而是扎根于磐石的清晰。

(2) 压力中的勇气

在《路加福音》22章中，对人的惧怕使彼得噤声。而在《使徒行传》4章中，威胁却无法使他沉默。这并非指性格上的大胆——而是指当发声或站立需要付出代价时，你依然如此：无论是声誉、安逸，还是机遇。

(3) 对风险与安全的重新定义

若耶稣确实战胜了死亡，那么最坏的情况早已被颠覆。这改变了决策的基准。你不再问：“这安全吗？”而是开始问：“这合乎信德吗？”

(4) 祈求胆量而非逃避的祷告生活

请注意，他们没有祷告说：“主啊，除去这反对”，而是说：“求你使你的仆人放胆传讲你的道”（使徒行传4:29）。这是一个诊断性的问题：当压力来临时，你的祷告是追求安逸，还是追求忠心？

(5) 慷慨大方

他们在《诗篇》第2篇中的神学（耶稣是王）引领出了《使徒行传》第4章中的经济实践（资源共享）。若耶稣掌权，对所有权的执念便会松动。给予便成为自然之事，而非勉强为之。

祷告

主啊，你是真王。你看见我面临的每一种压力。求你赐我胆量，让我今天能为你说话、为你而活。愿我的生命彰显耶稣是活着的。奉耶稣的名求，阿们。