Journal Acts 12 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation and notes are mine)
Scripture: (from the end of Acts 11) “Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. And one of them (named Agabus) stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius).
So, (as a result of this) the disciples determined—every one according to his ability—to send relief to the brothers living in Judea; and they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.
About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. He killed James (the brother of John) with the sword and (when he saw that it pleased the Jews) he proceeded to arrest Peter also. (This was during the days of Unleavened Bread)
And when he seized [Peter], he put him in prison, delivering him over to 4 squads of soldiers (16 to 40 soldiers) to guard him—intending after the Passover (7 days later) to bring him out to the people.
So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church.” (Acts 11:27 through Acts 12:1-5)
Observation: This struck me as significant: The local churches were multitasking–depending on the Trinitarian God in operation through the church and church body.
Application: Breaking down what I read in the Holy Scriptures:
- I assume that the church at Antioch was meeting prior to the Passover week.
- New Testament prophets came from Jerusalem to assist and meet.
- A significant prophetic word occurred.
- The church at Antioch developed a responsive action and executed it.
- Around the same time frame (prior to the Passover week), Herod got a burr in his six and decided to be vicious—to the extent that James was killed; Peter was imprisoned.
- The church at Jerusalem developed a responsive action and executed it.
Conclusion: Local churches may have different things going on…and still may be operating in faithful interest with each other.
Antioch:
- The prophets probably didn’t pick up and leave Jerusalem to visit Antioch without leadership involvement.
- Antioch, because of the prophetic word faithfully delivered, set their sights on accumulating a care package for Judea.
Jerusalem:
- Jerusalem, without the prophets there, experienced Herod’s murderous anger—James killed, Peter seized.
- Jerusalem responded with earnest prayer (whatever that looks like).
What do I do?
I tend to be myopic, only addressing one issue at a time. Could this section of Scripture be there to show me how the Body works—not just the local body, but the greater Body?
Prayer: Father, is there an integrated lesson to extract from these scriptures, or is it an interesting story?
Either way, I get to read about your Hand in action.
AMEN.
Ricky Two Shoes