Introduction

Good day to all. Let us turn to Acts chapter 28, which is also the final chapter of the Book of Acts. You will notice that Acts narrates the many deeds of Paul, his travels and sojourns, essentially chronicling the footsteps of Paul. I have titled Acts chapter 28 as: How beautiful are the feet of those who are destined. Luke wrote Acts to record the deeds of Paul as he journeyed, with the purpose of bearing witness to God, for this was the destiny of the Apostle Paul. Therefore, how beautiful are the feet of those who are destined, those who witness God, and those who preach the Gospel!

The Gospel-preaching footsteps of the Apostle Paul, or the footsteps of those who are destined, the footsteps of those who witness God, are not about amassing wealth, but about giving the benefits of the Gospel to others, and bringing benefits wherever they go, because God is with them. Such individuals are truly divine! Some people travel around to accumulate wealth, and although they may superficially preach the Gospel, when it comes to preaching the Gospel, blessing others, and being blessed, what is the primary focus? It seems that receiving blessings is the main thing. There is a church that is quite interesting. Of course, this is not a criticism, just an observation, so please do not engage in the knowledge of good and evil with me. It is said that this church was about to send out some missionaries, and the pastor stood on the church podium, leading the congregation in raising their hands in prayer, which is not wrong in itself. However, as he spoke, the pastor quoted a passage from the scriptures.

And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward. (Matthew 10:42)

As a result, the congregation immediately understood that they should give the missionaries a cup of water. However, they could not expect the missionaries to carry a large bucket of water everywhere they went. So, one person gave a red envelope, and another gave a red envelope, and the missionaries received many red envelopes. This is quite questionable. Firstly, the missionaries were likened to little ones, when in fact, the greater should bless the lesser. Secondly, those who preach the Gospel do not need money because God will provide. They reversed the situation entirely. However, individuals like the Apostle Paul are remarkable. They bless people at all times and in all places.

The previous chapter spoke of witnessing God in a storm. The storm of Euroclydon seized the ship, determined to kill everyone on board. However, God granted all 276 people on the ship to the Apostle Paul. Did these people not owe the Apostle Paul a debt of gratitude for saving their lives? Paul was their savior, and although so many people owed Paul a favor, Paul did not accept any money and did not take it to heart at all. These people witnessed God in the storm of Euroclydon and saw the works of God. This is what the Apostle Paul did.

Witnessing God in a Storm

There is a preacher who, no matter where he goes, the storm not only does not subside, but people immediately know that he is the cause of it. Do you know who I am talking about? In the Old Testament, there was a prophet named Jonah. God asked him to preach the Gospel, but he refused and went in the opposite direction. He thought he could escape God's grasp by going in the opposite direction, but the storm he encountered also seized the ship he was on. As a result, everyone threw Jonah into the sea, and the storm stopped.

So, which kind of prophet do you want to be? Of course, you want to be a prophet like the Apostle Paul, whom the storm cannot overcome. The storm came upon the Apostle Paul not because he was a prophet like Jonah, but because the Apostle Paul wanted to use the storm to allow people to see God. After Paul and these people were saved, they drifted to the island of Malta. This island of Malta still exists today.

Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. (Acts 28:1)

The Natives of Malta Saw a Divine Man

The natives of Malta must have believed in ghosts and spirits, especially on an island where they experienced more spiritual matters. When the people of Malta saw the 276 people coming off the ship, they must have been in a terrible state. All their goods had been thrown into the sea, and they barely managed to float ashore. If the islanders wanted to rob them, there was nothing to steal. Fortunately, these natives did not eat human flesh. If they did, these 276 bipedal beasts would have provided enough barbecue for the islanders for some time. The natives of Malta did not know why they treated them kindly, but it was because there was a destined man among them, the Apostle Paul.

The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold. (Acts 28:2)

Imagine that the people on the island must have been fierce. They had to use bows and arrows to hunt wild boars, and it was difficult for them to run around in their small loincloths. Now, these delivered meats were easy to get. When we were young, we considered sparrow meat to be good meat, unlike the wild ducks in the water and the pigeons flying in the sky today, which are all free and easy. Because of the Wildlife Protection Law, people can neither hunt nor eat their meat. But the islanders did not care so much. We are surprised that they not only did not want this meat that was delivered to their door, but also treated them kindly. We do not know why they had such good intentions, but it was so miraculous because of the Apostle Paul! Because of one thought of the people on the island, they treated them with ordinary kindness.

Paul gathered a pile of brushwood and, as he put it on the fire, a viper, driven out by the heat, fastened itself on his hand. When the islanders saw the snake hanging from his hand, they said to each other, “This man must be a murderer; for though he escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.” But Paul shook the snake off into the fire and suffered no ill effects. The people expected him to swell up or suddenly fall dead; but after waiting a long time and seeing nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and said he was a god. (Acts 28:3-6)

Paul was a hardworking man. He picked up a pile of firewood and put it on the fire. A snake came out and bit Paul. The little snake was still hanging and shaking on Paul's finger. This was not a circus act. He was really bitten by a snake. Paul shook the snake into the fire. The islanders thought that this man had escaped from the sea, and his ship was broken, but he did not die. Now he was bitten by a snake again. He must not be a good man. God would never let him go. The islanders must have known how powerful the venomous snake was. Who knew that Paul did not die after waiting for a long time? He spoke as usual, his hand did not swell, and nothing was delayed.

As for whether the snake that fell into the fire was grilled by people, we do not know. But what we do know is that Paul was bitten by the snake and did not die, and even the hand that was bitten did not swell. In fact, the snake is also under God's control. When the snake's mouth opens, it bites the Apostle Paul's hand, but God does not allow the snake's teeth to stand up. The snake's teeth are usually curved in its mouth. When it opens its mouth to bite someone, it immediately raises its teeth and injects venom into the person's body, and the battle ends in an instant.

We do not know whether the snake on Paul's hand forgot to bite, or whether its teeth were controlled by God when they were pulled out, so that he was not harmed at all. Therefore, a destined person is really too powerful. I must tell you that a person without destiny will be very unlucky. Because God is not with him, but ghosts are with him, and he will be unlucky in whatever he does. If a person is unlucky in everything he does, then he must think about whether he is a person without destiny.

The people of Malta saw a divine man with their own eyes. They had never seen such a thing before, nor had they seen a person like the Apostle Paul, but those who believe will have signs and wonders following them, that is, casting out demons in the name of Jesus Christ, and being able to pick up snakes with their hands. A destined person will not be bitten by a snake, and even its mouth will not open, because God is in control. Therefore, I repeatedly advise everyone to be a destined person and to know why they live. Although I am annoyed even when I say it myself, I still have to say it until you are all destined, and I do not need to say it anymore.

When the people of Malta saw the Apostle Paul, they witnessed the works of God. How beautiful are the feet of those who are destined! The storm at sea could not do anything to Paul, and even if a snake bit his hand, he was safe and sound. This is so good! I like to bless people all over the world, and I will not collect offerings like actors do. This is meaningless. You must know how good it is to bless people, because this is my destiny. Some people have the magic power to attract money, and they accumulate wealth wherever they go. After walking around, they have absorbed a lot of gold, but their footsteps are not beautiful. At this time, the people of Malta saw a person with beautiful feet with their own eyes.

Publius, the Chief of the Island, and the People on the Island Experienced God

Now there were some fields belonging to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and showed us generous hospitality for three days. His father was sick in bed, suffering from fever and dysentery. Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him. (Acts 28:7-8)

The father of Publius, the chief of the island, suffered from fever and dysentery. As the saying goes, even a hero cannot stand three bouts of diarrhea. Dysentery is no joke. He had a fever and diarrhea, even with blood and pus. He would not be able to stand it after a few rounds, and his face would turn pale with pain. Publius did not know why he treated the Apostle Paul and his party kindly, but we must know that it was because God wanted him to do so, and he could not escape God's grasp. God made him think and do this, and he received them so well.

Paul has many stories. He ate and chatted with Publius. Unconsciously, the chief mentioned his father's illness, and Paul said: No problem, this is a piece of cake, leave it to me! The chief was still regretting why he did not mention his father's illness when he first met Paul? He had made his father suffer so much. Now, Paul could even cure dysentery, which made Publius overjoyed.

In fact, Paul could cure any disease. This is the power of those who believe in God. As a result, the healing of the chief's father became the biggest news on the island. If there was a news broadcast on the island at that time, the radio and television would have overwhelmingly broadcast this news: The father of Publius, the chief of the island, was cured of dysentery by a divine man named Paul who came among them. As soon as the advertisement went out, patients on the island flocked to him, and Paul was very busy. The chief entertained them for three days, and Paul could not eat and drink for nothing. How beautiful are the feet of those who are destined. God is with those who are destined, and signs and wonders will follow. No matter where they go, blessings will follow.

Do you think the local islanders worshiped idols? Yes, but the idols did not work, but Paul's God worked. Maybe Publius established a small church on the island after Paul left, and began to believe in the Lord and learn, but we do not know what happened later. The island of Malta has now become a place where Christians often travel. I do not know what I can see there. But it is because the Apostle Paul once performed a miracle there that everyone is fascinated by this island. After nearly two thousand years, you will definitely see churches and crosses on the island of Malta. Later, the people of Malta also began to read Paul's Romans and Ephesians.

Those With Mingding Lack Nothing

They honoured us with many gifts. And when we sailed, they put on board all sorts of things we needed. (Acts 28:10)

Paul and his companions were about to set sail from the island of Malta, having transferred to another ship after their previous one was wrecked. Upon boarding, the chief official of the island and its people provided the Apostle Paul with all that he needed. This included several months' worth of provisions, food, drink, and supplies—all arranged by God! If God cannot even manage these matters, can He truly be called God? A hallmark of Chinese Mingding Destiny is the unwavering belief that those who trust in God lack no good thing.

Everyone should carefully consider this: among us, there should be those who are financially prosperous. If anyone is not financially thriving, it is because the rubbish in their mind has not been cleared away, a truly critical matter. Who enjoys living in poverty? Certainly not I. Therefore, reflect deeply on whether those with Mingding lack anything. This is something I have personally experienced.

However, some believe that the church relies on their support. If that were the case, what is God doing? In reality, God Himself provides for the church, His people, and His chosen ministers. This is why those with Mingding lack no good thing. I am speaking of having Mingding; do not think that Mingding is impractical.

Many years ago, before we were known as Mingding Theology, people often asked me whether faith in the Lord could provide sustenance. How could someone even ask such a question? How could God possibly fail to provide for us? It is merely because the questioner is a glutton, knowing only how to eat. Faith in the Lord not only provides sustenance but also serves as currency and medicine. Can you find someone with faith as great as mine in Jerusalem?

As the saying goes, In books are jade-like faces; in books are houses of gold. I would say that in God's words are jade-like faces and houses of gold. Some call this grace theology, but it is not. It is Mingding Destiny. You must have Mingding. Having a treasure chest is not enough; you must also have the key. This key is called Mingding, living for God. Those with Mingding lack no good thing. What is most feared is becoming half-baked, meaning believing and yet not quite believing, not disbelieving but believing just a little.

Paul Had Brothers And Sisters Wherever He Went

How beautiful are the feet of those who have Mingding! Blessings closely follow wherever they go, attracting people everywhere. It is as if those who merely come into contact with me can receive some measure of grace and blessing. When Paul approached Rome, the brothers and sisters there came out to meet him from afar. Paul was not dragging a travel bag or a suitcase but was being escorted to Rome in chains. Even so, many brothers and sisters came to receive him and stayed with him for several days. Why?

From there we travelled to Rome. The brothers there had heard about us, and they came as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these men Paul thanked God and was encouraged. (Acts 28:14-15)

These people had all read Paul's Epistle to the Romans. They treasured Paul's letters, which clearly explained the mystery of the gospel. Unlike some who speak unclearly, their gospel and faith are half-baked. The brothers and sisters who welcomed Paul, having read the Epistle to the Romans, felt that Paul had written well, resolving many of the Roman church's perplexities, such as the understanding that setting the mind on the flesh is death, but setting the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. Being received by the Roman brothers and sisters, Paul was comforted and encouraged. Prior to this, Paul had been concerned about the Roman brothers and sisters and whether they had any confusion after reading the Epistle to the Romans, as he had not had time to answer their questions.

We are to become a blessing to the whole earth, and this is continually being realised. The materials of Chinese Mingding Destiny have spread far and wide. Sometimes when I listen to others preach online, I notice that they are now using the vocabulary I use, which they did not use before. In the future, our steps will be beautiful, and we will bless the people of the whole earth, allowing God's people still in darkness to see God's great light. This is also my heart's deep desire. If Paul lived in this era with the internet, he would be even more powerful.

The Jews Are Half-Baked

I found there was no grounds for a death sentence, but because they appealed to the emperor, I was obliged to appeal to Caesar. I am not accusing my own nation before you. Therefore I wanted to see you and talk with you, for I am bound with this chain for the hope of Israel. They replied, We have not received any letters from Judea concerning you, and none of the brothers who have come from there has reported anything bad about you. But we want to hear what your views are, because we know that people everywhere are talking against this sect. They arranged a meeting with Paul, and on the appointed day a large number of them came to the place where he was staying. From morning till evening he explained and declared to them the kingdom of God and tried to convince them about Jesus from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. (Acts 28:18-24)

Why are the Jews considered half-baked? The Jews in Rome summoned their leaders, and Paul explained why he had come to Rome, not to accuse the Jewish people and officials but merely to defend himself. Paul could have been acquitted, but these people did not let him go because of the Jesus Christ Paul testified to. Paul still insisted on proving the way of God’s kingdom, citing the law of Moses and the books of the prophets to explain to them.

Do not think that the Jews would like to listen. In fact, their minds are full of their little business dealings. How can they have the energy to understand the law of Moses and the books of the prophets? They simply do not care and do not want to understand. Although Paul quoted the books of the prophets and Moses, they still could not listen. They had read the Mosaic Law and the books of all the prophets, but in the end, they became half-baked. Do you know how half-cooked rice is made? That is, the rice is cooked halfway and the fire is turned off. Once the rice turns half-cooked, it cannot be cooked thoroughly anymore. Many things have their own natural laws. When rice is cooked halfway and the fire is turned off, the outer layer is already cooked, but the inside is hard. The surface can no longer conduct heat to cook the raw core inside.

We are not here to discuss whether half-cooked rice can be cooked into porridge, but to talk about some people who believe in the Lord but do not believe well. They become half-baked after believing halfway. The reason why the Jews are said to be half-baked is because if they are really familiar with the law of Moses, they would not disbelieve in Jesus. Because the law of Moses also refers to Jesus, and what Jesus said and did, like Paul, walked and preached, with miracles and wonders following, and the way of God was witnessed.

They disagreed among themselves and began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: “The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your forefathers when he said through Isaiah the prophet: ‘Go to this people and say, “You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.” For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.’ (Acts 28:25-27)

These people believed in the Lord only halfway, and their hearts were blinded. I am afraid that some of our brothers and sisters will follow me to believe in the Lord only halfway, and then they will become half-baked like this. Their hearts are hard, but their outside is soft. They can only cook some porridge. There are too many half-baked Christians now. Their hearts are hardened, but their outsides are soft, and they only do superficial work. Even if these people have dull ears and closed eyes, they cannot understand what they hear and cannot see what they see, Paul will still explain it to them, in fact, once they understand in their hearts, they will be healed.

“Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” (After he said this, the Jews left, arguing vigorously among themselves.) (Acts 28:28-29)

Still Witnessing God in Captivity

For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 28:30-31)

Paul was imprisoned for two years, and God gave him great grace. Everyone can still visit him. Although he was in chains, it did not prevent him from receiving people in the house. Why was Paul preaching in Rome, boldly preaching the way of God’s kingdom, and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ to anyone who came to see him, but no one forbade him? Because that was a place for Gentiles, although he had not been released and had not been tried, and the case had not ended, he had to wait until the emperor had time to interrogate him. Therefore, Paul received everyone who came to see him.

How beautiful are the steps of those who have Mingding! As long as someone comes, Paul will explain it to him. Unlike us, we just record an audio and put it on the Internet. Paul recites and replays it every day, talking about the way of God’s kingdom every day, and there are miracles and wonders following, and all kinds of diseases have been healed. There are countless testimonies. You will find that Paul's footsteps have a very unique point, that is, miracles and wonders can be seen in Rome, a place of Gentiles. Paul can preach the way of God at will, and no one forbids it. God is really too magical!

Let us summarise, the Book of Acts is a testimony to the power of God. The last time we checked the theme of the Book of Acts was that the Holy Spirit will come upon you, and you will receive power. This time we checked the Book of Acts and we rearranged the theme to be that you will receive power, and bear witness to a powerful gospel! Walking and preaching at any time, the power of God is with us, and we can witness the glory of God wherever we go. Amen!