Correct Answer: A. 1 Corinthians

Explanation

The quote 'eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy' is from 1 Corinthians 14:1. Therefore, the epistle that encourages believers to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy, is 1 Corinthians.

Correct Answer: A) Philistines

Explanation

The question is asking about a statement made by Saul in the Bible. Saul said, Seek out for me a woman who is a medium that I may go to her and inquire of her. The question then provides four options to choose from, with Option A being Philistines, which is the correct answer.

In the Bible, Saul was the first king of Israel, but he disobeyed God and eventually lost his position as king. In this particular situation, Saul was facing a battle and was afraid, so he sought out a medium to inquire of the future. However, seeking out a medium was against God's law, and it ultimately led to Saul's downfall.

A medium is someone who claims to have the ability to communicate with the dead or with spirits. In the Bible, mediums were considered to be practicing witchcraft, which was strictly forbidden. This is why Saul's request was wrong and displeased God.

In summary, the question is about Saul's statement in the Bible where he asked for a woman who was a medium so he could inquire of her. The correct answer is Option A, which is Philistines. Seeking out a medium was against God's law and ultimately led to Saul's downfall.

Correct Answer: C. Abner

Correct Answer: C. she gave birth to Isaac and was full of joy

Correct Answer: C. Field

Correct Answer: A. oxen to the LORD

Correct Answer: B. he must digest what is inside the scroll before communicating it to others

Explanation

(a) Mass persecution started in Jerusalem after Stephen's death. The Church became panicky and fled from Jerusalem to other places (Judea, Samaria, etc). Wherever they went, they preached and converted many to the faith. Philip, one of the seven deacons fled to Samaria and proclaimed the Gospel message in Samaria. When the people of Samaria heard and saw the miracles he performed, many were converted. He cast out demons from those possessed and healed those who were paralysed. Philip encountered a magician called Simon who had deceived many people who thought he had the power of God. Simon too was converted and was baptized. The good work of Philip in Samaria reached the apostles in Jerusalem. Peter and John were impressed and they prayed and laid their hands on the new converts to receive the Holy Spirit.

Simon attempted to bribe Peter to give him the power to impart the Holy Spirit to others, but, Peter rebuked him saying, "your silver perish with you ...". Simon became frightened after the words of Peter and asked Peter to pray for him.

(b) The activity of the Holy Spirit was manifested in Samaria in the following ways:.

(i) Healing of the sick;

(ii) Casting out of demons;

(iii) Working of miracles;

(iv) Exposure of Simon's selfishness/condemnation of Simon;

(v) Conversion of unbelievers;

(vi) Pressure of the Holy Spirit to empower the disciples/the church.

Correct Answer: B. the whole house of Israel

Correct Answer: A. Jesus taking the form of a servant