“radical” = having a profound or far-reaching effect
The Holy Spirit is a radical blessing to every believer and to the world. Through His transforming power in our lives, He changes the world immeasurably and irreversibly. Jesus implies in John 16:7 that it is better at this time to have the Spirit than to have Jesus Himself present on earth.
In this study of the book of Acts, you will see the fire of the Spirit erupting through the lives of believers. May this spark in you a real appreciation, longing, and expectation for the Holy Spirit’s work in your own life. Through the lessons you will discover who the Holy Spirit is, His intended role in your life, and what it means to live in daily dependence upon Him. He is the one who will get you fired up for adventure as you follow Jesus daily. Are you ready?
NOTE TO EDITOR: all scripture references are from the NET Bible unless otherwise noted.
“Acts is a fast-paced, action adventure book which chronicles the birth and growth of the early church from the Jewish center of Jerusalem to the Gentile capital Rome. In addition, it is a bridge-like sequel to the Gospels that precede it and background for the epistles that follow. But most of all, Acts is a tribute to the transforming power of God, as evidenced in the Apostles’ lives. Observing the changes in their lives from fearful weaklings to irrepressible dynamos gives us hope and encouragement today.” (Sue Edwards, Acts of the Holy Spirit, p. 2)
The Book of Acts can be described as, “The acts of Jesus Christ by His Holy Spirit through His church.” It is not a complete history of the early church or the apostles but rather a book that selectively gives the history of early Christianity from Jesus’ ascension through two years of Paul’s Roman imprisonment.
Although the author does not name himself, evidence from outside the Scriptures and inferences from within the book itself lead to the conclusion that the author was Luke, the physician and companion of Paul. Certain passages using the pronoun “we” indicate the author includes himself as Paul’s companion on his journeys. Paul confirms in his letters that Luke indeed traveled with him, using the term “doctor” in describing Luke (Col. 4:14). Some word choices in both Luke and Acts suggest that a medical man was the author of these books (for example, Acts 28:6).
The abrupt close indicates that Acts must have been finished after the latest date mentioned in the book (28:30), c. 62. A possible timeline for the events in Acts is on the next page.
As a second volume to Luke’s Gospel, the book of Acts provides a bridge for the writings of the New Testament, joining what Jesus “began to do and to teach” as told in the Gospels with what he continued to do and teach through the apostles’ preaching and the establishment of the church. Besides linking the Gospel narratives on the one hand and the apostolic letters on the other, it supplies an account of Paul’s life from which we learn the setting for his letters. Geographically its story spans the lands between Jerusalem, where the church began, and Rome, the political center of the empire. Historically it recounts the first 30 years of the church. It is also a bridge that ties the church in its beginning with each succeeding age.
Luke weaves together different interests and emphases as he relates the beginnings and expansion of the church. The design of his book revolves around (1) key persons: Peter and Paul; (2) important topics and events: the role of the Holy Spirit, pioneer missionary outreach to new fields, transformed lives, the growth of the church, and life in the Christian community; (3) significant problems: conflict between Jews and Gentiles, persecution of the church by some Jewish elements, trials before Jews and Romans, confrontations with Gentiles, and other hardships in the ministry; (4) geographical advances: five significant stages. You will also see evidence for the inspiration of Scripture, the gospel message taught from the very beginning, the emphasis on witnesses of Jesus’ life and resurrection, and the continuing display of God’s power through miracles. (Information adapted from The NIV Study Bible, Zondervan, pp. 1641-1643)
The following are generally accepted dates although slight variations can be found in various commentaries and study Bibles.
Year A.D. |
Events in Acts |
Other Historical Events |
30 |
Jesus’ death and resurrection; Pentecost (Ch.1-2) |
Tiberius is emperor of Rome |
33-34 |
Stephen executed; Paul persecutes the church (Ch. 6-8) |
|
35 |
Paul meets Jesus on the Damascus Road (9:1-22) |
|
38 |
Paul goes up to Jerusalem (9:23-31) then Tarsus |
Caligula becomes emperor of Rome (37 A.D.) |
40 |
Gentiles added to the church (Ch. 10) |
|
43 |
Barnabas and Paul at the Antioch church (11:25-26) |
|
44 |
James (brother of John) executed; Herod Agrippa I dies (Ch. 12) |
Claudius becomes emperor of Rome (41 A.D.) |
46-48 |
Paul’s First Missionary Journey (Ch. 13-14) |
|
49 |
Jerusalem council (Ch. 15) |
Claudius expels Jews from Rome |
50-52 |
Paul’s Second Missionary Journey (Ch. 15:36-18:22) |
|
53-57 |
Paul’s Third Missionary Journey (18:23-21:25 |
Nero becomes emperor of Rome (54 A.D.) |
57-59 |
Paul arrested & imprisoned in Caesarea (Ch. 21-24) |
|
59-60 |
Paul sent to Rome (Ch. 25-28) |
|
60-62 |
Paul under house arrest in Rome (Ch. 28) |
Reading Acts: This study guide consists of 14 lessons arranged chronologically according to the Book of Acts. Though the Book of Acts cannot be thoroughly covered in this study, you will be reading through the complete book. Each lesson begins by asking you to read the whole Bible passage for the lesson in one sitting to get the “big picture.” If you cannot do the entire lesson one week, please read the Bible passage. As you read each Bible passage, you will be asked to read it:
· freshly — as for the first time (try using different translations)
· thoughtfully — as a love letter
· patiently — give yourself enough time rather than rushing through it
· selectively — looking for important information
· prayerfully — the Holy Spirit has promised to help us understand it
· telescopically — in light of the whole
· personally — applying it to your life today
Process of Bible Study: Each lesson includes core questions covering the passage narrative. These core questions will take you through the process of inductive Bible study—observation, interpretation, and application. The process is more easily understood in the context of answering these questions:
· What does the passage say? (Observation: what’s actually there) Questions that begin with Discovering the Facts are observation questions.
· What does it mean? (Interpretation: the author’s intended meaning) Many of the questions are interpretation questions.
· How does this apply to me today? (Application: making it personal) Share Your Life questions are the application questions in this study. These lead you to introspection and application of a specific truth to your life.
Deeper Discoveries (optional): Embedded within the sections are optional questions for research of subjects we don’t have time to cover adequately in the lessons or contain information that significantly enhance the basic study. If you are meeting with a small group, your leader may give you the opportunity to share your “discoveries.”
Study Aids: To aid in proper interpretation and application of the study, six additional study aids are located where appropriate in the lesson:
· Historical Insights
· Scriptural Insights
· From the Greek (definitions of Greek words)
· Focus on the Meaning
· Think About It (thoughtful reflection)
As fiery lava and ash erupt from a volcano and flow out to build new land, the Holy Spirit’s fire erupts through the lives of believers to build Christ’s church. Volcanoes form over “hot spots” in the earth’s crust where a crack allows molten lava to flow to the surface. The Holy Spirit’s work in our lives becomes our own “hot spots.” So, at the end of each lesson, you will be asked to review the lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. With this information, what will you ask God to do in your life to get you fired up and ready for adventure with Him?
“The times are urgent, God is on the move, now is the moment to ask God to ignite His fire in your soul!” (Jim Cymbala, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, front flap)
Adapted from an article written by Sid Litke, Th.M., accessed at www.bible.org
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the triune Godhead (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14).
The Spirit is not an impersonal “it” or simply an influence but a personal being just as the Father and the Son. He has intelligence (1 Corinthians 2:10-11), emotions (Ephesians 4:30), and a will (1 Corinthians 2:11). He teaches (John 14:26), commands (Acts 8:29), and intercedes for us in prayer (Romans 8:26).
Prior to the Church Age, the Holy Spirit took part in creation (Genesis 1:2; Job 33:4; Psalm 104:30). He guided and protected Israel (Isaiah 63:10-14). He spoke through prophets to produce Scripture (1 Peter 1:11: 2 Peter 1:20-21). He selectively and temporarily indwelt certain people in the Old Testament, specifically enabling each to do a particular task (Joseph, Genesis 41:38; Joshua, Numbers 27:18; Saul, 1 Samuel 10:9,10; and David, 1 Samuel 16:13).
In the Church Age, the Spirit is central in salvation. He directs and enables evangelistic efforts (Philip/Ethiopian, Acts 8:26,29; Great Commission, Acts 1:8). He convicts the unbeliever of sin (John 16:8-11) and regenerates (saves) the person. He cleanses the person from sin and gives him the new nature (Titus 3:5). As He performs this spiritual “new birth,” the person enters “the kingdom of God” gaining eternal life (John 3:3-7,16). The Spirit seals (eternally secures) the person. The presence of the Holy Spirit is the “seal” or guarantee that a person is saved and will remain saved (Ephesians 1:13). And, the Spirit gives spiritual gifts to believers, graciously enabling all believers to serve in spiritual ministry.
The Holy Spirit baptizes (places) the person into the body of Christ. It is the Spirit’s work of uniting us with Christ – spiritually identifying us with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-5). It is the Spirit’s work to incorporate us into the universal church, the “body of Christ” made up of all church age believers (1 Corinthians 12:13). This baptism of the Spirit occurs once and for all at the salvation of each believer (1 Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:26-28).
The Spirit indwells all believers permanently in this age (Romans 5:5; 8:9; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; John 14:16). The Spirit’s indwelling is the basis for His other ministries in believers’ lives. He teaches and illumines us about scripture (John 16:13). He aids in prayer (Romans 8:26). He assures us of our salvation (Romans 8:16) and enables us to grow (Ephesians 5:18).
The Holy Spirit “fills” believers. The “filling of the Spirit” describes the crucial work of God enabling the believer to live a transformed life. The only way we grow spiritually is by the empowering work of God (1 Peter 1:3). It is specifically the ministry of the Holy Spirit that gives a Christian the capability of change and growth in righteousness (Rom.8:13; describes the crucial work of God enabling the believer to live a transformed life. The only way we grow spiritually is by the empowering work of God (1 Peter 1:3). It is specifically the ministry of the Holy Spirit that gives a Christian the capability of change and growth in righteousness (Rom. 8:13; Gal. 5:22-23). We are either controlled by our self-centered flesh, or we are controlled by the Holy Spirit who indwells us (Romans “filling” of the Spirit. “Filling” is a metaphor (picture) of control. We can be filled/controlled by fleshly desires (like alcohol) or be filled/controlled by the Spirit. Although it’s the Spirit’s power that is at work, the believer must choose to be controlled/empowered by the Spirit. It is a command to “Be filled” and likewise to “Walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16). The Spirit’s presence is permanent (indwelling), but we must repeatedly choose to yield to God to experience the Spirit’s transforming power to change and grow us. In actual experience, “walking in the Spirit” or “being filled with the Spirit” means living the Christian life (facing temptations, making decisions, etc.) with a conscious dependence on the Holy Spirit. He is the one who enables us – producing godly “fruits” (Galatians 5:22-23).
Have any of you actually witnessed a volcano erupting? I saw one from a distance in Alaska, blowing off steam, not very impressive. I have been inside the crater of an extinct volcano. And, two summers ago, Ron and I drove to the visitor’s center on Mt. Rainier outside of Seattle. So much has been reported on the potential for sudden disaster there, I must confess I shuddered at that possibility while on the mountain.
My husband Ron teases me because I am always drawn to earth’s natural calamities. Hurricanes fascinate me. So do earthquakes and volcanoes. Come on. My college major was geology. I’ve had at least 10 volcano-related programs on my DVR over the past month. I think it’s the power—power we can’t totally understand and will never be able to control. We call those things “disasters,” but they can also be beneficial.
On November 15, 1963, the island of Surtsey was born - it was a dramatic, fire-and-brimstone birth that erupted from the icy sea off the coast of Iceland. I remember watching a video in my first geology class. The earth’s outer crust is constantly shifting, and combined with the pressure of molten rock underneath, a fissure broke open on an undersea volcano in April of that year. When the lava broke through the ocean’s surface 6 months later, lightning and thunder accompanied the glowing craters, fissures and boiling water. The violence of the volcano increased so that ash, cinders, and pumice were blown 1,000 feet into the air for about 4 months.
A steady flow of lava over the next year built up an island of one square mile, as much as one acre was added to the island’s size daily. New land on planet Earth. By the time all volcanic activity ceased, the highest point on the island was 560 feet above sea level. Life took hold quickly. By early 1965, the new island boasted of wide sandy beaches on which seaside plants were already taking root giving nesting areas for sea gulls. The island looked as though it had been there for thousands of years. That’s the natural power of the earth.
On the day of Pentecost around 30 A.D., the power of God poured forth on the followers of Jesus gathered in Jerusalem. Born that day was a radically new creation on earth that never existed before—the Church. Not by natural power but by supernatural power. And, the power behind its existence is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a radical blessing to every believer and to the world.
“Radical” is an interesting word—not what I expected. The word “radical” is defined as “having a profound or far-reaching effect.” That certainly describes the Holy Spirit. Through the Spirit’s transforming power in our lives, He changes the world immeasurably and irreversibly. I’d say that is pretty radical.
One of the biblical symbols for the Holy Spirit is “fire.” And, just as fiery lava and ash erupt from a volcano and flow out to build new land, the Holy Spirit’s fire erupts through the lives of believers to build Christ’s church. That’s why there’s a volcano on the cover of this study book. Within a few years, Jesus’ Church was well established on planet earth. We learn this from Acts.
The book of Acts is a fast-paced, action adventure book that chronicles the birth and growth of the early church from the Jewish center of Jerusalem to the Gentile nations surrounding her. Have you ever studied Acts? It’s a rich and fascinating book. I love it for so many reasons. And, it’s got something for everyone.
· Acts is a book of history. But, it’s not a complete history of the early church or the apostles but rather a book that selectively gives the history of early Christianity. The author was Luke, the physician and companion of Paul. Acts is actually Luke’s sequel to the gospel that bears his name. It provides a bridge for the writings of the New Testament between what Jesus did in the gospels with what He continued to do and teach through the apostles. Some call it the Acts of the Apostles. But, it’s really the acts of Jesus Christ by His Holy Spirit through His church. The Holy Spirit dominates the entire book of Acts.
· Acts is a book of theology. You will see the work of the Holy Spirit—theology being lived out, evidence for the inspiration of scripture, the gospel message taught from the very beginning never changed.
· Acts is a book of biography—mainly viewing the fire of the Spirit erupting in the lives of Peter and Paul but also every other person whose life was touched by the Spirit and changed forever.
· Acts is also a book about human relationships influenced by the transforming fire power of the Spirit—conflicts occur and are resolved, friendships made and tested, old prejudices surface and are removed, persecutions shared, hospitality extended, generosity displayed, and opportunity taken to share the gospel with whomever would listen. Men and women fired up and not only ready for adventure but living it.
The definition of adventure is “an unusual or exciting, typically hazardous, experience or activity.” How adventurous are you? Been on any adventures lately? I have to admit I am not naturally adventurous. Especially the typically hazardous part. I found out that our English word adventure comes from the Latin for “about to happen.” Yep. What a way to look at life following Jesus—something’s about to happen! And, not always what you expect. I can verify the truth of that!
In Acts, the adventure definitely includes the unexpected—miracles occur in strange places and strange ways, the Gentiles are included as equals to the Jews in the Church, an earthquake selectively releases prison chains, unselfish behavior just springs forth in unexpected ways, lots of spur of the moment adventures. Also, executions, beatings, riots, and a shipwreck—happening to the good guys! Adventure rarely means safe. But, it never means alone. The Holy Spirit is with you and me every day, forever.
But, who is this Holy Spirit? Most Christians have only a vague idea about Him. The older translations called Him the Holy Ghost. The word “ghost” doesn’t inspire appreciation or curiosity in me! He is the pneuma—the breath of God. He’s been called the transparent one because we can’t see Him. By faith, I know He lives in me. The Bible confirms that He lives inside every believer. Sometimes, I feel His presence. Maybe you do, too.
He is the One who makes the Christian life possible. He is the first gift we receive from God when we trust in Jesus for salvation. And, all those wonderful treasures Paul writes about in Ephesians and his other letters are wrapped up and delivered by the Holy Spirit to us.
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the trinity—our God is one God but three persons. The Spirit’s not an impersonal “it” or simply an influence but a personal being just as the Father and the Son are persons.
The Spirit is central to salvation. He convicts the unbeliever of sin and makes us new creations the moment we believe. He seals us with Himself so our salvation is secure, and He indwells us forever. He unites us with Christ, placing us into the universal Body of Christ. All part of 1 church since Pentecost—includes those who already in heaven as well as every Christian alive at this moment. The Holy Spirit enables us to understand the Bible and prays for us, even when we can’t.
The Holy Spirit fills us with Himself and transforms us from the inside out so that our character looks more like Jesus and our lifestyle glorifies God more and more. This firepower is inside us. For this, we must choose to cooperate. That means living our lives with a conscious dependence on the Holy Spirit—when facing temptations, making decisions, in our relationships, in how we respond to the Spirit’s leading us. Anything you trust God for that you didn’t trust God for before—that’s the adventure. You’ll learn all about this in our study, Radical Acts.
Our hope is that this study will spark in you a real appreciation, longing, and expectation for the Holy Spirit’s work in your life, and that through the lessons you will discover who the Holy Spirit is, His intended role in your life, and what it means to live in daily dependence upon Him. He is the one who will get us all fired up and ready for adventure as we follow Jesus daily.
Jim Cymbala says in his book, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, “The work of God can only be carried on by the power of God. The church is a spiritual organism fighting spiritual battles. Only spiritual power can make it function as God ordained. The key is not money, organization, cleverness, or education. No matter the society or culture, the city or town, God has never lacked the power to work through available people to glorify His name.” He goes on to say, “The times are urgent, God is on the move, now is the moment to ask God to ignite His fire in your soul!”
Are you ready?
(Acts 1:1-2:47)
A.D. 30
A beginning. Something that comes first. We value firsts—being first in line, having a first edition of a book, going to see a movie on the first day of its release. Acts is also a book of firsts, most notably the birth of a new creation on earth, something that never existed before. No one before that day experienced a permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit uniting believers together across all geographic and social boundaries. This happened on the day we call Pentecost when the Church as the body of Christ was born.
The Holy Spirit is the main character dominating the entire book of Acts. He is actively involved in all the firsts. He authors the first gospel message given through Peter. He is the first gift we receive when we accept that gospel message and trust in Jesus Christ as the only way to have a relationship with God who made us. And, He initiates the first response to that gift—spontaneous praise of God erupting from the hearts of those who now have the Spirit inside. A fiery beginning, indeed! What a thrilling, unforgettable experience!!
Read Acts 1:1-2:47 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it freshly—as for the first time (try using different translations). Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
1. In vv. 1-3, how does the author introduce this book? Refer back to Luke 1:1-4. What confidence do you have that what you will be studying is trustworthy information? See Colossians 4:14, 2 Timothy 4:11, and Philemon 24 to learn more about the author.
2. To what convincing proofs were the disciples a witness? See Matthew 28:8-10; Luke 24:13-43; and John 20:24-28: 21:1-14. Also, read 1 Corinthians 15:5-7.
Deeper Discoveries: Read all of Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, and John 20-21 for more information about Jesus’ resurrection appearances to His followers.
3. What were Jesus’ instructions to His disciples (Acts 1:4-5)? See also Luke 24:44-48. What were His promises? See also Luke 3:16 and John 14:15-17; 16:7-15.
Focus on the Meaning: The word translated “baptized” came from the process for “dyeing” cloth. It didn’t matter if the cloth was sprayed, dipped, or immersed. The significance was taking on the identity of the dye. For us, the Spirit does the dyeing—with Jesus. We are dyed with Christ. Water baptism is a picture of what the Spirit does to us. John baptized with water; Jesus baptizes with the Spirit—much more significant and with far greater effects. See Romans 6.
4. What do the angels promise to them and to us?
Deeper Discoveries: Using a concordance, research references to the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament. What was He doing? Who experienced His presence? What was promised about Him? Summarize what you learn.
5. Who is gathered together during the waiting time? What were they doing on a daily basis?
Historical Insight: The practice of “casting lots” was common in the Old Testament (Proverbs 16:33), but this is the only time the Apostles did this in the New Testament. The name of each candidate was written on a stone that was placed in a vessel and shaken. The first to fall out obtained the office. (Sue Edwards, Acts of the Holy Spirit, p. 6)
6. Share Your Life: Have you ever prayed with others toward a common goal? If so, describe the experience. How do you feel about praying together with your group?
In this first chapter, three key elements of the book of Acts are introduced: 1) the emphasis on the many witnesses to Jesus’ life, death and resurrection; 2) the Holy Spirit’s guiding and empowering believers, and 3) the dependent hearts of those same believers as they prayed. Keep these elements in mind as you work through the study.
In addition to the Sabbath, God ordained annual feasts which all Jewish men were required to attend (Leviticus 23), grouped together so as to require only 3 pilgrimages. The first one included Passover, Unleavened Bread, and Firstfruits in early spring. The Feast of Weeks took place in the summer. And the last one, including the feasts of Trumpets, Atonement, and Tabernacles, took place in the fall (Deuteronomy 16).
At the Feast of Firstfruits, celebrated on the Sunday during the seven-day Feast of Unleavened Bread, each family offered thanks for God’s provision with the first of their barley harvest. Seven weeks later, at the end of the barley harvest and the beginning of the wheat harvest, came the Feast of Weeks when another offering was given—a thanksgiving for God’s bounty (Leviticus 23:15-22). This festival later came to be known by its Greek name, Pentecost (pent means 50), because it occurred fifty days after Passover.
Since Jesus’ resurrection occurred on Firstfruits, the resurrection event is considered to be God’s “firstfruits” (1 Corinthians 15:20-23), and the giving of the Spirit to believers at Pentecost marked the beginning of the rest of the “harvest” which will continue until Christ returns (Joel 2:28a, 32a).
7. Discovering the Facts: When the gift of the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples as Jesus promised in Acts 1, there were three kinds of supernatural evidence. Describe each.
§ Audible evidence —
§ Visible evidence —
§ Oral evidence —
8. Considering Jesus’ promise in Acts 1:8, what message was conveyed to the believers by the wind blowing from heaven?
From the Greek: The word for “spirit,” pneuma, is related to pnoe, the word translated “wind” in Acts 2:2. It also means “breath.” Breath or wind in the Bible is a symbol for the spirit of God as in Ezek 37:9, 14 and John 3:8. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 357)
9. Read the following verses and draw a conclusion about what the tongues of fire symbolize: Genesis 15:17, Exodus 3:1-6; 13:21-22; 19:18, and Luke 3:16.
10. Read Exodus 40:33-38 and I Kings 7:51; 8:10-11. How did God inaugurate a new temple dedicated to Him in the Old Testament? Now read 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19. Relate this information to what is happening in Acts 2:1-4?
11. Consider the scene in the city of Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost described in Acts 2:5-13. Who was there? What did they hear (see vv. 6 and 11, stick to the text here)? How did they respond?
Historical Insight: “God-fearing Jews” were devout Jews not native to Israel but from all over the Mediterranean world and the Middle East who were now in Jerusalem either as current residents or as visitors for Pentecost. This group included natural born Jews as well as Gentile converts to Judaism (v. 11).
Think About It: Acts 2:6-7 indicates that the phrase “other languages” were languages understandable to the hearers, a diverse group from “every nation under heaven.” At Babel (Gen. 11:1-11), God separated the people by giving them different languages. At Pentecost, He gave them the Holy Spirit, using those languages to bring the scattered together to hear the gospel, uniting the believers all into God’s kingdom and then scattering them back out to their respective nations to spread the one gospel message in their different languages.
12. Share Your Life: Upon receiving and being filled by the Holy Spirit, the new believers broke out in spontaneous praise of God. According to Ephesians 5:18-20, this is an evident work of the Spirit in someone’s life. When was the last time you broke out in spontaneous praise? What was the occasion? What did you do? How did others respond around you?
13. Discovering the Facts: Peter’s sermon in Acts 2:22-32 included five main points that are repeated in sermons throughout Acts though not necessarily in the same order. This was the basic gospel message shared everywhere. See also 1 Corinthians 15:3-5 which was written about 20 years later. What were these points?
§ (1) vv. 22-23a —
§ (2) v. 23b —
§ (3) v. 24 —
§ (4) v. 32 —
§ (5) v. 38 —
Think About It: This same Peter was the one who denied Jesus three times the night before His crucifixion and hid behind locked doors afterwards. The indwelling Holy Spirit made a huge difference in his life, giving him courage and turning this uneducated fisherman into an effective preacher. That same Holy Spirit can make a difference in your life as you trust Him to work.
14. Peter begins his sermon by declaring to the crowd that God fulfilled part of a prophetic promise (Acts 2:17-18, 21, 33, 38-39). What was the promise? How does Peter relate Joel’s prophecy to what just happened?
15. In Acts 2:25-28, 34-35) Peter quotes Psalm 16:8-11 and 110:1, Peter establishes as fact another recently fulfilled prophecy. What was it? Why do you think the crowd needed to be convinced of this?
16. According to Peter, where is Jesus now (2:33a)? What has He just done (2:33b)? Therefore, who is Jesus?
17. At the end of his sermon, what was the audience’s response? What did Peter challenge them to do and promise to them if they did that?
Focus on the Meaning: To convict of sin is a work of the Holy Spirit. The term “repent” is from the Greek metaknoia referring to a change of mind, in this case, a radical change of mind about Jesus—from unbelief to faith. Forgiveness of sins and the Holy Spirit are two gifts given to those who repent and believe. Baptism, as had been taught by John, is an outward expression of inner repentance.
18. Share Your Life: What conclusion have you drawn about Jesus? Share how your heart responded when you really “heard” and took in this message.
Caring for infants and small children can be demanding and exhausting. The same is true for “baby Christians.” On the day of Pentecost, the Church was born, and suddenly the Twelve Apostles became spiritual parents to 3,000 needy infants, many of whom were not residents of Jerusalem and lacked means of long-term support. The apostles’ dependence was now on the Holy Spirit to guide them daily.
19. Discovering the Facts: From verse 42, list the four priorities of the new church.
20. Why do you think each of those four priorities is important to the life of a healthy church? Should these be the priorities of churches today? Why or why not? (Please do not mention particular denominations or churches in the discussion.)
21. Describe the heart attitude of these new believers and how they lived out their new faith. See also Acts 4:32-35. Relate this to the work of the indwelling Holy Spirit as described in 2 Corinthians 3:17-18.
Historical Insight: This practice of caring for one another’s needs wasn’t confined to Jerusalem. Read “Care and Prayer” in The Rest of the Story information at the end of this study.
Deeper Discoveries: For a balanced view of the communal sharing described in Acts 2 and 4, see also 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15. What do you see when you combine both passages together? Bring in other Scriptures to support your conclusions.
22. Share Your Life: Are you faithful to a church? If so, what is your heart attitude toward the other believers in your church? Are you spending time with them? Are you praying together with them? This week, ask Jesus to give you the same heart attitude toward them as He did the early Church believers.
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(psst…life as we’ve known it may never be the same!)
Group Share: What’s the closest you’ve been to a fire, and did something good come out of it?
[Watch the “Pentecost Film” at http://www.mark-berry.co.uk/pentecostfilm.mov.]
{Editor's note-- This was a free 90 second film at this location. It is no longer availabler there and is now a for-pay download at this site: http://proost.co.uk/pentecost}
That video pictured what we are studying this week—the fire of the Spirit displayed at Pentecost with spectacular results. And, your fire stories were truly amazing. And so is what happened last Thursday to those passengers on the jet that landed in the Hudson River. Wow! What really caught my attention was what happened after the captain announced, “Brace for impact because we’re going down.” Some folks screamed; some tucked their heads between their knees. Several asked God to forgive them for their sins. An engaged couple kissed. And, the guy in the exit row took out the instructions to read so he would do it right. What a variety of responses! Everyone knew something was about to happen, and life as they had known it may never be the same. They just didn’t know what.
Have you ever had those moments when you knew something life-changing was about to happen but you didn’t know what? I had one of those recently.
My husband Ron has been writing a book for 3 years. Last year, he signed a publishing contract and finally delivered his book on December 15. It is supposed to be out for all to read in June. I have no idea what that will mean for us, but I know something’s about to happen in our lives, and it will be an adventure. Life as we have known it may never be the same.
That’s how I feel about this study. There is no way any of us will not be affected as we gain a greater understanding of the Spirit’s work in our lives. He’s going to act on that understanding. Something’s about to happen to all of us. And, life as we know it may never be the same.
Open your Bibles to Romans chapter 6. It’s the next book after Acts. We’ll get there in a little bit.
In Acts 1, Jesus told His disciples to hang out in Jerusalem for a few more days because something promised was about to happen. Do you think they had any idea of the adventure that lay ahead for them? Jesus said, “you will receive power to be my witnesses in Jerusalem—okay, they were already there. In Judea—that would be a little different because they were from Galilee, way up in the northern part of Israel. But, Jesus had had some ministry success in Judea so that would be okay. In Samaria—what could that mean? Okay, those Samaritans were half-Jews. They needed the full deal now. We’ve been there before. Okay. And to the ends of the earth—what?! The ends of the earth. That sounds a bit scary, doesn’t it? Have any of you been to the ends of the earth or thought you had? Jesus was telling them, “Something’s about to happen, and life as you have known it will never be the same.”
On the day of Pentecost, an unmistakable sound like that of a tornado suddenly came and filled the place where 120 Jesus people were sitting. A little bigger than the size of our group here. They saw flames of fire resting on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in foreign languages as the Spirit enabled them.
Breaking out in spontaneous praise to God under the Spirit’s influence was not new. Neither was hearing praises uttered in foreign languages in Jerusalem. During festivals, praises to God in all kinds of Mediterranean and Asian languages were frequently heard around the Temple. But, not uttered by Galileans who usually spoke only Aramaic. Everyone knew Galileans because they had a certain drawl. Like we can recognize people from Boston or Georgia by their accent. Those foreign Jews hanging around the Temple heard their own native languages spoken by those very same Galileans, and they knew something amazing and unusual was happening…but what?
They soon learned that Spirit Baptism occurred. And life as they had known it would never be the same.
Probably no other doctrine of the Holy Spirit has created more confusion than that of Spirit Baptism. That confusion comes from several sources: 1) a lack of understanding of the Spirit’s work in the believer’s life, 2) the expectation of certain experiences to be associated with it, and 3) misinterpretation of our English translations.
Dear women, I do not claim to understand everything related to the works of the Spirit. But, God’s Word is clear about the truths He wants us to know so we can have confidence in what He gives to us. So, let’s discover that. First, what did baptism mean to the people of that day? In other words, based on previous experience, what were those 120 Jesus people expecting? Then, what did they actually receive?
The Old Testament Jews had used water for cleansing rituals and initiation into special groups. Whenever Gentiles — anyone who wasn’t a Jew — became converts to Judaism, they were ritually “cleansed” by water being poured over them.
So, when the Greeks translated the Hebrew Old Testament 200 years before Jesus, they chose the word baptizo or baptismos to represent this water ritual. Our English word comes from that. Baptizo came from the process for “dyeing” cloth. It didn’t matter if the cloth was sprayed, dipped, or immersed. The significance was taking on the identity of the dye. Keep that in mind.
Just before Jesus, John the Baptist preached baptism accompanied by something new—repentance. Repentance is a change of mind, in this case for the Jews to agree their sin is bad and decide to change their behavior. Baptism is no longer just an outward ritual but now requires an inner commitment to change one’s life. This prepared the way for Jesus who challenged people to not only think about their sin differently, but to think about Him differently—as the Son of God to whom they would commit their lives.
When Jesus taught about Spirit baptism, he used a different word than what the disciples had known for the water cleansing ritual. Jesus chose baptisma, “immersion.” If you think in terms of the dyeing process and taking on the identity of the dye, Spirit baptism means the transforming power of the Holy Spirit creates a permanent change in the believer. We are dyed with Christ. We are immersed into Jesus Christ. Never to come out again. In Acts 1:5, Jesus was telling His disciples, “What you are about to receive will be nothing like water baptism.” Something’s going to happen. And, life as you know it will never be the same.
But, what would that look like? Their understanding of the work of the Spirit was only what they read in the Old Testament. The Holy Spirit was very active in Israel—coming upon leaders, prophets, and even craftsmen to enable them to do the work that God had chosen for them to do. This was often accompanied by spontaneous praise of God just flowing from their hearts with joy—one of the evidences of His presence. The Spirit spoke to both men and women for all the people to hear God’s word. But, He never lived with them permanently. That was promised for the future.
Jesus promised His disciples that the Spirit would do many of those same things I just described. But, He would do much more than that. He would live in them forever. And, He would change them from the inside out. Their lives as they knew them would never be the same. And, it would all begin with Spirit Baptism.
There are 11 specific references to Spirit baptism in the New Testament—enough to understand what takes place. We’re going to read a few of those today.
Let me tell you this. Some of our confusion comes from the English translations of the phrase en pneuma. I’m not a Greek scholar; but I can read the works of those who are. Here’s what I discovered: Pneuma is “the Spirit” in every case. That little word en is a preposition and can be translated with, by, in, or of. Translators choose the word that reads best in the context. So, you might read in your Bibles “baptized with the Spirit” in Acts 1:5 and “baptism by the Spirit” in 1 Corinthians 12:13. Different theologies have been built on those two English phrases as though they are different events, but they are really the exact same phrase in Greek and the exact same event. So, because we all come from different spiritual backgrounds, to avoid confusion, I’m calling it “Spirit Baptism.”
I’m going to give you several facts from the Bible about what Spirit Baptism really is so that you will leave here confident that this has happened to you.
This is described in Romans 6:
“(v. 3)… do you not know that as many as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? … (v. 5) For if we have become united with him in the likeness of his death, we will certainly also be united in the likeness of his resurrection.
At Spirit Baptism, we are joined to Christ Jesus, fused together with who He is and what He has done. His death provided us with forgiveness of sins and His resurrection gave us new life. That’s us being born again. We are dyed with Christ. D-Y-E-D. We take on the identity of Jesus so that when God looks on us, He sees Jesus instead. We are in Christ. All those spiritual blessings we have in Christ — chosen, adopted, forgiven, sealed — are wrapped up and delivered to us in the Spirit. A package deal. Every Christian receives this at Spirit Baptism. This is confirmed in Romans 8:9:
Romans 8:9 — “Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, this person does not belong to him.”
Every believer has the complete Holy Spirit, or they do not belong to Christ. Being united with Christ in His death and resurrection is essential for every Christian. That comes with Spirit Baptism. Nowhere in the New Testament is any believer commanded or exhorted to be Spirit baptized. It’s God’s gift initiated by God to those who put their faith in Christ. It is not initiated by us. We are the ones born again.
Do you ever get email invitations to join a club or group? Last year I received an email invitation for a free trial membership to the National Home Gardening Club. I didn’t know all the perks I would get. All I did was respond to the email invitation. Come to find out, members receive all this great stuff—seeds, gardening supplies, and tools. What I receive is initiated by the club, not by me.
That’s how Spirit Baptism is. God initiates it to everyone who trusts in Jesus. We are united with Christ and receive the blessings that identify us as Christians at that time.
Flip over to 1 Corinthians 12, the next book after Romans. On the day of Pentecost, all 120 believers were plugged into the brand new Body of Christ—the Church—by Spirit Baptism.
1 Corinthians 12:13 —”… For in one Spirit we were ALL baptized into one body…”
Permanent immersion into the body of Christ. Paul stated clearly that all had been Spirit baptized and placed permanently into the Body of Christ.
Remember that in Acts, God was introducing something new, and He didn’t follow a set pattern at first. So it is not wise to selectively choose a passage from Acts and use it as a doctrinal statement on how to receive the Holy Spirit. Especially up to the point when the Gentiles as a group were added to the Church. But, absolutely positively, everyone who believed received Spirit Baptism. The Spirit writing through Paul makes sure we know this. Read this together with me from the screens.
Gal 3:26-27 –”For in Christ Jesus you are ALL sons of God through faith. For ALL of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
There’s that being dyed with Christ again. Eph 4 (vv. 4-5) also says this,
“There is one body and one Spirit…one Lord, one faith, one baptism…”
“One baptism” evidently belongs to the same group as “one Lord” and “one faith.” Spirit baptism is a permanent condition and occurs once. Water baptism can be repeated. Spirit Baptism can’t because a person would have to be removed from the Body of Christ in order to be reinstated again by a second baptism. We know that can’t happen because Scripture makes it clear that the Spirit will be with us forever. It’s not like the Old Testament days when He came upon people temporarily for them to do a specific job. Under the new covenant, Jesus assures us that He will never leave us nor forsake us and has given us the Holy Spirit as His indwelling presence, forever. Forever doesn’t stop.
Did you notice the repeated use of all in the verses we’ve read? There’s an emphasis in the New Testament on Spirit Baptism as universal and equal for every believer.
What we can learn from all of these verses is this:
What do I mean by change of state? Think of baking a cake. Individual ingredients are mixed together for a cake, but once baked those ingredients can never be separated out again. Like that, a person goes from being without God to being with God forever; from being filthy with sin to being cleansed of all sin; from being an enemy of God to becoming the Temple of God Himself. Those flames of fire represented the presence of God as He inaugurated His new temple. No longer would the faithful go to a building inhabited by God. He is now living in Jesus people. That floors me. And, humbles me—God living inside me. By faith I know this is true because the Bible says so.
What might trip up some of us is that we may expect an experience similar to what they had at Pentecost or a few other places in Acts to validate that Spirit Baptism has happened to us. So, we may tend to measure each other’s spirituality by whether or not one has had a particular “experience.” Primarily speaking in languages foreign to our understanding. Tongues. Some of you may have had that experience in your life. That’s great. I’m not saying that experience is not valid or genuine or anything like that. What I am saying is Spirit Baptism is not necessarily evidenced by that particular experience or any other; it is primarily a change of state from being separated from Christ to being united with Him receiving everything we need for life and godliness. Are you with me at all? Hang on and let me explain.
Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3:8 that,
“The wind blows wherever it will, and you hear the sound it makes, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
We’ve already seen that being born again is simultaneous with Spirit Baptism. Jesus said it happens whether or not the believer is conscious of it. He doesn’t promise that our senses will know we are born again at Spirit Baptism.
In Acts, not every new Christian is said to have had the experience of speaking in tongues. And, in less than 30 years, when Paul wrote 1 Corinthians, only some are said to have the gift of speaking in tongues (1 Cor. 12:10-11). The rest are given other gifts by the Holy Spirit. Nowhere does Paul exhort them to be Spirit baptized to receive the tongues gift.
This is very important. Volcanic! The gift of the Spirit is separate from the gifts of the Spirit. Jesus’ gift of His Spirit to every single one of us—ALL EQUALLY—Spirit Baptism—is not the same thing as the spiritual gifts given to individual believers according to the Spirit’s own will and choice—INDIVIDUALLY RECEIVED AND ACCESSED.
Some of you when you believed felt a warmed heart, a feeling of relief or belonging, a sense of tremendous joy. You’ll see joy as one of the first responses of believers in the book of Acts. Some people cannot remember a specific experience. That’s okay. Or, even a specific time. They just know that they looked at things one way before a certain time in their lives and then looked at things differently after that time. And then, we hear about those who have received the outwardly visible gift of speaking in tongues and think, “If only I had that, then I would know that I was Spirit Baptized.”
The point I want to drive home is this: whether or not you sensed anything, God’s Word assures us that Spirit Baptism happened to you the moment you placed your trust in Jesus.
I don’t have the gift of speaking in tongues. I’m open to it or anything else the Spirit would give me. The Spirit has not chosen to give it to me. I think He’s given me the gift of teaching. Jesus got a hold of me in January 1972. Before that, I was not interested in teaching anybody anything. In fact, I was a sports-crazed girl. Obsessed with LSU football. When the Tigers won, I was happy all week. When they lost, I was dumpy. Almost an addiction. When Jesus got a hold of me, I had no outward experience but there was evidence of the Spirit’s work in me. The first thing that changed was my obsession. Football was no longer the focus of my affections. Jesus was. And, His Word. The discoveries I made at first were amazing. I am so grateful that life as I had known it has never been the same. Within only 8 months, I felt compelled to study and teach the Bible to other college students. I feel His pleasure when I teach.
I am reminded of the walk to Emmaus recorded in Luke’s gospel. After the resurrected Jesus left those two men he had been walking with, they said to one another, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32) That’s how I feel sometimes. When I study the Scripture to teach it, I feel that warming. 1994—studied Spirit baptism to teach it then …huge warming, backbone creeping feeling, immense joy… I am not an emotional person. I’m pretty flat. That’s how God has wired me. So, I know that warming, that joy, is the Spirit inside me. It’s nothing coming out of my natural self. I’ve tried to not teach, to back off and do other things. But, I’m always drawn back into studying and teaching. I’m compelled to do it. Most of the time I feel so inadequate and bumbling, but I continue on because my heart’s desire is that women and children would know God’s truth. I don’t present a message up here until the Spirit confirms in me that it’s okay to present it. I’ve been wakened in the middle of the night with a warning that I needed to drop something out of a message to be delivered the next day.
Is that evidence that I have been Spirit baptized? I certainly think so, and so do others who noticed the change of focus in my life. Because God has not chosen to give me the gift of tongues does not mean Spirit Baptism hasn’t happened to me. Or, to any other believer. Okay?
But, then there’s another issue. Many of us have a sincere desire to know and experience the power of God. We may tend to think that those outwardly visible signs are the best evidence of spiritual power. I recently read a great way of looking at this.
“The Holy Spirit is indeed manifest in great explosions of revival and power. But to seek those evidences as the primary work of the Spirit is like looking at fireworks exploding on the Fourth of July as the way to keep America independent. The fireworks are a celebration of what already exists…They have very little to do with the business of winning and maintaining liberty and independence. And, that liberty exists whether or not there are any fireworks.” (Donald K. Smith)
Isn’t that a wonderful way to view the sign gifts? Yes, we want to experience spiritual power like we see in the book of Acts. The whole New Testament confirms that the greatest evidence of the power of God in a person’s life is not in the gifts given. It’s in the miracle of a changed life through the Spirit given.
God is healing my 83-year-old dad of cancer right now. And, I am praising Him for it. But, knowing my own selfish nature, which again showed its true colors this week, I believe it requires more life-long Spirit power to transform a person from being an independent, self-centered person to being a God-dependent, love-motivated person. That’s the greatest miracle. Perhaps even greater than a healed body, because it’s the ultimate healing—a life and heart devoted to God for eternity.
But, those changes require us to recognize that we are weak to do anything of spiritual significance on our own. I love what Jim Cymbala says in his book, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, “God is attracted to weakness. He can’t resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need Him. Our weakness, in fact, makes room for His power.”
What do you think about that? Does our weakness make room for His power? If that is true, it is inconceivable that such power should be at work in us without results that would show up in all directions. We should sense it.
Maybe we just aren’t paying attention. Our society is built on rationalism—everything has to have a naturalistic explanation. I believe we may have become desensitized to the Spirit inside us, and we tend to take credit ourselves for the work that He actually does.
I write the Discovery Workshops for Elementary Sunday School at our church. These are science activities with a Biblical focus. A couple of years ago, we were studying the Holy Spirit, and as so often happens, what I am personally learning finds its way into each lesson. I looked up verses describing the work of the Spirit in a believer’s life then listed those evidences in my life that could be communicated to children so they would recognize them as well. I discovered we can develop sensitivity to the Spirit at work by asking ourselves some questions based on what the Bible promises:
· Has someone explained something to you about the Bible, and you understood what he or she was saying? That’s the Spirit inside of you enabling you to understand.
· Have you ever felt really loved by God? That’s the Spirit inside of you. It doesn’t come naturally.
· Do you have a desire to please God with your life? That’s the Spirit inside of you. Doesn’t come naturally.
· Have you ever started loving someone even more after you started praying for him or her? That’s definitely the Spirit. Doesn’t come naturally.
· Do you like to sing praises to God? Do you feel thankful to God for His goodness to you? That’s the Spirit filling your heart with praise and thanksgiving.
· Have you ever had a huge problem and didn’t know what to ask God to do about it, but God took care of the problem anyway? That’s the Spirit living inside of you working to take care of your need before you even ask.
All of those are evidences of Spirit power in our lives, and just about every one of you could give a personal example of the Holy Spirit’s power in your life, couldn’t you? You all could add to this list. We just need to develop our sensitivity to His work.
I know I didn’t answer all your questions about Spirit Baptism. But, I want you to know with confidence that if you have trusted in Christ, you received Spirit Baptism at that moment. If you haven’t trusted in Christ yet, you can do so today and receive Spirit Baptism immediately. And, now, based on what you know about the Spirit’s work in your life, I hope you develop a sensitivity to His presence and what He is doing in you. Evidence that yes, He lives inside you, empowering you to live and serve Him. That’s the kind of experience we can all embrace and enjoy. And, with that, you might get a sense that something’s about to happen. And, life as you have known it will never be the same as you embark on the adventure God has for you.
Lewis Sperry Chafer, Systematic Theology, “Baptism of the Spirit”
F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts
Charles Ryrie, The Holy Spirit
Donald K. Smith, The Holy Spirit in Missions, http://bible.org/seriespage/holy-spirit-missions
Jim Cymbala, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, page 19
(Life as we’ve known it may never be the same!)
“For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” (Acts 1:5)
1. Spirit Baptism is the Spirit’s work of uniting us with Christ – identifying us with Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. (Rom. 6:3-5; Col. 2:12)
2. Spirit Baptism is the Spirit’s work of making all believers permanent members of the Body of Christ. (1 Cor. 12:13)
3. Spirit Baptism occurs once and for all at the salvation of each believer. (Gal 3:26-27; Eph. 4:4-5)
4. Spirit Baptism is a change of state and is not validated by any particular outward sign. (John 3:8)
· He helps us understand what the Bible teaches. Has someone explained something to you about the Bible, and you understood what they were saying? That’s the Spirit inside of you helping you to understand. John 16:13; 1 Cor. 2:13
· He gives us the words to tell others about Jesus and say that Jesus is God. Have you wanted to tell someone about Jesus but didn’t know what to say, then all of a sudden the words just popped into your head for you to tell that person about Jesus? That’s the Holy Spirit living inside of you prompting you with the right words to say. John 14:26; 1 Corinthians 12:3
· He gives us assurance that we are God’s children. Have you ever felt really loved by God? That’s the Spirit inside of you letting you know for sure that you are God’s child, and He loves you. Romans 8:16
· He encourages us to do what pleases God. Do you have a desire to please God with your life? That’s the Holy Spirit inside of you giving you that desire. Romans 12:11; Jer. 33:31,33
· He helps us to feel joy as we serve Jesus and when we do the right things. Have you ever felt really good when you chose to do the right thing or chose to be helpful? That’s the Holy Spirit inside of you letting you feel God’s pleasure. Romans 14:17-18
· He encourages us to not want to do what doesn’t please God. Have you ever felt something tugging at you inside when you were tempted to do something wrong? That’s the Holy Spirit living inside of you nudging you, reminding you what doesn’t please God so you can choose not to do that. Galatians 5:16
· He enables us to love others. Have you ever started loving someone even more after you started praying for them? That’s the Holy Spirit living inside of you doing that. Galatians 5:22-23
· He makes us want to sing praises to God, in our hearts and out loud, and be thankful for God’s goodness. Do you like to sing praises to God? Do you feel thankful to God for His goodness to you? That’s the Spirit living inside of you filling your heart with praise and thanksgiving to God. Ephesians 5:18-20
· He prays for us when we need help or don’t know what to pray for. Have you ever had a huge problem and didn’t know what to ask God to do about it, but God took care of the problem anyway? That’s the Holy Spirit living inside of you working to take care of your need before you even ask. Romans 8:26-27
“The Holy Spirit is indeed manifest in great explosions of revival and power. But to seek those evidences as the primary work of the Spirit is like looking at fireworks exploding on the Fourth of July as the way to keep America independent. The fireworks are a celebration of what already exists…They have very little to do with the business of winning and maintaining liberty and independence. And, that liberty exists whether or not there are any fireworks.” (Donald K. Smith, The Holy Spirit in Missions, http://bible.org/seriespage/holy-spirit-missions)
(Acts 3:1-5:11)
A.D. 30-33
“The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of prayer. Only when we are full of the Spirit do we feel the need for God everywhere we turn. We can be driving a car, and spontaneously our spirit starts going up to God with needs and petitions and intercessions right there in the middle of traffic.” (Jim Cymbala, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, p. 58)
Through the filling of the Holy Spirit, Peter preached to curious crowds on the day of Pentecost and saw great results. The new community of believers was established with great joy and unity. Then came the tests—from the Jewish authorities and from within that same community of believers.
Do you enjoy being tested? Most of us do not. Testing is a significant part of the learning process, including the growth of a Christian to spiritual maturity. God’s method of teaching seems to be: 1) prepare by instruction, 2) learn by experience. The test. In the case of the early church, the test was whether or not they would trust God in the midst of trial and humble themselves to live in dependence on Him through prayer. This is what the prophets, down through the centuries, had told them to do. When under attack, when facing a new challenge, in all seasons, in all times, call on the name of the Lord, and He will help you.
The writer of Hebrews nails down this most central activity for Christians, “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and grace to help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16).” For Christians in any troubled times, there is simply no other way.
Read Acts 3:1-5:11 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it thoughtfully—as a love letter. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
1. Discovering the Facts: Describe the beggar and his life experience as he encountered Peter and John.
2. Share Your Life: What do you think it would have been like to lie around for a day in his “sandals?” Have you ever been “laid up” for an extended period of time? If so, describe the experience.
3. What did the beggar think was his most pressing need (v. 3)? What need did the apostles address? Why?
4. What were the results?
5. Share Your Life: Like the lame beggar that was healed, do your requests from God typically focus on His meeting your physical needs? Why? Remember, He desires to do infinitely more than we can think or imagine (Ephesians 3:19-20). What should you change about how you pray?
Think About It: There’s so much to want—healed bodies, restored relationships, changed circumstances. But asking, seeking, and knocking aren’t secret formulas for getting what we want from God; they’re ways to get more of God. As I listen to God speak to me through his Word, he gives me more of himself in fuller, newer ways. Then, if healing doesn’t come, if the relationship remains broken, or if the pressures increase, I have the opportunity to discover for myself he is enough. His presence is enough. His purpose is enough. If you truly want to move God’s heart, put aside secret-formula prayer and instead begin to practice prayer that seeks the Giver more than the gifts. (Nancy Guthrie)
6. Read Hebrews 2:3-4 and Mark 16:20. Look ahead to Acts 3:16, 4:9-10, and 14:3. What are some of the reasons God chose to perform miraculous signs through the apostles and others?
Scriptural Insight: The scriptures teach that God does miracles out of His kindness (Acts 4:9) and love. Miracles also have another specific purpose—to authenticate the message and thus the messenger (John 14:10-11).
7. Discovering the Facts: To whom is Peter speaking this time? Where? What is similar in this sermon to the one Peter preached on the day of Pentecost?
Scriptural Insight: There was no confusion in the minds of the first Christians about what to proclaim. There was no searching for new and novel messages. The plain gospel was considered entirely adequate. (Jim Cymbala, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, p. 105)
8. Share Your Life: The Jews thought they were rid of Jesus, but Peter announced that He is alive indeed. Peter’s message is true! How should this affect your life today?
9. What titles did Peter give to Jesus in 3:13-15? Considering his audience, why do you think he chose those?
10. Share Your Life: What are some of your favorite names for Jesus? How might knowing and understanding His many names enrich your worship?
Deeper Discoveries: Peter calls Jesus God’s Servant in 3:13 and says, “God announced beforehand by the mouth of prophets that Christ should suffer” (3:18). Isaiah was one such prophet. What do you learn about Jesus as the Suffering Servant in Isaiah 52:13-53:12? How did He serve us?
11. What do you learn from Acts 3:19-21 that adds further information to what is revealed in 1:6-11?
Focus on the Meaning: The time spanning the inauguration of the church at Pentecost to the time when Jesus returns to set up His kingdom is often called the “church age” or the “until” time. Read Psalm 110:1. This is the most quoted Old Testament verse in the New Testament.
12. Share Your Life: Read Acts 4:4 to see the audience response to Peter’s sermon. God has now used Peter to influence about 5,000 to put their faith in Christ. Who did God use to influence you? When was the last time you expressed your gratitude? Why not write a message or pick up the phone?
13. Discovering the Facts: List the sequence of events in 1-22.
14. Why did the Jewish authorities arrest Peter and John? What did the Holy Spirit declare to them through Peter (vv. 8-12)?
Historical Insight: The Jewish authorities were the members of the Sanhedrin, the high court of the Jews. In New Testament times, it was made up of three kinds of members: chief priests, elders, and teachers of the law. Its total membership numbered 71, including the high priest, who was presiding officer. Under Roman jurisdiction the Sanhedrin was given a great deal of authority, but they could not impose capital punishment. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1526)
15. Share Your Life: In light of today’s diversity of philosophies and religions, what does Acts 4:12 definitively declare? Is this what you believe? Why or why not?
16. What evidence was directly before the authorities? How did they respond to the evidence and to the message given to them?
Scriptural Insight: Through the angel Gabriel, God told both Mary and Joseph to name their son Jesus. The name Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua, which means “the LORD saves.” Further support of Jesus being the only way to salvation is found in Acts 10:43, John 14:6, and 1 Timothy 2:5.
17. Share Your Life: No one can dispute genuine evidence of change in a person’s life after being with Jesus. Can you recall a time when someone noticed that you have been with Jesus? What did you say or do that they noticed? How did they respond?
18. How did Peter and John respond to the judgment given in 4:18?
19. Share Your Life: As Peter and John are on trial before the same men that put Jesus to death, how did they face persecution? Have you ever faced persecution for your faith? Did you do so with fear or courage? Read Romans 8:15. How does this verse encourage you? Trust Him for that.
20. In response to all that had happened to them, what did Peter, John and the rest of the believers do? What was the content of the prayer?
Scriptural Insight: The baptism of the Holy Spirit occurs once, at salvation (Romans 6:3-4); the filling of the Spirit occurs repeatedly as needed and as we are yielded to Him (Acts 4:8, 31; 6:3-5; Ephesians 5:18). Here, their spirits were completely under the control of the Spirit; their words were His words.
21. How does God answer their prayer?
Think About it: Prayer cannot be taught by principles and seminars. It has to be born out of a whole environment of felt need. If I say, I ought to pray, “I will soon run out of motivation and quit; the flesh is too strong. I have to be driven to pray. The more we pray, the more we sense our need to pray. And, the more we sense a need to pray, the more we want to pray. When the apostles were unjustly arrested, they didn’t call for a protest or some political leverage. Instead, they headed to a prayer meeting. (Jim Cymbala, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, p. 49-50, 73)
22. Share Your Life: The early church prayed together consistently as though it were necessary and not optional. Is that how you view prayer?
§ What drives you to pray? Are you willing to be driven to prayer by the Holy Spirit’s prompting in your life?
§ Are you regularly praying together with other believers as a priority in your life? If so, how has that benefited your spiritual growth? If not, why not?
Deeper Discoveries: Research the use of the word “filled” and “full” in the New Testament. How is it used? What does it mean to be “filled with” or “full of” the Holy Spirit? What would it look like in someone’s life to be filled with the Spirit?
In this next section, Luke introduces us to Barnabas who will play a later role in the Book of Acts. Luke also contrasts the generosity of the majority of the church driven by the Holy Spirit’s control in their lives with the behavior of two members who were not.
Here (v. 11) is the first use of the term “church” in the book of Acts, referring to a local congregation (also 8:1; 11:22; 13:1) or the universal church (20:28). The Greek word for “church” (ekklesia, “called out ones”) was already being used for political and other assemblies and for Israel when gathered in religious assembly. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1652)
23. Compare the heart attitude of Joseph (Barnabas) with that of Ananias and Sapphira. [Note: giving the money was voluntary, not compulsory like paying taxes.]
Scriptural Insight: “Satan filled your heart” (v. 3) — the verb translated “filled” contains the idea of control or influence. The same verb is used in the command, “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). Ananias was at that moment being influenced by Satan, not the Spirit. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 365)
24. Share Your Life: Have you ever given up anything voluntarily to benefit someone in the church? If so, how did you feel? Describe the experience.
25. Peter exposed the sin of Ananias and Sapphira as deceit (v. 3) and testing the Spirit of the Lord (v. 9). God determined and enacted the discipline needed at this time. In 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Paul recounts what God’s purpose is in discipline such as this. What conclusions does Paul reach, and what comfort does he give?
26. Share Your Life: Similar to Ananias and Sapphira, Jesus condemned the Pharisees for having an external appearance of spirituality while having hearts that were far from God. Are there areas of your life in which you are attempting to appear spiritual but have a heart that is far from God?
Think About It: Ananias, in the effort to gain a reputation for greater generosity than he had actually earned, tried to deceive the believing community, but in trying to deceive the community he was really trying to deceive the Holy Spirit, whose life-giving power had created the community and maintained it in being. So real was the apostles’ appreciation of the presence and authority of the Spirit in their midst. (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 105)
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 5:12-7:60)
A.D. 32-33
The plot thickens like a novel filled with twists, turns and intrigue. This week’s section begins with God answering the prayer of the believers (4:29-30) who prayed expectantly for boldness to preach and for signs and wonders to be done through them. That’s exactly what the Holy Spirit gave them as they continued to teach daily that “Jesus is the Messiah” wherever people were gathered. The Spirit added new believers to this Jerusalem church daily. Can we too pray with a sense of boldness and expectancy? Yes, we can and should.
Nevertheless, familiar prejudices began to affect the church—from within and from outside. Prejudices, which flow out of the pride in our hearts, may be perceived or actual. Yet, allowing either to continue will tear through the bond of unity in a community of believers. Historical prejudices also block perspective and can stir up irrational emotions. Humility and justice are the opposites of pride and prejudice. We have a daily choice of feeding our pride and promoting our prejudices or walking humbly with the Lord and seeking His truth and justice. The Holy Spirit can guide any believer who humbly desires to recognize and remove prejudices from her own heart and behavior.
Read Acts 5:12-7:60 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it patiently—give yourself enough time rather than rushing through it. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
1. Discovering the Facts: List the various groups mentioned in the passage and their responses to the Spirit’s words and work through the apostles (implied, all of them).
Scriptural Insight: The reference to Peter’s shadow (v. 15) parallels such items as Paul’s handkerchiefs (19:12) and the edge of Jesus’ cloak (Mt. 9:20) — not that any of these material objects had magical qualities, but the least article or shadow represented a direct means of contact with Jesus or His apostles. (NIV Study Bible, p. 165)
2. Filled with pride (their jealousy over the attention given to the apostles) and fear over losing their political status and social position, the High Priest and his Sadducee associates act. Who is arrested this time? How does God respond to their arrest?
Historical Insight: The Sadducees, though small in number, were an aristocratic, politically minded Jewish group willing to compromise with secular and pagan leaders, including the Romans. They held the majority of the seats in the Sanhedrin, including the High Priesthood, yet denied the resurrection, angels and spirits. Feeling he threatened their status with the Roman government, they opposed Jesus (John 11:47-50). (NIV Study Bible, p. 1579)
3. How did the apostles renew the courage to return to the temple courts to preach after having been arrested? Relate this to their prayer in Acts 4:24-30.
4. Share Your Life: Can you expect the same results today? Share a time when you prayed for courage and/or the right words to say and God answered.
Focus on the Meaning: What weighed most of all with the apostles was their personal commitment to the risen Lord to be His witnesses, “We cannot stop telling what we have seen and heard.” (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, pp. 96-97)
Deeper Discoveries: Examine Peter’s statement in Acts 5:29, “We must obey God rather than men,” using Romans 13:1-5, I Peter 2:13-17, and Acts 4:19-20; 5:29. How should we respond to the government when we have opposing views?
5. Compare Peter’s message here to the ones he’s given before (2:22-39; 3:12-26; 4:8-12). Were the council members given the complete gospel message and an opportunity to respond to it?
6. How is Gamaliel regarded? See also Acts 22:3. Compare Gamaliel’s wisdom and motives with that of the Sanhedrin. What insight did Gamaliel have about the character of God?
7. Share Your Life: How does knowledge about God’s character help us in our daily living as we face difficulties?
8. How did the apostles feel after what they had been through (vv. 41-42)?
9. The Hellenistic (Grecian) Jews perceived some “prejudice” existed. How did the apostles respond to this? Describe the men chosen and how their work differed from that of the Apostles. Read Exodus 16-17:7 and ’s appointed leaders dealing with a similar situation and compare.
Historical Insight: The early Church was composed of three groups:
(1) Hebraic Jews—usually natives of Judea; spoke primarily Hebrew and Aramaic.
(2) Hellenistic (Grecian) Jews—Greek speaking and influenced by Greek culture, mostly living among the Gentile nations.
(3) “God-fearing” Gentiles—Gentile converts to Judaism, observers of most rabbinical law but not yet circumcised.
Prejudice existed between each of these groups, especially between the Hebrew “home boys” and the Grecian outsiders, who differed not only in language and culture, but also in regard for the Temple as their center of worship.
Deeper Discoveries: Use a Bible dictionary or commentary to find out more information about the differences between the Hebraic and Hellenistic Jews. Keep these in mind as you study through Acts.
10. Share Your Life: Perceived and actual prejudices are barriers to true fellowship. What kinds of prejudices might exist in your local church community? Are you sensitive to any that do exist? Are your leaders aware of them? Ask Jesus to help you recognize any prejudices existing in your heart and behavior. Trust the Holy Spirit to guide you to know when and how to speak to leadership about these.
Deeper Discoveries: The Greek word used to describe the responsibility of these 7 men (“wait on”) is the verb diakoneo (to be a servant, to wait upon) from which the English noun “deacon” comes. Later Paul communicated additional qualifications for deacons to the church at Ephesus. Read 1 Timothy 3:8-13. What kind of men does Jesus want serving in leadership in His church?
Scriptural Insight: In previous times, the laying on of hands was used in many ways, including commissioning a person for a new responsibility. In New Testament times, laying on of hands was observed in healing (Acts 28:8), blessing (Mk 10:16), ordaining or commissioning (Acts 6:6; 13:3; 1 Timothy 5:22), and imparting of spiritual gifts (Acts 8:17; 19:6; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6). (NIV Study Bible, p. 1654)
11. How was God working in the new church through their wise handling of this potentially divisive situation? Why do you think so many priests responded?
12. Share Your Life: Maintaining focus on what is important to do and learning to delegate responsibility are not easy. If you serve in a leadership capacity (home, church, work, community), how are you at maintaining focus on doing what’s the important thing to do each day? How well do you delegate responsibility to others that is not necessary for you to do personally?
13. Discovering the Facts: List the events described here in order of occurrence, making note of the various people involved.
Historical Insight: The Jews living outside of Israel turned their religious focus from the Temple, having learned to live in their home countries without the Temple’s presence and relying on the synagogue meetings and the three annual pilgrimages to Jerusalem to fulfill their religious needs. They concentrated on the law rather than nationhood, on personal piety rather than sacramental rectitude, and on prayer as an acceptable replacement for the sacrifices denied to them. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1433)
14. Describe Stephen from the text (also v. 5) and the work God is doing through him.
15. What controversy did Stephen face in vv. 12-14? Read John 2:18-22; 7:22-23 and any other cross-references to see what teachings of Jesus that these Jews have misunderstood.
16. During the accusations, the members of the Sanhedrin glared at Stephen. What did they see? Remember he has just been accused of being disloyal to Moses. See also Acts 6:15, Exodus 34:29-35, and Luke 9:28-29.
Deeper Discoveries: What similarities do you find between the arrest, trial, and death of Stephen and that of Jesus? Give specific verses.
Deeper Discoveries: If you are unfamiliar with Old Testament history, Stephen reviewed the history of Israel in his defense (7:2-47), giving us a bird’s eye view of the Old Testament. Read these verses and note significant details Stephen gives to illustrate God’s progressive revelation and dealings with the Jewish people.
17. In the last part of his appeal, Stephen addresses the accusation made against him by discussing the place of the Temple in God’s plans. The Jews idolized the Temple as the very means of God’s saving presence among His people. What does Stephen say in 7:48-50 that explodes their view? Where does God live?
Think About It: If God changed so many things in Israel’s history, who is to say that the Law and the Temple were permanent? The Jewish leaders missed Jesus because they were unable to see God working. See 1 Corinthians 2:6-10.
18. Share Your Life: Do you tend to limit God to a building? If so, why? Do you tend to idolize anything the way the Jews idolized the temple? Discuss.
19. In verse 51, Stephen switches from “our fathers” (identifying with them as Jews) to “your fathers” (separating himself from those who had not accepted Jesus as Messiah). Now, what is Stephen’s charge against his accusers? To understand what this means, see also Philippians 3:3 & Romans 2:28-29.
Scriptural Insight: What does “uncircumcised in heart & ears” mean? Though physically circumcised, they were acting like the uncircumcised pagan nations around them in rejecting the very God who offers them life. Their hearts were not truly consecrated to the Lord. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1657)
20. How do the Jewish accusers respond to the message of the Holy Spirit given through Stephen? What grace did the Holy Spirit give Stephen at that moment?
From the Greek: “Witness” translates the Greek word marturia (bearing witness or testimony) from which comes our English word “martyr” — one who bears “witness” by his death.
21. Who is standing by to watch an innocent man die (Stephen’s execution, 8:1)? What does Paul’s presence signify?
Historical Insight: The Apostles may have been treated less harshly than Stephen because of prejudice against the Grecian Jews who devalued the emphasis on the Temple as the center of Jewish worship and sacrifices.
Think About It: At the beginning of this lesson, God miraculously delivered all of the Apostles from this same Sanhedrin that executed Stephen. Yet, He chose not to deliver Stephen. God is sovereign.
22. What clue is given in 7:60 about a believer’s death? See also 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14.
23. Throughout this passage, we see Stephen possessing a supernatural calmness even in this life-threatening situation, all the while modeling spiritual maturity and wisdom. Who enables him to do this? See v. 55 and Hebrews 12:1-3.
24. Share Your Life: This same source is available to you in difficult circumstances. In what one aspect of your life do you desire to calmly reflect more maturity and wisdom? Spend some time this week asking God specifically to work on this in you, finding scriptural promises that you can claim. Trust Him to do what He has promised. Ask someone else to join you in prayer about this.
Deeper Discoveries: Crown is derived from the name Stephen (Greek, Stephanos). Research the background of the word “crown” in a good dictionary. Do a concordance study of the use of the word “crown” in the New Testament. Relate it to this event as well as to other Bible characters. Make some conclusions about its meaning to Christians.
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 8:1-40)
A.D. 33-35
Stephen’s execution created an even more hostile environment in Jerusalem against the church. Nurtured in the protection of the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem for several years, the church has now matured enough to burst forth to other lands, still in the protection and guidance of the Spirit. Believers are scattered, and rather than being intimidated and hushed up, they share the gospel message wherever they go—back to familiar homelands or to places unknown—faithful believers responding to the Holy Spirit’s guiding. When the Holy Spirit says, “Time to go!” we should respond by being both available and flexible.
You may have heard the phrase, “Bloom where you are planted.” For a believer, a more appropriate version would be, “Bloom where you are transplanted.” Women like to put down roots wherever they are and prefer not to move if given a choice. And, God may choose to leave you there. Or, He may choose to “transplant” you, possibly more than once. Faithful believers should consider themselves available to the Holy Spirit’s leading in their lives to go wherever, whenever, and be flexible enough to wait on His leading once there. When the Holy Spirit says, “Time to go!” the response should be to go on the adventure with Him, having no idea where you are heading and who will be there. Scary? You bet. But, we can trust our trustworthy God to strengthen us for the journey.
Read Acts 8:1-40 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it selectively—looking for important information. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
25. Discovering the Facts: Acts 7:58-8:3 have the first mention of Saul (Greek name, Paul). List the information you are given about Saul in these verses and the methods he used. See also Acts 22:3-5; 26:4-11 and Philippians 3:4-6.
Deeper Discoveries: Research the background of the Pharisees in your study notes, concordance, Bible dictionary, etc. From what you learn about the Pharisees, why do you think the Pharisee Saul (Paul) hated the Christians so much?
26. What was happening to the church? How did this affect the composition of the Jerusalem church? Why do you think the Apostles stayed in Jerusalem, and why do you think the Jewish leaders allowed them to remain there?
Think About It: Someone once said this section describes the “Christian’s Second Law of Thermodynamics” — the greater the heat, the great the expansion. How does that phrase fit what is happening?
Now Luke records the way God used another deacon, Philip, as an example of what He was doing all over Judea and Samaria through His “scattered” servants. The word “scattered” in Greek is used to refer to sowing seeds.
27. Who was Philip (see 6:5)? What was his message, and how did God authenticate it?
Historical Insight: Philip was a Grecian Jew and, therefore, more broadminded than Aramaic-speaking Jews in Israel (cf. 6:1). He went to the Samaritans who also had a more Hellenistic mindset. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 372)
Deeper Discoveries: Who were the Samaritans in relationship to the Jews? Were they expecting a Messiah? Use a Bible dictionary, commentary, and/or internet search to get the information.
28. Jesus spent time with the Samaritans early in His ministry. Read John 4:39-42. (This occurred right after His encounter with the woman at the well.) How did they respond to Jesus? How do they respond this time to Philip’s ministry?
29. Share Your Life: Joy is evident throughout Acts, seen in 13 places (2:46-47; 5:41; 8:8, 39; 11:23; 12:14; 13:48, 52; 14:17; 15:3, 31; 16:34; 21:17). Joy is a deep, inner gladness—an attribute of God given to us by the Holy Spirit (John 15:11; Galatians 5:22). Describe someone you know whose life is characterized by the joy of the Lord. Is the joy of the Lord evident in your life? It can be. Ask Jesus today to give you His joy. Pray for those in your group to experience His joy as well.
30. When news of the faith of the Samaritans reached Jerusalem, what happened? Why do you think it was important for the Apostles to demonstrate officially that these “half-breed” Samaritans were true participants in the church? Why wasn’t Philip’s confirmation enough in this situation?
31. Since the “door” was now open to the Samaritans, what else did Peter and John do while in Samaria (v. 25)? Considering their historical prejudices against them, why the change?
32. Discovering the Facts: Briefly list the facts given about Simon in this passage. Describe him and his activities before Philip’s arrival. What did he think of himself? What did the people call him?
Scriptural Insight: Scholars differ as to whether Simon was actually a believer. Although he professed faith, it may have only been head knowledge much like the profession of the demons in Luke 4:34. This view is substantiated by Romans 10:9 which requires that a Christian “believe in your heart” and Acts 8:21 which reveals that Simon’s heart was not right before God. (Sue Edwards, Acts of the Holy Spirit, p. 21)
The adverb “perhaps” does not mean that God is reluctant to forgive sin. The question was whether Simon would repent of his heart’s intention. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 374)
33. What was Simon’s response to the gospel? How did Peter confront him?
34. Based upon what Simon wanted to do, could he have really understood the “good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ?” Did he understand grace? Explain.
35. Discovering the Facts: In the midst of a very successful ministry, how did the Holy Spirit direct Philip (vv. 26-30)? What was Philip’s response?
36. Share Your Life: Faithful believers are available to the Holy Spirit’s leading in their lives. Philip had no idea where he was heading and who would be there. But, he followed instructions given him. When was the last time you responded to the Holy Spirit prompting you to be in a relationship with someone so you could share the gospel when opportunity arose? Was it hard to wait? Describe the experience.
37. Why was the Ethiopian eunuch in Israel? What was he reading? (Be specific.) What does this tell you about him?
Historical Insight: A eunuch is a man who has been castrated, especially one employed to guard the female living quarters in an oriental court.
38. Philip used what the Ethiopian already knew and expanded on that. Since he preached Jesus from the Old Testament, look up these other references and relate what they tell of Christ — Psalms 22:1, 11-18; Zechariah 9:9; and Micah 5:2.
39. Share Your Life: Philip was both available and flexible. He knew his message well enough to be able to start anywhere and lead to Jesus. We can also do that through the power of the Holy Spirit and His illumination of the scriptures in our minds as we study. If you found someone reading Isaiah 53 (or any other passage—pick one!), wanting to know more, how would you tell her about Jesus from there? Ask God to give you an opportunity, and be ready!
40. Once again, the Spirit directed Philip to a new place (vv.39-40). What did he do there? Does this surprise you? Why or why not?
Historical Insight: Philip reached Caesarea. There he seems to have settled down—at least, it is there that we find him when he makes his next appearance in the narrative, twenty years later (21:8). By that time he had become a family man, with four daughters, each one a prophetess—worthy children of such a father. (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 179)
41. Share Your Life: Has the Lord moved you to a new place (or places)? How did you respond to the move(s)? What lesson can we learn from Philip’s faithfulness?
42. In Acts 1:8, what does Jesus tell the Apostles to do when they receive the Holy Spirit? Did the persecution mentioned in chapter 8 hinder God’s plan? List at least three observations in this chapter to support your answer.
43. Share Your Life: God used persecution in the first church to fulfill His plan. Where in modern history has the gospel spread in spite of resistance by human authorities? How does this affect your view of persecution and resistance? Are you regularly praying for the persecuted church in specific areas of the world to be empowered by the Spirit to boldly share the gospel and live for Christ? Visit www.persecutedchurch.org for specific prayer needs and consider making this a priority in your prayer life.
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 9:1-43)
A.D. 35
“Martin Luther, the renowned leader of the Protestant Reformation, struggled for years under the guilt of his sin, desperately wanting a relationship with God but never finding it through empty religion. Then…one night, alone at his bedside, he read from the book of Romans these penetrating words from the pen of Paul: ‘the just shall live by faith…’ (Rom. 1:17). And in that moment, a light suddenly shone brightly in the darkness of his heart. The living Savior broke into the chamber of despair and turned on the shining light of His grace.” (Chuck Swindoll, Paul: A Man of Grace and Grit Study Guide, p. 16)
If the definition of radical is “having a profound or far-reaching effect,” then what God did to Paul when He shined His light of grace on him was certainly radical. Not only was Paul’s life changed but also that of the entire world. To many former skeptics, the radical transformation of the murderous, anti-Christian Paul of Tarsus to Jesus’ joyful bondservant is one of the most concrete evidences of the reality of Jesus Christ and His gospel of grace.
The moment Paul accepted that Jesus was who He said He was, placing his faith in Him, a new Paul was born. The Holy Spirit transformed Paul, the enemy of God, to Paul, the forgiven child of God, one of God’s saints, totally loved and accepted by Him. That was Paul’s new identity. That is also the new identity each of us receives the moment we put our faith in Jesus Christ. Off we go on our new adventure with Christ. But, the transformation doesn’t stop there. The Holy Spirit takes all those character traits and advantages God has already given us and changes them or redirects them to serve a new purpose—becoming more like Jesus Christ as we follow Him. No miracle is greater than a life radically transformed through Jesus Christ! The Holy Spirit is certainly a radical blessing.
Read Acts 9:1-43 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it prayerfully—the Holy Spirit has promised to help us understand it. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
1. Discovering the Facts:
§ Why was Saul going to Damascus?
§ What did he see on the way?
§ In 9:4, Saul heard whose voice?
§ What question was Saul asked and to what was it referring?
§ What instructions were given to Saul?
§ What did his companions witness?
§ What happened next?
Now, read Acts 22:6-11 and 26:12-16 (Paul’s telling his own story). What additional facts do you glean from these verses?
Historical Insight: Paul’s targeting of Damascus (~150 miles from Jerusalem) shows Christianity had spread rapidly. Though not under the direct control of Jerusalem, at that time Damascus may have been under the Nabatean king, Aretas IV. In order to gain favor with the anti-Roman Jews, Aretas, who hated the Romans, would have conceded this favor to the high priest. This same king tries to capture the transformed Paul just a short time later (Acts 9:23-25; 2 Corinthians 11:32-33). (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 375)
Scholars think this occurred ~5 years after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. Paul was ~30.
Deeper Discoveries: In Acts 26:14, Jesus used a Greek proverbial phrase “kick against the goads” that referred to the goads used to prod oxen or other beasts of burden. To encourage his oxen to pull harder, a farmer would use a pointed rod to prod the hind parts of the beasts. In protest, the animals would often kick against that action. The result would be a painful reminder of who was in charge. John 6:44 and 12:32 remind us that God draws people to Himself in various ways. Looking back over chapters 6-8, in what ways was Jesus drawing Paul to Himself (prodding him) before this day? How did Paul kick against these goads?
2. Why do you think Jesus said, “Why do you persecute me?” instead of “Why do you persecute the believers?” See also Matthew 25:34-40.
3. What does Jesus tell Ananias that Saul is doing while waiting (v. 11)? Does this surprise you? Why or why not?
Scriptural Insight: Waiting on the Lord is an old and deep idea. Read Psalm 27:14 and Isaiah 40:30-31. Jesus gave His disciples the command to “wait” in Acts 1:4. The disciples spent that “wait” time actively meeting and praying together.
4. Share Your Life: The Lord allows Paul to wait for three days before giving him any further information. Paul spends that time fasting and praying, with an obviously submitted heart. Sometimes the Lord interrupts our lives to force us to wait. Are you waiting on the Lord for something now? Are you continually submitting your heart to Jesus in prayer concerning that issue? Share if you feel comfortable with your group and ask them to pray for you in the “waiting” time.
5. What was Ananias’s initial response to the Lord’s request? How did Jesus reassure him? Then, what did Ananias do? See Acts 22:12 for additional insight into Ananias’s character.
6. Share Your Life: Put yourself in Ananias’s place. How would you have felt on your way to Judas’s house? Has Jesus ever asked you to do something really hard or scary? Maybe something that just didn’t fit with the plans you had for your life? How did He reassure you that it would be okay if you followed Him?
7. What do you think might have been the purpose for Paul’s blindness for three days? What may have been God’s purpose(s) in using Ananias to restore Paul’s sight?
Think About It: “Saul could not escape God’s gracious pursuit. Ultimately, on a dusty thoroughfare north of Jerusalem, the Lord caught him, blinded him, and conquered his heart…The once self-avowed avenger of Judaism changed his course and humbly submitted to the Captain of his soul.” (Chuck Swindoll, Paul, a Man of Grace and Grit study guide, pp. 15-16)
What irony! The Hebrew of Hebrews would spend the rest of his life living among Gentiles and loving them!
8. State Paul’s mission given in this passage and in Acts 22:14-16; 26:16-18. What evidence do you see of God’s sovereignty in it? See also Romans 11:13, Galatians 2:2-8; and Ephesians 3:8.
Deeper Discoveries: Research the city of Tarsus: economy, commerce, religion, education, and geographical location. What were the advantages of growing up there? The disadvantages? How did Paul’s life in Tarsus prepare him for the task to which Jesus called him?
9. Share Your Life: Paul received many advantages that set him apart from birth (Galatians 1:15) for the task to which Jesus called Him. What advantages have you received from God by your birth and rearing? What disadvantages? Nothing in Paul’s life would be wasted unless he refused to let God use it. Nothing in your life would be a waste unless you refuse to let God use it. Have you thanked Him for what you received from Him that sets you apart? Have you offered that to Him for His service?
Scriptural Insight: In Philippians 3:5, Paul calls himself a “Hebrew of Hebrews”, meaning that although living in a Greek culture, he was raised as a Hebraic Jew—attending Hebrew school at the Hebrew synagogue. Acts 23:16 reveals that Paul had at least one sister — a definite advantage!
10. Based on 1 Corinthians 9:1, how does Paul’s experience on the road to Damascus authenticate his apostleship? See also Acts 1:21-22, 1 Corinthians 15:8, and Galatians 1:11-17.
11. In a letter to Timothy, Paul gives his perspective on his life before knowing Jesus. Read 1 Timothy 1:12-16. What is Paul’s conclusion?
Think About It: Charles Wesley captured this in his hymn And Can It Be: “Long my imprisoned spirit lay fast bound in sin and nature’s night…I woke—the dungeon flamed with light! My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.” Paul was set free from his ignorance and his sinful, murderous ways. His life is new, never to be the same! Scholar and historian F. F. Bruce calls Paul “the apostle of the heart set free.” What an appropriate description!
12. Share Your Life: Paul considered himself a trophy of God’s absolutely amazing grace to an undeserving sinner. Do you consider yourself a display of Jesus’ unlimited patience and abundantly poured out grace? Do you recognize the transformation in your life and in other believers around you? Now, read 1 Timothy 1:17 and repeat those words back to Jesus in praise.
Deeper Discoveries: Read the following scriptures and summarize what happens when a person believes Jesus Christ is who He claimed to be. How does knowing this affect your life today?
· Romans 5:1, 10; 6:18; 8:1, 17
· 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:11; 12:13
· 2 Corinthians 5:17
· Ephesians 1:5, 13
· Colossians 1:13, 22; 2:13
13. What has immediately changed in Paul (v. 20-22)? How does this demonstrate the radical transforming power of the Holy Spirit? See also John 14:26 and 16:13.
Think About It: “A radical faith is choosing to step out to fulfill God’s clearly defined will at great personal risk and sacrifice. If there is not risk, there is no faith.” (Chip Ingram)
14. Share Your Life: When you compare Paul’s mindset in Acts 9:1-2 with 9:20-22, Paul’s perspective has certainly changed! Has Christ ever radically changed your perspective on anything? If so, what was changed, and what/who did He use in your life to do so?
15. Many scholars believe there is a three-year gap between Acts 9:22 and 9:23. Read Galatians 1:11-24 and 2 Corinthians 11:23-27. Paul’s reception in Jerusalem differs markedly from his previous experiences there. What was told about Paul in Acts 9:16? How is this being fulfilled in vv. 23-30?
16. Notice who came to Paul’s defense. Remember that the Apostles had called Barnabas “Son of Encouragement” as they recognized his spiritual gift (Acts 4:36). How did the Holy Spirit use this gifted believer to benefit Paul at this time?
17. Share Your Life: Who has been the greatest encourager in your life? What difference has that gift made? Have you thanked him/her? Share with the group what part this person has played in your life.
18. Read Acts 22:17-21. Who else encouraged Paul during this time? What instructions did He give to Paul? After Paul left for Tarsus, what did the Holy Spirit continue to do for the church?
Scriptural Insight: There are other recorded New Testament instances of the resurrected Jesus appearing to Paul (Acts 9:5; 18:9-10; 22:17-18; 23:11, and possibly 2 Corinthians 12:1-10).
19. Discovering the Facts: Peter is continuing his tour of Samaritan and Judean towns (8:25; 9:32). Now he is in Lydda, a small town twelve miles from Joppa, a seaport on the Mediterranean. How is Dorcas described?
20. How did God show his power through Peter in this passage? What were the results?
21. A tanner was involved in treating the skins of dead animals, thus contacting something unclean according to Jewish law (Leviticus 11:24). So many despised the profession. What does Peter’s staying with Simon demonstrate about the Holy Spirit’s radical transformation of Peter? How might this prepare him for accepting fellowship with Gentile Christians in the future?
22. Share Your Life: We are told in 2 Corinthians 5:17 that the moment we trust in Jesus Christ as who He claimed to be, Jesus begins a radical transformation in us. The Holy Spirit comes to live in us permanently to enable that transformation. What radical changes has the Holy Spirit made in your life? Write a prayer of thanksgiving to Jesus for the work He has done in your life, and share this with your group.
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 10:1-12:25)
A.D. 38-44
Do you like surprises? Especially those that are totally unexpected? Obsessed with his anti-Christian crusade, Saul never expected Jesus’ appearance to him on the Damascus road. Ananias was surprised by the commission to lay hands on a sightless Saul, welcoming him into the community of believers. The radical change in Saul of Tarsus was certainly unexpected by those who had heard of him or had experienced his tirade against Christians. Our God likes surprises. And, He does the unexpected as well as the expected in our lives.
The range of the gospel message has been steadily broadened. Already it crossed the barrier that separated Jews from Samaritans, surprising the Jerusalem church. Now, it crosses a much greater chasm between Jews and Gentiles. God Himself initiates the event as He surprises Peter and Cornelius with visions leading the way to an even bigger surprise—the complete inclusion of Gentile believers into the church by faith alone. As Peter declared to the incredulous apostles, “Who was I to think that I could oppose God (11:17)?” The God of the unexpected works through our weaknesses, leads us to appreciate someone we previously disliked or distrusted, and surprises us with gifts from unexpected sources. What a joy it is to serve Him!
Read Acts 10:1-12:25 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it telescopically—in light of the whole. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
1. Discovering the Facts: What information is given about Cornelius?
Historical Insight: Caesarea, located 30 miles north of Joppa, was the provincial headquarters for the Roman forces of occupation. A centurion commanded a military unit that normally numbered at least 100 men. Centurions were carefully selected; all of them mentioned in the New Testament appear to have had noble qualities and provided necessary stability to the entire Roman system. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1662)
2. What was Cornelius doing when the angel appeared to him? What had God noticed about Cornelius? How did he respond? See also vv. 30-33.
3. Discuss the vision given to Peter, Peter’s initial response, and what he heard the voice speak?
Scriptural Insight: Fell into a trance. A state of mind God produced and used to communicate with Peter. It was not merely imagination or a dream. Peter’s consciousness was heightened to receive the vision from God. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1663)
4. Read Hebrews 11:6 and Romans 1:17. Relate these verses to what is declared in Acts 10:15, 34-35.
Deeper Discoveries: Read Leviticus 11 for information regarding the law concerning unclean animals. Considering Peter’s refusal to eat them, what animals might have been on the sheet?
5. Share Your Life: Twice before, Jesus used “3 times” to teach or exhort Peter (John 13:38; John 21:15-17). Knowing He understood Peter’s weaknesses and learning style, relate this to the fact that Jesus can use for His service those who are slow learners, impulsive people, experiential learners as well as the ones who obey easily and without hesitation whatever they read or are told. What does this mean to you?
6. What instruction did the Spirit give to Peter in v. 19? So, who directed the angel’s appearance to Cornelius? What does v. 23 reveal regarding Peter’s understanding of the message of the vision? See also vv. 28-29.
7. What did Cornelius do in anticipation of Peter’s visit? Why?
8. Compare Peter’s message to the Gentiles (vv. 36-43) with what he has delivered to Jewish audiences. What is the same? What is not included in his invitation to the Gentiles (v. 43)? See 2:38-39 for help. Why do you think this is omitted?
9. The God of the unexpected does something to show the Jews that He not only accepts the Gentiles by faith in Christ but also includes them in His Church. What is it? Why was it necessary to have Jewish witnesses of this (Peter plus 6 companions, 11:12)?
Scriptural Insight: In Matthew 16:18-19, Jesus declared that Peter would be given significant authority (“keys”) to build Christ’s church. Three times he was present as the Holy Spirit was given to the three possible groups of people who could be accepted into Christ’s church (Jews in 2:1-41, Samaritans in 8:14-17, and the Gentiles in 10:44-46). In a sense, the “keys” opened three doors.
10. Share Your Life: What has God done that has been unexpected in your life?
11. Discovering the Facts: In 11:1-18, how did the Jewish believers initially respond to God’s inclusion of the Gentiles? What revelation is given to them from the Holy Spirit through Peter (vv. 9, 14)? What was Peter’s conclusion? How did they respond?
Think About It: The news of Peter’s revolutionary behavior, in entering a Gentile house at Caesarea, reached Jerusalem before he himself did. (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 219)
12. Share Your Life: Have you felt distrust or prejudice against someone you only knew from a distance but then got to know personally? Perhaps you expected to dislike them but unexpectedly learned to not only like them but also to appreciate them and rejoice over knowing them? What changed your mind?
13. Read 11:17 again. Who initiated and directed the contact between Peter and the Gentiles? Who demonstrated His complete acceptance of the Gentiles in front of Jewish witnesses?
Scriptural Insight: The Jewish believers were compelled to recognize that God was going to save Gentiles on equal terms with Jews. By divine action rather than by human choice, the door was being opened to Gentiles. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1666)
14. For more than 5 years, the Gentiles have not been hearing the gospel message. Now, the door is wide open for them, by God Himself. What happens in vv. 20-21?
15. Remember Barnabas (Acts 4:36-37; 9:27)? Considering his ethnic background, character and spiritual gifts, why would he be a good choice for the Jerusalem church leaders to send to pastor these new believers in the first mainly Gentile church?
16. Share Your Life: Relate any experiences you have had with helping new Christians grow in their relationship with Jesus. What qualities are needed to help someone along in her new faith? Did someone disciple you as a new believer? If you can, share a “Barnabas” experience.
Scriptural Insight: Possibly while he was in Tarsus, some of the sufferings described in 2 Corinthians 11:23-27 and the mysterious experience described in 2 Corinthians 12:2-9 occurred. Based on Acts 15:41 and 22:17-21, some think Saul was already ministering to Gentiles when Barnabas brought him to Antioch. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 383)
17. Barnabas sought out Paul to help him with this ministry. For about 5 years, Paul had been in Tarsus, faithfully teaching there. What qualities did Paul bring to the ministry that made him a good match for the mission? How do they complement each other?
From the Greek: The title “Christian” literally means those “belonging to the party of Christ” and is used only three times in Scripture (Acts 11:26; 26:28 and I Peter 4:16). They were now recognized as a distinct group.
18. What was the response of the Christians at Antioch when they heard the prophecy of the famine? See Romans 15:27. What did their actions demonstrate about the work of the Spirit in their hearts?
Think About It: As the Jerusalem church had ministered to the church in Antioch by providing leadership and teaching, the Antioch church now was able to minister to the Jerusalem church with financial aid (cf. Gal. 6:6). (Dr. Constable’s Notes on Acts, p. 167)
19. Share Your Life: The Jews received an unexpected gift of love (money) from an unexpected source (the Gentiles). Have you ever received an unexpected gift from an unexpected source?
20. Discovering the Facts: James’s death happened about 13 years after Jesus’ death and resurrection. List the events surrounding Peter’s arrest and involved in his deliverance (vv. 3-11).
Historical Insight: Herod Agrippa I, nephew of the king who tried Jesus, was partly Jewish and known for doing everything possible to curry the favor of the Jews, so he found it politically expedient to arrest Christians, including Peter, and to execute James. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 384)
21. What was the church doing while Peter was in prison? Then, why do you think they were astonished in vv. 15-16? In light of what happened to James, what was unexpected?
Scriptural Insight: Mary was Barnabas’s aunt (Colossians 4:10). Her home was possibly the location for the Last Supper (Mark 14:13-15).
22. Share Your Life: As you pray, do you prepare your heart for the unexpected as well as what you expect? What steps can you take to do this?
Deeper Discoveries: God is omnipotent. Define this word. Look up the following verses and tell what God can do that is humanly impossible: Genesis 18:10-14; 21:1-2; John 6:8-13, 15-21; 11:38-44. How does knowing this encourage you?
23. What was Herod not expecting that day?
Historical Insight: This occurred in A.D. 44. This account parallels that given by Josephus in his Antiquities of the Jews. Though this Herod is dead, three of his children figure prominently later in Acts. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 385)
24. Read Romans 12:19. In the midst of persecution, what should be left to God alone?
Deeper Discoveries: Read Psalm 73 which describes the emotions of a godly man looking at wicked men who seem to get away with their wickedness and prosper while doing so. Of what do we need to remind ourselves?
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 13:1-14:28)
First Missionary Journey A.D. 46-48
The God of the unexpected not only surprised the mostly-Jewish church with His addition of Gentiles to it, but He also caused an explosive spread of His gospel message among those same Gentiles. His Spirit poured forth in Antioch, growing that church to be a strong and solid landmark in the Gentile world. Then, out of that effective ministry, the Spirit appointed some to go and some to stay. And, that brought change.
Change can be a gift and an opportunity for us to walk into those good works God has appointed for us to do. We may have opportunity to serve the Lord in ways totally unknown to us before. Such is the experience of Paul and Barnabas as they head out on their first mission trip, appointed by the Holy Spirit to do the work of God along the way.
Read Acts 13:1-14:28 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it personally—applying it to your life today. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
Follow Paul’s first missionary journey with this map.
24. Discovering the Facts: Barnabas and Paul had been a part of the congregation in Antioch for over a year. They were enjoying success there and may have been expecting to remain for some time.
§ Who interrupted their ministry in Antioch and appointed them to a new assignment?
§ What was it?
§ Who also went along (v. 5)?
§ Where did the Spirit send them first? Who was already familiar with that place?
From the Greek: The Spirit “set apart” Barnabas and Saul and appointed them to specific work. Read John 15:16 and 1 Timothy 1:12; 2:7. The Greek word for “appointed” (tithemi, “to put”) is used of “appointment” to any form of service. Jesus appoints His disciples to do His work.
25. Deeper Discoveries: Change can be a gift and an opportunity to walk into those good works God has appointed for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). Consider the changes the Lord has brought into your life. Has God transplanted you from a place of comfort to a new place where you were appointed to serve Him? How did you respond? In what ways have those changes provided opportunities for you to serve the Lord in ways you were unaware of before?
26. Where did Paul and Barnabas generally go first to proclaim Christ? (13:5, 14; 14:1) What would have been some advantages of starting there? See also Acts 13:16, 46, and Romans 1:16.
Historical Insight: Dispersed Israel, along with Gentiles who worshipped God, met in their communities on the Sabbath for worship, reading of the Scriptures, and prayer. Established custom allowed visiting teachers to participate in the worship service by invitation of the synagogue leaders. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1494)
27. Contrast Elymas and Sergius Paulus in their heart attitudes and response to the gospel. [Note: Sorcery is exercising power by the help and control of demons. You will meet Jewish sorcerers again in Acts 19.]
Historical Insight: Paul had several names including “Saul” his Hebrew given name and “Paul” his Roman name (1 of 3 he would have been given). When he began traveling through Gentile territory, he was known by his Roman name.
Deeper Discoveries: Using a Bible Dictionary, study notes, or an internet search, discover this area of ancient Asia Minor as Paul knew it. What was the geography like? What was life like there?
28. In Paul’s first recorded sermon in Acts, he preaches to an audience grounded in the Old Testament and presents Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament expectations of the Messiah. What expectations were fulfilled?
29. What concept, new to the Jews, does Paul introduce in v. 39?
Scriptural Insight: Acts 13:39 gives the thesis of Paul’s letter to the Galatians, written shortly after this journey ended.
Deeper Discoveries: Read Romans 3:21-30 for a further explanation of what Paul means in Acts 13:39. Summarize what you learn.
30. In what ways did the “jealous” Jews try to prevent the Holy Spirit’s work in their region? How were “God-fearing” women influenced to join the cause? Were the Jews’ efforts successful? Explain.
Historical Insight: Well-to-do women in many cities of the Roman world were attracted to the Jewish religion and thus found among the God-fearing Gentiles who frequented the synagogue (Acts 17:4, 12). (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 268)
31. Share Your Life: How do you determine the worthiness of the causes that engage your mind, energy, and finances? What steps do you take to protect yourself from being influenced in a manner that does not strengthen the cause of Christ?
32. Read and ponder Paul’s statement in v. 46. Have you ever considered someone’s rejection of the gospel to be that they did not consider themselves worthy of eternal life?
33. Paul and Barnabas get “kicked out” of the region. What is so radical about v. 52? Explain.
Scriptural Insight: Paul and Barnabas paid a return visit to this body of believers a few months later (14:21).
34. Share Your Life: Have you ever had an experience that would be similar to being “kicked out?” How did you feel? What did you do in response? How did those around you take it?
Deeper Discoveries: “All who were appointed for eternal life believed” (v. 48, NIV). The words “were appointed” come from the verb tasso, a military word meaning “to place in order, arrange.” Research other uses of this term in Acts 15:2; 22:10; 28:23, Romans 13:1, and 1 Corinthians 16:15. Discuss what you learn.
35. Discovering the Facts: List the order of events as they occurred.
36. What do you think made Paul and Barnabas able to speak so boldly in the face of persecution in light of what had just happened 90 miles away in Psidian Antioch?
Focus on the Meaning: The word “apostle” means “those sent with authority as representatives of another.” Barnabas and Paul are both called apostles since they had been sent as authoritative representatives of the Antioch church. The office of Apostle (the Twelve) is different from the work of an “apostle.” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 391)
37. What did God do to confirm the message of His grace? See also Galatians 3:5.
38. Discovering the Facts: What unexpected thing happened after the healing of the lame man?
39. How did Paul and Barnabas deal with this surprising situation? Contrast their response to that of Herod in chapter 12.
Scriptural Insight: Tearing of clothes was a Jewish way of expressing great anguish. Usually rips were made four or five inches into the neckline of the garment.
40. Paul and Barnabas are not preaching to a synagogue audience here but to a crowd of superstitious people. What is their message (vv. 15-17)? See also Romans 1:19-20. How does God show kindness to unbelievers? What kind of response from them does He desire?
41. Share Your Life: The crowd was easily swayed from one viewpoint to another, both equally wrong. What kind of influence do crowds have over you, OR what kind of influence do you have in a crowd? Share with your group any scriptures that help to keep you from being wrongly influenced.
42. Paul is stoned and left for dead (see 2 Corinthians 11:25; Galatians 6:17)!!! Then, he gets up and goes back into the city. What did you think when you read that? Why and how do you think he could do that? See also Acts 14:21-22.
Think About It: The Lystrans were probably offended by the missionaries’ refusal to accept divine honors from them: they had been made to look foolish, and felt resentful. Paul, acclaimed as the messenger of the immortals, was the chief target for the violent assault that followed. (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 279)
43. How did Barnabas and Paul encourage the churches they had planted so they would continue? Who was “appointed” this time? How?
Scriptural Insight: These elders were not novices in the faith (1 Timothy 3:6); they were probably Jews who came out of the synagogues where they had been steeped in the Scriptures. Thus elders from the synagogues became elders in the churches. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 392)
44. Share Your Life: How important is organization to the function of a healthy church? What are the benefits of having mature leadership as new believers are added to a church?
45. Where does their journey end about 18 months after it began? What took place there? Despite all the opposition and hardships, what was the heart of the mission report?
Scriptural Insight: It is thought that Paul wrote the Book of Galatians shortly after this first missionary journey and before the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15).
46. Share Your Life: What have you learned from Paul’s first missionary journey that could help you serve God faithfully wherever He has appointed you to live and go?
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 15:1-41)
A.D. 49
Change is hard. Traditions beckon, bringing security, comfort, and resistance to anything that might threaten “the way things have always been.” And so it was for some Jewish believers who became followers of Christ. They were struggling. What constitutes salvation and therefore righteousness before God? Faith in Jesus Christ alone, or faith in Jesus Christ plus submission to Jewish laws and traditions? This raging debate threatened to tear the fledgling Christian church apart as Jewish believers sharply disagreed with each other about the Gentiles. And so the church acted, sending Paul and Barnabas to testify to the elders in Jerusalem and asking them to settle this foundational issue.
The modern day church still struggles with doctrinal differences and disagreements. Are there additions to the gospel that a new believer might encounter in your church? Consider the simple, wonderful, declaration of Scripture—that salvation is by faith alone in Jesus Christ, a free gift of His marvelous grace. What can you do to spread the message?
Read Acts 15:1-41 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it freshly—as for the first time (try using different translations). Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
1. Discovering the Facts: What was the problem? Why was it a problem? Who were the instigators (see also v. 5)?
Scriptural Insight: For many of the Jerusalem believers, the church was the righteous remnant of Judaism, embodying the ancestral hope which all Israel ought to have welcomed, preparing itself for the impending day of the Lord: to countenance any relaxation in the terms of the covenant with Abraham, sealed in the flesh by circumcision, would be to forfeit all claim to remnant righteousness, all title to salvation on the last day. (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 287)
This tendency to be zealous for the law was still present 10 years later (Acts 21:20).
2. Share Your Life: The Pharisees were steeped in their tradition, aimed at keeping Judaism pure and “righteous.” Does tradition complicate the Christian church today? Explain with specific examples, if possible. (No names or denominations, please.)
3. How did the church in Antioch choose to resolve this conflict? Why?
4. Describe the journey Paul and the others made to Jerusalem and the kind of welcome they received once there. What did Paul purposely communicate everywhere?
Based on v. 22, the “them” in v. 7 is the Jerusalem church with the apostles and elders as well as those traveling with Paul and Barnabas.
5. What was Peter’s argument against the idea that the Gentiles must keep the Mosaic Law to be saved?
Historical Insight: Peter looked back ~10 years to God’s choice of Cornelius. The issue of whether to accept Gentiles was settled then before Paul and Barnabas went on their first journey.
6. Peter says that requiring Gentiles to be circumcised and obey the Mosaic Law does two things:
§ It is “putting God to the test.” What do you think he means by this? (See also Acts 5:9.)
§ It would “yoke” the disciples unnecessarily. Define the word “yoke” using a dictionary. Can this word be used positively as well as negatively? Explain. See Matthew 11:28-30 and Galatians 5:1. How is it used in Acts 15:10?
Historical Insight: “Taking the yoke” was used to describe Gentile proselytes coming into Judaism. It spoke of obligation. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 393)
7. Read Ephesians 2:8-9. How were the Jews saved? How were the Gentiles saved? How are you saved?
Scriptural Insight: Peter’s statement, “we are saved, just as they are” is amazing. A Jew under the Law would say the opposite and in reverse order, but one who knew God’s grace, as Peter did, would not say that. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 394)
8. Share Your Life: What is so hard about accepting by faith God’s absolutely amazing grace with “no strings attached?” Why do we tend towards adding conditions to salvation and complete acceptance before God? Do you? Why or why not? Write a prayer of thanksgiving in the space below for His amazing gift of grace in Christ and His complete acceptance of you by faith in Him—no strings attached.
Deeper Discoveries: Should the Jews have been surprised that God gave His Spirit to the believing Gentiles? Why or why not? Explain using other scriptures we have already covered.
9. Since the apostle James (John’s brother) was executed several years earlier (12:2), this James (15:13) is Jesus’ half-brother. Read 1 Corinthians 15:7, Acts 1:14, Galatians 1:19, and Acts 12:17; 21:18 for more information about him and his place of authority in the Jerusalem church. [If you have a study Bible or commentary, read the introduction to the book of James.] As head of the church in Jerusalem, what is his message to the assembly in vv. 13-18?
Think About It: “Should not make it difficult” is from the Greek for “to annoy” (to irritate). What would be annoying about having to follow the Mosaic Law as a Gentile Christian?
10. What four guidelines did James recommend to the Gentiles? What reason does he give for these guidelines?
Deeper Discoveries: Research the four guidelines given to Gentile Christians. How would these address traditional practices of Gentiles in cities where Jewish and Gentile Christians were trying to fellowship together? See also 1 Corinthians 8-10 and Romans 14 for practical application of these guidelines in the Gentile churches.
11. What was the decision of the Jerusalem church along with the apostles and elders? In light of Deuteronomy 19:15, discuss this decision and their choice of the men to send.
Scriptural Insight: Judas was a Hebrew name; Silas was Greek and a Roman citizen.
12. What information is given in the letter that would ease the minds of the Antioch church and would also reveal the Jerusalem elders’ regard for the missionary work sponsored by them? Who led them to their decision (v. 28)?
13. What was the response of the mainly Gentile church in Antioch to the guidelines and the Jerusalem church’s official representatives? Contrast this with their reception of the “unofficial” ones in vv. 1-2.
14. Unity of the church (locally and corporately) is an important theme throughout Acts. How is unity of the universal body of Christ preserved and strengthened in this entire passage (15:1-35)?
Think About It: Jim Cymbala, in his book Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire (p. 92), declares the following: “There were no labels (Baptist, Catholic, Pentecostal) at that time—and in God’s view, there still aren’t. He ignores our categories. All He sees when He looks down is the body of Christ, made up of all born-again, blood-washed believers. The only subdivisions He sees are geographical—local churches. Other distinctions are immaterial.” What do you think about that?
15. Share Your Life: Unity in the body of Christ is just as important today. What decisions have you made that help to promote unity in your church rather than foster divisions? If you haven’t made any specific decisions, consider asking the Holy Spirit for guidance about that as well as strength to carry out your decisions as needed.
16. Discovering the Facts: According to the text, what happened between Paul and Barnabas? What did each focus on? Is it clear that either was right or wrong?
From the Greek: “A sharp contention.” The Greek word here paroxysmos (provoking, stirring up, arousing) is used only here and in Hebrews 10:24 where it’s translated “spur” or “stimulate.” (Robertson’s Word Pictures, note on Acts 15:39)
17. Based on what we’ve seen so far in their lives, we can assume both were praying about this upcoming journey, seeking the Holy Spirit’s direction. Is it possible the Holy Spirit was giving each a different answer about Mark? If so, how could they have handled this more agreeably?
18. Based on Barnabas’s giftedness, why was Mark a good choice for Barnabas? Based on the information given about Silas, why was he a good choice for Paul? How was the split used ultimately to further the spread of the gospel and glorify God?
19. Share Your Life: When we get comfortable doing things the usual way, we often don’t imagine life or ministry any differently. How do we handle the Holy Spirit giving different direction to individuals of a ministry team? Does someone always have to be right and another wrong? What can we learn from this lesson? See also Philippians 4:2-3.
Deeper Discoveries: Though neither Barnabas nor Mark is mentioned in the remainder of Acts, Paul refers to both in his letters. Read Galatians 2:11-13, 1 Corinthians 9:6, Colossians 4:10, Philemon 24, and 2 Timothy 4:11. What do we learn of Paul’s regard for Barnabas and John Mark later on? Can you draw any personal applications from their experience?
Scriptural Insight: Mark evidently returned from his work with Barnabas and became associated with Peter (see 1 Peter 5:13). Scholars consider the gospel of Mark to be drawn from Peter’s sermons.
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 16:1-40)
Second Missionary Journey A.D. 50-52
Paul was a man with a plan. After revisiting the churches established in his first missionary journey he would head into the province of Asia (Asia Minor), then into Bithynia. But Paul discerned that the Holy Spirit had clearly closed these two doors and was, instead, sending him westward across the Aegean to Greece. Paul was willing to lay aside his will, as Jesus had done for the Father (Luke 22:42), and be guided by the Spirit.
The Holy Spirit continued to lead Paul and Silas on quite a journey to encourage the early church and to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. However, even in the midst of God performing amazing miracles through them, they encountered brutal resistance to the gospel message. Yet God worked through their suffering, drawing people to Himself and changing lives forever. Paul and Silas, empowered by the Holy Spirit, carried out their mission in amazing ways as churches were “strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily” (Acts 16:5).
Through the Holy Spirit we can know peace and joy even in the toughest of circumstances. If you will allow Him, God will continually present you with open doors for ministry in your sphere of influence regardless of your circumstances. Will you choose to journey with Him, like Paul and Silas did?
“Discernment is a discipline, and like other disciplines such as prayer and reading the Bible, it is one that all Christians should seek to practice and should seek to practice deliberately.” (Tim Challies, The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment, p. 15)
Read Acts 16:1-40 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it thoughtfully—as a love letter. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
Follow Paul’s second missionary journey with this map.
1. Describe Timothy. What was the reasoning behind his circumcision? How does this not contradict the message in Acts 15? Was this a wise move? Explain. See also 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 and Galatians 2:3 (for a different situation).
Deeper Discoveries: Timothy was probably in his late teens. Other teens such as David, Daniel, and Joseph served the Lord mightily in the Old Testament. What qualities of teens do you think make them particularly useful to God’s work? How can this knowledge help you in dealing with the Christian youth of today? See the advice given by Paul to Timothy as a young pastor 13 years later in 1 Timothy 4:12-16.
2. What message did the three proclaim in the churches of Derbe, Lystra, and Iconium?
Think About It: Two to three years earlier, Paul had been badly mistreated in this area, even stoned in Lystra. Yet, he returns. What gave him the courage to return? Would you have had the courage to return?
3. Discovering the Facts: What role did the Holy Spirit play in directing Paul’s ministry to Troas?
Scriptural insight: These hindrances may have been circumstances, a word of prophecy, a vision, or some other phenomenon. God planned for people in both Ephesus and Bithynia to hear the gospel later (18:19-19:41; 1 Peter The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 398)
4. Share Your Life: Have there been times when God has intervened in your life to prevent you from going somewhere you wanted to go or doing something you thought you should do? What were the issues? What was your response? What were the results?
5. Share Your Life: God literally called Paul to a specific ministry in a specific place through a vision. You may have heard missionaries tell their story about God’s calling for them to go somewhere specifically in the world. God is still calling Christians to missionary service in His name, but sometimes it’s difficult to hear His voice amid the clamor of other “voices” in our culture.
§ What are these other “voices?”
§ Are you willing to be adventurous for the Lord—to go anywhere and do anything the Lord wants you to do? If God would call you to missionary service, even locally, would you be willing to go / serve? Share with your group.
Think About It: We often learn about life and discern our life path / actions in the wrong way. It isn’t the long-term accumulation of knowledge; it’s how obedient to God we are with the information we can immediately discern. God would rather I have understanding of 2 verses that I obey immediately than 20 verses that I don’t. Obedience is the key to discernment. It’s not “capture and remember;” it’s “hear and obey.” (Chip Ingram)
Deeper Discoveries: Examine these other references to God’s calling on a man’s life. When, where, why were they called, and how did each respond?
§ Isaiah 6:1-8 —
§ Acts 9:3-6; 15-16; 26:12-19 —
§ Jeremiah 1:4-5 —
Deeper Discoveries: Using a Bible Dictionary, study notes, or an internet search, discover the city of Philippi as Paul knew it. What was life like there?
6. Discovering the Facts: What was Paul looking for in verse 13? Why? What did he find instead? What is known about Lydia?
Historical insight: “Inscribed on the arches outside the city of Philippi was a prohibition against bringing an unrecognized religion into the city; therefore, this prayer meeting was held outside the city, beside the river.” (Life Application Study Bible, p. 1992)
Deeper Discoveries: In Acts 16:14, the Lord opened Lydia’s heart to respond to Paul’s message. She was already a worshipper of God. What does this verse reveal about the Lord’s work on a heart that is already leaning toward Him? Support your answer with scripture.
7. Summarize the events in vv. 16-24.
Historical insight: Her “spirit”, a “python”, was a demonic spirit associated with a mythical snake worshipped at Delphi that supposedly could tell the future. Such persons spoke involuntarily, so the term “ventriloquist” was used to describe them. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1678)
8. The declarations of the slave girl were true, so why do you think Paul became so troubled by what she was doing?
9. Contrast the real reason Paul and Silas were seized (v. 19) with the expressed reason (vv. 20-21). You will see this again in Lesson 12.
10. Contrast the experiences of Paul and Silas in vv. 22-24 with their response in vv. 25-28. Why do you think they were singing and praying like that? Read Ephesians 5:18b-20 and Psalm 42:8. Who enabled them to do so? Who was benefited by their doing so?
Think About It: This is one of three beatings and several imprisonments Paul referred to in 2 Corinthians 11:23-25. Yet, in 2 Corinthians 4:17, he calls them “light and momentary troubles.” Could you?
11. Share Your Life: How does their response to difficult circumstances impact you? Who enables you to respond the same way? Have you experienced this yet? What happened? If not, are you willing to trust the Holy Spirit to do this in your life the next time you face difficult circumstances? Share with your group.
12. What was the jailer’s response to all that he had witnessed (v. 27-30)? How was his home impacted by this event? What do vv. 33-34 reveal to you about the immediate work of the Holy Spirit in his life?
13. Share Your Life: In v. 29 the jailer asks, “What must I do to be saved?” What is the “good news” message of 16:31? Do you have a plan to share the gospel with others? How would you respond if someone asked you the same or a similar question? Include Scripture references.
Deeper Discoveries: In Acts 16, members of both Lydia’s and the jailer’s households were saved and baptized along with them (vv. 15, 32, 34 after hearing the gospel). See also Acts 10:24, 33, 44; 18:8, Romans 16:10-11, and 1 Corinthians 1:16. Research Greek or Near Eastern culture during this time period, especially the meaning of “household.” Does history give us any clue regarding the reason the households so quickly followed their masters in believing the gospel for themselves?
14. When word came of their release from prison, Paul & Silas asserted that their rights had been violated and refused to leave. Why do you think they chose that moment to declare their Roman citizenship? Why were the magistrates alarmed? What did they do in response?
Think About It: In only two places in Acts was Paul harmed or threatened by Gentiles—in Philippi and in Ephesus (19:23-41). In both instances people were losing money in vested interests and in each case Paul was vindicated by a Roman official. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 401)
15. Lydia is portrayed in Acts 16:15, 40 as a hospitable woman. How did Lydia’s opening her home to Paul and his companions benefit them as well as other Philippians?
16. Share Your Life: How do you show hospitality? Could God reach others through the gift of hospitality in your life? Share with your group.
17. In this passage, Paul and Silas were keenly aware of the Spirit’s leading in their lives. Review the occasions when they exercised discernment about where to go, what to do, and what to say.
18. Share Your Life: As Chip Ingram said in the “Think About It” box on page 77, “Obedience is the key to discernment.” Read the poem at right. Reflect on your own willingness to practice discernment as you follow the Spirit’s leading in your life.
Deeper Discoveries: Read Paul’s letter to the Philippians. What kind of relationship did Paul have with them? How did they encourage him as much as he did them?
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
For the second part to the audio message of this chapter click here.
(Acts 17:1-34)
Second Missionary Journey A.D. 50-52
Wildfires spread as long as there is fuel to feed them. Barriers such as large bodies of water, mounds of dirt piled high, and lifeless deserts stop them cold. The fire of the Spirit began spreading in Philippi and continued to spread throughout Macedonia. Receptive hearts ignited with fire; cold hearts barred the work of the Spirit within. Enemies of the gospel kept trying to put out the fire.
Yet, the fire of the Holy Spirit burns brightly in believers who are committed to serving Jesus Christ regardless of the cost. Amazingly, and contrary to natural thinking, people in the midst of hardships and persecution respond with joy to the gospel of grace, and churches grow. As Paul writes, “in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 1:6).” Unquenchable joy!
Read Acts 17:1-34 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it patiently—give yourself enough time rather than rushing through it. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
Follow Paul’s second missionary journey with this map.
Deeper Discoveries: Using a Bible Dictionary, study notes, an internet search, and/or the introduction to First Thessalonians in your Bible, discover the city of Thessalonica as Paul knew it. What was life like there?
1. Discovering the facts: Looking at vv. 1-9, what was Paul’s custom? Who responded?
2. Summarize in one or two sentences what happened in vv. 5-9.
Historical Insight: Blasphemy—reviling the name of God or affronting His majesty and authority—was the gravest accusation for a Jew, but treason—to support a rival king above Caesar—was the worst accusation for a Roman citizen. (NIV Study Bible, pp. 1527, 1679)
3. Specifically, what charges were brought against Paul and his co-workers?
Scriptural Insight: We know that Paul stayed in Thessalonica for longer than 3 weeks, supporting himself by manual labor (1 Thessalonians 2:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10). The Philippian church sent money to Paul at least twice during this visit. And, most of the converts were not from the synagogue but were Gentiles steeped in idolatry. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 401)
4. The implication is that Paul was staying at Jason’s house (perhaps a relative, see Romans 16:21). How might the insistence of Jason “posting bond” or “receiving a pledge” affect Paul’s future ministry in Thessalonica? Read 1Thessalonians 1:2-10 and 2:18. Did the plan work?
Deeper Discoveries: Read the first letter to the Thessalonians to see how the church in this area progressed and the special problems it had to face. Make note of these below.
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 1:4-8; 2:1-2; 14-15; 3:6-10 and Romans 5:3-5. How did the Thessalonian Christians both withstand persecutions or difficulties and benefit from them?
6. Share Your Life: Drawing from what the Thessalonians learned, how can we maintain our faith amidst difficulties?
7. Discovering the Facts: How are the Bereans described?
8. Share Your Life: What example do the Bereans set for us (v. 11), and how can you apply this to your life? See also John 8:31-32; 14:6, 2 Timothy 3:14-16, and Galatians 1:8. Be specific.
9. Share Your Life: The Bereans loved the Scriptures. What do you enjoy about Bible Study? How has it affected your life? What are your goals for Bible Study? What hinders you?
10. In a culture that often degraded women, considering them not worth educating, what do you notice about the women who responded to the gospel? See Acts 16:13-15; 17:4,12. Why do you think Luke mentioned “prominent” women?
Historical Insight: “Prominent (NIV) /leading (NAS)” translates the Greek protos (first in rank, influence and honor). Macedonian women had a well-earned reputation for their independence and enterprising spirit. If some of the women who believed the gospel at this time were the wives of leading citizens, the initiative was theirs, not their husbands’. (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 323)
11. How did the unbelieving Jews use mob mentality to their advantage? Why do you think these Greek crowds, so proud of their intellectual heritage, went along with it? Make specific applications to America today.
Think About It: Intellectuals resist faith longer because they can: where ordinary people are helpless before the light, intellectuals are clever enough to spin webs of darkness around their minds and hide in them. (Dr. Peter Kreeft)
Deeper Discoveries: Using a Bible Dictionary, study notes, or an internet search, discover the city of Athens as Paul knew it. What was life like there?
12. Discovering the Facts: What did Paul notice about Athens? What was his initial response to that?
13. Share Your Life: What could be classified as “idols” people “pay homage to / honor / bow the knee” to in our culture today? Does that distress you as it did Paul? Is your life “full of idols?” Consider asking Jesus to help you release your dependence on any “idols” in your life.
14. How did Athens respond to this newcomer (vv. 18-21)? [Note: The Areopagus was a council that met to evaluate religions and morals. They considered themselves the custodians of teachings that introduced new religions and foreign gods.]
From the Greek: The word for “babbler” meant “seed picker,” a bird picking up seeds here and there. Then it came to refer to the loafer in the marketplace who picked up whatever scraps of learning he could find and paraded them without digesting them himself. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1680)
15. Share Your Life: Considering the definition for “babbler” above, Paul was definitely not a babbler. Have you ever known someone you would consider a “babbler” (no names please) or been one yourself? What can you learn from thinking about this experience?
16. Discovering the Facts: There are some precious truths in the sermon in vv. 22-34. Reread it, and glean for yourself 2 or 3 points that jump out at you or might be particularly meaningful to you.
17. What did Paul mean when he said the Athenians were very religious in verse 22 (some versions, superstitious)? How did he use this information positively in his sermon?
18. Remembering how Paul geared his message to his audience in Acts 13:16-41 and 14:15-17, what does he use here (17:24-31) as points of contact with the Athenians? This requires some close observation and possibly a look at any study notes you may have in your Bible.
19. Epicurean philosophers followed the belief that happiness was the chief end of life so they pursued sensual desires, believing things were left to chance. Stoic philosophers emphasized the rational over the emotional, suppressing desires. They were also pantheists, teaching that people should live in accord with nature and recognize their own self-sufficiency and independence. What problems might the Epicureans and the Stoics have had with the gospel message?
§ Epicureans—
§ Stoics—
20. Share Your Life: Although called by different names, these thought patterns are still around today. So, the above question has application to the society surrounding you, maybe even a neighbor or relative. Identify (generally) those who follow these trains of thought today and how they are influencing or trying to influence your family. What are you doing to combat their influence? Be specific.
§ Sensualists—
§ Rationalists—
Think About It: Meditate on the words of this beloved song “You Are God Alone” by Phillips, Craig and Dean that reflect the essence of Paul’s sermon.
“You are not a god created by human hands, You are not a god dependent on any mortal man, You are not a God in need of anything we can give, by Your plan that’s just the way it is.
You are God alone from before time began. You were on Your throne, You are God alone. And right now in the good times and bad, You are on Your throne, You are God alone.”
21. Why does God reveal Himself in Creation (17:24-27)? See also Romans 1:19-20 and Hebrews 11:6. Does this work in general? How about for you?
22. What contrast (or complement) do we see about God in 17:24-25 and v. 27?
From the Greek: The Greek for “reach out / grope” (v. 27) means to handle, touch, and feel (see Luke 24:39). It pictures the blind groping of someone in a darkened room feeling along the walls to find the door.
23. What did Paul call upon the Athenians to do? Why? (17:30-31)
24. Why do you think Paul waited to proclaim Christ until the end of his message?
Historical Insight: Resurrection has one meaning only, a bodily resurrection. Nobody ever used it to mean life after death or a ghost wandering around after death. It means the restoration of a dead body in a new immortal form. To the Greek mind, the body was evil; the soul was good. Death rescued the soul from the body. There was no place in this thinking for resurrection. (N.T. Wright, The Resurrection of the Son of God, p. 145)
25. How did he address the Athenians differently from the usual synagogue audience? Why?
26. Share Your Life: Our culture today in many ways is more like that of the Athenians in Acts 17 than the Jews in Acts 2. We can no longer assume that our neighbor, co-worker, or friend has any working or even accurate knowledge of the God of the Bible, Bible stories, or Jesus. How does this affect our approach to them? What can we learn from Paul’s approach and apply to sharing the gospel with those who live in our “Acts 17” world?
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 18:1-28)
Second Missionary Journey A.D. 50-52
Paul and Silas were familiar with extremes. One day they were comfortably staying at a prosperous woman’s house; the next day they were beaten and chained in a cold prison, released by an earthquake, and escorted out of town. The Bereans responded to the gospel in large numbers; the Athenians barely gave it their attention. At times, Paul worked as a tentmaker to support himself and others; other times, he was supported by generous gifts so that he could devote himself exclusively to preaching. Paul enters Corinth alone; he leaves accompanied by new co-workers. This has become such a part of his life following Christ that he can say a few years later, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…I can do everything through Him who gives me strength (Philippians 4:11-13).” Paul practiced learning to be content amidst the extremes of life and discovered those extremes gave him opportunity to reveal Jesus in him. In fact, sometimes Paul voluntarily undertook extreme conditions for the sake of the gospel.
What about you? How do you respond to the extremes of life? Our reactions to those extremes, whether comfort or pain, reveal to those around us the reality of Jesus Christ in our lives. In fact, we discover more about our own hearts as we face the extremes of life—whether we will be faithful to Christ alone in the midst of what the world might consider “success” or “failure.” In each, can we say with Paul, “To live is Christ?”
Read Acts 18:1-28 in one sitting to get the whole picture. Remember to read it selectively—looking for important information. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
Follow Paul’s second missionary journey with this map.
Deeper Discoveries: Using a Bible Dictionary, study notes, an internet search, and/or the introduction to First Corinthians in your Bible, discover the city of Corinth as Paul knew it. What was life like there?
1. Discovering the Facts: What information does the text give us about Priscilla and Aquila?
Historical Insight: According to Claudius’s historian, the expulsion order was given (in 49 A.D.) because of “their (the Jews’) continual tumults instigated by Chrestus” (a common misspelling of Christ). If “Chrestus” refers to Christ, the riots obviously were “about” him rather than led “by” him. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1681)
2. Read Romans 16:3-4, 1 Corinthians 16:19, and 2 Timothy 4:19 for additional information about these two. Given Paul’s mention of them in later letters, what kind of relationship do you think is forming here in Corinth? See also Acts 18:18-26.
3. In what ways was it a risk for them to take Paul into their home? See 17:5-6 for help.
Historical Insight: Every Jewish man learned a trade as a boy/teen, particularly rabbinical students so they wouldn’t have to charge for their teaching and could model a good work ethic. The gospel of grace is free of charge. Tent making was a portable occupation. Paul’s home province Cilicia was famous for producing goat hair fabric (cilicium) with water repellent properties used for making tents.
4. Share Your Life: God’s gift of the friendship and encouragement from Priscilla and Aquila obviously blessed Paul and his ministry. Read Hebrews 13:24.
§ Do you have friends who do the same for you? How?
§ Are you a friend who does this? Are friends a priority in your life? What will you trust Jesus for in this area of your life? Go ahead and ask Him for that now.
5. Read 2 Corinthians 11:9 and Philippians 4:14-16. What did Silas and Timothy apparently bring with them from Macedonia (v. 5)? How did this help Paul’s ministry?
6. Once again, the Jews opposed the gospel. Read Romans 9:2-5. What would Paul have traded to win them? Nevertheless, what was Paul’s response to those who stubbornly rejected Christ (Acts 18:6)?
Historical Insight: A synagogue ruler was a layman responsible for care of the building and supervising the worship service, calling readers and preachers, and maintaining order. Most had only one ruler. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1503, 1670)
7. What were the results of Paul’s decision?
8. Athens was noted for its culture and learning, Corinth for its commerce and immorality. Which city responded to the gospel more readily? Why do you think that is? Do you see anything similar to this in our culture? Explain.
9. Share Your Life: Do you, like Paul, love someone who stubbornly rejects Christ? Can you force their faith or win them with persuasive arguments? We can always pray for God the Father to draw them to Jesus (John 6:44) and for the Holy Spirit to convict them of their sin and need for righteousness (John 16:8-11). Take a moment to pray with your group for your unsaved loved one(s) and to encourage each other with personal stories of those deemed “unreachable” coming to faith.
10. Discovering the facts: List the events in this passage as they occurred.
11. Considering what happened to Paul in Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens, why do you think the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision? What resulted (see v. 11)?
12. What accusations were brought against Paul and why?
Historical Insight: Judaism was an accepted and established belief. Rome did not permit the propagation of new religions. Gallio was admired as a man of exceptional fairness and calmness. From an inscription found at Delphi, it is known that Gallio was proconsul of Achaia in 51-52 A.D. (NIV Study Bible p. 1681)
13. What was Gallio’s ruling on this matter? In what way do you think this ruling might have helped the spread of Christianity? How did this also fulfill Jesus’ promise to Paul (vv. 9-10)?
Deeper Discoveries: Does God still use secular authorities to protect the church and enable the spread of the gospel? Do you know specific examples of this? What does this teach us about God?
14. Paul lived through many extremes during his time in Corinth. He entered the city alone and left accompanied by many friends. He worked day and night to support himself then was supported by others so he could do ministry full-time. Read Philippians 4:11-13 and 2 Corinthians 6:3-10. What did he learn during those times? How did those extremes give opportunity to reveal Jesus’ presence in him and with him?
Scriptural Insight: His time in Corinth, and his experiences with the Corinthian church during the years which followed his departure from Corinth, did much to deepen his human sympathy and to promote his pastoral ministry. (F. F. Bruce, Paul Apostle of the Heart Set Free, p. 248)
15. Share Your Life: What extremes characterize your life? How have these experiences given opportunity to reveal Jesus in you? What word of encouragement have you received from Jesus to help you? Share with your group how they can pray with you.
16. Share Your Life: Paul’s vow was likely a Nazirite vow (Numbers 6:1-21), often made out of gratitude for past blessings. The Jewish tradition involved temporary abstinence from alcohol and cutting one’s hair. At the end, the shaved hair was offered as a sacrifice at Jerusalem. Can you think of any reason Paul would be grateful during his time in Corinth? What do you do to express your gratefulness to God for His fulfilling His promises to you? Encourage your group by sharing your own gratefulness.
17. Ephesus was the leading commercial city of Asia Minor (modern western Turkey). Previously in Acts 16, Paul was denied entrance into Ephesus. But, now the Holy Spirit is directing him there. Why do you think Paul didn’t stay longer? What did he promise them? What does this tell you about his concern for this area?
18. Share Your Life: This 4-year-long missionary journey officially ended when Paul and Silas returned to Antioch (v. 22) for what we would call today “a furlough.” No doubt, he and Silas “gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them” (Acts 14:27). What a praise service that must have been!! Do you know any missionaries home on furlough? Have you spent time with them, listening to all that God has done through them, and praising Him for that? If you don’t know a missionary on furlough, perhaps contact missionaries supported by your church and ask them to share with you what God has being doing in their lives and ministry so you can rejoice with them.
Paul set out from Antioch on his third missionary trip, revisiting a number of the churches he had planted earlier (18:23) and heading to Ephesus where God had already been at work.
19. Discovering the Facts: Describe Apollos from the information given in the text (18:24-28). What kind of heart did he have?
Historical Insight: Alexandria (Egypt) was the second most important city in the Roman Empire (Ephesus being the third), was a center of culture and education, and had a large Jewish population.
20. What message was Apollos preaching? What was missing in Apollos’s understanding?
21. How and where did Priscilla and Aquila handle this gifted but uninformed man? How did this benefit the spread of the gospel?
22. Share Your Life: When was the last time you had to “correct” someone’s understanding? How can this be done so that bridges rather than walls are built? What is needed from both parties?
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 19:1-20:38)
Third Missionary Journey A.D. 53-57
“So I boast in Christ Jesus about the things that pertain to God. For I will not dare to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in order to bring about the obedience of the Gentiles, by word and deed, in the power of signs and wonders, in the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem even as far as Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.” (Paul, Romans 15:17-19)
We serve a powerful God. Paul saw God’s firepower displayed in amazing, obvious ways—not only in signs and miracles, but also in what the power of the Spirit did in his own life. Paul faced the daily pressure of responding to the power God displayed through him and around him. Yet, he chose to remain humble and deflect all the glory and credit to Jesus Christ Himself. As he wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:7, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”
This all-surpassing power is at work in our lives in countless ways we cannot see as well as at those times when He makes Himself entirely obvious. How are you at letting God display His power in you? Now’s the time to “get fired up” for the adventure ahead!
Read Acts 19:1-20:38 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it prayerfully—the Holy Spirit has promised to help us understand it. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
Follow Paul’s third missionary journey with this map.
Deeper Discoveries: Using a Bible Dictionary, study notes, an internet search, and/or the introduction to Ephesians in your Bible, discover the city of Ephesus that Paul knew. What was life like there?
1. When Paul arrived at Ephesus (fulfilling his promise that he would return), Paul met 12 men. What did they have in common with Apollos? When Paul recognized that John’s disciples were deficient in their understanding of the work of Christ and the Holy Spirit, what did he do?
Scriptural Insight: The reception of the Holy Spirit in Acts does not follow any set pattern. He came into believers before baptism (Acts 10:44), at the time of or after baptism (8:12-16; 19:6), and by the laying on of apostolic hands (8:17; 19:6). Yet Paul declared (Romans 8:9) that anyone without the Holy Spirit is not a Christian. Quite obviously the transitional book of Acts is not to be used as a doctrinal source on how to receive the Holy Spirit. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 409)
Paul’s laying on of hands was not required for the Holy Spirit to come (Acts 10:44-48) but was a demonstration of apostolic authority.
2. By God’s design, the baptism of the Holy Spirit is “the Holy Spirit placing a believer into the body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:13), thus identifying the believer with Christ in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). This occurs when a person receives Jesus as their Savior. At the same time, the believer is permanently indwelt by the Holy Spirit, thus empowering every believer to live a life pleasing to God. Read Romans 8:1-17, 26-27. What does it mean to live empowered by the Holy Spirit? Why is this crucial for every believer?
3. Share Your Life: We are in a daily power struggle between yielding to our former master “sin” and yielding to our new master Jesus through the Holy Spirit living within us. What decisions can you make to live a life empowered by the Spirit?
4. Discovering the Facts in vv. 8-10:
§ How long did Paul teach in the synagogue?
§ Why did he leave?
§ Where did he go?
§ How long did he teach there?
§ How effective and far-reaching was Paul’s mission in Ephesus?
Historical Insight: Lecture halls were available for traveling teachers from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. when most people would eat lunch and rest before returning to work. Two words describe Ephesus: prominent and obsessed. It was prominent as a Roman capital, the third largest commercial center in the Roman Empire, with a multi-ethnic population of about ¼ million people. It was also a stronghold obsessed with the occult—the realm of magic, witchcraft, and evil spirits.
5. Share Your Life: Many of Paul’s listeners in the synagogue became obstinate/disobedient (v. 9). We are not immune to being obstinate. What can help us maintain soft hearts toward God’s leading through His Word (the Bible)?
6. The Ephesians’ concept of power was that of an impersonal substance one could harness to one’s own advantage. What did God do to get the attention of these obsessed people to view Him as the true and best source of power (vv. 11-12)?
Think About It: “Magic” historically is a deviation from a sanctioned religious practice that crosses the line into magic when attained through the management of supernatural powers in such a way that results are virtually guaranteed. For both Jews and Christians, reliance on the aid of “powers” (falling into magical / mystical activity) betrays a lack of confidence in the one God. (Clinton E. Arnold, Ephesians: Power and Magic, p. 19)
7. Invoking names to control evil spirits was a form of magic practiced in Ephesus. Discuss what took place in vv. 13-16. Read the “Think About It” box at right. What lessons can we learn from the Jewish “magicians?”
8. How did the Ephesians who had been dabbling in the occult exhibit repentance about this practice in their lives? What resulted?
Focus on the Meaning: In the biblical concept of magic, real supernatural spirits (demonic) are invoked to acquire knowledge or perform works of wonder. This is not parlor magic—entertaining with tricks that are in apparent violation of natural law. This also differs from the “magic” in fantasy (fiction), which does not invoke real supernatural spirits but draws upon the rules of the world created by the author. (Dr. Jennifer Newton)
9. Share Your Life: What are some ways, even if subtle, that Christians get involved in the practice of magic (sorcery, witchcraft), fortune-telling, spiritualism (attempt to communicate with the dead), or other non-biblical practices used to solve life’s problems? Are you doing this? If so, repent of this lack of confidence in God, pray for strength to flee from such practices, and trust the Holy Spirit to replace that false reliance with complete trust in our trustworthy God. Ask your group to join you in prayer.
10. Share Your Life: Read Colossians 1:29, 2 Corinthians 4:7, and the “Think About It” at right. In what ways does God make Himself obvious in our lives so that what we see strengthens our faith in what we cannot see? What do we allow to get in the way of recognizing God’s power in us and giving Him all the glory? Are you willing to let Him “show off” His Son in you and not give the credit for it to something else including yourself? Explain.
Think About It: God works in countless ways we cannot see; sometimes He makes Himself entirely obvious so that what we see will strengthen our faith in what we cannot see. (Beth Moore, To Live Is Christ, p. 111)
11. Discovering the Facts: Paul’s desire is to visit Rome (v. 21, Romans 1:15; 15:22-28). In the meantime, while he remains in Ephesus, a “great disturbance about the Way” occurs. List all the information given about the opposition toward Paul now (vv. 24-28).
Historical Insight: The Ephesians considered Artemis, with her 37-breasted image, as more powerful than any other deity or evil forces working against them, calling upon her as deliverer from sickness and enemies. They built for her a gigantic temple, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world.
12. What happened at the theater (the largest place for assembly in the city, capable of seating 25,000)?
13. How does the unnamed official successfully dispel the riot?
Historical Insight: By weaving the book of Acts together with Paul’s letters, it’s believed that Paul wrote three letters during this third missionary journey: 1 Corinthians from Ephesus; 2 Corinthians from Macedonia; and Romans while in Corinth.
Deeper Discoveries: Read Paul’s letter to the Ephesians written several years later, probably while he was a prisoner in Rome. Keep in mind the people and events you just studied. How does the Ephesian letter encourage your heart that what we have in Jesus Christ is more powerful and more valuable than any substitutes we could trust instead? What does He offer us in the way of spiritual power?
14. Discovering the Facts: Where did Paul travel, and who accompanied him? [Notice the use of “we” in v. 6.]
Deeper Discoveries: Twice Paul is said to have encouraged / exhorted the believers as he traveled. The Greek word used there is parakaleo which means to call to one side to admonish, instruct, and urge one to pursue some course of conduct, always looking to the future. Using a concordance or online study site such as www.bible.org, do a word study on the use of this word in the book of Acts (22 times). In how many ways and situations does the Holy Spirit empower believers to encourage / exhort one another?
15. Describe the scene. How does a young man named Eutychus (literally, “fortunate”) prove to be true to his name?
Think About It: The church was now meeting on the first day of the week (Sunday) instead of the Jewish seventh-day Sabbath. The first day was the day Jesus was resurrected. See also “The Lord’s Day” in “The Rest of the Story” for more information. How else might selecting this day benefit them?
16. Saying goodbye is hard. In this passage, Paul models how to say goodbye. After calling together the Ephesian elders, what does he feel he must tell them? Summarize his instructions and convictions below. Notice especially his mention of personal perils that can hinder growth and service to God.
§ vv. 18-21 —
§ vv. 22-27 —
§ vv. 28-31 —
§ vv. 32-35 —
Think About It: Notice in v. 28, Paul stresses the role of the Holy Spirit in choosing overseers/elders in a church and enabling them to be shepherds of their local flocks for Jesus’ sake. Who does the church belong to—the people or Jesus?
17. Share Your Life: Recall a time when you said goodbye. Were you leaving a child at college or camp? Were you embracing a close friend before you moved to another city? Were you sitting by the hospital bed of a loved one? Changing jobs? Leaving a ministry that drew you together? How did you feel? What did you learn? Share with the group healthy ways to handle separation.
18. Based on his own experience, Paul warns the church to be on guard against threats from both inside the church and from outside. What are some specific ways these attacks manifest themselves against the Church today? Divide them into the two categories as Paul did listed below.
Among themselves…Internal corruption |
Savage wolves…External attack |
|
|
19. Share Your Life: Looking at those you listed above, how can we be on guard against them? Who empowers us to discern? See 1 Corinthians 2:10-16 and Philippians 1:9-11. Have you previously asked Him to help you discern influences in your life? What happened? If you need that discernment now, ask Jesus for it. This would be a great time to pray for your church leadership as well.
Deeper Discoveries: Peter wrote his second letter to address the same subject. False teachers had risen up from within the assemblies. Read through 2 Peter and complete the following chart:
2 Peter: Addressing False Teachers
Characteristics of False Teachers |
Verse |
Dealing with False Teachers |
Verse |
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
I’m pretty confident that most of you belong to some kind of loyalty group or program. Right? If you are like me, you join the ones that have the best perks or the best products, maybe the most convenient. How loyal are you really to that company or product?
Loyalty is “the quality of devotion or attachment to somebody or something.” It’s both a feeling and an action. Some of us by nature tend to be loyal. Others of us are more skeptical, maybe prefering to be mavericks out on our own. Loyalty is being tested everyday in homes and businesses and human relationships across this planet. Who demands your loyalty or has the right to it? Do they receive it from you? How good are you at remaining loyal? Loyalty affects how you approach life.
We are going to watch a movie clip that centers on two men whose lives up to this point are miserable. But something happens that stimulates loyalty in their relationship and gives one a better way of approaching life. It’s fromThe Count of Monte Cristo.
A man named Edman Dantes has been wrongly accused of a crime by a disloyal friend and imprisoned for 12 years. Escaping from this cruel captivity, he washes up on a beach occupied by smugglers. Those guys are about to execute a fellow smuggler named Jacabo who has been stealing from his mates. Also, disloyalty. The smuggler captain gives Edman Dantes a choice: either fight Jacabo to the death or else be killed yourself. Pay attention to what happens at the end:
[Watch 2 minute video clip “I Am Your Man Forever” accessed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6Oe4My_V5I]
DId you catch what Jacabo declared to his deliverer at the end? “I am your man forever.” Think about it. Jacabo could have gotten up and gone his own way. Back to being a smuggler and a thief. He was set free from certain execution — in a way that was unexpected — by a man who didn’t have to do it!! Yet, Jacabo was stunned by Dantes’ grace towards him. And, grateful for it. And that gratitude compelled him to make a choice of loyalty—to serve the one who had set him free. He did not know where that would take him. After all, Dantes washed up on the shore! But, Jacabo chose to follow Edman Dantes by faith.
What Dantes did for Jacabo, Jesus did for us. He set us free from being a slave to sin and from our old ways of approaching life, offering something much better. How do you respond to that? Does knowing and experiencing being set free stimulate in you that same response of gratitude & loyalty to Jesus?
We can’t know all that’s ahead for us, but we can choose to declare, “Jesus, I am YOUR woman.” Emphasis on YOUR. It’s saying, “Jesus is my master. I choose to be loyal to Him — today and every day.”
I didn’t understand what that meant when I was a young Christian. But, my eyes had been opened to a life that was different than before. So, I made a life choice to seek God’s truth and to discern it from all the junk the world throws at me. I wanted to know Jesus first; everything else needed to match up to Jesus’ truth, or I wanted none of it. I don’t want any other way of approaching life to sneak in and get in the way of my loyalty to Jesus. But, it’s been 39 years of everyday choosing: do I really want to be Jesus’ woman completely? Or, do I prefer to be part Jesus’ woman and the rest my own?
Open your Bibles to Acts 20. Paul’s final words to the Ephesian elders reveal what it’s like to be loyal to Jesus. On his way to Jerusalem, he felt compelled to meet with them to say goodbye but also to remind them of how he modeled serving Jesus for them and to warn them about what would surely happen to distract them from their loyalty to Jesus alone in how to approach life.
Paul starts out saying in verse 18:
Acts 20:18-19 — “You yourselves know how I lived the whole time I was with you… serving the Lord with all humility and with tears,
The “Lord” in the New Testament is Jesus. The Greek word means master; “Lord Jesus” means “master Jesus.” In Acts 2:38, Peter declared to the crowd at Pentecost that God has made this Jesus both Lord and Christ. Considering what Jesus did for us, Jesus as Lord deserves our loyalty.
I think we’ve all studied history, read books, seen movies enough to have an idea of what slavery is. Paul considered himself a slave or servant of his Lord Jesus Christ. He used the word doulos. In the Jewish culture, a doulos was someone who had been freed from slavery but now voluntarily commits himself to serve a master he loves and respects. Jesus desires that from us—that we would not only choose to serve Him as master but remain loyal to Him as our master everyday, ignoring all those other voices calling for us to follow their ways of approaching life.
Thinking of Jacabo in that movie clip, to serve his new master he would need to follow him. Do his work. Represent him. Obey his word. Live with him. Take care of what belongs to his new master. Be loyal to him. Jacabo would give up his former way of approaching life. He would gain a new identity, status with honor, friendship, a new way of approaching life.
That’s what Jesus does for us. We get a new life fused together with His and a new identity—in Christ, a Child of God, one of God’s saints, totally accepted and loved by Him. Something we can never lose.
We are set free to live a radically different kind of life. Like Jacabo, there’s a better master to serve, Jesus Christ. If we choose to make that declaration to Jesus, “I am YOUR woman forever,” how do we do that with all the distractions around us, by that I don’t mean our families or jobs. Serving them well is serving Jesus loyally. I mean, all the other ways of approaching life? Think about them: astrology, psychics, gaining power through money, self-promotion and self-will, the right to pleasure yourself, no absolute truth so choose what works for you, my American rights of equality, and more. All of those voices are calling out to us in this culture. How do we remain loyal to Jesus as our master and His way of approaching life?
Back to Acts 20, verse 19:
Acts 20:19-21 — “serving the Lord with all humility and with tears, and with the trials that happened to me because of the plots of the Jews. You know that I did not hold back from proclaiming to you anything that would be helpful, and from teaching you publicly and from house to house, testifying to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus.”
Acts 20:22-24 — “And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem without knowing what will happen to me there, except that the Spirit warns me in town after town that imprisonment and persecutions are waiting for me. But I do not consider my life worth anything to myself, so that I may finish my task and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God’s grace.”
He refers to “Lord” 3 times. I don’t think he was being flippant about it. In his words, Paul is declaring that Jesus as his Lord deserves his loyalty. And, I see two things in this speech from Paul’s heart that reveals how to loyally serve Jesus. The first one is humility; the second one is obedience. Let’s key in on these. And see their relationship to loyalty.
Humility. That word has intrigued me for some time now. I know it’s the opposite of pride. But, what does it really mean? The Greek word used here (tapeinophrosyne) is a compound of tapeinos = “not rising far from the ground” and phreno = “mind.” Result = “lowliness of mind.” It’s how you think of yourself.
Oh, so when I say I’m feeling really, really low today or really down today, is that humility? No.
In New Testament days, the Greeks did not desire or reward humility so it’s a rare word. Only slaves should practice humility. In fact that phrase “not rising far from the ground” pictures a slave bowing before his master, doesn’t it? New Testament writers took this word for humility and elevated it because it is so totally associated with Jesus and being with Him.
Look at Matthew 11. Beginning in verse 28, Jesus says,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke on you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29)
What an invitation. I love that. Notice how He said, “For I am gentle and humble in heart.” What? The Creator of the universe. The one who is king of planet earth or soon would be. Seems out of place, doesn’t it? Jesus puts two words together here to describe himself. Gentle and humble.
In Ephesians 4, Paul puts these same two words together.
Eph 4:1-2 — “I…urge you to live worthily of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness…”
There is a key to understanding humility in that word gentle. So, let’s talk about it. We don’t really have a great English word to translate the Greek that describes this virtue. Old English writers used the word meek. That doesn’t help much. Our concept of gentleness or meekness is that it means passive, a wuss, couldn’t hurt a fly. Right? That’s not biblical.
Biblical gentleness carries the idea of strength under control. Jesus had the infinite resources of God at His command yet chose not to use them to His advantage. He could have called down 10,000 angels to rescue him from the cross, but he didn’t. Strength under control.
When you hold a newborn baby, you have the strength to crush that child but choose not to do so. Your strength is under control. You could verbally slash someone to pieces when you get angry but choose not to do so. Strength under control. Biblical gentleness is a work of the Holy Spirit in someone’s life. And, it’s the outworking of humility.
Humility is the decision you make in your mind; how you think of yourself in relationship to God first, then to others. Humility before God recognizes His authority over you. Yes, He’s Lord, but is He my Lord? Is He my master? We know we’ve made that decision when we are willing to trust in God’s goodness and accept His dealings with us as good without fighting Him on it. The Bible says we are to humble ourselves. It’s a choice you and I must make. That choice is reflected in our behavior towards others — gentleness.
Humility is the opposite of self-assertiveness and self-interest…it is not occupied with self at all. (Vines Complete Expository Dictionary) So, you are not being humble when you think poorly of yourself such as, “I’m a victim, I’m worthless, it’s God’s fault I’m like this.” A poor me attitude is certainly occupied with self. Humility is not renouncing that you can do some things well. It is recognizing that you do those things well because Jesus gave you the genetics, intelligence, and opportunity to do so, and you give Him the credit for it.
In order to serve Jesus Christ loyally, we must do it with humility, declaring, “I am YOUR woman, Lord Jesus. How may I serve you today?” Trusting the Spirit inside us for the power to follow through. If I’m out there trumpeting myself and my own will, and occasionally remembering to do what Jesus wants, what good is that?
That’s why Paul could say in Acts 20:24. “I do not consider my life worth anything to myself,” only as it serves Jesus loyally—to complete the task the Lord Jesus has given to me. Humility leads to obedience.
What good is a servant who refuses to obey? Or, only obeys part of the time? Look at what Paul says about himself in Acts 20:22. He’s compelled by the Spirit. His master’s voice is calling to him. The Spirit warns him of prison and hardship. Not so he would back off. V. 22 I am going to Jerusalem, knowing it was going to be hard, hard, hard. V. 20 I did not hold back. To accomplish the task His master Jesus set before him. Obedience.
Think about a mother and her children. A mother who loves her children will teach her child to obey her words, to trust her, even when the child doesn’t understand. “Don’t run away from me in the store.” The children have to consider the parent’s will to be more important than their own. They do this through trust (humility) followed by obedience.
Paul demonstrated this with his life. Ron heard radio Bible teacher Chip Ingram speak last fall and shared with me what he had learned. I was struck by this quote that was in your lesson 9 study.
We often learn about life and discern our life path / actions in the wrong way. It isn’t the long-term accumulation of knowledge; it’s how obedient to God we are with the information we can immediately discern. God would rather I have understanding of 2 verses that I obey immediately than 20 verses that I don’t. Obedience is the key to discernment. It’s not “capture and remember;” it’s “hear and obey.” (Chip Ingram, DTS Leader Board)
What do you think about that? How many of you agree? I wonder what would happen if we studied the same passage over and over until we all got it then moved on.
We can have this desire for knowledge about the Bible. That’s a good thing. But, it’s obedience to God’s will for us revealed in His Word that grows us to maturity. And, we can know God’s will on a great many things. Ephesians 4:1 says God’s will is that we live a life worthy of our calling, and He clearly shows us what it looks like in chapters 4, 5, and 6 of Ephesians plus many other places. Eph 4:2 tells us to start doing this with all humility and gentleness. Humility before God means I’ve already got that settled in my mind. Now, I can obey Him in the rest of what He desires for my life to please Him.
A friend shared with me how her husband used to think all God’s commands to us were so He could keep us under His thumb. As a father, he has come to realize those biblical commands and guidelines are boundaries for us to be able to enjoy the most satisfying and abundant life we could possibly enjoy. Like boundaries set for his children are for their protection and good.
What are some other hindrances to our obedience? Lots, of course. One is when we selectively choose what we will obey. That leads us to being what scripture describes as weak-willed women, always learning but never able to recognize truth for what it really is (2 Tim 3:6). I see weak-willed as meaning undisciplined. Like a child’s behavior, especially one who wants everything, even stuff that the parent says is not good and so refuses to trust the parent and obey. They are really weak-willed to do the right thing. For women, this would be choosing to take your own way for approaching life in spite of instruction or warnings that it will be destructive. What’s missing here? Humility. For believers, this would look like you are “part Jesus’ woman cause I’m saved and going to heaven when I die, but the rest of me is my own.”
Another hindrance to obedience is we just don’t get the ugliness of our sin. What happened to Jesus before and during His crucifixion is a picture of the ugliness of sin that He took upon Himself on that cross. Has anything in recent headlines just made you sick? Any time you choose not to obey God’s word on some issue—lying, envy, rage, immorality—it’s as ugly in God’s sight as that heinous crime. Do you believe your lack of respect for your husband, if you’re married, is as ugly as that worse thing? Or, your cruel words when angry? Or, your constant worry? Maybe not with the same consequences. But, just as ugly. Obedience is necessary to remain loyal to Jesus and not get carried away by sin and all those other ways of approaching life.
Last fall, when I read Ephesians 4:2 (NIV), “be completely humble and gentle,” it just jumped right off the page at me. I’ve read Ephesians countless times, studied it at least 4 times. Yet, I had not been grabbed by the word “completely” before. But, Jesus is teaching me about obedience to Him in this area. My problem with humility stems from parents who raised me with a good self-image, lots of positive encouragement, an achiever who could do many things well. Pride rears its ugly head now and then.
Humility is the decision I have already made in my mind that I am not God, that Jesus is my master, and I serve Him by considering others as more important than myself. You must make that same decision.
Paul describes it well in his letter to the Philippians.
Phil 2:3 — Instead of being motivated by selfish ambition or vanity, each of you should, in humility, be moved to treat one another as more important than yourself.”
Oh yeah, that’s so easy to do, right?!
What does this look like when we’ve offended or angered someone? How often do we say, “I’m sorry, but…?” We can always find a reason to justify our behavior. Someone to blame. Excusing ourselves, “If you hadn’t done such and such, I wouldn’t have reacted that way.” And, sometimes we’ll say, “I’m sorry that you got mad at me for what I said.” That’s still placing the blame on the other person, not yourself. Or, sometimes we say we are sorry because we got caught but wouldn’t have said anything if we hadn’t. Do you do that with your family members or friends? That’s not humility. Nor, is it obedience. The scripture says, Be completely humble. That means. I’m sorry. I take full blame. I am guilty without excuse. To be loyal to Jesus as my master, my life must be characterized by humility and obedience.
How about you? Is there a verse that jumped off the page at you since you started this study? Or, maybe another verse you’ve read on your own or heard preached? Something you know you should obey.
· Maybe you have a potty mouth or cruel speech when you get angry and Eph 4:29 keeps ringing in your ears.
“You must let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but only what is beneficial for the building up of the one in need, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
· Maybe you’ve become flippant about sexual purity and Eph 5:3 gets you.
“But among you there must not be either sexual immorality, impurity of any kind, or greed, as these are not fitting for the saints.”
· Maybe you have difficulty in your marriage and Eph 5:33 has become a challenge to you
“…and the wife must respect her husband.”
Think about it for a few seconds.
Whatever it is, are you willing to humble yourself before Jesus as His woman and obey His instructions to you in that verse? Remember what the Ephesians did when they decided to make Jesus their Lord? They repented of their former way of approaching life and burned their magic scrolls. It was Jesus or nothing for them now. The rewards of being loyal to Jesus are immense and incomparable to anything the world can offer you. One of those rewards is protection.
Obedience is necessary to protect yourself from those who distort the truth and draw us away from Jesus and His way of approaching life.
Acts 20:28-31 — “Watch out for yourselves and for all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God that he obtained with the blood of his own Son. I know that after I am gone fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Even from among your own group men will arise, teaching perversions of the truth to draw the disciples away after them. Therefore be alert…”
Visualize what Paul is saying: savage wolves will attack from outside or from within the flock itself dressed in sheep’s clothing. When you have humbled yourself before Jesus as your master and chosen to obey His commands revealed to you in the Bible, you will be able to recognize truth from error, from anything that is distorted. But, when you resist the discipline that comes from obedience, you are vulnerable to embracing as a fad whatever new heresy comes along, and you cannot recognize the truth when you see it. Distorted truth takes many forms and requires a lot more time to explore than we have here. Beware of anything that promotes disobedience to God’s commands and robs you from the joy and benefits of serving Jesus loyally.
Loyalty affects how you approach life—Jesus’ way or all those other options out there that offer nothing lasting. Jesus as Lord deserves our loyalty. Loyalty requires humility. Humility leads to obedience. Obedience offers protection from being sucked into every new fad that comes along. Have you already made that decision to say, “Lord Jesus, I am YOUR woman” everyday? If not, will you do that today?
(Acts 21:1-24:27)
A.D. 57-59
Danger! Would you have risked returning to Jerusalem when everyone who loved you was warning you to stay away? Paul didn’t know what awaited him there, but he felt compelled by the Spirit to go. Just like his master Jesus Christ felt compelled to go to Jerusalem (Mark 10:32-34), Paul was willing to follow no matter the threat. Soon he was seized, dragged, beaten and bound. Yet through it all he felt completely carried by the Spirit, who gave him multiple opportunities to do exactly what Paul wanted—to share his story with crowds and kings alike (Acts 20:24).
Have you ever endured a season when you had little or no control over your circumstances? When each day brought new and unexpected challenges? When life seemed to be spinning out of control? When you had a close call with danger or death? During those times, the Holy Spirit sustains you, carries you. Did you feel it? Amazingly, it is often those times when we are weakest and rely on His strength most that give us a story to share with others later—our story of His faithfulness as we are carried by the Spirit’s fire.
Read Acts 21:1-24:27 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it telescopically—in light of the whole. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
Paul heads to Jerusalem, concluding his third missionary trip with a report to the leaders and bringing a sizable offering from the Gentile churches to the suffering church there. Follow Paul’s third missionary journey with this map.
1. Discovering the Facts: Compare Acts 20:22-23 and 21:4, 10-14. What does the Holy Spirit consistently declare to Paul? How do his disciples and Christian friends respond to this message? What is Paul’s response to both them and to the Spirit?
Scriptural Insight: In view of the phrase, “through the Spirit,” was Paul wrong in pursuing his course to Jerusalem? Probably he wasn’t violating God’s will for several reasons: 1) Acts 19:21; 20:22; 21:14 imply it was God’s will for Paul to continue on to Jerusalem. 2) The comfort given by God (23:11) implies Paul had not stubbornly refused the Lord’s will. 3) In 23:1 Paul declared he had lived in all good conscience to that day. Probably… they knew through the Spirit that Paul would suffer in Jerusalem; therefore, concerned for his safety, they tried to dissuade him. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 415)
2. Share Your Life: On certain issues, God makes His will known to all of us very clearly in the Bible (avoid sexual immorality, don’t steal). In other areas, He allows us the freedom to make our own choices as we individually follow His leading. In that context, have you ever tried to protect anyone from doing what they believed was the will of God for his / her life? What was your motivation? What happened? What did you learn? Please share with your group.
3. Share Your Life: Paul and his friends agreed that the Holy Spirit promised suffering if Paul went to Jerusalem, but they differed concerning what Paul should do in light of the warning. Have you ever felt led to serve God in a situation that might become dangerous? If so, where? Did loved ones show concern for your safety? If so, how did you feel? What did you learn from that experience?
4. After Paul returns to Jerusalem for Pentecost, he spends time with the elders. What false report about Paul had been circulating among the believers in Jerusalem? According to James and the elders, what was the solution? What did they hope to accomplish?
5. How did Paul submit to their authority and maintain a good conscience? Read 1 Corinthians 9:20-23. What principle of Paul’s ministry is seen here? Do you think Paul was worried?
6. Discovering the Facts: Although Paul’s action satisfied the Jerusalem church elders, his frequent presence at the temple put him in public view of his enemies? Describe what happened to Paul at the Temple and immediately afterwards.
7. What false accusation was proclaimed about Paul? By whom? Did this surprise you? Explain.
Historical Insight: Gentiles were forbidden from passing beyond the outer court into the inner courts on pain of death. Roman authorities sensitive to these scruples authorized the death sentence for this trespass even when the offenders were Roman citizens. Also for any defilement of the Temple by word or deed (Acts 6:13-14; 7:48) (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 409)
8. Share Your Life: How should we react when we hear accusations concerning other believers? When accusations are made against us? Have you experienced a time of accusation without the accuser having a desire for truth? How did you handle it? Share something that you learned about yourself and God.
9. In a matter of minutes, Paul was seized by an angry mob (v. 27), dragged (v. 30), beaten (vv. 31-32), and bound (v. 33). Yet, Paul kept his cool. Why do you think he could do this? Read John 16:33; 17:9-15, and Mark 13:9-11. In Christ, what comfort and confidence in the midst of such horror can be ours? Find other verses to back up your answer.
In the midst of this chaos, Paul seizes the opportunity not to defend himself against the accusation but to share with this huge, angry crowd his story of an encounter with the resurrected Jesus and decision to follow Him as a Christian. [We studied this section in lesson 5.)
10. Share Your Life: Have you shared your “story” with anyone lately? Could you share it with someone who might harm you? Write in the space below your own encounter with the resurrected Jesus and decision to follow Him. Be willing to share this with your group. Ask Jesus to give you other opportunities to tell your story this week. Trust the Holy Spirit to guide you and speak through you. If you have not yet made that decision, would you consider trusting in Christ today?
11. What did Paul say at the end of his talk that caused the Jews to stop listening and explode? Why? See also Acts 6:13-14 and 21:21, 28. What had become their idol?
Scriptural Insight: Preaching to Gentiles could not have caused such a response because the religious authorities of Israel had preached to Gentiles (Matt. 23:15). The message that infuriated the mob was that Jews and Gentiles were equal without the Law of Moses (Eph. 2:11-12; 3:2-6; Gal. 3:28). (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 418)
12. Paul looked liked he was between a rock and a hard place. How did he use the legal protection available to him?
Historical Insight: As a Roman citizen, Paul had the right to a public hearing and could not be beaten with rods, scourged, or crucified. Unless proven guilty of a crime, he could not be flogged either. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, pp. 401, 419)
13. The commander sought to know why Paul was being accused, so he assembled the Jewish high court (the Sanhedrin). Another opportunity for Paul to tell his story, this time before influential religious authorities. Having once been a companion of this prestigious group (25 years earlier), and knowing their own beliefs and divisions, what is the content of Paul’s message to them? Was this a wise move? Explain.
Deeper Discoveries: Acts 23:4 identifies Ananias as the high priest during this time. The purpose of the high priest was to offer the blood sacrifice for the sins of the people. We know that Jesus is now the High Priest. As a reminder, list the benefits of Christ as High Priest using the following scriptures (and any others you wish to use): Hebrews 2:14-18; 4:14-5:3;
14. Who came to give courage to Paul that night (23:11)? What confirmation did He also give? Was Paul’s imprisonment a surprise or disappointment to Jesus? What is His plan for Paul?
15. Share Your Life: Read 2 Timothy 1:7 and the “Think About It” quote below. Was there a time where you needed courage from God? Did you receive it? How did that help you face the situation? Do you need courage now? Ask the Holy Spirit to give you His courage to replace your fear. How can your group pray for you?
Think About It:
No guilt in life, no fear in death—this is the pow’r of Christ in me;
From life’s first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny.
No pow’r of hell, no scheme of man, can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home—here in the pow’r of Christ I’ll stand. (“In Christ Alone,” Keith Getty & Stuart Townend)
16. Discovering the Facts:
§ What oath did the conspirators take against Paul?
§ How many were involved in the plan against Paul?
§ What plan was devised to get to Paul?
§ Who overheard the plot?
§ Who did he get to speak to expose the plan?
§ The informant was cautioned against what?
§ How many men were provided for Paul’s escape?
§ A letter was sent. To whom? From whom?
§ Who took Paul to Caesarea?
17. God is good all the time—even in hard times, in different ways to different people, and through preventing many of those things from happening to us that we might consider “bad” (Job 1:10, 12). How is God good to Paul in this instance?
18. Share Your Life: Can you think of a close call you have had with serious trouble, even death? How was God good to you through that time? In what ways did He rescue you from what you perceive might have happened to you?
19. Now the religious leaders have secured the services of a lawyer. What charges did Tortullus bring against Paul?
20. Here’s another opportunity for Paul to tell his story. That’s 3 in 12 days—this time to governmental authorities. How did Paul defend himself against the charges? What did he admit to be true? Was there a legal reason Paul was brought to trial?
21. What was Felix’s response to Paul’s defense? What was his response to the opportunities God gave Felix through Paul for the next two years?
Historical Insight: Felix was the governor of Judea from A.D. 52-58. A man of weak character, one historian said, “He held the power of a tyrant with the disposition of a slave.” He was recalled to Rome in A.D. 59/60 to answer for disturbances and irregularities in his rule. (NIV Study Bible, pp. 1692-93)
Deeper Discoveries: Research prison life during this time. (Hint: It’s nothing like today!) Paul was in prison in Caesarea for two years. What opportunities were given to his friends to minister to him at this time? Review the first part of Acts 21 to see who was close by.
22. Share Your Life: Read the following verses and summarize Paul’s attitude about being a prisoner: Ephesians 6:19-22; Philippians 1:12-14; 4:10-13; Colossians 4:3-4; and 2 Timothy 1:8-9; 2:8-10. Are there areas of your life in which you feel imprisoned or in bondage? Glean from the verses above, and apply them to your own situation.
Review the scripture passage covered in this lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. What will you ask God to do in your life?
(Acts 25:1-28:31)
A.D. 59-62
The definition of adventure is, “an unusual or exciting, typically hazardous, experience or activity.” Our English word comes from the Latin for “about to happen.” Wow! What a way to look at life following Jesus—something’s about to happen! The interesting thing for the believer is that the journey is just as important as the destination. That’s the adventure.
The Holy Spirit told Paul he would be going to Rome. Paul just didn’t know the adventure would take so many bends and turns which all seemed to be part of God’s plan for him. Even more remarkable is Paul’s response to the delays and obstacles—waiting patiently, maintaining respectful relationships with authorities, and considering God to be helping him all the time (Acts 26:22). Paul faces the worst and still sees himself enclosed in God’s protective hand during his adventure.
Most of us would prefer to choose our own “adventure,” complete with detailed itinerary and plans for our comfort. Rather than viewing delays, discomfort, and opposition as God’s leading through opportunity, we see those as a hindrance to being “successful” in life as a believer. But that’s not adventure, at least not what is promised by our God. Jesus says to us, “Follow me!” wherever, whenever, and however He leads. That’s the adventure. And, He promises His Spirit is with us through it all. We are never out of our God’s protective hand. Will you trust Him for the adventure in your life?
Read Acts 25:1-28:31 in one sitting to get the whole picture. As you do, read it personally—applying it to your life today. Pray that God would open your heart to the truths He has for you from this text.
Follow Paul’s journey to Rome with this map.
1. What right did Paul claim as a Roman citizen, and why did he choose to do so? (See also Acts 23:3; Romans 1:10-13.)
Historical Insight: It was the right of every Roman citizen to have his case heard before Caesar (at this time Nero) or his representative in Rome. Winning such a case at this highest court of appeal could have led to Paul’s acquittal as well as official recognition of Christianity as distinct from Judaism. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1694)
2. What did Festus think of Paul? See also vv. 25-26. What did he particularly remember about the charges against Paul (v.19)?
3. Discovering the Facts: Who was in the audience that day?
Historical Insight: Festus served in Judea only 2 years, but his record shows wisdom and honesty superior to those before and after him. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1693)
Agrippa was ~30 years old, the son of the king struck down by God in Acts 12:23. He was a friend of the Roman imperial family, appointed the Jewish high priest, and was well acquainted with the Jews’ religion. He was not Jewish. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 423)
4. Paul gets another opportunity (4th since Acts 21:1) to tell his story before kings and authorities. What does he say in this “sermon” that would invite Agrippa and the others to listen?
5. This opportunity to hear Paul’s story is evidence of God’s grace toward Festus, Agrippa, and the other influential people. They hear the gospel message wrapped in the testimony of someone who has lived out its truth for all to see. What appeal does Paul make to the audience? How do Festus and Agrippa respond to Paul’s appeal? What did they miss for themselves?
6. Share Your Life: Paul presents himself honorably, truthfully and respectfully. How does the Holy Spirit help us do that? Have you ever experienced a stressful situation where an outside observer was amazed at how you handled yourself?
7. Discovering the Facts: Who is traveling with Paul besides Luke? Read Acts 19:29; 20:4, and Colossians 4:10 to see what other “adventure” Aristarchus experienced alongside Paul.
8. Share Your Life: Have you ever voluntarily walked beside a friend through danger, hardship, or other challenging “adventure,” knowing it would be very hard on you as well? What was that like? What kept you going? How did that affect your friendship? Has someone done that for you?
9. Early in the journey, what kindness did the centurion Julius show to Paul? See also 27:42-43 for a later kindness.
10. What did Paul perceive and warn would happen if they continued their voyage on the Alexandrian ship? (Be specific.) Were his warnings heeded?
Historical Insight: The Alexandrian ship was from Egypt, bound for Rome with a cargo of grain. Rather than stay on the first ship up the coast to Macedonia and follow the inland highway from there, Julius chose to change ships for a direct voyage to Rome though Romans usually considered sailing that late in the season to be risky. (NIV Study Bible, pp. 1697-98)
11. Discovering the Facts: In the course of the voyage, what part of Paul’s warning came true? What part of Paul’s warning did not happen? Why not?
12. Compare Julius’s regard for Paul’s advice in 27:10-12 with 27:31-32. Why the change?
Scriptural Insight: If the sailors in v. 31 had been allowed to desert the ship in seeking to save themselves, the passengers would have been unable to beach the ship the following day. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1698)
13. Paul had been shipwrecked before. Read 2 Corinthians 11:25; 12:7-10, and Philippians 4:6-7 to find out what Paul learned about a life of “adventure” with Christ. How is this demonstrated in Acts 27:23-26, 33-38?
14. Share Your Life: Are there circumstances in your life you feel are so distressing that it’s impossible for God’s peace to calm you? Does this seem biblical in light of what you’ve just read? How does Paul’s situation encourage you? How can your group pray for you?
15. Discovering the Facts: These verses reveal once again God’s grace and kindness to men. Who did God use to give Paul and his companions “refuge” and how? Be specific.
Think About It: Malta was known as Melita by the Greeks and Romans. The name Melita was first given to the island by Phoenician seafarers; it is the Canaanite word for “refuge.” (F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, p. 497)
16. Since the angel told Paul the ship must run aground on some island, and Malta turns out to be the island, landing there seems to be part of God’s plan, not something that surprised God. Why do you think God wanted Paul on Malta? What good did God do for the islanders through Paul during his three-month stay there? [Note: here’s another governmental authority that is introduced to the God that Paul served.]
The islanders’ response in v. 4 is historical pagan thinking, “If good things happen, the gods are happy with me. If bad things happen, the gods are angry with me and are punishing me.” That is not biblical thinking. As was discussed in the last lesson, God is good all the time—even in the hard times and in different ways to different people.
17. Looking back over Acts 27:1-28:10, what are some examples of God being good in different ways to different people so that what looks “bad” for one is actually “good” for that person or for someone else?
18. Share Your Life: Thinking about your own life, describe some instances where what looked “bad” for you actually turned out to be a blessing for you or for someone else. Have you thanked God for that specifically? If not, consider doing so and tell someone about it this week.
19. Upon accepting Christ, you become a sister in Christ to all other believers; you are united into a glorious family! In vv. 11-16, describe how “the brethren” (or “brothers”) showed their support for Paul. What kind of effect did this support have on Paul (remembering what he has just been through)?
Historical Insight: The Forum of Appius was 43 miles from Rome. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1700)
20. At last, Paul is finally in Rome, where he had wanted to go for quite some time! Though a prisoner because of his appeal to Caesar and restricted in his mobility (but not his speech), what does he do shortly after his arrival? Why? Does this surprise you? Explain.
Think About It: Men may bind the preachers, but the gospel cannot be chained! (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 431)
21. In v. 20, what do you think Paul means when he says he is, “wearing this chain for the sake of the hope of Israel?”
22. What did Paul continue to do for two years after this confrontation with the Jews? What does Luke’s statement in v. 31, “Boldly and without hindrance” reveal about Paul’s view of his circumstances? Read Acts 26:22. What confidence does he have in His God? In what ways was he fired up and ready for any adventure Jesus planned for him?
Historical Insight: During this two-year period, Paul wrote what are commonly called his “Prison Epistles”—Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon, and Philippians. What happened after this two-year captivity? Perhaps no charges were filed in Rome and Paul was released. Probably Paul returned to the provinces of Macedonia, Achaia, and Asia and then turned west to Spain according to his original plans. Then he administered once more in the Aegean area where he was taken prisoner, removed to Rome, and executed. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 431)
23. Share Your Life: How do you view delays, discomfort, and opposition—as God’s leading through opportunity or as a hindrance to being “successful” in life as a believer? Looking back on your struggles, how was Jesus protecting you and helping you through them?
Jill Briscoe once said that women are naturally fear-driven, performance-oriented creatures. We want the environment and circumstances in our lives to be perfect. Then we think we can function well, without hindrance. That’s not biblical. Paul decided that he would continue to serve God wholeheartedly, doing what Jesus called him to do, going on every adventure Jesus planned for him, in spite of his circumstances and in the midst of less-than-ideal circumstances. Just like Paul, the Holy Spirit will get you fired up. Are you ready for that adventure with Jesus? What decisions do you need to make about your life that make you ready for it? Will you tell Jesus, “YES!” today?
The following information is adapted from Glimpses of Church History (Issues #8, #9, and #217), published by Church History Institute.
The New Testament tells of the fate of only two of the apostles: Judas (Iscariot), who betrayed Jesus and then went out and hanged himself, and James the son of Zebedee, who was executed by Herod about 44 A.D. (Acts 12:2). As to the rest of the apostles, reports and legends abound, though not always reliable, but still giving us some clue as to what might have happened. An early legend says they cast lots and divided up the world to determine who would go where, so all could hear about Jesus. They suffered greatly for their faith and in most cases met violent deaths on account of their bold witness.
PETER and PAUL were both executed in Rome about 66 A.D., during the persecution under Emperor Nero. Paul was beheaded. Peter was crucified upside down, at his request, since he did not feel he was worthy to die in the same manner as his Lord.
ANDREW went to the “land of the man-eaters,” in what is now the Soviet Union. Christians there claim him as the first to bring the gospel to their land. He also preached in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) and in Greece, where it is thought he was crucified.
THOMAS was probably most active in the area east of Syria. Tradition has him preaching in India, where the ancient Marthoma Christians revere him as their founder and claim that he died there when pierced through with the spears of four soldiers.
PHILIP possibly had a powerful ministry in Carthage in North Africa and then in Asia Minor, where the wife of a Roman proconsul accepted the gospel. In retaliation the proconsul had Philip arrested and cruelly put to death.
MATTHEW the tax collector and writer of the Gospel bearing his name, ministered in Persia and Ethiopia. Some of the oldest reports say he was not martyred, while others say he was stabbed to death in Ethiopia.
BARTHOLOMEW (also known as Nathaniel) had widespread missionary travels attributed to him by tradition: to India with Thomas, back to Armenia, and also to Ethiopia and Southern Arabia. There are various accounts of how he met his death as a martyr for the gospel.
JAMES the son of Alphaeus, is one of at least three James referred to in the New Testament. This James is reckoned to have ministered in Syria. The Jewish historian Josephus reported that he was stoned and then clubbed to death.
SIMON THE ZEALOT, so the story goes, ministered in Persia and was killed after refusing to sacrifice to the sun god.
Little is known of Thaddaeus (also known as Judas, not Iscariot).
MATTHIAS was the apostle chosen to replace Judas. Tradition sends him to Syria with Andrew and to death by burning.
JOHN is the only one of the company generally thought to have died a natural death from old age. He was the leader of the church in Ephesus. During Domitian’s persecution in the middle 90’s, he was exiled to the island of Patmos. There he wrote the last book of the New Testament—Revelation. An early Latin tradition has him escaping unhurt after being cast into boiling oil at Rome.
How did the early Christian church survive? Humanly speaking, the odds were all stacked against it. It was unthinkable that a small, despised movement from a corner of Palestine could move out to become the dominant faith of the mighty Roman Empire, an empire steeped in fiercely defended traditional pagan religions. The spread of the Christian church in its earliest centuries is one of the most amazing phenomena in all of human history. The church was considered a religio prava, an illegal and depraved religion. Wave after wave of persecution was unleashed to squash it. At least two of the persecutions were empire-wide and intended to destroy the church. So how did this young fledgling movement make it?
The earliest Christians did not have church buildings. They typically met in homes. (The first actual church building to be found is at Dura Europos on the Euphrates, dating about 231.) They did not have public ceremonies that would introduce them to the public. They had no access to the mass media of their day. So how can we account for their steady and diverse expansion over the first three centuries?
After the Apostle Paul, we do not run across many “big names” as missionaries in the first few hundred years of Christian history. Instead the faith spread through a multitude of humble, ordinary believers whose names have been long forgotten.
Early Christianity was primarily an urban faith, establishing itself in the city centers of the Roman Empire. Most of the people lived close together in crowded tenements. There were few secrets in such a setting. The faith spread as neighbors saw the lives of the believers close-up, on a daily basis.
And what kind of lives did they lead? Justin Martyr, a noted early Christian theologian, wrote to Emperor Antoninus Pius in A.D. 153 and described the believers:
“We formerly rejoiced in uncleanness of life, but now love only chastity; before we used the magic arts, but now dedicate ourselves to the true and unbegotten God; before we loved money and possessions more than anything, but now we share what we have and to everyone who is in need; before we hated one another and killed one another and would not eat with those of another race, but now since the manifestation of Christ, we have come to a common life and pray for our enemies and try to win over those who hate us without just cause.”
In another place Justin points out how those opposed to Christianity were sometimes won over as they saw the consistency in the lives of believers, noting their extraordinary forbearance when cheated and their honesty in business dealings.
Christians became known as those who cared for the sick. Many were known for the healing that resulted from their prayers. Christians also started the first “Meals on Wheels.” By the year 250, they were feeding more than 1500 of the hungry and destitute in Rome every day.
When Emperor Julian (“the Apostate”) wanted to revive pagan religion in the mid-300s, he gave a most helpful insight into how the church spread. This opponent of the faith said that Christianity “has been specially advanced through the loving service rendered to strangers and through their care of the burial of the dead. It is a scandal that there is not a single Jew who is a beggar and that the [Christians] care not only for their own poor but for ours as well; while those who belong to us look in vain for the help we should render them.”
On the surface, the early Christians appeared powerless and weak, they were an easy target for scorn and ridicule. They had no great financial resources, no buildings, no social status, no government approval, and no respect from the educators. And after they became separated from their first-century association with the Jewish synagogues, they lacked institutional backing and an ancient tradition to appeal to.
But what finally mattered is what they did have. They had a faith. They had a fellowship. They had a new way of life. They had a confidence that their Lord was alive in heaven and guiding their daily lives. These were the important things. And it made all the difference in laying a Christian foundation for all of Western civilization.
What was a typical worship service like in the century after Christ and the apostles died? In a letter to the emperor around A.D. 153, Christian philosopher and layman Justin Martyr explained what Christians believed and what they actually did when they gathered. From Justin’s account, we learn that the central elements of worship have for the most part remained consistent from the earliest days of the church until today: the Word of God (both read and preached), corporate prayer (including the Psalms), Communion (using bread and wine), and an offering (so the church could care for the poor).
The early Christians gathered on Sunday (the pagan name of the first day of the week), which they usually called the “Lord’s Day.”
“We all make our assembly in common on Sunday, since it is the first day, on which God changed darkness and matter and made the world, and Jesus Christ our Savior arose from the dead on the same day. For they crucified him on the day before Saturn’s day [Saturday], and on the day after (which is the day of the Sun) he appeared to his apostles and disciples and taught these things, which we have offered for your consideration.” (From the First Apology of Justin Martyr)
They read Scripture aloud, usually the writings that became the New Testament and/or the Old Testament. The reader read as long as time permitted. The average person could not read so these readings provided the main opportunity for Christians to learn the Bible.
The congregational leader—the “presiding brother” who was bishop, overseer, or pastor—gave a sermon. The sermon was based on the Scripture reading of the day and made a practical application, urging the congregation to imitate “these good things.”
The congregation stood and prayed together. In the early church, a person kneeled or prostrated himself to express humility, repentance, and confession of sin. Standing was a sign of joy and boldness. They stood when they prayed because they believed that as God’s children they had the freedom and privilege to come boldly into His presence through Christ. As Justin describes it, their prayer began with an address to God as Father and Creator, glorified Him for His mighty acts, moved from giving thanks to asking for God’s help, and closed with praise—all in the name of Christ.
Besides singing the Psalms as prayer, early Christians also sang other poetic sections of the Bible and composed their own hymns. Our earliest Christian “hymnbook” is The Odes of Solomon from the second or third century.
They kissed each other. At least on occasions when there was a baptism, Justin wrote, “we salute one another with a kiss.” The “holy kiss” was an expression of brotherly love, a sign of being in fellowship with one another. It welcomed newly baptized believers into the family of God.
They set apart bread and wine. The bread and wine may have been ordinary, but they were now set apart and given new meaning. In the first century, the Lord’s Supper was celebrated as part of an entire meal.
The leader gave thanks to God. The New Testament usually refers to communion as “the breaking of bread,” but second century Christian writers called it the “thanksgiving” (Latin, Eucharist). Unlike the bloody sacrifices of pagan religions, Christians offered the spiritual sacrifice of prayer and thanksgiving. The leader sent “up praise and glory to the Father through the name of his Son and of the Holy Spirit and makes thanksgiving at length for the gifts we were counted worthy to receive from him.”
The congregation said “Amen.” The word amen is Hebrew for “may it be so.” Just as in the Jewish synagogues, the early Christians gave their amen after the prayer or doxology to show their assent to what had been said. This was an acclamation—shouted out, not mumbled.
The bread and wine were distributed by the deacons. Sharing the bread and wine expressed the fellowship of the believing community. The deacons even carried them to those who were sick at home or unable to be present physically.
Everyone who wanted to gave money. Unlike the “dues” of clubs and private associations that were so common in the Roman Empire, the Christians’ offerings were entirely voluntary—a free gift. The money benefited orphans, widows, the sick, prisoners, and strangers.
Worship was balanced. In the first part of the service (focused on the Word), God speaks to human beings through Scripture, and humans speak to God through prayer. In the second part of the service (focused on the Lord’s Supper), the bread and wine represent God’s gift to His people, and the offering represents the people’s gifts to God.
The following resources were used in the preparation and writing of this study.
A. T. Robertson, Robertson’s Word Pictures of the New Testament, Broadman Press, 1932.
Beth Moore, To Live Is Christ, LifeWay Press, 1997.
Charles Swindoll, Paul, A Man of Grace and Grit, book and study guide, Insight for Living, 2003.
Chip Ingram, “Pursuing Holy Ambition,” DTS Leader Board Conference notes, Jan. 21, 2008.
Clinton E. Arnold, Ephesians: Power and Magic, Baker Book House, 1997.
Dr. Peter Kreeft, quoted by Sue Bohlin, Probe Answers Your Email, accessed online at www.probe.org/site/c.fdKEIMNsEoG/b.4802767/k.B8F3/Why_Do_More_Educated_People_Tend_to_Deny_the_Existence_of_God.htm?tr=y&auid=4330527.
Dr. Thomas Constable, Notes on Acts, 2007, accessed online at www.soniclight.com.
F. F. Bruce, Paul, Apostle of the Heart Set Free, William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1977.
F. F. Bruce, The Book of the Acts, William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1988.
Glimpses of Church History, Church History Institute, accessed online at www.christianhistorytimeline.com/index.php.
Herbert Lockyer, Sr., Editor, Illustrated Dictionary of the Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1986.
Jennifer Newton, Professor of English Literature, California Baptist University, “Fantasy Magic or Supernatural Magic,” personal interview December 2008.
Jim Cymbala with Dean Merrill, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Zondervan Publishing House, 1997.
John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, Victor Books, 1983.
Life Application Study Bible New International Version, Tyndale House and Zondervan, 1991.
N.T. Wright, The Resurrection of the Son of God, Augsburg Fortress, 2003.
Nancy Guthrie, “Prayers That Move the Heart of God,” Christianity Today, March/April 2006, Vol. 28, No. 2, p. 22,
Sue Edwards, Acts of the Holy Spirit: Preparing Our Hearts for God’s Lessons, study guide, accessed online at www.bible.org.
The NIV Study Bible New International Version, Zondervan Bible Publishers, 1985.
Tim Challies, The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment, Crossway Books, 2007.
W. E. Vine, Merrill F. Unger, and William White, Jr., Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1985.