In Ephesus we encounter Apollos, a Jewish believer from Alexandria, described as “an eloquent man, mighty in the Scriptures”. However, he also is open to learning more about the faith from Priscila and Aquila, traveling companions of Paul. The life of Apollos continues to provide a convicting upward call to Christians today, especially through his
Here Paul encounters a group of believers who knew only the baptism of John the Baptist. With insights from an early Christian writer, we explore the purpose and limitations of John’s baptism. The word spreads from Ephesus throughout the region, bearing fruit and creating conflict. Many publicly burn their very expensive collections of occult scrolls,
In his farewell address to the Ephesian elders, Paul looks back on his three years with that church and also looks ahead to what they should expect in days to come. Paul reminds them of his own example: his way of life, the gospel he preached, the warnings he gave, and his passionate desire to
Paul stays at the home of “Philip, the evangelist”, who had had four virgin daughters. Philip was one of the seven appointed in Acts 6, considered the first “deacons” by some early Christians. In this lesson we discuss the role of deacons in the church, then turn to an important (but rarely addressed) topic: voluntary
Philip and His Four Virgin Daughters (Acts 21:1-16) View Lesson
Philip and His Four Virgin Daughters (Acts 21:1-16) View Lesson
In Jerusalem, James advises Paul to participate in a Jewish purification ritual at the temple in order to quell rumors that Paul had been teaching Jews in other places to abandon the Law of Moses. When Paul is discovered by the Jews in the temple area, an angry mob threatens to kill him. He manages
In Jerusalem, Paul wisely divides the Sanhedrin by bringing up the doctrine of the bodily resurrection of the dead, a belief which still remains controversial. After being transferred to Caesarea, Paul frightens the Roman governor when speaking to him about “righteousness, self-control and the judgement to come”. We close by exploring the meaning of “righteousness”,
Paul Brought Before the Sanhedrin, and Felix (Acts 23-24) View Lesson
Paul Brought Before the Sanhedrin, and Felix (Acts 23-24) View Lesson
When Festus proposes a trial in Jerusalem, Paul instead uses his rights as a Roman citizen to appeal his case to Caesar. We consider the teaching and examples of Jesus and the apostles on how to interact with governments under difficult circumstances. This can prepare us for times of persecution. We also look at the
Paul's Defense before Festus and Agrippa (Acts 25-26) View Lesson
Paul's Defense before Festus and Agrippa (Acts 25-26) View Lesson
Sailing from Caesarea to Rome, Paul and Luke experience a violent storm, a deadly snake, a shipwreck and a miraculous deliverance. Through chains and affliction, Paul boldly proclaims the gospel of the Kingdom of God. As we conclude our study in Acts, may we be inspired by Paul's unshakeable faith in the inspiration of Scriptures.