Lessons Archive

Psalm 34:19-20 - Many are the Afflictions of the Righteous

In many Christian circles, the ‘good news’ is presented along the lines of: “Christ suffered so that we don’t have to.” Is that true? Should we expect to see less suffering in this life when we turn to the Lord? Starting with this passage from David, we consider examples throughout the Scriptures of righteous people

Psalm 34:19-20 - Many are the Afflictions of the Righteous View Lesson

Paul Preaches in Rome (Acts 27-28)

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.

Paul Preaches in Rome (Acts 27-28) View Lesson

Paul's Defense before Festus and Agrippa (Acts 25-26)

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

God's Expectations of His Shepherds

As Paul planted churches, he placed significant importance on appointing elders (aka shepherds or bishops) as church leaders. What does God desire and require of His shepherds? What should the life, character, and faith of a New Testament elder look like? What are God's expectations for every Christian who follows the Good Shepherd? In this

God's Expectations of His Shepherds View Lesson

Paul Brought Before the Sanhedrin, and Felix (Acts 23-24)

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

Jerusalem Riot and Arrest (Acts 21:17-22:30)

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

Jerusalem Riot and Arrest (Acts 21:17-22:30) View Lesson

Philip and His Four Virgin Daughters (Acts 21:1-16)

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

Farewell to the Ephesian Elders (Acts 20)

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

Farewell to the Ephesian Elders (Acts 20) View Lesson

Spiritual Warfare in Ephesus (Acts 19)

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,

Spiritual Warfare in Ephesus (Acts 19) View Lesson

Apollos: Mighty in the Scriptures (Acts 18)

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

Apollos: Mighty in the Scriptures (Acts 18) View Lesson