><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (ACTS) CHAPTER 26: 1-18 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1)Paul makes his defence before King Agrippa. He deals with three themes: (a) his life before he was converted (verses 4-l1),(b) his conversion (verses 12-15), and (c) his commission to serve Jesus Christ (verses I&I 8). Sum up in a few words each of these three periods in Paul's life. What made this change and what was the realquestion at issue in this trial? See verses 6-8; 13-I5. 2)How does the Lord Jesus, in the commission which He gave to Paul (verses 16-18), describe (a)The lost condition of mankind,(b) the content of salvation, and (c) the method of salvation? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (ACTS) Chapter 26: 1-18 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 6: v6-23 The, by now, well rehearsed testimony. It gets better each time! This is the longest sermon Paul preached since his arrival in Jerusalem. There were no accusers to interrupt. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) Agrippa - Expert in All Customs and Controversies of Jews: Herod Agrippa II was the son of Herod Agrippa I , Acts 12. He was also the brother of Drusilla, the wife of Felix (24:24). Bernice (25:13) was Agrippa II and Drusill's sister. Bernice was married to her uncle, Herod. On her husband's death, she lived in incest with her brother AgrippaII. [Salem Kirban Reference Bible] Aprippa was so well acquainted with Jewish customs because he served as the liaison between the Jewish religious leaders and the Roman government for his father. [The Quest Study Bible] (ii) Paul - A Minister and A Witness, Acts 26:16: What is the goal of Paul's ministry? TO OPEN THIR EYES AND TO TURN THEM FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT, AND FROM THE POWER OF sATAN TO gOD, THAT THEY MAY RECEIVE FORGIVENESS OF SINS AND AN INHERITANCE AMONG THOSE WHO ARE SANCTIFIED BY FAITH IN mE. Acts 26:18. It is not only the calls for Paul, church pastors and elders of doing so.. It is just a matter that we are slacking of accepting the challenges . -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- Paul's conversion: before - persecuter of Christians; appointed by God; called to preach the Gospel to Jews and Gentiles alike. Legally, Paul was not guilty of the charges brought against him by Tertullus (rioting, etc.,) The Lord said that they are in darkness and need to have their eyes opened, deliverance from the power of Satan to God, to be forgiven of sins and receive a place among the faithful ones. The most moving statement to me was whe Agrippa asked Paul, "Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?" and Paul's reply..."Short time or long - I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains." That is a constant witness, taking every opportunity. We need to be ready to answer "kings" as well, sincerely and guided by the HS. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Paul retells his personal conversion story/testimony. It is interesting to note that as many times as we have heard it, Paul tailors it a little differently to everyone he meets. He highlights different items for the different people that need to hear different elements of his testimony. We too must master the art of selectively retelling our testimony via the leading of the Spirit. King Agrippa being a Jewish leader would be familiar with and need to hear more of phase 1 of Paul's life, so Paul puts an emphasis in this area. He tries to relate his position to that of another Jew. He also addresses the issue which was the root of his being tried = ressurection from the dead. 2) Christ describes mankind as blind and in darkness. He describes salvation as containing forgiving power, and the method as a "sanctification of faith" - setting oneself apart by one's belief in Christ. Let us count ourselves among those santified by faith to Christ and live our lives to demonstrate this sanctification and distinction that will make other wonder what's the difference? What's the motivation? what makes this person tick? Why are the different? In essenece, let us give them the Desire to Acquire! ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (ACTS) CHAPTER 26:19-32 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1)What do you learn about obedience from Paul's example (verses 19-23)? Note especially (a) the place where he witnessed, (b) the message he gave, (c) the cost involved, and (d) the help God gave. Does your obedience cost you anything? 2)What was the motive that enabled Paul to speak so boldly and yet politely before such men as Festus and Agrippa? Cf verse 29 with I Cor. 9:12a and 2 Cor. 5: 14. Is this true in your life? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (ACTS) Chapter 26:19-32 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 26: The witness, the testimony of believers living their lives openly in society. Not in the dark. 27: Question and answer in quick succession. Agrippa had no opportunity to agree or disagree. 32: "Set free if he had not appealed to Caesar" Can we be sure? If he HAD been set free it would have created great turmoil among the Jews and generated a situation the Romans would have to deal with. Felix may have kept Paul in prison to extort a bribe. Festus probably kept him in prison to keep the peace. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) With Help from God, we stand, 26:22a: The ones who serve the Lord will obtain help from God. Is. 50:9 - bEHOLD, THE lORD gOD WILL HELP ME; WHO IS HE THAT SHALL CONDEMN ME? lO, THEY ALL SHALL WAX OLD AS A GARMENT; THE MOTH SHALL EAT THEM UP. (ii) The summary of Paul's Sermon to King Aprippa: 26:27 - kING aGRIPPA, DO YOU BELIEVE THE PROPHETS? i KNOW THAT YOU DO BELIEVE. (because Aprippa is a Jew) 26:22&23 - ----- i STAND, ----- SAYING NO OTHER THINGS THAN THOSE WHICH THE PROPHETS AND mOSES SAID WOULD COME - THAT THE cHRIST WOULD SUFFER, THAT hE WOULD BE THE FIRST TO RISE FROM THE DEAD, AND WOULD PROCLAIM LIGHT TO THE jEWISH PEOPLE AND TO THE gENTILES. This simple logic caused Arippa to say " You almost persuade me to become a Christian", 26:28. -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- I think that obedience does cost something; but those who love God obey Him (Jn. 14:21- and Jesus promises to show Himself to those who love and obey Him). P preached all over to Jews and Gentiles alike. P acknowledges that God has helped him to this very day. Above all, he preaches Christ's resurrection from the dead and proclamation to the Jews and Gentiles. Love and obedience drive P's ministry for the Lord. May our eyes be opened to where, in our witnesses, we are lacking in love and obedience for/to the Lord. Love and obedience go hand in hand...Jn 14:21: "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Paul claims his obedience to the call of the his conversion/vision. He clings to this even through times of harship/imprisonment and chains. He witnesses as directed in the first portion of Acts 1:8 Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, the uttermost parts of the earth(Rome?). It is interesting to follow his execution and obedience to Christ's great commission. The message he preached was simple and free for all the same message, repentance - Available for one and all Jew and Gentile. He doesn't count the cost, but rather the riches and reward to come. Let us too consider not the persecution and trials, but look forward and skyward to those things which are uncorruptable and undefiled. 2) His openness with which he had done all things, and the King's background enabled Paul to boldly give his testimony to Agrippa. We need to seize the day and grab the moment for we know not when the Lord will call us home(either through death or his return). We must remember that some people we come in contact with we will only see for a "short time", so we must live that they may know. My Dad mentioned his coworker the other day, how it is hard to win just one soul to the Lord, Paul experiences this here with Agrippa, yet how short an audience did he have with Agrippa, a mere few days, yet he used every moment he could and opportunity given to live the (gospel) life to him. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (ACTS) CHAPTER 27:1-20 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1)Follow the voyage on a map. What were the outstanding events in the voyage, and what encouragements did Paul receive during the early part of the journey? Has God given you an unexpected blessing in a difficult time? 2)Why was Paul's advice disregarded at first, but heeded later? Cf verses 9-12 and 21-25. Note. Verse 9. 'The fast': the Day of Atonement, which came in the latter part of September, and was considered by the Jews as marking roughly the close of the safe season for sea travel. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (ACTS) Chapter 27:1-20 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- Acts 27:1: "we would sail" Luke (and Aristarchus, v2) remained faithful, standing by Paul even though Paul was riding dangerous seas -- both literally and figuratively. Paul was, at last, on his way to Rome! 3: God posted believers along the way to encourage Paul. 11: Why follow Paul's advice? He was no sailor! -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- The centurion, Julius, was kind to let P see his friends at Sidon. This must have been very encouraging to him. God gives countless unexpected blessings in difficult times. From small things to miracles, it all depends on if we have faith to believe God is the giver of the gift/blessing. God sends us special blessings every day, but sometimes we don't thank Him or recognize that they are from Him. They believed P later because he was right the first time, and they were wrong! He accurately detailed what would happen and it did. Another reason may have been because they were desperate at that point. Having gone a long time without food, they had no better alternatives. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) Paul's Companions in travel: God is great! When we read the rough life of the apostle Paul in this chapter, we praise the Lord that He sent the angels around him. No doubt Dr. Luke was with him. Further, Aristarchus was also with him, Acts 27:2 - Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, was with us. What kind of man is Aristarchus? Acts 19:29 - So the whole city was filled with confusion, and rushed into the theater with one accord, having seized Gaius and Aristarchus, Macedonians, Paul's travel companions. If you are serving the Lord alone; you need to stop and think - am I being blessed in my service? (ii) Why was Paul's Advice Ignored, the First Time, Acts 27:10-11? Because they did not know what a godly man he was. They did not realize that they were talking to the one who the Lord said to him - Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome. Acts 23:11. On the other hand, the Lord also really wanted them, 276 (Acts 27:37), to "experience God" under the conditions that when they felt "all hope that we would be saved was finally given up." Acts 27:20. Finally, gOD HAS GRANTED YOU ALL THOSE WHO SAIL WITH YOU. Acts 27:24. I feel that the Lord hardened their hearts not to listen to P. so they would be saved through the shipwreck incidence. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) This is a very interesting voyage in terms of sailing. Especially given the times that we are talking about. The technology of sailing was very primitive still and there were few navigational aides out on the water. The trip leads to many ports early on, and Paul is able to stop with friends and supporters along the way due to the kindness of Julius the Centurion. Sometimes in times of trouble the Lord gives us a little bit of relief through the fellowship and counsel of other believers. 2) Paul's advice to stop was not taken into consideration at first, possibly because as Les put it, he was not a sailor but a tentmaker. Though as the note put it, the 'prime sailing time' had passed. It may have been arrogance and self confidence that lead to their situation. A Nor'Easter is a very violent SW wind that sailors are constantly watchful for. Paul's advice is later taken I believe due to the desperation of the situation. Isn't it interesting how we often don't heed advice until the last moment, when we've given up all other hope. Too often we do this with our seeking of help from God. We wait until we can't handle the situation, THEN at the last moment, in desperation we cry out to God. We must strive to seek the Lord in all circumstances and take his leading FIRST instead of LAST. Consider what Pastor Sawyer preached Sunday about Hagar and her pondering "Where is God in all of this? Where is my faith in all of this?" We must instead ask "Where is God leading? Where do I direct my faith?" ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (ACTS) CHAPTER 27: 21-44 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1)In the time of testing and danger that all on the ship went through,compare the reactions of Paul (verses 24, 2s; 33-36) with the sailors (verses 30-32), and the soldiers (verses 41, 43). Why was Paul able to behave so calmly and ins p ire others with his example? Do you have inner resources that help you to stand in times like these? 2)Notice that the shipwreck was caused through not taking Paul's advice.Is this a warning to you not to make shipwreck of your life through disobedience of some plain command of God (e.g., 2 Cor. 6: '4 and Mt. 6:33)? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (ACTS) Chapter 27: 21-44 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 24: The consistency of God's message to Paul, he would go to Rome. 31: Notice that when all around him were becoming desperate, Paul kept his wits and was able to render good advice. 35: Making disciples as you go... Paul, living his faith out in front of those around him. Stoping, in the midst of the storm to give God thanks for the food! 42: Paul was not the only prisoner. -------------------------------------------- * RJ Carr -------------------------------------------- Paul had a certain peace about him because he ultimately knew who was in control. All of us go through life faced with challenges and difficulties. It is by letting go of our constant need to be in control of our lives that we can truly be set free. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) The 270 Some on Board were Saved to have eternal lives. But lost their earthly richness: The ship owner, the captain and the sailors lost their cargo, (27:18 of NIV and Chinese version), wheat, 27:38 and their ship. In return, the Lord granted them eternal life -"indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you," 27:24. When the rich ruler came to Jesus and asked for eternal life, he walked away sadly because he would not give up his richness, Luke 1818-30. Do you feel that sometimes difficulty situations would bless us more? God's way is higher than our ways. "I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, Rom. 9:15. These men on the ship did not have any chose to keep their possessions. Is God a fair God? With fear of God, I say yes. But in my mind, I do not know how to answer that question. (ii) I call him "The Blessed Centurion": The centurion of the Augustan Regiment is a righteous man - He treat Paul kindly, 27:3. He protected Paul's life, 27:43, and did the right thing. I think that he will get a crown of righteous. -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- P had unwavering faith in God, believing God's words and showing it by his actions of eating and preparing for what God had said would happen. (Just as Noah built the ark according to very detailed plans, having faith that what God said would come to pass, Gen. 6-8) The sailors had no faith, only fear and selfishness to steal the lifeboats. The soldiers were afraid to be punished for not keeping the prisoners, and wanted to kill them. Only the centurion acted wisely and mercifully, unlike a coward. Obedience to God is key to a "successful" Christian walk. But sometimes God does test us...(will we be obedient??), just as he did Job. But notice Job's response, Job 23:10: "BUT HE KNOWS THE WAY THAT I TAKE, WHEN HE HAS TESTED ME, I WILL COME FORTH AS GOLD." Also, Peter tells of what is really being tested for purity and strength, our faith, I Peter 1:7 concerning trials: "These have come so that your faith, of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire - MAY BE PROVED GENUINE AND MAY RESULT IN PRAISE, GLORY AND HONOR WHEN jESUS cHRIST IS REVEALED." If you are going through trials of any sort, trust in God that your faith is being proved genuine. Praise God. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) During this time of trial by fire, each of the different groups reacted differently. Paul remained confident that what the Lord had promised, He would provide, the sailors were literally 'jumping ship' - giving up and turning tail, the soldiers remained tied to their worldly obligations and duty. Paul had peace that all would be safe and trusted in the Lord's word and in his promise to him. How do we fare when tested, do we give up all hope like the sailors(those trained for the job), do we remain diligent to a task which is futile(good deed, but wrong intention), or do we stand on the Truth as Paul did? 2) Even though he didn't know sailing or anything regarding weather etc... Paul had been given a message from God. We must never take for granted the words of a brother or sister in Christ when they mention that they feel led by God to do something or to have us do something. God can reveal things to those around us to help us through a situation or trial. Let us keep watch and not fall asleep to be mindful of those situations. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (ACTS) CHAPTER 28: 1-16 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1)The disastrous journey is almost ended. What opportunities of service and witness did Paul find in Malta? Have you found opportunities of service for Christ when things, seemingly, go wrong in your life? 2) So we came to Rome(verse14). Cf 19:21;23:11;Rom.1:13; 15:22,23. This was the goal, but what can one learn from the fact that God had other ways for it to be achieved than Paul at first realized? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (ACTS) Chapter 28: 1-16 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- Acts 28:2: The hospitality of the Maltese was another encouragement to Paul. 4: God's purposes will not be hindered, not even by a venemous snake. The entire ship's company and passengers were saved because they were with Paul! Paul not even concerned about the snake bite! His faith was in God. If God wanted to bring him home, he was willing to go. If God wanted Paul in Rome, God would get him there! 6: Paul's surviving the snake bite set him apart from the crowd and gave him an opportunity to give his testimony to the islanders. 7: Paul certainly captured the attention of Publius. 8: God used Paul on the sojourn on Malta to spread the Gospel. 10: Further encouragement and support -- provided by God. 11: A three month sojourn. Time to plant a church? 14: How often do we try to out guess God with our well intentioned plans, plans based on our own wisdom, not his? Look at what God accomplished through the winter travels, storms and ship wreck! 15: As believers, do we make it a habit to encourage God's servants (pastors, pastoral staff, missionaries, church administrators)? -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) God Reveals Himself to Men in Various Ways: iN THE bEGINNING WAS THE wORD, AND THE wORD WAS WITH gOD, AND THE wORD WAS gOD. John 1:1. God reveals Himself to us in His Word where the Word is available. When P. was "drafted" to Malta. God's Word was not available to the islanders. God revealed Himself to the islanders of Malta in power and wonders. A viper attacked P. and did no harm to him. The islanders considered him as a god, 28:6. Later on, P. healed the father of the chief of the islanders and other sick ones. They honored them in many ways, 28:10 These are the other ways the Lord made Himself known to His peoples. 28:8-9. (ii) If We Love One Another, God Abides in Us, I John 4:12 In Puteoli, They stayed seven days, 28:14. Soon after they arrived Rome, Saints came from Appli Forum (about 40 miles away) and Three Inns (about 30 miles away from Rome) to fellowship with them. It showed their love to one another. John 15:4 aBIDE IN mE, AND i IN YOU. aS THE BRANCH CANNOT BEAR FRUIT OF ITSELF, UNLESS IT ABIDES IN THE VINE, NEITHER CAN YOU, UNLESS YOU ABIDE IN mE. -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- Seems that P is given opportunities all around him! We can guess that he gave glory to God and testified as much as possible. The snakes, and the healing were both excellent chances to show "islanders" the power of God. It was a tangible way for them to understand. It would seem ill to have a snake wrap up on you, wouldn't it? But God intended it for good. We cannot question God's sovereign will in our lives. But we can show that our faith is genuine by our response - trusting in God despite the odds. Also, it seems that what we as humans see as terrible conditions, God sees as opportunities. Medicine seldom tastes very good, but it helps to make you (in this case, others) well. God may lead on a very circuitous route to the final destination. But we need faith and trust in Him (and obedience)that what he promised will come to pass. Personally in my "educational journey" I have often wondered where God is going with me...finally, He is making it clear. It has really helped me to understand more about how I need to trust that GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISES, and trust that He has put you wherever you are for some purpose. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Paul gets to Malta and finds the opportunity to change mens hearts. The islanders were ready to kill him, but then after the snake miracle were regarding him as a god. He was able to go heal a man too. It does not come out and specifically say that many were saved, but it is implied. 2) Paul finally reaches Rome. The method by which he got there was probably nothing like what he had planned or conceived of when he had the vision telling him he would preach in Rome. Too often we let our feeble minds and limited views cloud the picture of how God wants to make things work in our lives. We even go so far as to pray against the will of God to have what makes "sense" occur. How many times are we hindering God's work due to our lack of faith? ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (ACTS) CHAPTER 28:17-31 and REVIEW ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1)Paul at Rome(verses 17-22). What was Paul's chief concern on reaching Rome? It would seem he was anxious that no discredit should be laid against the Christian faith by his house-arrest. Are you anxious always to commend the Christian faith by your life? 2)Verses 23-28. What was Paul's message to the Jews at Rome? What reasons does he give for the persistence of so many his misbelief? What reaction did he expect the Gentiles would show? Is this still the same today? 3)List the main facts with which Luke summarizes Paul's ministry as a prisoner at Rome (verses 30, 31). Consider the influence Paul had during those years through people coming to him, and through letters he wrote to the churches he had visited. ---------------------------------- Revision of ACTS ---------------------------------- 1)Trace through the following key verses in the book: 1:8; 6:7; 9:31; 12:24; 16:5; 19:20 and 28:31. What reasons can you list from them for the growth of the early church? What lessons do you learn about obedience to God's Word, trust in God's power, and witness to the Lord Jesus Christ? 2)In such passages as 20: 18-35; 21: 13, 14; 23: I; 24: 16; 26:19-23,29 and 27: 22-25, we have an insight into the real personality and spirit of Paul. List the qualities that are outstanding. Were these natural or divine qualities? Can they be yours? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (ACTS) Chapter 28:17-31 and REVIEW =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 17: Paul preached, first to the Jews, and that, only three days after his arrival! 21: Proof of the difficulty in bringing charges against Paul in Rome. No one had come through from Jerusalem to press charges. 22: However, they had heard news about what Paul and other had been preaching! 23: Paul's objective accomplished. Preaching the gospel in Rome! 24: This is realistic to expect when we share the gospel: some will believe, others (would/will) not. 28: First to the Jews, then to the Gentiles. 31: The last historical record of Paul -- preaching the gospel! -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) For the Hope of Israel, Paul Was Chained, Acts 28:20: For (1) Jews did not believe Jesus is Christ and also because (2) Jews did not feel Salvation should be reached out to Gentiles, so they spoke against him. For these reasons, it left him having no choice except appealing to Caesar. Paul called the leaders of Jews in Rome to clarify that he had nothing to accuse his nation, Israel, 28:19. (ii) The Heart of This People Has Grown Dull, 28:27: Therefore the kingdom of God will be given to gentiles, a people (the church)who will produce its fruit, Matt. 21:43, NIV. (iii) Preaching the Kingdom of God, 28:31: Paul preached the Kingdom of God in his rented house for two years. Mark 1:15 ----- THE KINGDOM OF gOD IS AT HAND. rEPENT, AND BELIEVE IN THEGOSPEL. John 3:3 ----- "mOST ASSUREDLY, i SAY TO YOU, UNLESS ONE IS BORN AGAIN, HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGOM OF gOD." Romans 14:17 - FOR THE KINGDOM OF gOD IS NOT FOOD AND DRINK, BUT RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PEACE AND JOY IN THE hOLY sPIRIT. (iv) Paul's Later Life: P was acquitted about A.D. 63. Then, rearrested, he was taken back to Rome, and beheaded about A.D. 67. The accusation was connected with the burning of Rome. (Halley's Bible HDBK) (v) Paul's Valedictory: II Tim. 4:7-8 i HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT, i HAVE FINISHED THE RACE. ---------- WHO HAVE LOVED hIS APPREARING. (vi) Paul's Charge to You and Me, II Tim. 4:1-2: i CHARGE YOU THEREFORE BEFORE gOD AND THE lORD jESUS cHRIST, WHO WILL JUDGE THE LIVING AND THE DEAD AT hIS APPEARING AND hIS KINGDOM: pREACH THE WORD! bE READY IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON. cONVINCE, REBUKE, EXHORT, WITH ALL LONG SUFFERING AND TEACHING. -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- He wanted to assure them that he was not "guilty of any crimes deserving death" and also to preach "the hope of Israel." It is very important not to smear the Christian faith by wrong actions or disobedience. Although I agree that we are "not perfect, just forgiven" as the bumper sticker says...I disagree that that should be our presenting slogan based on Matt. 5:48: "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Though we're bound to make mistakes, our goal should be to please God in every way (and not to cop out). P makes his innocence known here, I believe, to protect the name of Christ. P preached Christ, and emphasized how some would not believe, even having heard the Truth. And so the Gentiles are given a chance too. Message: KINGDOM OF GOD and JESUS CHRIST for two years; Speaker: Paul, formerly Saul the persecuter of Christians, now the one who spoke BOLDLY AND WITHOUT HINDRANCE for Christ...enough said. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Paul arrives in Rome and immediately wants to set the record straight. He wants to insure the saftey of the Jews there. We need to be "defenders of the faith" in our own lives each and every day. 2) Paul preached Jesus Christ the Law and the Prophets. His same message to all was preached once again. The callousness of their hearts is the reason for their unbelief of the message. He expected the Gentiles to open up and listen. 3) Paul was able to stay there 2 years unhindered and preaching and writing to encourage the gospel. ---------------------------------- Revision of ACTS ---------------------------------- 1) The early church grew because it had the power of the Spirit in,on, and with them. They followed Acts 2:42. This power was grasped due to their diligence to the Word, Fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. 2) Paul was: a humble man, tested by fire, 20:22 compelled by the Spirit, committed to God and the Lord's will, and a man with a clear conscience before God and man. He provides a great example for us of the influence and power of one man whose heart is set on God.