Paul’s whole letter to the Ephesians bursts with abundant promises, provision and real hope in Christ. This section is no different.
Imagine that unity in the faith will happen. Mature manhood and womanhood can be attained in Christ.
God gives all we need to grow as a tree planted by streams of water one ring at a time. As each individual accepts God’s call to follow Him and teach others, the Body is strengthened in Christ! Lies are debunked. People flourish. Blessed hope pulses in each person and the church in Christ!
Who are you placing your hope in? What is your current spiritual temperature? Where are you planting yourself? How are you using your spiritual gifts to serve the body? Why might your life reflect or not reflect the hope in this passage?
- Kim Williams

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Who was given to equip and build up the body of Christ? Was this just for Paul’s generation? How does verse 13 inform your answer? If not, who are they in this generation? Are you called to be one in your sphere of influence? What might that look like?
+ What is the ultimate goal of the equipping and building up according to verse 13 and 15? What will it prevent according to verse 14?
+ What is the means to spiritual growth according to verse 15?
+ The phrase “when each part is working properly” is a bit daunting in this day and age. What does it mean to you? How have you seen it done well? How are you personally using your position in Christ to do your part in the Body?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ What did the promised Holy Spirit illuminate in this passage today for you personally? How will you respond?
+ Is there a place in your life where you are prone to being tossed about? Ask the Lord to illuminate truth in love and guide your steps in this particular area. Is there a person in the body who could help you be steadfast in this area?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Dear Jesus, thank you for your abundant promises, provision, and hope! In you nothing is impossible! The unity that in our mind seems fleeting, bring it through your Spirit! When it seems easier to stay stuck, rather than progressing to maturity, show us why we should move to become more like you. Illuminate, Lord Jesus, places in our life where we are prone to being deceived. Open our eyes. Bring truth to us through Your Word, Your Spirit, and Your people. Help us give and receive this truth in love.
Thank you for your love and that we don’t have to do anything to earn it. As you have extended grace to us as we grow to maturity, give us grace to extend to others as they are growing as well. It’s in your powerful and precious name, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ Look to be one of those in the body mentioned in verse 11. God will equip you! You could start with what the Spirit illuminated to you and share this truth and what you did with it with love with another.

“I just love mushrooms and onions on my pizza”.
So, did I really mean that or was I being facetious?  Because this is the written word and you can’t see my facial expression or hear the particular tone in my voice, you cannot really tell.  This thought came to me as I read some of the verses in Psalm 139, especially verse 7:
7 Where shall I go from your Spirit?
    Or where shall I flee from your presence?
One can question the actual meaning of this verse because we know from the introduction (which is part of the actual text from Scripture), this psalm was written by David.  Remember David also wrote Psalm 51, where he pours out his contrition to God after being “found out” in his sin of adultery with Bathsheba and the subsequent conspiracy to murder her husband Uriah.  Could David actually be “complaining” that no matter where he goes, he cannot escape the gaze of the Almighty God?  Maybe you can relate that sometimes being “known” by someone so well is not such a great feeling!  As we read the rest of this beautiful Psalm, we see that David may not always take comfort concerning God’s omniscience and omnipresence in his own life, but it does lead him to awe, reverence, praise, worship and devotion, as we should as well!
BTW, Joan and I regularly request both mushrooms and onions as toppings for our pizza, but you would know that if you really knew us!
- Chris Adomanis

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Define in general and “specific to you” terms what it means that God is
      omniscient (verses 1-6)
      omnipresent (verses 7-12)
      creator (verses 13-16)
      steadfast in His love (verses 17-18)
+ Verses 19-24 are David’s response to God’s greatness that he just described in verses 1-18.  What does it mean and how can we properly “hate those who hate God” (verses 19-22)?  What do you think David concluded about God in his request to Him found in verses 23-24?  What’s your conclusion?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Are there areas in your life that you hide, not only from the people around you, but from the Omniscient, Omnipresent God?  Repent and be assured that this same God has nothing but precious thoughts toward you that cannot even be counted!
Lamentations 3:22-23: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ I can find no better prayer than what David offered to close this wonderful Psalm, taken from the New Living Translation.  But before you do, read these words of caution from two great Bible scholars concerning these verses.
“It is a serious thing to pray, because it invites painful exposures and surgery, if we truly mean it. Still it is what every wise believer should desire.” (Dr. James Boice 1938-2000)
“I call upon you to be cautious in using this prayer. It is easy to mock God, by asking him to search you whilst you have made but little effort to search yourselves, and perhaps still less to act upon the result of the scrutiny.” (Henry Melvill 1809-71).

If you are ready and willing, pray with me…
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
Amen

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ Who in your sphere of influence needs to hear about the all knowing, all seeing, creator who is steadfast in His love for those who call upon His Name?

In the first verse, is David acknowledging other gods as capital G gods? Of course not. All throughout scriptures, the Lord rebukes His people when they have made idols (or gods) out of material things, other nations’ “gods”, or any other thing. Today, we are no stranger to making gods of other things. I believe to crown anything as a god is simply to give something (typically designed as good, but sadly perverted and twisted) the priority and place in our lives that only YHWH deserves. When David says, “I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing your praise”, I believe this is to do what we are charged with so often here at Downtown Hope. To unabashedly, unashamed, boldly proclaim that our God is Lord of all, before every other thing in our lives, He is God. Before what the world calls good, before our children, before our marriages, before our jobs, before our flesh, He is Lord of it all. We should praise Him and shout this truth before everything that breathes. After all, Jesus said "I tell you, if these [people] were silent, the very stones would cry out.” (Luke 19:40) Don’t let a rock cry out to the Lord, who has been gracious upon gracious to you, before you do.
Verse 3 strikes me as well, because as David writes “On the day I called, you answered me;  my strength of soul you increased”, I am reminded that there is not one prayer that our God does not answer. I think sometimes we forget that “no” and “wait” and “I have something better planned” are answers, too. And in fact, those answers are just as worthy, if not more, of our praise and worship. God cares enough about us to tell us no. He cares enough to see our plans, and say If I give you this, how could I give you what you don’t see yet? I’d way prefer our God who has our life plan in the palm of His hands to tell me no, so that I may draw closer to Him and His presence, than for Him to just tell me sure, go ahead, even if it destroys my very soul.
I will echo David’s final words of this Psalm, “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.” Merriam-Webster defines forsake as "to renounce, or turn away from entirely". Do not “renounce, or turn away from [me] entirely” Jesus.
- Danielle Parker

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What does it mean to be forsaken? (Hint: Definition in the bottom of the devotional) Why does David in many Psalms beg the Lord not to forsake him? Is there anything of this world worth it?
+ Read verse 7. Reflect on the troubles that life has presented you, and what troubles you currently find yourself contending with. Identify how God has preserved your soul even still.

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Do you find that you understand why we worship God? Not just why we follow Him, but why we sing songs of praise, write poems, create and dedicate to Him? Do you believe that your worship and prayer life reflects the gratitude you have for all He has done?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord, do not forsake me. Thank you for promising that He who began a good work in me will see it to completion. If there are any works in me that I have begun myself without your yes, crush them. Lift my eyes to the hills to see where my help comes from, and show me what is right. Show me what work you are trying to do in me, and I beg you Lord, judge and change me where I am not following you. You have been my best friend, and there is no other who cares for me as You do. Help me to remember that. Help me to love others as you have loved me. I couldn’t know love without knowing You first. Thank You for everything Lord. Thank You for it all. It’s in the mighty name of Jesus that we pray, amen

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ Discuss what it means to worship and praise with someone close to you today. What does your time, money, and effort point to you worshipping?

This was an interesting chapter to read. Initially, I didn’t know what to write about or where to go. These verses read like cryptographic poems, and I had to read them three times before finding an idea of what to write.
I want to focus on the following verses:
4 How shall we sing the Lord's song
    in a foreign land?
5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem,
    let my right hand forget its skill!
6 Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth,
    if I do not remember you,
if I do not set Jerusalem
    above my highest joy!
I went to a very secular college, Syracuse University. It was my first time away from home and, more importantly, my first time away from mandatory church attendance. At college, I didn’t have to go to church. I could sleep in, play video games, drink or smoke. Really whatever I wanted.
In other words, being in a foreign land is often the first test of your faith. Is it real or not? Will you still sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?
I love the way these verses explain the consequences of not doing that. My right hand forgetting its skill and my tongue sticking to the roof of my mouth symbolize the death of our spiritual self.
Forgetting Jerusalem, or God, so to speak, means we forget who we are as God’s creation. And that sounds horrible.
But that’s why I love foreign lands. It tests your faith and proves that it’s real.
- Brandon Beylo

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What verses stand out to you most in this text?
+ What part of these verses confuses you the most? And why?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Was there a period in your life where you lived in a “foreign land” and found it hard to sing the song of God?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord, pray that I continue to sing your song in foreign lands. Give me the courage to boast in your name and sing your praises despite enemies or fears.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ Who is in a foreign land currently that needs your support and prayer?

The pattern here is pretty evident – in all things, past, present and future, His steadfast love endures forever. The psalmist proclaims God’s omnipotence then recounts the evidence of His relationship with His creation from the beginning to the present. Certainly, we can continue this movement:
He gave us His Son, His only Son to cover our sins,
For his steadfast love endures forever.
He sent his Holy Spirit to all who call upon His name,
For his steadfast love endures forever.
He has established and guided his church, the bride of Christ,
For his steadfast love endures forever.
When we fall short, His grace is sufficient,
For his love endures forever.
He has gifted us family and community,
For his love endures forever.
We could go on and on… maybe that’s how you spend your time this morning. Recall God’s steadfast love in your life – before you were formed in the womb, and beyond your last breath, his love is the common thread. How great is the Lord! How kind and loving is the Father!
- Hayden Van Dyke

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ How has God shown his steadfast and enduring love to his creation?
+ What do the first 3 verses reveal about the nature of God?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ If you were to continue this prayer or hymn, how would you praise God specifically for revealing his steadfast love in your life?
+ What experience or truth has opened your heart to appreciate the love of God in your life?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, your steadfast love endures forever! Thank you for ordering your creation and humanity and time in such a way that I am alive and breathing today. As I breathe in the very air you have given me, I breathe out your praise. Hallelujah, Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ How can you encourage someone to remember God’s steadfast love in their life?

Psalm 135 begins with an exhortation: Praise the LORD!
The author calls upon Israel to remember what the LORD has done for them: He chose Jacob as His own possession, delivered His people from slavery in Egypt, defeated mighty kings and kingdoms, and led them to their promised inheritance—the land of Canaan. Israel's history reveals the faithfulness of YHWH—the LORD, their covenant God.
But the LORD is so much more than the God of Israel's past. His people are called to recognize who He is now: the sovereign God who rules over all creation and “does whatever He pleases.” His name endures forever. His people can rest in what He will do: have compassion on them, and vindicate them.
The psalmist then contrasts the living LORD with the lifeless idols of the nations. These objects, made by human hands, cannot speak, see, hear, or breathe. The LORD acts; idols cannot. Why trust in something powerless when the living God has demonstrated His faithfulness throughout the generations?
For Christians, the faithfulness of the covenant-keeping God is fully revealed in Jesus Christ. God carried forward His plan of redemption throughout history, ultimately sending us the promised Messiah.
And just as the Psalm opens with the directive to “Praise the LORD,” so too, it ends the same way.
The LORD is ever faithful. How, then, can we His people not speak and sing His praises every day?  
- Jenna Connor

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Look again at what the LORD has done, what He continues to do, and what He promises to do. How do these past, present, and future actions demonstrate His enduring faithfulness?
+ Why does the psalmist contrast everything the LORD does with idols that cannot speak, see, hear, or breathe? What does this reveal about the difference between the living God and the gods of the nations?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Do I turn toward God in the midst of struggles? Do I remember His faithfulness in my life every day? Do I speak or sing His praises regularly?
+ Whom, or what, are you tempted to trust for security, satisfaction, or control that only the living God can ultimately provide?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Father, You are the living and ever-faithful God. You have shown Your faithfulness throughout the generations, and You alone are worthy of our trust and praise.
Forgive us when we look to the idols of this world for the security, comfort, satisfaction, or control that only You can provide. Help us recognize the things we are tempted to rely upon instead of You, and turn our hearts away from them.
Teach us to remember Your faithfulness, recognize Your sovereign hand in our lives, and rest in Your care. Especially when life is difficult or uncertain, help us praise You—not only for what You have done, but simply for who You are. Make praise a regular rhythm of our lives, turning our hearts and minds toward You and deepening our trust and reliance on You.
Thank You for Your faithfulness displayed most fully in Jesus Christ. By Your Spirit, keep our hearts fixed on You, confident that the God who has been faithful throughout all generations will remain faithful forever.
In Jesus' name, Amen

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.

27 When the fourteenth night had come, as we were being driven across the Adriatic Sea, about midnight the sailors suspected that they were nearing land. 28 So they took a sounding and found twenty fathoms. A little farther on they took a sounding again and found fifteen fathoms. 29 And fearing that we might run on the rocks, they let down four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come. 30 And as the sailors were seeking to escape from the ship, and had lowered the ship's boat into the sea under pretense of laying out anchors from the bow, 31 Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved.” 32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the ship's boat and let it go.
33 As day was about to dawn, Paul urged them all to take some food, saying, “Today is the fourteenth day that you have continued in suspense and without food, having taken nothing. 34 Therefore I urge you to take some food. For it will give you strength, for not a hair is to perish from the head of any of you.” 35 And when he had said these things, he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat. 36 Then they all were encouraged and ate some food themselves. 37 (We were in all 276 persons in the ship.) 38 And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, throwing out the wheat into the sea.
The Shipwreck
39 Now when it was day, they did not recognize the land, but they noticed a bay with a beach, on which they planned if possible to run the ship ashore. 40 So they cast off the anchors and left them in the sea, at the same time loosening the ropes that tied the rudders. Then hoisting the foresail to the wind they made for the beach. 41 But striking a reef,[h] they ran the vessel aground. The bow stuck and remained immovable, and the stern was being broken up by the surf. 42 The soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any should swim away and escape. 43 But the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for the land, 44 and the rest on planks or on pieces of the ship. And so it was that all were brought safely to land.
Paul on Malta
28 After we were brought safely through, we then learned that the island was called Malta. 2 The native people showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold. 3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened on his hand. 4 When the native people saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer. Though he has escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.” 5 He, however, shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. 6 They were waiting for him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But when they had waited a long time and saw no misfortune come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.
7 Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days. 8 It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him, healed him. 9 And when this had taken place, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases also came and were cured. 10 They also honored us greatly, and when we were about to sail, they put on board whatever we needed.
Paul Arrives at Rome
11 After three months we set sail in a ship that had wintered in the island, a ship of Alexandria, with the twin gods as a figurehead. 12 Putting in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days. 13 And from there we made a circuit and arrived at Rhegium. And after one day a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli. 14 There we found brothers and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome. 15 And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage. 16 And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him.
Paul in Rome
17 After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. 19 But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar—though I had no charge to bring against my nation. 20 For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.” 21 And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”
23 When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. 24 And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. 25 And disagreeing among themselves, they departed after Paul had made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet:
26 “‘Go to this people, and say,
“You will indeed hear but never understand,
    and you will indeed see but never perceive.”
27 For this people's heart has grown dull,
    and with their ears they can barely hear,
    and their eyes they have closed;
lest they should see with their eyes
    and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
    and turn, and I would heal them.’
28 Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”
30 He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, 31 proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.

This passage rivals Jonah's voyage as one of the most dramatic sea stories in Scripture. If we step back, we see that God is sovereignly directing every circumstance that leads to Paul's arrival in Rome. No storm, seasickness, soldier, nor snake can prevent God's appointed messenger from reaching the city that would, in time, become the center of gravity for the Gentile church.
We also observe a series of seemingly ordinary actions by unnamed individuals that all move the story toward God's intended outcome:
The lifeboat is cut away → the crew and passengers remain with the ship.
The remaining food is thrown overboard → there is no turning back; survival now depends on reaching land.
The anchors are cut loose → the crew commits to running the ship aground.
The soldiers are ordered not to kill the prisoners → Paul's life is preserved.
The significance of this story is far greater than the circumstances we typically face. Yet it reminds us of a timeless truth: God accomplishes His purposes not only through miracles, but also through ordinary decisions, unexpected events, and the actions of people who may never realize they are instruments in His providential plan. We can therefore rest in the confidence that God is faithfully working through all circumstances to accomplish His perfect will.
- Jason Rimmer

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Where in my own life have I observed - particularly in retrospect - clear evidence of God’s sovereign will and timing?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Have I matured as a believer to trust in God’s sovereignty and be patient as his plan unfolds?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord, grant me patience to wait on you, faith to believe your promises, and wisdom to know and recognize your working in my life.  I am humbled that the God of the universe would hear my prayer, love me, and have a plan for me.  Thank you.  In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ With what friend, family or mentor could I discuss this passage?

Paul is standing before King Agrippa, the great grandson of Herod the Great (yes, the one who tried to kill baby Jesus), grand nephew of Antipas (beheaded John the Baptist) and son of Agrippa I (who killed James). Paul is in the process of his appeal to Caesar and again we hear his testimony. He tells us again that he was as evil and zealous as they come, but Jesus. Agrippa says something quite astounding after Paul's defense “would you persuade me to be a Christian?” (vs 29)
Spurgeon said:
“O that men were wise enough to see that suffering for Christ is honour, that loss for truth is gain, that the truest dignity rests in wearing the chain upon the arm rather than endure the chain upon the soul.”
Paul was in chains, happy and viewed it as fortunate to be able to share the Gospel (vs 3). Paul answers Agrippa with only his heart wishing that everyone who could hear the words he spoke would become saved. Can I be bold enough to wish only salvation upon others? Can I be bold enough to stand in front of my enemies and tell them the Gospel? Can I trust God enough that even when I am in chains I have joy?
- Quentin Parker

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What stands out about this retelling of Paul’s testimony?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ How can you find boldness & joy in the place(s) that feels like chains in your life?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Father, thank you for who You are and all You have done for us. We believe in You, help our unbelief. God, reveal to us where we must have boldness and equip us to be Your good and faithful servants…in Jesus’ name, amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.

By this point in Acts, Paul has spent two years trapped in prison. Jewish leaders are hatching a plot to kill him.  As Festus appears on the scene, his concern seems to be perhaps more with the politics of pleasing influential people than with administering justice.
In Acts 23, Jesus had exhorted Paul to "Take courage... you must testify also in Rome.” We are starting to see in Acts 25 that Paul won’t reach Rome despite the trials; he reaches Rome through them.
God's redemptive plan advances and continues to unfold even with the obstacles in Paul’s path. The schemes of the Jewish council, Festus' political maneuvering, and Paul's appeal to Caesar all become the means by which Christ carries His witness toward Rome.
Luke also reminds us where the true issue lies. Festus describes the dispute as being "about a certain Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive" (v. 19). To Festus, it is perhaps merely a religious disagreement. Yet Luke knows that everything hinges on this one truth: Jesus died, and Jesus is alive. The risen Christ is quietly directing every event to accomplish God's sovereign purposes.
- Jenna Connor

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ How do the actions of the Jewish leaders, Festus, and Paul ultimately serve God’s purpose of bringing Paul’s witness toward Rome?
+ What does Festus’ description of “a certain Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive” reveal about the true issue at the heart of this passage?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Where in your life does it currently feel as though nothing is moving forward?
+ How might trusting Christ’s sovereign purposes change the way you respond to delay, opposition, or circumstances you cannot control?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord Jesus, thank You that Your sovereign purposes cannot be thwarted. Deepen our relationship with You so that our trust in You continues to grow. Teach us to rely on Your strength as we face the inevitable obstacles in our path. Help us to persevere with confidence, knowing that You are always at work, accomplishing Your redemptive purposes even when we cannot yet see them. May our lives faithfully bear witness to the risen King. Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ As your faith in and relationship with Christ deepens and strengthens, have you considered discipling someone in your church? Your movement group? Mens/Women’s group?

The Accuser. Tertullus opens with flattery, praising Felix for a peace and reform he never brought. Judea seethed with unrest; this was no golden age. Lawyers, like debaters, can master every detail of a brief and still miss the truth. The charge: Paul stirs civil strife, the very word used of Barabbas, the very charge leveled at Jesus. He's called a ringleader, accused of defiling the temple. Notice what's missing: no witnesses. Rome wanted no trouble because Rome needed Egypt's grain. And trouble in Caesarea interrupts trade.  Paul is caught in currents far bigger than himself.
The Defendant. Paul doesn't posture. He's calm, precise, almost restrained. No one can prove the charges, he says so plainly. Then he does something remarkable: he claims the high ground. Yes, he worships the God of his ancestors. The Way isn't a strange new sect; it's the fulfillment of the Scriptures he's always trusted. NT Wright notes, “Knowing God in the face of Jesus didn't mean abandoning father Abraham's faith—it meant finally reaching its heart”. Paul's hope is Israel's hope: that God will judge justly, right every wrong, and one day overturn decay and death itself. Paul isn't leaning on his Roman citizenship. He's reminding the court of who they're supposed to be.
A Delayed Verdict. Felix adjourns,not from justice, but self-interest. He's an energy-taker, not a giver: he'd stolen another man's wife, and now he stalls Paul's case for two years, hoping for a bribe, tossing the Jews a bone by leaving Paul confined.
God is the true energy-giver, working even through delay. When our case seems shelved, when the verdict doesn't come, the Judge of all the earth is still setting things right.
- Mary Gunther

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Paul is charged with "stirring up" trouble—the same charge brought against Jesus and Barabbas. Why do you think the gospel so often gets mistaken for civil unrest rather than recognized as good news?
+ Paul's hope rests on the resurrection and a God who will "judge justly" and set all things right—not on his own innocence or his Roman citizenship. What does this reveal about where Paul locates his security?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Where in your life are you tempted to smooth over real trouble with flattering language—about yourself, your family, your work—rather than naming what's actually true?
+ Paul stayed calm and did not need to win the room to trust God with the outcome. Where do you find yourself needing the last word, rather than resting in God's justice?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Father, you are the Judge who cannot be bribed and the God who sees what flattery tries to hide. Forgive me for the times I've smoothed over hard truths to keep an easy peace. Give me Paul's steadiness—not resting on my own record, but on your justice and your resurrection hope. When I'm waiting on you, in seasons that feel stalled or shelved, remind me that you are never idle, even in delay. Make me an energy giver like you, not an energy taker like Felix. Use this waiting to shape me, and use me to put right what's broken around me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
yourself:
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ Who in your life is currently in a "waiting room"—a stalled diagnosis, a pending decision, an unresolved relationship? Share this passage with them this week as a reminder that God is still at work in the delay.

Paul has been going through some rough times in his visit to Jerusalem.  A crowd tried to kill him and members of the Jewish council were on the verge of tearing him apart, but both times Roman soldiers provided protection.  The Romans can’t find a law he has broken and the Pharisees in the council say they can find nothing wrong with him.  Nevertheless, there are over 40 men who take an oath to neither eat nor drink anything until they have killed him.  Imagine the degree of hatred that would motivate such an oath.  Imagine the degree of love and compassion enabling Paul to continue preaching to those who opposed him as he likely considered that once he was such a one going about killing and imprisoning those of The Way.
In Acts 23:11 Paul receives assurance and comfort from a visit from the Lord during a vision.  He understands that this is not the end but he will be going to Rome to testify of the Lord.  The next day a nephew hears of the plot and informs Paul.  Paul in turn takes action by calling a centurion to pass the news to a tribune.  A nephew in the right place who has access to Paul, a centurion doing the right thing, a tribune seeing the need to get Paul out of town and a night journey escorted by 270 warriors.  The plot is foiled.
- Gary Gunther

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What relationship do you see between waiting on God to act and the need to take personal action?
+ Once they discovered Paul was in Cesarea imagine the dilemma facing the 40 plus men who had taken the oath.  Do you think any actually kept it?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Is there a circumstance in your life in which you feel you know God’s will and you need to act?  Is there a place you sense the need to wait?
+ Looking back on your life, is there a time you made a foolish promise?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Father, give me the wisdom to know when to act and when to wait.  May I remember you are always present.   May I rest in the assurance of your love knowing that for all your children there is nothing that can separate us from your love.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ Talk today’s message over with someone who is discipling you, and someone you are discipling.
+ What is one time when you waited on God or took action that you think would encourage others if you shared it?


 

Paul was blameless in his speech before the Jerusalem masses. He was respectful, and spoke with a tenderness towards his people. And yet, as soon as he proclaimed that the Lord wanted to extend a hand of communion to the Gentile nations, he was judged guilty; “away with such a fellow from the earth! For he should not be allowed to live.” A demand for his death!
The tribune (approximate modern equivalent of a lieutenant colonel), perhaps thinking the crowd to be rational in their revolt, resolves to torture the truth out of Paul. Paul’s response is simple yet brilliant – he asks, “Is it lawful for you to flog a man who is a Roman citizen and uncondemned?”
Paul does not capitulate in the face of injustice – he appeals to order. He appeals to the same standard that he asks Christians to respect and obey in Romans 13 – the governing authorities and their laws. (For the history nerds: Paul is invoking Roman citizen protections historically associated with the Valerian, Porcian, and Sempronian laws).
In this way, Paul is able to escape unnecessary hardship – he is unbound, and though he is still a prisoner, it seems that he is treated with a markedly increased legal caution.
How does this fit into our theology of suffering? Should one simply accept all suffering without protest, or should we resist unjust punishment where possible?
We are not called to masochistically endure unnecessary pain for pain’s sake. Where possible, it is lawful and even providential that we employ the tools that the Lord has placed at our disposal (including lawful protections administered through authorities whom God has providentially ordained, as per Romans 13) to overcome the world’s injustices.
At the same time, we must make peace with the fact that some – and perhaps much – suffering is unavoidable. Think of the apostles who, in Acts 5, endured a public beating then joyfully continued to preach the gospel – the very activity for which they had been beaten in the first place. Think of 1 Peter 4:19: “Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.”
From the above examples, we glean this lesson: avoid suffering for suffering’s sake. Look to Paul’s resolve in Acts 22. But, if it is God’s will, then suffer resolutely.
Later that night, Jesus appears to Paul, telling him to “take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.” We may not be Paul, but we each have our Jerusalems and Romes. Take courage.
- Kidus Kebede

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What should a Christian’s stance be regarding the law and its application? Think about the above exposition – Paul never wavers in the assertion of his rights, but also never steps outside of the limits of the law. He is blameless in the eyes of the law. On the other hand, consider the wise men disobeying Herod – a governing authority – in order to protect Jesus, as well as Rahab’s civil disobedience in Joshua 2. How do we balance these perspectives, and what do we take away from them? (hint: Acts 5:29)
+ Paul interacts with the law again in Acts 23:3-5. What can we take away from this interaction?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ What do you think about the role of suffering in your life as a Christian?
+ Take a second to think about Christians around the world that are standing firm in their faith despite undergoing persecution. How can we stand in solidarity with them? How can we help?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord, we thank you for including us as agents in your work. We pray that you give us courage and wisdom, boldness and discernment as we work by your power to advance your Kingdom and glorify your name. In Jesus’s almighty and holy name – Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ How can you actively support someone that is suffering today?

This passage gives us the arrest and testimony of Paul. One of the first things I noticed was how similar it feels to Jesus’ own arrest and crucifixion. We start out by Paul being falsely accused of violating the Temple. Then we see in verse 36, “for the mob of the people followed, crying out, ‘Away with him!’”
Paul, who admitted to persecuting Christians to death (including Stephen, the Way’s first martyr) is seemingly now following in his Savior’s footsteps. The hauntingly ironic part is that the Roman soldiers actually saved Paul’s life from the crowds at the Temple.
We get the privilege of hearing Paul’s testimony in his own words from 21:27-22:20. Did you catch that he actually asks to speak to the people who were beating him mercilessly and seeking to kill him? He tells them first of his credentials (22:3) and then of his encounters with the Lord Jesus Christ. Let’s not take these words lightly or read over them quickly. We serve the God of miracles, friends. Can you imagine hearing the Gospel from the mouth of such a changed man? Be encouraged by Paul’s words in Philippians 1:6, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”
- Cara Fowler

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Read Luke 23:18-25. How does this compare to Jesus’ arrest?
+ What do you notice about Paul’s reaction to being beaten and arrested? Again, how does it mimic Jesus?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ How can you be encouraged by Paul’s testimony? What can we learn from Paul’s posture during his arrest?  
+ What would it look like to share the Gospel with the “crowds” in your life?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
God, I pray for those of us who need to be reminded of their testimony. Would you give us an encounter with you like Paul when he prays. I pray you would revive our hearts and that we would be so convinced of the Gospel that we would be willing to share it with the crowds.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)

At Tyre, the believers walk Paul all the way down to the beach to say goodbye. Wives, kids, everyone. And when they get there, they don't just wave and leave. They kneel down together in the sand and pray. Luke doesn't tell us the words. Just that they knelt.
That's worth noticing. Some goodbyes are too heavy for the right words to show up. So people just kneel together and let their bodies say what they can't.
This happens again and again on Paul's trip. People keep warning him, keep crying, keep begging him to stay safe. And every time, Paul keeps walking toward the danger anyway, not because he doesn't care about their tears, but because he's already settled it with God. By the end, even the people who love him most stop arguing and just say, let the Lord's will be done.
Most of us won't face what Paul faced. But we all know what it's like to love someone and have to let them go anyway, into a hospital room, a hard decision, a future we can't control. Maybe the lesson isn't to be brave like Paul. Maybe it's simpler than that. When words run out, you kneel down with the people you love, and you trust God with what happens next.
- David Bempong

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What repeats at nearly every stop on this journey? What might that pattern be building toward?
+ The disciples at Tyre warn Paul "through the Spirit" not to go to Jerusalem, yet Paul goes. What do you make of that tension?
+ Look at Agabus's action in verses 10 and 11. Why act it out instead of just saying it?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Think of someone you've had to let go of, even though it hurt. What did that letting go actually look like for you?
+ Is there a hard goodbye or hard decision in front of you right now where words feel insufficient? What would it look like to just kneel, literally or figuratively, instead of trying to fix or explain it?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
God, some goodbyes are too heavy for words, and we don't always know what to pray. Thank you that we don't have to have the right words, only the willingness to kneel. Give us the trust Paul had, and the tenderness of the friends who loved him enough to cry and let him go anyway. When we're facing what we can't control, remind us that your will is safe, even when it's hard.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ Is there someone you could sit with this week, not to solve anything, just to be present the way the believers were on that beach?

Talk about a sense of purpose. Paul’s commitment to his calling is so strong, hardship, suffering, being misunderstood, imprisoned, beaten–nothing–can keep him from obeying the Spirit’s leading and sharing the truth of Jesus’ saving work with others.
As he leaves Asia for Jerusalem, he reminds the elders of the Ephesian church of his three-year ministry to them, the core aspects of the gospel message, and prepares them to care for the church well in an upcoming season of trouble.
There’s a lot here for us to consider: do we have a sense of purpose like Paul in our lives for the Gospel? What does good leadership look like in the church? How do you say goodbye well to people who God has made your faith family?
- Monica Godfrey

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ How does Paul say that he has behaved while with the Ephesians? Why is this important?
+ What does Paul desire for his own life?
+  What does he exhort the church leaders to do and why? What do you think that looks like practically in the life of a church?
+ What does the word commend mean? What does it mean that Paul commends the Ephesian church to God and his word?
+ What do they do before he leaves?
+ What positive leadership traits are evident in Paul’s speech?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Reread verse 24. We have all been given a purpose or ministry by God, even if it is not as high profile as Paul’s. Is this verse something you can truly say for yourself?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
God, we thank you for Jesus, who is the focal point of Paul’s life and work. We thank you for Paul who faithfully focused his life around obeying the Holy Spirit’s leading and boldly sharing the faith with those who did not know you as well as investing in leaders in the many churches he planted. We pray that you would reinvigorate our sense of purpose in our faith. We pray too for our elders and church leaders to faithfully lead our church. Thank you that you, Jesus, are alive and active in our world today.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ What do you think your purpose is? Where does our purpose come from?

Paul was quite a traveler! As we have been “walking” through Acts, have you paused to consider the risk, the distance, the time and energy that Paul and his crew invested in moving to and being in each place? The first two verses of this section of scripture tell the reader a bit about why Paul went to each place.
Encouragement.
Later in Romans 1:11-12 Paul shares in words what he has practiced during his Gospel-focused missionary journeys.
11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— 12 that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.
Paul traveled far, but God has placed people near to us who also need to hear the good news and see how God is at work in our generation. Lives are at stake!
How far do you or I go out of our way to encourage another in the truth of the Gospel, in our marriage, our families, our work places, our neighborhoods, or our churches?
- Kim Williams

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Who was encouraged in Verse 1? What happened before the encouragement?
+ Who was encouraged in Verse 2?
+ Where did Paul and his disciples spend three whole months? A record in Acts! What caused his departure?
+ Paul speaks until midnight in Troas knowing he was leaving the next day. What does that demonstrate about this encourager? What else of significance happened that evening? What was the result in Verse 12?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Where are you and I willing to go to share the Good News?
+ What are you and I willing to sacrifice to share the Good News?
+ What obstacles seem insurmountable as we think of sharing the Good News? What obstacles were overcome in this section of Scripture?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord Jesus, you are worthy of all honor and praise! Forgive me when the way I use my time, energy, and resources doesn’t necessarily reflect this truth in my life. Remind me that as a believer, I have everything I need to share the good news of the gospel. Give me eyes to see who needs to be encouraged and comforted with Jesus’s free gift of salvation in my sphere of influence. And that Jesus’s steadfast, love and faithfulness never changes over generations. Give me courage to walk in obedience to You even when there seem to be obstacles and sacrifices.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ What is one thing that stood out to you in the Scripture above? How can you translate that truth into your experience? Who can you share this living and active truth with today?

One of the first lessons I learned about studying Scripture was to look at context; what happened leading up to the particular Biblical verses you are investigating.  Earlier in Chapter 19, we read of the story of the seven sons of Sceva who tried to use the name of Jesus to perform miracles and were pummeled by a man possessed by an evil spirit who exclaimed “Jesus I know, and Paul I recognized, but who are you?”  After this, the Word says  “fear (reverence) fell upon them (the residents of Ephesus) and the name of the Lord Jesus was extolled”.  Further, there were widespread examples of people “confessing and divulging their (old) practices”, and “the word of the Lord continuing to increase and prevail mightily”.  The section closes with Paul “resolved in the Spirit” to take the Gospel message to Asia, return home to Jerusalem for a time, then ultimately to preach in Rome.
Then, there is a tidal shift, as Verse 23 states:
And about that time there arose a great commotion about the Way.
What we read in the verses we are looking at today can best be described as a counterattack.  Just like in a sporting contest, when one side is on the offensive and doing its best to score (think football, soccer, boxing), the other side rallies and fights back, pressing the action, and transfers from being on defense and starts on their own offensive campaign.  The same thing can be said of military conflicts and that’s what we have here; only it’s spiritual warfare!  In Acts 19:11, the Word says God was doing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul.  Acts 19:24 introduces us to a man named Demetrius, who probably unbeknownst to even himself, was being used by "the prince of the power of the air” (Ephesians 2:1-2) in the battle for souls in the ancient city of Ephesus.  Let’s dig in and find out more about this fascinating passage of Scripture.
- Hayden Van Dyke

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What two arguments did Demetrius use to fire up the people against those who followed the “Way”?  What do you think of this term that was used to describe the early Christians?
+ Did the Christians in Ephesus plan or set out to close down the Temple of Artemis and its related businesses?  Read Acts 19:37.  Can you think of any present day issues that could be “fought” in such a way by followers of Jesus?
+ What comes to your mind when you hear the term "spiritual warfare”?  Have you ever faced “unusual adversity” when you've set your heart to do something for the Lord?  Share any experiences you’ve had in this area with your Community.

“This chapter teaches us all a permanent lesson: that when disciples have a true revival, society gets a revolution. When the Spirit moves mightily upon children of God we may look for other mighty movements among unbelievers, and need not be surprised if the devil himself comes down, having great wrath, as though he knew that his time was short.” (Arthur T. Pierson, The Acts of the Holy Spirit)

“The work of King Jesus goes forth, but NEVER without pushback from the kingdom of darkness”. (Excerpt from the sermon “Rejecting Revival” by David Guzik, date unknown)

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:10-12

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ When I read this passage from Acts 19, I couldn’t help but think of the recent World Cup and some of the things I saw on TV and later read about online. The behavior of those in the stands, just like those in the Great Theatre in Ephesus, could only be described as fanatical, from which we get the word “fan”.  And while there is nothing wrong with supporting your favorite sports teams, I wonder if we bring the same enthusiasm and fervor in our devotion to Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who is also our savior, redeemer and friend.  As Pastor Lon Solomon used to say, “not a sermon, just a thought”!

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, you alone are worthy of fanatical devotion.  Help us see then eliminate the idols we have created in our lives, the gods we have made with our own hands.  Forgive us for supplanting You and the mission You have for us here with such things that sometimes may even appear as “good” to us and in the eyes of the world.  Thank You for Your steadfast love for and toward Your rebellious children.  Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ Who in your circle of influence needs to hear about the great and mighty acts of King Jesus and see your devotion to Him played out in the way you live your life?

The sons of Sceva are written to have invoked the name of "Jesus whom Paul proclaims" against demons. What stands out to me about this phrasing is not that they proclaimed or rebuked in the name of the Lord Jesus, but they witnessed the Holy Spirit move through another and thought that the power was simply in the name of the Lord, and not in the mighty authority of the Lord. They had no relationship with Jesus to speak of, yet they called on Him to come and move on their behalf. Whether it was truly at the hope of casting out demons for the sake of righteousness, or for the sake of glorifying themselves, neither was the case that they wanted the Kingdom of God to prevail.
How often do we hope that the Holy Spirit will move on our behalf just because we know He can, and not because we truly desire His will, His story, His plan?
The evil spirit they tried to command on their own authority by using the name of Jesus basically laughed at them. Embarrassed, horrified, defeated; these words don't even begin to describe how I would feel if a demon looked at me and said "I know the Jesus you're referring to, but I have no idea who you are." I have considered myself a prayer warrior at times, sure that the dark kingdom is scared of me. But when I think about that, did I think demons were scared of me when I called on the Lord? Or did I trust that they would tremble at His authority?
Don't let religious concepts of faith rob you of your relationship with Jesus today. We proudly profess the matchless name of Jesus, but on what grounds?
- Danielle Parker

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ The sons who attempted to cast out demons are called exorcists in the passage. They have identity and perhaps career built around in the ability to cast out demons. Do you think their use of the name of Jesus was out of desire to know Jesus, or a desire for outcomes which made them appear successful?
+ After having seen the havoc the evil spirit wreaked on the men after this, a number (not recounted) of Jews and Greeks turned to the Lord Jesus, a clear example of the Lord using all things for good. Why do you think their reaction after holy fear was to confess, and bring their "magic arts" or sorcery books together to burn them?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Do you find yourself seeking God's outcomes, or Jesus and His presence more?
+ When is the last time you confessed where you are trying to stay in control of your own life, and what might you need to bring before the Lord to burn (metaphorically)?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord above, thank You for hearing me, for listening, for answering, and for moving on my behalf. I realize that I don't deserve any of it, yet there are moments that my reverence for Your presence is lacking. I don't want to seek outcomes, yet more often than I care to admit, that's how I behave. I recognize that I even have moments in which I come to you in prayer and deceive myself into believing that my reason is just to get into Your presence, while You know that in my heart is prayer for the sake of seeking what I want. Forgive me Father. Whatever is drawing me away from You or keeping me from calling on You, burn it all down. Protect me from the sins that I am capable of when I don't have You. Draw me near to those who help me to draw near to You. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)

Apollos is one of the most impressive people we've met in Acts. Luke describes him as eloquent, competent in the Scriptures, fervent in spirit, and bold in speaking. He knew his Bible. He loved God. He taught accurately…up to a point.
But there was still something he didn't know.
His understanding stopped with the baptism of John. So Priscilla and Aquila didn't embarrass him publicly or dismiss him because of what he lacked. They invited him into their home and "explained the way of God to him more accurately."
The result? Apollos became even more useful in God's kingdom. He strengthened the church, powerfully refuted false teaching, and showed from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Messiah.
The point isn't that Apollos was inadequate. It's that even gifted people still need to be discipled.
One of the healthiest signs of spiritual maturity isn't how much you know, it's how teachable you remain.
- David Bempong

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Luke stacks up several strong descriptions of Apollos before the correction happens. What do those words tell you about how the early church valued gifting?
+ Priscilla and Aquila "took him aside" rather than confronting him in the synagogue. Why might that detail matter for how truth gets received?
+ The text says they explained the way of God "more accurately," not that Apollos was wrong. What's the difference between correcting someone and completing someone?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Name one area of your life or faith where you feel confident and well versed. Are you still open to someone taking you aside on it?
+ Think of the last time you corrected someone. Did you protect their dignity the way Priscilla and Aquila protected Apollos's?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
God, thank you for people who've taken me aside instead of calling me out. Give me the humility Apollos had, to listen without getting defensive. Show me where I'm confident but incomplete, and give me the courage to keep learning. Make me someone others can trust with their own unfinished places. Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ Who has quietly helped you see something more clearly, the way Priscilla and Aquila did for Apollos? Have you told them what that meant?

There’s a lot going on here: Paul arrives in Corinth and meets a people he will come to love deeply even as he continues to reason with and teach them (1 Cor 1:1-9). As we can see, however, this is not an easy road. Between the tent-making, the opposition from his Jewish brethren, and the brewing trouble with the Roman government, Paul has got his hands full and probably even questions his calling from time to time (he hints at that in v6). And yet… look at the encouragement from the Father: “Do not be afraid…I am with you” (vv 9-10). God is looking out for Paul, and he’s also looking out for His people.
God called Paul to Corinth as a messenger of the gospel to His chosen people. Corinth was arguably an epicenter of sexual immorality in the Roman Empire, and yet God had many people in this city who belonged to Him.
Do you ever question why you are where you are? Maybe it’s because God wants to use you to reason with, to care for, to teach, or even just to be with the people around you. Let’s start to look around and see what the Lord sees: a people, His people, in need of a savior.
- Hayden Van Dyke

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ How would you characterize Paul’s attitude towards the Corinthians? Does it change? Why?
+ Why does Paul engage in tentmaking even while he’s acting in his capacity as an apostle?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Do you think you are where you are for a reason? What reason might that be?
+ How have you interacted with the people around you? Your next door neighbor? Do you know who they are? Have you loved on them?
+ What do you notice about some of the descriptions or actions of the other folks in this passage (Titius Justus, Aquila and Priscilla, Sosthenes, Gallio)? If someone were to write about what is going on in your city, what would they say about you?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Gracious Father, thank you for your protection and provision that I often take for granted. Just as you preserved Paul that he might walk in his calling, I ask that you be with me and give me the courage to take a bold step of faith today. Help me to see the people around me as your people – your sons and daughters whom you love and to treat them as I would my brother or sister. You are good and your mercy endures forever. Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)

Paul is now in Athens, hot off the trail from spending time in Thessalonica, then Berea.  Both times, he is preaching in the synagogue, where many Jews and influential women are captured by the Good News of Jesus Christ, and are saved.  Ah, but the old old story of jealousy comes yet again to Paul’s eloquent preaching.  The Jews who run the city become jealous and stir up a mob to come and chase Paul from place to place.
In fact, Paul has to flee Thessalonica and Jason, his friend, is left behind to post bond to allow Jason to come back to his own home!  We would look on this today and say, what a mess! But God’s plans, through Paul, continue unthwarted.  He, along with brother Silas, is escorted by night to Berea.  The folks at Berea, according to the first part of Chapter 17, “were people more noble than the Thessalonicans, since they received the word with eagerness…” And yet again, the same mob from Thessalonica follows them and stirs up the crowd.  The brothers and sisters immediately send Paul away to the coast, and he arrives at Athens.
In Athens, Epicurean and Stoic philosophers, upon hearing of Paul’s teaching, invite him to the Areopagus and ask about this new teaching. This becomes exciting as Paul, ever the statesman, opens with this line: “People of Athens! I see that you are extremely religious in every respect.”  He then goes on to clearly and beautifully explain that their gods are made by man; but the one true God has come and come to give them a new life through Jesus Christ. “He did this so that they might seek God, and perhaps they might reach out and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.”
He concludes with this amazing offer: “Therefore, having overlooked the times of ignorance, God now commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has set a day when he is going to judge the world in righteousness by the man he has appointed.  He has provided proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
People listened to Paul.  Some began to ridicule him; others wanted him to come back and tell them more. Still others  believed, including Dionysius the Aropagite;  a woman named Damaris;  and others.
Isn’t this what we are commissioned to do? Tell the truth of the Good News of Jesus with clarity, joy, love? Paul is our mentor, one who taught everyone he met about Jesus; and those who believed grew the church from these early beginnings.
- Eileen Dowd

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ The Jews would have read in the Scroll of Isaiah 42:8 “I am the Lord. That is my name, and I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols.” However, the Athenians, non-Jews, would not have read this.  Examine how Paul, in this chapter, built the case for Christ to non-believers.
+ Do we have a way to explain the Gospel to those who have not heard about Jesus? Or, if they have been confused about the way to salvation? Discuss among yourselves.

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ How does these verses in Chapter 17 speak to your own walk with the Lord? Can you take some time to drink in Paul’s words and make them your own?
+ If you are asked to explain why you are a Christian, can you do so with clarity and joy? If not, who could help you in your journey to share the Gospel with your family and friends who are no believers?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Heavenly Father, I love you so much and have a great desire to see my family members and friends know you and love you.  I am not always sure about the timing; or even at times, how to start the conversation.  But you are my rock and my fortress and you tell me that the Holy Spirit will give me words to say when I call on Him.  So I call on the beautiful Trinity and ask you to give me boldness when I talk to others about Jesus and His healing work and love.  Settle my heart and empower my thoughts through you and you alone.  I love you and worship you and will follow you always. Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)

How providential that I have the opportunity to think and write about Jason of Thessalonica. Orthodox tradition, outside the Bible, holds that Paul later appointed him bishop of Tarsus and that he served as a missionary to the island of Corfu, where many came to faith in Christ. Jason was an important figure in the early church, and Luke honors him by mentioning him by name in Acts.

But what matters most for us today in this passage? How should Jason's example shape our own lives?
I would suggest that Jason was:
Hospitable - he opened his home to itinerant missionaries.
Courageous - he accepted public association with Paul despite an angry mob.
Financially sacrificial - he paid a substantial bond for the sake of the church.
Steadfast - there is no indication that he renounced his faith under pressure.
May those same qualities be found in each of us!
- Jason Rimmer

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What would I have done if an angry crowd of people were at my door looking for a fellow brother in Christ?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Am I prepared to be tested? Would I withstand a real physical test of my faith?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord prepare me now for the trials that you already know may come my way. Help to me to keep faith with my brother and sisters. Imprint your scripture in my heart and mind to recollect when I need it most.  Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ With what friend or mentor may I discuss this passage of scripture?

Let's talk about our witness. So often we forget that our witness is more than just the words out of our mouths, but our actions. In verse 26 we see a move of God that would seem to be releasing Paul and SIlas from prison; however, it was instead an opportunity for a child of God to be reunited with Jesus. The jailer, who understood the consequences of losing prisoners while on post, believed that it was better for him to be dead than to face the wrath of the magistrate. Paul and SIlas’ witness to this man was their integrity. They did not leave. Immediately upon being shown grace, the man saw what was different.
How many opportunities do we have in a day, month, or year to have integrity, be respectful, go above and beyond, or show someone grace? I would be willing to bet it's more than you might think. We should long for the day that someone says, “Something is different about you, why?” In the example from the text, their act immediately leads to, “How can I be saved?” You can never fully know what God is doing and when, but in all things let us seek Him and be His hands and feet as we strive to make heaven crowded. Imagine… standing room only in the presence of our Savior.
- Quentin Parker

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ Why do you think Luke mentions that they were singing hymns? (verse 25)

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ What is one way you can go above and beyond for someone in your life that may not know Christ?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
God, soften our hearts to Your will. Give us the joy to sing when we have been beaten down and shackled. Give us the strength to follow you and keep our paths straight. God we believe in You and Your promises, help us in our times of unbelief. In Jesus name, Amen!

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)

As Acts 16 begins, Paul and Silas travel through Derbe and Lystra. In Lystra, Paul meets Timothy, whose mother was a Jewish believer and whose father was Greek. Paul wants Timothy to join them, and together they travel from city to city. Luke records that “the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily” (Acts 16:5).
Luke’s narrative is more than a record of roads traveled and cities visited—it reveals who is directing the journey. The Holy Spirit is not merely “along for the trip” but is their sovereign guide. The Spirit forbids Paul and his companions from preaching in the province of Asia. One road closes. When they attempt to enter Bithynia, the Spirit of Jesus does not allow them. Another road closes.
Then, through a vision, God calls them to Macedonia. A road opens. They eventually arrive in Philippi, where they meet Lydia beside the river, and share with her the good news of Christ .
When reading Luke’s account of Lydia’s conversion, I was struck by what he chose to tell us. Luke could simply have written, “Lydia believed.” Instead, he notes that “the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul” (Acts 16:14). God not only opened the road for Paul to share the message of Christ; He also opened Lydia’s heart to receive the good news.    
- Jenna Connor

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What do the closed roads into Asia and Bithynia, the open road to Macedonia, and Lydia’s opened heart reveal about who directs the mission?
+ How does Luke distinguish Paul’s faithful proclamation of the gospel from God’s decisive work in Lydia’s conversion?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Where might God be using a closed road or changed plan to redirect you toward His purposes?
+ Is there someone that God is calling you to share the good news of Jesus with? Can you trust Him to open the person’s heart?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Sovereign and Ever Faithful God, thank You for guiding our steps and directing us according to Your purposes. Give us faith when You close one road and courage when You open another. Open the way for us to share the good news of Jesus, and open the hearts of those who hear it. Make us faithful in proclaiming Your Word and trusting You with the results. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ What kind of impact did traveling with Paul et al have on Luke? It might be interesting to discuss that with someone to get their thoughts about it.

Think about how rumors work. A government official denies there's a problem. Another unnamed official is quoted as saying we need a new study to find out what's going on. You can tell there's a problem by how carefully everyone is choosing words around it.
Something like that was circulating about Paul. He'd been out among the Gentiles, waiving circumcision, and word travels faster and looser than fact. So Jerusalem doesn't just write a letter. A letter alone is a fragile thing, ink and a signature anyone could forge, sent by a courier with no particular standing. NT Wright notes what the church did instead: they sent Judas and Silas, men Jerusalem trusted, to carry the letter in person and speak for it. Their presence was the authentication. Their job was to stand next to Paul and Barnabas and say to Antioch: pay attention, these two are the real deal, backed by the Council itself.
And the letter is almost startlingly brief. No circumcision, which was the undue burden, was lifted. Stay clear of what's bound up with pagan temple culture. That's all we ask. And we are delighted to welcome you as full members.
Single fellowship. No second class. It reads like relief.
Then, a few verses later, Paul and Barnabas, the very two whose credentials had just been vouched for, split over John Mark, sharply enough that Luke uses a word with real heat in it. He calls it a paroxysmos. a sharp and significant disagreement. Validated together, they still couldn't agree on young John Mark. Luke doesn't smooth it over. Barnabas, true to form, is giving a second chance to someone who'd once failed him. Paul, with a mission bearing down, doesn't want a repeat of Pamphylia. Each man had good instincts, incompatible in the moment. Luke just lets both things be true: the endorsement stood, and the men still parted.
- Mary Gunther

[ EXAMINE ] the passage. At this point, answer some questions about the meaning of the text. Take time to reflect.
+ What did sending Judas and Silas in person add that ink and a signature couldn't?
+ What was the "undue burden" the Council lifted, and what did they ask the Gentile believers to hold onto instead?

[ APPLY ] the passage to your own life.
+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ Whose word do you take on trust because of who's standing behind it, and whose word do you doubt for the same reason? Is that discernment, or just rumor doing its work in you?
+ Is there a rift in your own history, like Paul and Barnabas's, that never got a tidy resolution where you simply parted, and time did whatever quiet work it was going to do?

[ PRAY ] through the passage and your application, and ask God to change your heart and your life.
+ Pray with me:
Lord, you know how easily rumor outruns truth, and how often I've believed the whisper before I've sought the source. Thank you for a church, then and now, that cared enough about the truth to send trusted people, not just trusted words. Show me where I owe someone the fuller effort of showing up rather than sending word, give me the nerve to do it. And where I'm carrying an old disagreement that never resolved cleanly with a friend, a family member, or a coworker, teach me to let it rest without needing to make it tidy. Let me trust that you can use even a parting for good, as you did with Paul and Barnabas's. Amen.

[ SHARE ] what God is teaching you with at least one person: your roommate,
your spouse, your kids, or your coworkers. Don’t keep what God taught you to
yourself.
(e.g., your family around the dinner table, a friend, co-worker or neighbor- for help join a community group at downtownhope.org/community-groups)
+ Who is one person you could tell this week, not the polished version, but the honest one, about a disagreement in your own life that never got resolved, and what you're learning from it?