Delays and Deferrals When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison. Acts 24:27 Paul had gone to Jerusalem for several reasons. First, to deliver money collected on his missionary journey for the persecuted Christians (1 Corinthians 16:1–4). Second, to give a …
Paul’s Rescue in Jerusalem
God Always Goes Before Us The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage! As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome.” Acts 23:11 The stack of bills was high. My bank balance was low. An unexpected car repair nudged me toward despair. I cried out to the Lord for …
Fully Equipped for Service
Why This, God? “Is it legal for you to flog a Roman citizen who hasn’t even been found guilty?” Acts 22:25 Have you ever wondered why God placed you in a particular family, city, job, or circumstance? At the time, you may have felt adrift or ostracized. You may have asked, “Why did God allow this?” I’ve felt that way …
From Ephesus to Jerusalem
To Go or Not to Go? When we heard this, we and the local believers all begged Paul not to go to Jerusalem. Acts 21:12 For eight years after my father took early retirement, he headed the overseas mission arm of a large Christian organization. Many singles and young couples came to the annual training sessions, eager to become missionaries …
Miracles and Uproar in Ephesus
The Greatest Power—Wield It Wisely One day the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?” Acts 19:15 Paul and his team spent more time in Ephesus than any other city, about three years total. And God demonstrated his power in many ways during their stay. Converts “spoke in tongues and prophesied” …
Keep Speaking
Many Need to Hear the Word of God Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” And he continued there a year and …
Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens
Whether Many or Few The brothers immediately sent Paul to the coast, but Silas and Timothy stayed in Berea. Acts 17:14 Paul and his team continued to have highs and lows on their second missionary journey. Jealous Jewish leaders ran them out of Thessalonica, then followed them to Berea and harassed them there (17:1–13). But in the midst of all …
Lydia
Time to Shift Priorities? She [Lydia] was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.” Acts 16:14 Lydia was a savvy businesswoman who had established a relationship with many, if not most, of the wealthiest citizens in Philippi. Her specialty was purple cloth, a high-end fabric that symbolized status in first-century Europe because the …