“Luke / Acts Week 50 – Dec 9-13”

Monday, December 09, 2024

Monday – Acts 24:22-27 Paul Kept in Custody
1. While in prison, Paul makes it a point to discuss with Felix the topics of “righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come” (v. 27). Why do you think these subjects are disconcerting for the governor?
2. As a favor to the Jews and hoping to receive a bribe, Felix keeps Paul in prison for over two years. Imagine yourself in Paul’s position during this time, what thoughts and feelings would you experience?
3. During times when it seems everything important to you is on hold or uncertain, how can Paul’s experience be of practical help for you?

Tuesday – Php 1:18b-30
1. Paul writes his joy-filled epistle to the Philippians from prison (perhaps Caesarea or later in Rome). How can he say, “I will rejoice”? What does he have to rejoice about? In what ways does the truth of Php 4:11-13 apply to Paul’s imprisonment and not in scoring touchdowns?
2. With multiple attempts on his life, Paul is unsure if he will live or die. How does his internal conflict reflect the challenges of wanting to be with the Lord and serving others?
3. From prison, Paul encourages the Philippians to be united in spirit, working side by side, and not to be frightened by opponents of the gospel. How do these three things serve as a clear sign to unbelievers and believers alike (v. 28b)?

Wednesday – Acts 25:1-12 Paul Appeals to Caesar
1. Paul remains in a Caesarean prison for two years. Nevertheless, the Jewish leaders do not forget him. What new plan do they hatch to rid themselves of Paul once-and-for-all?
2. Lysias, Felix, and Festus all know Paul has broken no Roman laws. Why don’t they simply free him then?
3. Again, Paul uses his Roman citizenship to protect himself (cf. 16:35-40; 22:25-29). Why does he appeal to Caesar? What are the implications of this decision (cf. 23:11; 26:32)?

Thursday – Acts 25:13-27 Paul Before Agrippa and Bernice
1. Festus admits to having "nothing definite" to write to Caesar about Paul's charges. What does this reveal about the nature of the accusations against Paul and the challenges he faces in obtaining justice?
2. Festus enlists the help of the Jewish king Herod Agrippa and his wife Bernice. Considering the stark contrast presented in v.23 between Agrippa and Bernice's arrival with Paul’s humble presence as a prisoner, how does this scene chal-
lenge our understanding of true power and authority?
3. Festus, a Roman aristocrat, knows little to nothing about Judaism and especially Christianity. How do you think non-believers misunderstand your beliefs? How can you make things clearer for them?

Friday – Acts 26:1-11 Paul’s Defense Before Agrippa (Early Life)
1. Paul begins his defense before a Roman audience. Why does Paul consider himself “fortunate” to be speaking before King Agrippa?
2. As Paul presents his defense, he focuses on three things: his life before becoming a Christian (vv. 9-11), his conversion story (vv. 12-18), and his faithfulness to the Lord (vv. 19-23). How can this outline serve as a model to prepare you to give an answer to others for the hope that is within you (1 Peter 3:15)?
3. Why does Paul first emphasize his Jewish identity and his past persecution of Christians? What purpose does this serve in his defense?

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