Monday – Acts 27:39-44 The Shipwreck on Malta
1. Imagine you are on board the ship. The storm is raging, the waves are crashing, and the ship is breaking apart. What emotions are swirling within you as you hear the call to abandon ship?
2. Knowing they would face certain death if their prisoners escape, the soldiers plan to kill all the prisoners. Why do you think Julius wants to save the lives of Paul and his friends?
3. An angel of God appears to Paul and tells him no one on the ship will lose their life (v. 23), yet as the ship breaks up everyone still has to swim or float to shore for safety. In what ways do you see this as a picture of salvation of grace through faith?

Tuesday – Acts 28:1-10 Paul’s Ministry on Malta
1. Shipwrecked and vulnerable, 276 souls find themselves at the mercy of strangers on an unknown island. What factors contribute to the islanders’ remarkable hospitality towards the shipwrecked strangers, particularly considering their initial suspicion of Paul?
2. How does Paul’s snake bite and miracles on Malta, fit within the context of Mrk 16:17-18?
3. Luke spent more time painstakingly chronicling the difficult voyage to Rome than Paul’s time in Corinth or Ephesus. What lessons do you think Luke is wanting us to learn from their time at sea?

Wednesday – Acts 28:11-16 Paul Arrives at Rome
1. The journey to Rome continues on a ship bearing the figurehead of Castor and Pollux, pagan deities associated with safe passage. How does Luke use this detail to create a sense of irony within his narrative?
2. Finally, after a perilous journey full of storms and setbacks, Paul reaches the shores of Italy. As he approaches Rome, he is met by believers who have come from miles around to welcome him. Use three adjectives to describe the atmosphere of this encounter in verse 15 and explain your choices.
3. Throughout his trials, from imprisonment to shipwreck, Paul consistently experiences God’s presence and provision. In what ways might God be doing the same for you through your misfortunes?

Thursday – Acts 28:17-28 Paul Preaches to the Jews in Rome
1. As soon as Paul arrives in Rome, he’s reaching out to the Jewish leaders in the city. What motivates him to immediately arrange this meeting?
2. On an appointed day, a great number of Jews come to Paul as he “expounds... testifies... and tries to convince” his audience about Jesus. What do these verbs reveal about his teaching style and message?
3. Although he speaks with them all day, Luke only records Paul’s last words, a quote from Isaiah 6:9-10 (cf. Luk 8:9-15; Jhn 12:36a-43). Why is this the appropriately sad verse to cite at the end of Acts?

Friday – Acts 28:30-31 Paul in Rome
1. Luke ends Acts with a note of triumph, though Paul is a prisoner, he’s free. How does he use his circumstances to advance the Gospel (cf. Php 1:12-14; 4:22)? How does his example challenge you to view your own hardships as potential opportunities for the ministry?
2. Paul proclaims the kingdom of God and teaches about Jesus with “all boldness and without hindrance.” How does this statement summarize the overarching theme of the book of Acts?
3. Take a moment to reflect on your reading of Luke-Acts. How has your understanding of Jesus, His church, its/your mission grown and your faith increased?

Monday – Acts 26:12-18 Paul’s Defense Before Agrippa (Conversion)
1. Paul briefly describes his conversion from persecutor to apostle. How does this dramatic transformation connect to his defense of the gospel?
2. This is the third time in Acts that Luke recounts Paul’s conversion (cf. 9:1-9; 22:6-16). What similarities and differences stand out in each account? Why do you think Luke emphasizes this story multiple times, and how does Paul himself reflect on it in 1 Tim 1:12-17?
3. Imagine someone asking you to share your faith journey. How would you describe your experience of coming to believe in Jesus? Take some time to write out your personal testimony, highlighting how Jesus has worked in your life and shown you mercy, much like the man in Mrk 5:19-20.

Tuesday – Acts 26:19-23 Paul’s Defense Before Agrippa (Post Conversion)
1. Finally, Paul concludes his defense by emphasizing his obedience to the heavenly vision. How does he describe his faithfulness to the mission Jesus gives him? What specific actions did he take?
2. Paul outlines the core message he preaches to both Jews and Gentiles. Unpack the key elements of this message. What did he emphasize, and why might it have been significant to both groups?
3. Imagine you have the opportunity to share your faith with a prominent leader or influential figure. Who would you choose, and why? What key aspects of the gospel and its impact on your life would you emphasize? How would you
invite them to respond?

Wednesday – Acts 26:24-32 Agrippa Parries Paul’s Challenge
1. Festus interrupts Paul mid-sentence, declaring him mad. How does Paul respond to this accusation? What does his response teach us about engaging with those who dismiss our beliefs?
2. Agrippa states that he is “almost persuaded” to become a Christian. What might be behind Agrippa’s hesitation? What prevents people today from fully embracing faith in Christ?
3. Paul’s concern is more about his audiences’ salvation than the removal of his chains. How can you cultivate a heart that puts other people’s spiritual wellbeing before your own circumstances?

Thursday – Acts 27:1-12 Paul Sails for Rome
1. Unable to be set free, Paul is sent to Rome chained to a Centurion named Julius. How does the text describe Julius’s treatment of Paul? What can you infer about Paul’s treatment of Julius?
2. Luke (“we”) and Aristarchus join Paul on this voyage to Rome. Based on what we learn about Aristarchus in Act 19:29; 20:4; Col 4:10, how would you describe him?
3. With Paul’s initial warnings ignored, all seems lost. What emotions do you hear in his voice when he says, “Sirs, I perceive that the voyage will be with injury and much loss [even] our lives” (v. 10)?

Friday – Acts 27:13-38 The Storm at Sea
1. Trace the dramatic events that happen during the storm.
2. The last of six visions Paul receives (cf. 9:3-6, 16:9-10, 18:9-10, 22:17, 23:11) occur during this voyage. What role does this last vision shape Paul’s state of mind during the storm (cf. v. 10)?
3. Paul’s faith in God during the storm encourages all the people on the ship (v. 36). How can you, like Paul, be a source of encouragement and hope for others who are struggling, offering them both spiritual support and practical help?

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?

Monday – Acts 22:22-29 Paul and the Roman Tribune
1. With the crowd shouting for Paul’s death, the Roman tribune orders Paul to undergo examination by flogging. How might the Tribune’s initial assessment of Paul’s identity (cf. 21:37-39) contribute to his harsh treatment?
2. Just before he’s beaten, Paul identifies himself as a Roman citizen. Why is it significant that Paul is a Roman citizen by birth, while the tribune had purchased his citizenship?
3. When might it be appropriate to “stand up for our rights” as Christians, and when might it be wiser to choose a different course of action (cf. Mat 5:38-42)? Explain.

Tuesday – Acts 22:30-23:11 Paul Before the Council
1. On the next day, the tribune brings Paul before the council to understand the accusations against him. Describe the conflict that erupts between Paul and Ananias at the start of the proceedings.
2. Seeing the room is split between Sadducees and Pharisees, how does Paul prove to be “wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Mat 10:16) in this situation?
3. Once again, the Lord appears to Paul at a crucial point in his ministry (18:9-10; 22:17-21). How does the Lord’s message encourage Paul to keep the faith, despite not knowing exactly what is ahead?

Wednesday – Acts 23:12-22 The Plot to Kill Paul
1. Unable to get rid of Paul through the law, a group of forty conspirators plan to ambush and kill him instead (cf. Act 9:23-25). Analyze the likely motivations and mindset of these individuals. What factors might have driven them to such extreme measures?
2. How do you imagine Paul's nephew learning about the assassination plot? Why do you think he chose to get involved? What risks does he take by intervening?
3. How does this passage illustrate the dangers of religious extremism and fanaticism? What lessons can we learn from the conspirators’ actions and their willingness to resort to violence?

Thursday – Acts 23:23-35 Paul Sent to Felix the Governor
1. Thwarting the Jewish plot against Paul, Claudius Lysias sends him under heavy guard to Caesarea, the Roman provincial capital. What emotions might Paul feel during this dramatic escape? Considering their oath, how might the forty conspirators feel when they learn of Paul’s departure?
2. Examine closely the Tribune’s letter to Felix. In what ways is Lysias being politically savvy and protecting himself but also protecting Paul?
3. Despite the challenges, how does this passage also reveal God’s protection and provision for Paul from his nephew bravely intervening to the Roman soldiers escorting him?

Friday – Acts 24:1-21 Paul Before Felix in Caesarea
1. Finally, Paul gets his day in court under Roman law. What specific charges do Tertullus and the High Priest level against the apostle?
2. Outline Paul’s defense before Felix.
3. While Paul denies the Jews’ charges, he does however, confess to being a follower of “the Way” (9:12; 19:9, 23; 22:4; 24:22). Using John 14:6, explain why Paul repeatedly calls faith in Christ “the Way”? How does this understanding of “the Way” challenge typical perceptions of Christianity?

Monday – Eph 2:1-22 Salvation by Grace through Faith
1. In his epistle to the Ephesians, Paul emphasizes that salvation comes through grace and faith, not works. Why does he work so hard to make this truth crystal clear (cf. 15:1, 5, 11)?
2. How does salvation by grace through faith unite people from different backgrounds, like Jews and Gentiles, into one body in Christ?
3. In what ways might the Ephesians have reacted to Paul’s teaching on unity? What challenges might they have faced in living out this oneness in their daily lives?

Tuesday – Acts 21:1-16 Paul Travels to Jerusalem
1. After tearing themselves away from their Ephesian friends, Paul and company continue their journey to Jerusalem. In your own words, describe the farewell between Paul and the disciples in Tyre.
2. Despite the warnings in Tyre and from the prophet Agabus, Paul presses on to Jerusalem. Do you think he is being stubborn, courageous, or something else entirely? Explain.
3. As Paul’s companions accept his decision to continue to Jerusalem, they say, “Let the will of the Lord be done” (v. 14). Reflect on your own life. Where do you find it difficult to let go and trust in God’s plan? Take a moment to pray, asking Him for the strength and peace to accept His will, even when it’s hard.

Wednesday – Acts 21:17-26 Paul Visits James
1. Following an initially enthusiastic welcome, James and the elders express some concerns. Detail their worries and how they propose to address these issues.
2. With 1 Cor 9:19-23 in mind, what is Paul trying to accomplish by participating in their plan?
3. For Paul, unity in the church is so important he is willing to try the plan of participating in the Jewish rites to squelch untrue rumors. How much do you value unity in the congregation? What are you willing to maintain unity in the bond of peace?

Thursday – Acts 21:27-36 Paul Arrested in the Temple
1. As he agrees to do, Paul is in the temple with the seven men who have taken a vow when an angry mob forms. What two accusations do the angry crowd level against Paul? How are these allegations like those made against Stephen (cf. Act 6:11-14)? Why is this significant (Act 8:1)?
2. List five adjectives that describe Paul's experience in the Temple courtyard. Explain your choices.
3. Imagine you’re one of the disciples with Paul (or Trophimus the Ephesian). How would you feel witnessing this scene unfold? What would you do, stand with Paul or flee for your life?

Friday – Acts 21:37-22:22 Paul Speaks to the People
1. With the Roman Centurion’s permission, Paul addresses the crowd. Why do you think Paul wants to speak to the very people who have just beaten him to within an inch of his life?
2. Once a hush falls over the crowd, Paul begins his defense. Starting with his credentials, he relates his conversion, prayer in the temple, and commission to the Gentiles. Why do you think he risks his life by saying what he does in vv. 6-21, instead of just simply refuting the charges against him?
3. What might make people of your community, or country react as in v. 22 to an evangelist? What aspects of the gospel seem offensive or unethical to people? How does Paul’s example shape your courage to speak up, no matter what?