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?

Monday – Acts 20:1-6; 2 Cor 8:1-9:15 Paul in Macedonia and Achaia
1. Leaving Ephesus, Paul travels through Macedonia and Achaia (southern Greece). Filling in the details, which churches might Paul be visiting? What do you imagine him saying to encourage the brethren?
2. The main reason Paul is traveling through Greece is to complete a collection for the needy saints in Jerusalem (cf. Acts 11:27-30). How does he use the example of the poorer Macedonians to spur the wealthier Achaians to complete their promised contribution?
3. Identify the primary goals that govern Paul’s appeal for this collection. In what ways do these goals apply to our giving today as Christians?

Tuesday – Acts 20:7-12 Eutychus Raised from the Dead
1. Luke shifts from a broad overview of three months of activity across a wide geographical area to detail the account of Eutychus (which means, Good Fortune). What significance do you think this episode holds within the larger narrative of the early church (cf. Act 9:36-43)?
2. Beyond the fact that it is commanded (cf. Luk 22:14-20), why do the disciples in Troas make it a priority to come together on the first day of the week to break bread in the Lord’s Supper?
3. How does Paul’s decision to prioritize gathering with the believers, despite his imminent departure and long journey ahead, challenge your own priorities regarding assembling with fellow Christians? 

Wednesday – Acts 20:13-16; Rom 15:18-33 From Troas to Miletus
1. Luke paints a picture of a driven Paul hurrying to reach Jerusalem. Yet he chooses to walk alone from Troas to Assos, a journey of roughly 20 miles. Why might he be needing this solitary time?
2. During the more than three months or so span recorded in 20:1-16, Paul writes the epistle to the Romans. What do you learn about Paul’s missionary priorities and his future travel plans?
3. Again, he references his collection from Gentile churches for their Jewish brethren in Jerusalem. How does Paul's reasoning in 15:27 shed light on the relationship between Jewish and Gentile Christians in the early church? It what ways might his reasoning apply to your life or church today?

Thursday – Acts 20:17-38 Paul Speaks to the Ephesian Elders
1. As Paul hurries to Jerusalem, he summons the Ephesian elders to Miletus for a farewell meeting. Use several adjectives to describe the overall tone and emotional atmosphere of their encounter.
2. The apostle starts by recounting his time in Ephesus. What does he share about the nature of his service? How can this inspire you to live a life of selfless giving for the sake of the gospel?
3. Can you imagine Paul’s voice cracking with emotion as he warns the elders of future difficulties? What urgent plea(s) does he make to these leaders? In what ways does this resonate with the challenges facing the church in your own time?

Friday –1 Tim 1:1-11; 4:1-16; 6:2b-10 Paul Leaves Timothy in Ephesus
1. Paul leaves Timothy in Ephesus to “charge certain people not to teach any other doctrine” than the true gospel. In your own words, summarize the nature of the various false teachings he must address. 
2. What unique challenges does Timothy face in confronting these false teachings/teachers (including some elders; Acts 20:19-18) within the Ephesian church?
3. Beyond simply correcting doctrinal errors, how might Timothy's role in combating false teaching involve cultivating a positive vision of Christian life and discipleship within the Ephesian church?

Monday – Acts 18:23b-28 Apollos Speaks Boldly in Ephesus
1. Luke shifts his narrative to briefly follow Apollos. While he knows the scriptures and Jesus, he only knows of the baptism of John. Read Mrk 1:1-8 and Rom 6:3-11 and contrast the baptism of John that Apollos teaches to the baptism of Christ that Paul teaches.
2. While Apollos possesses both eloquence and knowledge, he humbly accepts guidance from the tentmakers. In what ways is his ministry and life enhanced by his relationship with Aquila and Priscilla?
3. Luke describes Apollos as “mighty in the scriptures” (v. 24). If Luke were writing about you, would he say you are mighty... okay... or weak in the scriptures? What steps will you take now to become a better student of God’s word?

Tuesday – Act 18:1-2, 18-19, 26; Rom 16:3-4; 1 Cor 16:19 Priscilla and Aquila: A Character Study
1. What might have motivated Paul to specifically seek out Aquila and Priscilla upon arriving in Corinth? Was it simply their shared Jewish heritage and trade, or some other factors that drew him to them?
2. Acts 18:26 states that both Aquila and Priscilla take Apollos aside and “explain the way of God to him more accurately.” How does this joint effort highlight the unique dynamics and strengths of their marriage as they worked together in the ministry?
3. While the specific circumstances surrounding their “risking their necks” for Paul are unclear, what can you infer about the dangers faced in Ephesus (Act 19:21-20:1; 1 Cor 15:32a; 2 Cor 1:8-10), and how might this act of courage inspire and embolden other believers – especially Gentiles?

Wednesday – Acts 19:1-10 Paul in Ephesus
1. In Ephesus, Paul encounters twelve men who only know the baptism of John. What leads Paul to re-baptize these men before they receive the miraculous gifts of the Spirit?
2. What do you make of the fact that there were still disciples who didn’t know about the Spirit or Jesus?
3. What are the likely reasons for the resistance and opposition Paul encounters from some of the Jews in the synagogue? What do you imagine their objections are to his message about the kingdom of God?

Thursday – Acts 19:11-20 The Seven Sons of Sceva
1. In a city given over to magic, how does God display His power through Paul (cf. Act 5:14-16)?
2. The seven sons of Sceva attempt to mimic Paul. Describe how you picture the scene unfolding. Why do you think their humiliation has such a wide-reaching effect?
3. Despite the cost, the new believers in Ephesus boldly abandon their past. What past practices hinder your spiritual growth, and what price are you willing to pay to break free for a new start?

Friday – Acts 19:21-41 A Riot in Ephesus
1. Once again, the gospel causes conflict. Demetrius and the other silversmiths see Paul’s message as a threat to their livelihoods. How does this show that the Gospel can challenge the way a society operates? What might change in your community if many people suddenly became Christians?
2. Imagine that you are with Gaius and Aristarchus when the angry mob grabs you. What’s it like to be surrounded by those shouting people? What are you thinking and feeling as they threaten you?
3. Finally, city officials step in to protect Paul from the mob. How do you think this public rebuke of Demetrius and a show of support for Paul affect how the Ephesians view “the Way”?