“Luke / Acts Week 46 – Nov. 11-15”

Monday, November 11, 2024

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”?

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