Apostle Paul Study: Class 5 Questions: First Missionary Journey, Part 2

READ ACTS 14:1-7 *
How did some of the Jews and Gentiles temporarily overcome their aversion to one another for a common cause?

How did God confirm the message of His grace?

How did Paul and Barnabas respond when they found out about the plans to mistreat and stone them?

After their experiences in Iconium, what did Paul and Barnabas do when they reached Lystra and Derbe?

READ ACTS 14:8-20 *
Why were bulls and wreaths brought to the city gates in Lystra?

Why did Paul and Barnabas tear their clothes in verse 14?

Imagine you are Barnabas, watching Paul being stoned. What kinds of things might be going on in your mind?

READ ACTS 14:21-28 *
Why do you think Paul and Barnabas returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Pisidian Antioch on their way back to Syrian Antioch?

Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in each church before they departed for Pamphylia. What evidences can you find to support the seriousness of these appointments?

Paul and Barnabas had suffered and survived many things. They had also performed miracles. How did they resist any self-praise according to verse 27?

Based on Acts 13-14 what was Paul’s pattern of ministry? *

Introduction

As I read the New Testament and reflect on my own life I can't help but wonder if I've missed it. Have I missed out on what I'm supposed to be? Am I living out my life as God intended? Of course, I haven't always felt this way. I grew up believing in God without really having a clue what He is like. I called myself a Christian, was involved in church, and tried to stay away from all of the things that "good Christians" avoid - drinking, drugs, swearing. Christianity was simple: fight your desires in order to please God. Whenever I failed (which was often), I'd walk around feeling guilty and distant from God.

My view of Christianity has changed over the years for many reasons one of which is reading the Scriptures with fresh eyes; and the particular teachings that stood anew were from one man. According to oral history, this man was neither tall nor handsome. He was a brutal terrorist. He struggled with physical ailments. He was rejected by his family and friends, even beaten nearly to death by a mob of angry men. What we read of Paul in the Bible is by no means flattering, especially in his early life. Yet it is this same man who said "To live is Christ and to die is gain", an anthem of Christianity. He modeled an active, authentic faith. What he lacked in physical stature and eloquence, he made up for in passion and determination to make the message of Jesus Christ know. He didn't walk around feeling guilty, he walked the world feeling grateful. Grateful that God could take him, a great big sinner, and transform his life. I don't think Paul missed it.

Apostle Paul Study

Class 5 Questions: First Missionary Journey, Part 2

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