Apostle Paul Study: Class 7 Questions: Acts 16

READ ACTS 16:1-5
Describe Timothy. *
   ACTS 16:1-2
   1 TIMOTHY 4:12
    2 TIMOTHY 3:15

In light of the Jerusalem Council why does it seem strange that Paul would circumcise Timothy? Why did he do it?

READ ACTS 16:6-10
What possible reasons might have existed for the Holy Spirit to keep Paul, Silas, and Timothy from preaching the word in the province of Asia or Bithynia?

How did God redirect Paul? To Where?

READ ACTS 16:11-15
Describe the conversion of Lydia.

READ ACTS 16:16-40
What was the real reason Paul and Silas were taken before the authorities? How were they charged?

How were Paul and Silas punished?

A number of amazing twists occurred in the prison in Philippi. In your opinion, what is the most striking part of this account?

Hebrews 10:32-33 describes two different kinds of roles in the face of suffering. What are they?

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 7 Questions: Acts 16

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