Happy Friday, and welcome back to Bible Study Snacks! I would like to wish everyone a happy and blessed 2014! It's great to be here with you again! As always, I thank you so much for joining me as we walk together through the richness of God's spoken word, and wisdom. I pray that today finds you in good health and strong in faith!
This week, we conclude our study of the Book of Acts, with Chapter Twenty-eight, Verses 17-31.
I have designed these studies to be brief, yet packed full of good information for everyone regardless of your level of biblical knowledge. I might add that these quick studies make perfect small group discussion starters, as well!
I also strongly believe it is important that any Bible study should begin with prayer. If you have your Bible ready, let's pray together...
"Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen"
If you are taking notes for yourself, or using this for a bible study with others, here are the objectives for this week's lesson...
OBJECTIVES: This week, the reader will...
1) Consider Paul's work in Rome while under house arrest.
For your convenience, here is a summary of Acts 28:17-31...
After three days, Paul called for the Jewish leaders. When they came together, he spoke to them. Paul noted that he had done nothing against their people or the customs of their fathers. He reviewed that he had been taken prisoner in Jerusalem, and was taken into Roman custody. He had been examined and was to be released, but the Jews spoke against his release; thus he appealed to Caesar. That was the reason he had called for and had spoken with the Jewish leaders. Paul stated, "...because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain."
The Jewish leaders responded to Paul. They indicated they had not received letters nor heard of any evil spoken of Paul. They wanted to hear more from Paul "concerning this sect." They stated that it had been "spoken against everywhere." The Jews met Paul again at his place of lodging at another arranged time. He explained and testified of the kingdom of God, and persuaded them concerning Jesus. Paul spoke from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets. He spoke from morning until evening. Some were persuaded and some disbelieved.
Paul completed the discourse by quoting from Isaiah the prophet. The quotation indicated they would hear/see but not understand/ perceive. The Lord wanted them to understand and turn so He could heal them. Paul told them that the salvation of God had been sent to the Gentiles, and "they will hear it!" The Jews departed and "had a great dispute among themselves." Paul was allowed to rent his own home for two years, as he continued under house arrest. Paul received all who came to him. He preached the kingdom of God, and taught the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. He taught with all confidence, and no one forbade him. (17-31)
REVIEW QUESTIONS:
1) Why did Paul call the Jewish leaders together? (Acts 28:17-20)
2) Had the Jewish leaders heard a report on Paul? Had they heard about this "sect?" (Acts 28:21-22)
3) What did Paul speak to them about at the next meeting? (Acts 28:23)
4) How did they react to Paul's teaching? (Acts 28:24)
5) What prophet did Paul quote when the Jews disagreed among themselves? (Acts 28:25-27)
6) To whom had the salvation of God been sent? (Acts 28:28)
7) How long was Paul there? What did he continue to do? (Acts 28:30-31)
After completing this week's study, I encourage you to go back and read through the material again. Take your time and read each topic and scripture reference as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you just might see something new that you overlooked the first time around!
As we journey through the Bible together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!
God bless you!
Sheri
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