Acts 24–26

Common Theme
Paul repeatedly bears witness to the gospel before governors and kings, showing that the message of Christ advances even through unjust trials and political delay. God sovereignly uses human courts to place His truth before powerful rulers who would not otherwise hear it.

Questions

• What stands out about how Paul frames his defense and testimony before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa?
• How do the varied responses of these leaders reveal different reactions to the same truth?

God Shot
God is sovereign over human authority and uses earthly power structures to accomplish His redemptive purposes. He persistently brings truth to light, ensuring that His gospel is proclaimed to all levels of society, from prisoners to kings.

Deeper

Acts 24

After five days, High Priest Ananias and others presented their case against Paul to Governor Felix, with Tertullus accusing Paul of being a troublemaker and a leader of the Nazarenes. Paul defended himself, stating he had not caused any disturbances in Jerusalem and that the accusations were unfounded. He acknowledged his faith in God and the resurrection, asserting his actions were in line with Jewish beliefs. Felix, familiar with the Way, postponed the decision until the arrival of Lysias, allowing Paul some freedom while in custody. Later, Felix and his wife Drusilla listened to Paul discuss faith in Christ, but Felix, feeling alarmed, dismissed him, hoping for a bribe. After two years, Felix left Paul imprisoned to appease the Jews, being succeeded by Porcius Festus.

Acts 25

After Festus arrived in the province, the chief priests and Jewish leaders sought to have Paul transferred to Jerusalem, intending to ambush and kill him. Festus refused, stating that Paul was in Caesarea and would be tried there. When Paul was brought before Festus, he defended himself against the unproven charges, asserting he had committed no offense against Jewish law, the temple, or Caesar. Festus, wanting to appease the Jews, offered to send Paul to Jerusalem for trial, but Paul insisted on being tried before Caesar, appealing to his rights as a Roman citizen. Festus agreed to this appeal. Later, King Agrippa and Bernice visited Festus, who presented Paul’s case, explaining that the accusations were religious disputes rather than criminal charges. Agrippa expressed interest in hearing Paul, and Festus noted he had no clear charges to present to the emperor, prompting the need for Agrippa’s examination of Paul to provide a basis for his report.

Acts 26

In his defense before King Agrippa, Paul expresses gratitude for the opportunity to speak, emphasizing his familiarity with Jewish customs and controversies. He recounts his life as a Pharisee and his hope in God’s promise, which is the basis for the accusations against him. Paul reflects on his past, detailing his zealous persecution of Christians, including imprisoning and voting for their execution. He describes a transformative experience on the road to Damascus, where he encountered a divine light and heard Jesus’ voice, calling him to be a servant and witness. Paul explains his mission to open the eyes of both Jews and Gentiles, urging repentance and faith in God. Despite his testimony, Festus accuses Paul of madness due to his extensive learning. Paul insists he speaks rationally and directly addresses Agrippa, questioning his belief in the prophets. Agrippa responds, suggesting Paul is trying to persuade him to become a Christian. Paul expresses his desire for all listeners to share his faith, except for his chains. After the hearing, Agrippa and others conclude that Paul has done nothing deserving of death or imprisonment, noting he could have been released if he hadn’t appealed to Caesar.

Acts 20 to 23

Common Theme

Paul moves toward Jerusalem with unwavering resolve, trusting God even as opposition intensifies. Across these chapters, God’s sovereign hand directs events so that Paul’s witness continues before both Jews and Gentiles.

Questions

• What stands out about Paul’s courage and clarity when facing hostility?
• How do these chapters shape your understanding of God’s control over difficult circumstances?

God Shot

God shows Himself as the One who protects His servants so His purpose moves forward. He oversees every moment of Paul’s journey, ensuring that no plot or power can derail His plan.

Deeper

Acts 20

After the uproar in Macedonia, Paul encouraged his disciples and departed for Macedonia, then Greece, where he spent three months. A plot against him by the Jews prompted him to return through Macedonia. He was accompanied by several disciples and they sailed to Troas, where Paul spoke until midnight. A young man named Eutychus fell from a window and was presumed dead, but Paul revived him. After staying in Troas for seven days, Paul continued his journey, intending to reach Jerusalem by Pentecost. He called the elders of the church from Ephesus to Miletus, reminding them of his humble service and dedication to teaching the gospel. Paul expressed his commitment to his ministry despite knowing that imprisonment awaited him in Jerusalem. He warned the elders about future challenges, including false teachers arising from within their ranks. Paul emphasized the importance of vigilance and care for the church, which was obtained through Christ’s sacrifice. He shared that he had not coveted anyone’s possessions and had worked hard to support himself and others. After his farewell, Paul prayed with the elders, leading to emotional goodbyes as they realized they would not see him again. They accompanied him to the ship, filled with sorrow.

Acts 21

In this passage, Paul embarks on a journey to Jerusalem, stopping at various locations including Tyre and Caesarea, where he receives warnings from disciples and a prophet named Agabus about the dangers he will face in Jerusalem. Despite their pleas, Paul insists he is prepared to face imprisonment or death for the sake of Jesus. Upon arriving in Jerusalem, he is warmly welcomed by the believers and meets with James and the elders, sharing the successes of his ministry among the Gentiles. However, they express concern about rumors that Paul teaches Jews to abandon the law. To counter this, they suggest he participate in a purification ritual with four men under a vow, which Paul agrees to do.

While in the temple, Paul is recognized by Jews from Asia, who falsely accuse him of defiling the temple by bringing Greeks inside. This incites a violent uproar, leading to his arrest by Roman soldiers. The tribune, confused by the chaos, orders Paul to be taken to the barracks for safety. As he is being led away, Paul requests to speak to the crowd, revealing his identity as a Jew from Tarsus and seeking permission to address them in Hebrew, setting the stage for his defense.

Acts 22

In this passage, Paul addresses a crowd, speaking in Hebrew, and recounts his background as a Jew from Tarsus, educated under Gamaliel. He describes his zealous persecution of Christians, detailing his journey to Damascus to imprison believers. On the way, he experiences a divine encounter with a bright light and hears Jesus asking why he is persecuting Him. Blinded by the light, Paul is led to Damascus, where Ananias restores his sight and tells him he is chosen to witness for Jesus. After returning to Jerusalem, Paul is warned by Jesus to leave quickly due to the rejection he would face. The crowd reacts violently to his mention of being sent to the Gentiles, demanding his removal. The Roman tribune intervenes, intending to examine Paul through flogging. When Paul reveals his Roman citizenship, the tribune is alarmed, realizing he has bound an uncondemned citizen. The next day, the tribune seeks to understand the accusations against Paul by convening the chief priests and council.

Acts 23

In this passage, Paul addresses the council, asserting his good conscience before God. The high priest Ananias orders Paul to be struck, to which Paul responds with a rebuke, unaware that Ananias is the high priest. Recognizing the division between the Sadducees and Pharisees, Paul declares his Pharisaic identity and the basis of his trial concerning the resurrection, leading to a heated dispute among the council members. Fearing for Paul’s safety, the tribune intervenes and takes him to the barracks. That night, the Lord reassures Paul, indicating he will testify in Rome.

The next day, a group of over forty Jews conspires to kill Paul, vowing not to eat or drink until they succeed. They plan to deceive the tribune into bringing Paul to them. However, Paul’s nephew learns of the plot and informs him. Paul then instructs a centurion to take the young man to the tribune, who is warned of the ambush.

To ensure Paul’s safety, the tribune organizes a large escort to transfer him to Governor Felix in Caesarea, writing a letter explaining the situation. Upon arrival, Felix agrees to hear the case when Paul’s accusers arrive, ordering him to be held in Herod’s praetorium.

Romans 14 to 16

Common Theme

Paul calls the church to unity that honors God by welcoming one another, bearing with one another, and pursuing peace. He reminds believers that God Himself is the one who strengthens, sanctifies, and establishes His people for the obedience of faith.

Questions

1. Where might I need to yield personal preferences for the sake of peace and building up others in the body?
2. How does remembering that God is the one who establishes us shape the way I relate to fellow believers?

God Shot

God reveals Himself as the gracious Lord who welcomes His people and sustains them. He is the God who strengthens and establishes His church so that all nations might glorify Him.

Deeper

Romans 14

The text emphasizes the importance of not judging one another based on differing beliefs and practices, particularly regarding food and observance of days. It encourages acceptance of those with weaker faith, urging individuals to honor God in their actions, whether they eat or abstain. Each person is accountable to God, and all will stand before His judgment. The passage warns against causing others to stumble in their faith, highlighting that love should guide actions. It asserts that the kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace, and joy, rather than dietary choices. Ultimately, believers are encouraged to pursue peace and mutual edification, keeping personal convictions between themselves and God.

Romans 15

The text emphasizes the importance of supporting the weak and building each other up, following the example of Christ, who did not seek to please Himself. It encourages unity and harmony among believers, urging them to welcome one another as Christ welcomed them. The passage highlights Christ’s role as a servant to the Jews, confirming God’s promises and extending mercy to the Gentiles, who are called to glorify God. Paul expresses confidence in the goodness and knowledge of the believers, acknowledging his role as a minister to the Gentiles and his commitment to spreading the gospel. He shares his ambition to preach where Christ has not been named and outlines his plans to visit Rome after delivering aid to the saints in Jerusalem. Paul requests prayers for his mission and safety, expressing hope for a joyful reunion with the Roman believers. The text concludes with a blessing for peace among them.

Romans 16

The text contains personal greetings and final instructions from Paul. He commends Phoebe, a servant of the church, and encourages the community to welcome her. Paul greets various individuals and groups, expressing gratitude for their contributions and support. He warns against those who cause divisions and urges the community to remain wise and innocent. Paul reassures them of God’s peace and the grace of Jesus Christ. He includes greetings from his fellow workers and mentions Tertius, who wrote the letter. The passage concludes with a doxology, praising God for His ability to strengthen believers and revealing the mystery of faith to all nations, emphasizing God’s eternal glory through Jesus Christ.

Romans 11 to 13

Common Theme
God’s mercy forms the foundation for both Israel’s story and the church’s life, calling believers to live transformed, obedient lives in light of His gracious rule. Paul shows how God’s saving plan humbles human pride and reshapes everyday relationships with love and submission to God’s authority.

Questions

1. How does God’s mercy toward both Jews and Gentiles shape the way you view others?
2. What part of your life most needs to be surrendered to God as an act of living worship?

God Shot
God reveals Himself as the merciful Sovereign whose wisdom and grace overflow beyond human understanding. He is the God who patiently works out His saving purposes and forms a people marked by His love and righteousness.

Deeper

Romans 11

In this passage, the author addresses the question of whether God has rejected His people, Israel. The author, identifying as an Israelite, asserts that God has not rejected those He foreknew, citing the example of Elijah, who believed he was the last faithful one. God revealed that He had preserved a remnant of seven thousand who remained faithful. This remnant exists today, chosen by grace, emphasizing that grace cannot be based on works. The text explains that Israel sought righteousness but failed to obtain it, while the elect were saved, leading to a hardening of the rest. The author then discusses the inclusion of Gentiles, suggesting that their salvation aims to provoke Israel to jealousy. The text warns Gentiles against arrogance, reminding them that they are supported by the root of the olive tree, which represents Israel. It highlights the mystery of Israel’s partial hardening until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in, ultimately leading to the salvation of all Israel. The passage concludes with a reflection on the depth of God’s wisdom and the irrevocable nature of His gifts and calling.

Romans 12

The text emphasizes presenting oneself as a living sacrifice to God, urging transformation through the renewal of the mind to discern His will. It encourages humility and sober self-assessment, recognizing that believers are one body with diverse gifts to serve one another. Genuine love, abhorrence of evil, and honoring one another are highlighted as essential Christian traits. Believers are called to be zealous, patient in tribulation, and constant in prayer, while also showing hospitality and blessing those who persecute them. The passage concludes with a call to overcome evil with good and to live peaceably with all.

Romans 13

The text emphasizes the importance of being subject to governing authorities, as they are instituted by God. Resisting authority equates to resisting God’s appointment, leading to judgment. Rulers are meant to reward good conduct and punish wrongdoing. Additionally, it highlights the significance of love, stating that loving one another fulfills the law, as all commandments are summed up in the directive to love one’s neighbor. The passage encourages believers to awaken from spiritual slumber, reject sinful behaviors, and embody the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Romans 8 to 10

Here is a clear, concise overview of these chapters.

Common Theme

Paul reveals the security and hope believers have in God’s saving work, showing that salvation is grounded in His sovereign grace. He then explains how this grace relates to Israel’s unbelief, emphasizing that God’s purposes never fail.

Questions

1. How does the assurance described in Romans 8 shape the way we face suffering and uncertainty?
2. What does Romans 9 to 10 teach about the relationship between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in responding to the gospel?

God Shot

In these chapters God is shown as the faithful Savior who refuses to abandon His people. He is both sovereign in His mercy and passionately committed to bringing salvation to all who call on His name.

Deeper

Romans 8

The text discusses the transformative power of living in the Spirit, emphasizing that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. It explains how the Spirit of life liberates believers from sin and death, fulfilling the law’s requirements through Christ. Those who live according to the Spirit focus on spiritual matters, leading to life and peace, while those who live according to the flesh cannot please God. Believers are assured that if the Spirit of God dwells in them, they are children of God and heirs with Christ, sharing in His glory. The text highlights the present sufferings as insignificant compared to the future glory awaiting believers, who eagerly anticipate their full redemption. The Spirit aids in their weaknesses, interceding for them according to God’s will. It reassures that all things work together for good for those who love God, as they are predestined to be conformed to Christ’s image. The passage concludes with a powerful affirmation of God’s everlasting love, stating that nothing can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus, regardless of life’s challenges or adversities.

Romans 9

In this passage, the author expresses deep sorrow for the Israelites, wishing he could be cut off from Christ for their sake. He emphasizes that not all descendants of Israel are true Israelites, highlighting that true children of God are those of the promise, not merely of the flesh. The text discusses God’s sovereign choice in election, illustrating that His mercy is not based on human effort but on His will. The author references biblical figures like Isaac and Jacob to demonstrate God’s purpose in choosing certain individuals. He addresses potential objections regarding God’s justice, asserting that God has the right to show mercy or harden hearts as He sees fit. The passage concludes by noting that while many Israelites will not be saved, Gentiles who did not seek righteousness have attained it through faith, contrasting their faith with Israel’s reliance on works, leading to their stumbling over Christ, the cornerstone.

Romans 10

The text expresses the author’s deep desire for the salvation of his people, acknowledging their zeal for God but highlighting their ignorance of true righteousness. It emphasizes that Christ fulfills the law for believers and outlines the importance of faith for salvation. The passage states that salvation is accessible to all, regardless of background, and emphasizes the necessity of confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection. It discusses the importance of preaching the gospel, noting that faith comes from hearing the word of Christ. The text concludes with references to Israel’s disobedience and God’s outreach to those who did not seek Him.

Romans 4-7

Common Theme

Paul explains that righteousness has always come through faith, using Abraham as the model, and shows how believers are freed from sin’s rule through union with Christ. He also highlights the ongoing battle with the flesh that remains even after salvation.

Questions

• How does Abraham’s example shape your understanding of what it means to trust God.
• In what areas do you feel the tension between wanting to obey God and the pull of your old patterns.

God Shot

God reveals Himself as the One who justifies the ungodly through faith, not performance. He shows His power and mercy by uniting believers with Christ, breaking sin’s dominion and sustaining them even in their struggle.

Deeper

Romans 4

The text discusses Abraham’s justification by faith rather than by works. It emphasizes that Abraham’s belief in God was credited to him as righteousness before his circumcision, making him the father of all believers, both circumcised and uncircumcised. The promise to Abraham and his descendants is based on faith, not the law, ensuring that it is accessible to all who share Abraham’s faith. The law brings wrath, but faith allows for grace and guarantees the promise to all offspring. Abraham’s unwavering faith, despite his old age and Sarah’s barrenness, exemplifies trust in God’s promises. Ultimately, the text asserts that faith in Jesus, who was raised for our justification, is essential for righteousness, extending the blessing of Abraham to all believers.

Romans 5

The text discusses the concept of peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing that believers are justified by faith and have access to grace. It highlights the importance of suffering, which leads to endurance, character, and hope, all rooted in God’s love through the Holy Spirit. The passage explains that Christ died for sinners, demonstrating God’s love, and assures believers of salvation from God’s wrath due to reconciliation through Christ’s death. It contrasts the consequences of Adam’s sin, which brought death, with the grace and righteousness offered through Jesus, leading to justification and eternal life. Ultimately, it underscores the triumph of grace over sin and death.

Romans 6

The text discusses the transformation from sin to righteousness through faith in Christ. It emphasizes that believers, having died to sin through baptism, should not continue to live in sin but instead embrace a new life in Christ. This new life signifies freedom from sin’s dominion, as Christ’s resurrection assures believers of their own future resurrection. The passage contrasts being slaves to sin, which leads to death, with being slaves to righteousness, which leads to sanctification and eternal life. Ultimately, it highlights that while sin results in death, God’s grace offers the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Romans 7

The text discusses the relationship between the law, sin, and believers in Christ. It explains that the law is binding only while one is alive, using the analogy of marriage: a woman is bound to her husband until his death, after which she is free to remarry without being labeled an adulteress. Similarly, believers have died to the law through Christ, allowing them to serve God in a new way through the Spirit. The text emphasizes that the law is not sinful; rather, it reveals sin. The author expresses a struggle between the desire to do good and the reality of sin’s influence, ultimately recognizing that deliverance comes through Jesus Christ, leading to a conflict between serving God’s law and the law of sin.

Romans 1-3

Common Theme

Paul establishes humanity’s universal guilt before God. Both Gentiles and Jews stand accountable, and righteousness comes only from God, not human effort or heritage.

Questions

• How does seeing all people equally guilty before God shape the way you view grace.
• Where are you most tempted to rely on your own goodness rather than the righteousness God provides.

God Shot

God reveals Himself as utterly righteous in all His judgments. He also shows His heart as the One who provides the very righteousness He requires, making a way for guilty people to be made right with Him.

Deeper

Romans 1

In this passage, Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God, which was promised through the prophets. He emphasizes the significance of Jesus Christ, who was descended from David and declared the Son of God through his resurrection. Paul expresses gratitude for the faith of the Romans, which is known worldwide, and longs to visit them to share spiritual gifts and mutual encouragement. He feels obligated to preach the gospel to all, including the Romans. Paul asserts that he is unashamed of the gospel, as it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. He warns of God’s wrath against ungodliness and unrighteousness, noting that people suppress the truth about God despite its clear revelation in creation. The passage describes the consequences of rejecting God, leading to dishonorable passions and a debased mind, resulting in various forms of unrighteousness and moral decay.

Romans 2

The text discusses God’s righteous judgment, emphasizing that those who judge others are often guilty of the same sins, thus condemning themselves. It highlights that God’s judgment is impartial and based on one’s actions, rewarding those who do good with eternal life while punishing the self-seeking with wrath. It asserts that merely hearing the law is insufficient; one must act on it to be justified. Gentiles who follow the law instinctively are seen as law-abiding, while Jews who rely on the law but fail to follow it dishonor God. True identity as a Jew is defined not by outward signs like circumcision, but by an inward transformation of the heart through the Spirit, with true praise coming from God rather than humans.

Romans 3

The text discusses the righteousness of God and the role of faith in salvation. It begins by addressing the advantages of being Jewish, emphasizing that Jews were entrusted with God’s oracles. Despite some being unfaithful, God’s faithfulness remains unchanged. The text asserts that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin and none are righteous. It highlights that the law reveals sin but cannot justify anyone. The righteousness of God is manifested through faith in Jesus Christ, available to all believers, regardless of their background. Justification comes as a gift of grace through faith, not by works. The text concludes that faith does not nullify the law but upholds it, affirming God’s unity in justifying both Jews and Gentiles.

2 Corinthians 10-13

Common Theme
Paul defends his God given authority while exposing the emptiness of those who boast in themselves, reminding the Corinthians that true strength is revealed in weakness. The thread running through these chapters is the contrast between human self promotion and Christ’s power working through humble dependence.

Questions
• Where do you rely on personal strength or credentials instead of Christ’s power working through your weakness
• How does Paul’s example of transparent weakness challenge your own view of spiritual leadership

God Shot
God reveals Himself as the One who perfects His power in human weakness and delights to work through those who have nothing to boast in but Him. He is the God whose grace is sufficient and whose strength never fails, even when His servants feel most fragile.

Deeper

2 Corinthians 10

Paul appeals to the Corinthians, emphasizing his humility and the divine nature of his ministry. He contrasts his boldness in letters with his gentleness in person, urging them to recognize that his authority is meant for their edification, not destruction. Paul asserts that while he and his companions operate in the flesh, their warfare is spiritual, using divine power to dismantle arguments against God. He encourages them to focus on their faith and growth, stating that true boasting comes from the Lord’s commendation, not self-praise. Paul aims to expand their influence for the gospel beyond their current reach.

2 Corinthians 11

In this passage, Paul expresses his deep concern for the Corinthians, feeling a divine jealousy as he has betrothed them to Christ. He warns them against being led astray by false apostles who preach a different Jesus or gospel. Paul asserts that he is not inferior to these so-called super-apostles, despite his unpolished speaking skills, emphasizing his knowledge and the sacrifices he has made for them. He highlights that he preached the gospel free of charge and did not burden them financially, relying instead on support from other churches. Paul identifies the false apostles as deceitful workers disguising themselves as true servants of Christ, warning that their end will reflect their deeds. He then shifts to boast about his sufferings as an apostle, detailing the hardships he has endured, including beatings, imprisonments, and dangers from various sources. Despite these challenges, he expresses his deep concern for the churches and his willingness to boast in his weaknesses, affirming his commitment to the truth.

2 Corinthians 12

In this passage, Paul discusses his spiritual experiences, including being caught up to the third heaven and hearing unutterable things. He chooses to boast only about his weaknesses to avoid conceit, emphasizing that God’s grace is sufficient and that His power is perfected in weakness. Paul expresses contentment with his hardships, stating that his weaknesses make him strong through Christ. He addresses the Corinthian church, feeling compelled to defend himself against accusations of deceit and lack of care. Paul reassures them of his genuine love and commitment, stating he does not seek their possessions but their well-being. He expresses concern about potential discord within the church and fears he may find unrepentant sin upon his return, leading to his mourning over their spiritual state.

2 Corinthians 13

In this passage, the author emphasizes the importance of establishing charges with evidence and warns those who have sinned, stating that he will not spare them upon his return. He encourages self-examination of faith and hopes for the restoration of the community. The author expresses a desire for unity, comfort, and peace among the believers, concluding with greetings and blessings of grace, love, and fellowship from the Lord Jesus Christ, God, and the Holy Spirit.