New Testament: Acts

Question 1

Christ’s Ascension

In Acts 1:4-11, it talks about Christ’s Ascension into heaven. In the sermon he gives before departing, what does he talk about?

Answer 1

Christ’s Ascension

• John baptized with water, but the Holy Ghost (baptism by fire) will some shortly.
• Disciples wonder when Israel will be *politically restored.
• It is not for man to know the seasons. The Father has control.
• After one receives the Holy Ghost, he/she shall be a witness of Christ to all the world
• Christ ascends, then two angels appear and prophecy that the 2nd coming will be in like manner.

4 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.

5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judæa, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

9 And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

10 And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel;

11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

Question 2

The Spirit at Pentecost

In Acts 2:1-4 it talks of the Day of Pentecost. What happens?

Answer 2

The Spirit at Pentecost

• There was a sound of a “rushing mighty wind.”
• There appeared “cloven tongues” of fire on each person
• They were filled with the Holy Ghost
• They began to speak in tounges by the Spirit

1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.

3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Question 3

Peter’s Sermon at the Temple

Peter and John heal a lame man at the temple, after which–in Acts 3:19-26–Peter preaches to the people who marvelled. What did he preach?

Answer 3

Peter’s Sermon at the Temple

• Repent, and your sins will be “blotted out”
• The “times of refreshing” will come, and God shall send Jesus Christ.
• Jesus was received into heaven until the “restitution of all things.”
• All Prophets have born witness of Christ
• Moses prophesied of Christ and commanded all to listen to him. And that those who didn’t listen to Christ would be destroyed.
• (speaking to jews at temple) Ye are the children of the prophets and of the covenant of Abraham.
• God sent his Son, Jesus, to turn us away from our iniquities.

19 ¶Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:

21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.

22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.

23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.

24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.

25 Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.

26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

Question 4

Peter Testifies of Christ

Peter and John are arrested and brought before and testify to a council of Jews. In Acts 4:5-12, the Jews ask by what power Peter and John healed the lame man in the temple. How does Peter respond?

Answer 4

Peter’s Testifies of Christ

• Filled with the Holy Ghost, Peter testifies that it is by the “name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead” that the lame man was healed.
• Peter further testifies that “Christ is the stone that was set at nought of you (the jews) builders, which is become the head of the corner.”
• Salvation only comes through Christ’s name. There is no other way.

5 ¶And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,

6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Question 5

Gamaliel’s Reasoning

Peter and John are put into prison and rescued by an angel. They are again brought before the council. After Paul testifies of Christ, in Acts 5:33-40 the council desires to slay Peter and John.

Gamaliel, a docter of the law, held in reputation by the council (a pharisee) defends them by saying what?

Answer 5

Gamaliel’s Reasoning

• He warns the council to be careful
• He recounts two stories–Theudas and Judas of Galiliee–that both taught and grew a large group of followers. Both groups, when these men died, were brought to nought and dispersed natrually.
• Applying this to the circumstance, he suggests they let the followers of Christ alone.
• “If this counsel of this work be of men, it will come to nought, but if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.”
• The council agrees, beats them, commands them not to speak in Jesus name, and lets them go.

33 ¶When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

34 Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;

35 And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.

36 For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.

37 After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.

38 And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:

39 But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

40 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

Question 6

Welfare Commitee

In Acts 6:1-8 the Grecians murmur against the Hebrews because their widows are forgotten. How is this issue solved by the Twelve Apostles?

Answer 6

Welfare Commitee

• The twelve cannot leave their call as special witnesses of Christ.
• They appoint seven men of “honest report, full of the Holy Ghost” who will oversee welfare buisness.
• Apostles set these seven men apart in their calling.
• This caused the word of God to increase, and many priests were then obedient to the faith.
• Stephen, one of the seven, did great wonders and miracles.

1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

5 ¶And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

8 And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

Question 7

Stephen’s Final Testimony

Stehpen testifies of Christ and the apostasy of Isreal In Acts 7:54-60, the Jews are angry with him. How did Stephen respond?

Answer 7

Stephen’s Final Testimony

• Being full of the Holy Ghost, he declared that he saw God and Jesus on the right hand of God.
• At this declaration the Jews freaked out and stoned him.
  
  • a young man Saul (Paul) stood by watching.
• Stephen, much like Christ, prays in his final moments saying, “Lay not this sin to their charge.”

54 ¶When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.

55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

57 Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord,

58 And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul.

59 And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

60 And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

Question 8

The Baptism of the Ethiopian

In Acts 8:26-40 Phillip converts a eunuch. Summarize the main details of this event.

Answer 8

The Baptism of the Ethiopian

• The Lord inspires Philip to go into the Gaza desert.
• Philip meets a man from Ethiopia who was going to Jerusalem to worship. The man had been reading the words of Isaiah.
• Philip ran to the man and asked if he understood what he was reading. The man said no because he didn’t have help, then asked what it meant.
• Philip explained that the passage talked about the mission and life of Christ.
• When passing water, the eunuch asks what’s hindering him from being baptized.
• The requirement for baptism is “If though believest with all thine heart.
• Eunuch declares belief in Jesus as the Son of God, and was baptised of Philip.
• The spirit then leads philip away rejoicing 1st to Azotus, then to Caesarea.

26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.

27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,

28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.

29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.

30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?

31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.

32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:

33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.

34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?

35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.

36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?

37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.

39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.

40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Cæsarea.

Question 9

Ananias and Paul

In Acts 9:10-19 the Lord speaks to Ananias in a vision at Damascus. What did the Lord tell Ananias?

Answer 9

Ananias and Paul

• Arise and go to the house of Judas and inquire after Saul, because “he prayeth” and is a “chosen vessel”
• Ananias is told that Saul had seen a vision of him healing Saul.
• Ananias complains saying that Saul is evil and has authority to bind Jewish Christians.
• The Lord testifies of the mission of Saul to carry the Gospel to the Gentiles, kings, and children of Israel.
• Ananias obeys, and finding Saul, calls him “brother,” heals him, and declares that Saul be “filled with the Holy Ghost.”
• Saul receives sight and is baptized.

10 ¶And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.

11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,

12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.

15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.

17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

Question 10

First Gentile Conversion

Peter sees a vision commanding him to take the gospel to the gentiles. Cornelius (an italian centurion) sees a vision and is told where to find Peter.

In response to Cornelius, in Acts 10:34-43, what does Peter declare?

Answer 10

First Gentile Conversion

• God is no respecter of persons. Anybody who respects/loves God, and worketh righteousness is accepted by him.
• The word of God was published through Jesus Christ who was annoited and filled with the Holy Ghost, did good, and healed many whom the devil oppressed.
• The apostles are witnesses of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. They are to declare unto the world that Jesus will be the “Judge of quick and dead”
• All prophets testify that whoever believes in Christ, shall recieve a remission of sins.

34 ¶Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.

36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)

37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judæa, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;

38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:

40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;

41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.

42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.

43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

Question 11

Prophecy and Welfare

In Acts 11:27-30, Barnabas and Paul are in Antioch. Many prophets came at this time from Jerusalem unto Antioch. What did they preach? What was the response from the Christians at Antioch?

Answer 11

Prophecy and Welfare

• These prophets prophisied a great famine throughout the world.
• Then the desciples at Antioch decided to send relief (food/money/etc) to their brothers in Judaea.
• This relief was taken to them by the Elders (apostles) Baranabus and Paul.

27 ¶And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.

28 And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth (famine or drought) throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Cæsar (41-51 AD).

29 Then the disciples (in antioch), every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judæa (southern, Jerusalem):

30 Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

Question 12

Peter’s Escape

After the Matyrdom of James, Peter is put in prison. In Acts 12:6-17, what happens to Peter in this prison?

Answer 12

Peter’s Escape

• While sleeping in chains, with guards around, an angel appears to Peter.
• The angel frees Peter, tells him to get dressed, and leads Peter out of the prison. (peter still thought he was in vision, but to his joy he was actually free)
• The angel led him back into the city gates (which opened “of his own accord”), and departed.
• When Peter realized he was free, he rejoiced that the Lord had sent an angel, and delivered hi out of the hands of Heord and the Jews. Then he went to the house of Mary (mother of John). Many were gathered here praying.
• Peter knocks, Rhoda comes. She hears his voice and is so glad she runs back to those gathered praying (without opening the door). She is so glad they accuse her of being mad, and say instead it is an Angel.
• Peter keeps knocking and they eventually let him in. He declared how the lord had brought him out of prison. And told them to tell the brethern.

6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands.

8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.

9 And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision.

10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.

11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.

12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.

13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda.

14 And when she knew Peter’s voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate.

15 And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel.

16 But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.

17 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.

Question 13

A Sorcerer at Paphos

In Acts 13:4-13 Paul and Barnabus went to Seleucia and from there to Cyprus. They went also to Salamis then to Paphos preachin the word of God. What important event happened on the Isle of Paphos?

Answer 13

A Sorcerer at Paphos

• They found a sorcerer/false prophet named Bar-jesus/Elymas who was with the deputy Sergius Paulus. The deputy wanted to hear the word of God from Paul and Barnabus.
• But Elymas withstood the Elders and sought to turn away the deputy from the word.
• Full of the Holy Ghost, Paul speaks.
• He chastises Elymas. “though child of the devil…wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?”
• Paul curses Elymas with blindness and immediately he lost sight and sought for people to lead him by the hand.
• The deputy believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

4 ¶So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus.

5 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.

6 And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-jesus:

7 Which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.

8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

9 Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,

10 And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?

11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand.

12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.

Question 14

Paul Preaches Among Gentiles (1st mission)

In Acts 14:19-28, Paul passes through Lystra, Iconium, Derbe and Antioch. What happens on these journeys?

Know the main cities of paul’s journeys.

Answer 14

Paul Preaches Among Gentiles (1st mission)

• Paul is stoned at Lystra and is presummed dead. As the disciples were around he awakened an the next day went to Derbe with Barnabas.
• After preaching in Derbe, they returned they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch.
• In these cities they exhorted the saints to continue in faithfulness to enter the kingdom of God, even though there are tribulations.
• Then the preached through Pisidia, Pamphylia, Perga, and Attalia.
• From Attalia they returned to Antioch, which was where they had recieve the call to travel and preach.
• At Antioch, the church gathered together for their missionary report about “how [Paul] had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.” They stayed awhile at Antioch.

19 ¶And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

20 Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

21 And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again (went back the way they came) to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,

22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.

23 And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

24 And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.

25 And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:

26 And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled (the place at which they had recieved their mission call).

27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

28 And there they abode (in Anticoh) long time with the disciples.

Question 15

The Jerusalem Conference

In Antioch an arguement arose about circumcision. In Acts 15:6-11 the Apostles and elders meet at Jerusalem and discuss the issue. What happened in those proceedings?

Answer 15

The Jerusalem Conference

• After much disputing, Peter declared that the Gentiles don’t need circumcision.
• He reasoned that God knoweth the hearts, and that all are equal to God. God testifies to all and God purifies our hearts according to faith.
• “why yoke the gentiles with a law that even we were unable to bear?”
• It is by the grace of God that men are saved, jew or gentile.

6 ¶And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.

7 And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.

8 And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;

9 And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

10 Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?

11 But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.

Question 16

Unknown God

In Acts 17:22-31, Paul preaches in Athens on Mars’ hill about the Unknown God. What doctrines does he emphasize?

Answer 16

​Unknown God

• God made the world and all things, he isn’t confined to corruptible temples made by men.
• He gives life to all things and can’t be contained in a statue or creation of man.
• All men are brothers and are ultimately destined to seek the Lord, though his timescheduale determines different groups at different times. He is not far from each of us.
• Not only did God create us, but we are literally his offspring. If we are his offspring, how can we ever think the God is like gold, or silver, or statues, etc.
• Now, God wants all men everywhere to repent.
• One day, a day appointed, all men will be lifted up to be judged of Jesus. Therefore, repent.

22 ¶Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.

23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;

25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;

26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;

27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.

30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Question 17

Rejected of Jews, Paul Teaches Gentiles

In Acts 18:1-11, Paul goes to Corinth from Athens, he is rejected by Jews and accepted by gentiles. Who’s who and what happens in this story?

Answer 17

Rejected of Jews, Paul Teaches Gentiles

• What’s this beginning stuff about Aquila have to do with anything?
• Silas and Timotheus came, and Paul was led by the spirit to testify of Jesus to the Jews. They opposed him, so Paul shook his raiment and said that their blood is on their own heads. He then declares that he will go to the Gentiles.
• He goes to Justus’ house, and taught. Crispus, cheif ruler of the synagugue, and his house and many Corinthians believed on the lord and were baptized.
• The Lord spake to Paul in a vision: Don’t be afraid, there are many people preppared for the Word in this city.

1 After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;

2 And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

3 And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.

4 And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

5 And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

6 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

7 ¶And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man’s house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.

8 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

9 Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace:

10 For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people in this city.

11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.

Question 18

Warning: Grievous Wolves

Paul returning to Jerusalem for Pentecost from his 3rd missionary journey, stops in Miletus and calls the elders of Ephesus to him. Speaking in Acts 20:28-35, what does Paul tell the Elders?

Answer 18

Warning: Grievous Wolves

• Paul warns that after he is gone, grievous wolves (deceiving people) will enter the church and ruin the flock.
• He prophisies of individual apostasy, and members drawing diciples away after themselves.
• He commends these elders to God to be sanctified.
• He reminds them of his ministry and how he didn’t seek money, but to minister to the seek. Paul worked with his own hands for his own needs.
• Jesus says, “it’s more blessed to give than to receive.”

28 ¶Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.

31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.

32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

33 I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.

34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.

35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Question 19

Final Accusations against Paul

In Acts 21:27-30, Paul is in Jerusalem after his 3rd missionary journey. After the seven days of Pentecost were almost over, what happens to Paul?

Answer 19

Final Accusations against Paul

• Paul is accused of teaching against the people of the Jews, the law of Moses, and the temple.
• The real crime of which he was accused was that of polluting the temple by supposedly bringing a Gentile (an ephiesian) inside.
• The accusers were Jews from Asia, and soon all the people were against Paul and withdrew him from the temple and shut the doors.

27 And when the seven days (Pentecost) were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him (Paul) in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,

28 Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men every where against the people (the jews), and the law (of Moses), and this place (the temple): and further brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.

29 (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian, whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

30 And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.

Question 20

Paul’s Appeal

In Acts 25:9-12, Paul stands before Festus. What does Paul declared? What does Festus do?

Answer 20

Paul’s Appeal

• Festus asks Paul if he will go to Jerusalem for Jewish trial.
• Paul declares that he has done the Jews no wrong.
• He appeals to be judged of Caesar.
• Festus and the council grant his desire to go to Caesar.

9 But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou go up to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?

10 Then said Paul, I stand at Cæsar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.

11 For if I be an offender, or have committed any thing worthy of death, I refuse not to die: but if there be none of these things whereof these accuse me, no man may deliver me unto them. I appeal unto Cæsar.

12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, Hast thou appealed unto Cæsar? unto Cæsar shalt thou go.

Question 21

Paul’s Defence before Agrippa

In Acts 26:1-7, 24-29 Paul is in Ciceria, before Augustus and Agrippa. How does Paul defend his case?

Answer 21

Paul’s Defence before Agrippa

• First, he speaks a bit of flattery to King Agrippa.
• Then tells of how he grew up a Pharisee of the “most straitest sect of [Jewish] religion.
• Then declares that he is being judged for his hope in the “promise made of God unto our fathers” aka. the same hope all the Jews have.
• side note: Early Christians saw the resurrection of Christ as the beginning of the fulfillment of all of God’s promises.
• After these points, Festus says Paul is crazy.
• Paul responds to Festus by saying that he speaks words “of truth and soberness”
• He points out that the King (agrippa) knows of Jesus, the resurrestion, miracles, and Paul’s conversion story, for “this thing was not done in a corner.”
• Paul asks Agripa if he believes in the prophets.
• Agrippa replies that he is alomst convinced. (not sure if it is sincere or sarcastic)
• Paul ends by saying he wishes all people were like him: Christian, except the bonds.

1 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Thou art permitted to speak for thyself. Then Paul stretched forth the hand, and answered for himself:

2 I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews: (accused of bringing a greek gentile into the temple)

3 Especially because I know thee to be expert in all customs and questions which are among the Jews: wherefore I beseech thee to hear me patiently.

4 My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem, know all the Jews; (Paul born in tarsus, grew up in Jerusalem under Gamaliel)

5 Which knew me from the beginning, if they would testify, that after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee.

6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers: (all promises of God in the Old Testament, esp. Abrahamic promises)

7 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly (earnestly, intently) serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope’s sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.

____________

24 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.

25 But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.

26 For the king (Agrippa) knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things (death and resurrection of Christ, miracles, and Paul’s conversion) are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner.

27 King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.

28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

29 And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.

Question 22

Paul in Rome

In Acts 28:23-30, Paul is in Rome awaiting his trial. What does he teach the Jews of Rome and how do they respond?

Answer 22

Paul in Rome

• He taught and persuaded the Jews in Rome of Jesus, both from the law of Moses and from the other prophets.
• some believed and some didn’t
• Those that didn’t believe left after Paul quoted Isaiah saying, “Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand…for the heart of this people is waxed gross, an their ars ar dull of hearing…”
• This condition is so unless they hear, see, and understand in their hearts. If they be converted they shall be healed.
• Paul declares that the Gospel is now preached unto the Gentiles that they will hear it.
• This caused the Jews to have “great reasoning among themselves”
• Paul dwelt at Rome for two years, receiving all that came to him.

23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.

24 And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

25 And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet unto our fathers,

26 Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:

27 For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

28 Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.

29 And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves.

30 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,

31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.