Self-Tests Flashcards
The postresurrection ministry of Jesus was concerned primarily with the…
(A) further establishment of the kingdom of God on earth
(B) further explanation of His previous teaching
(C) time and the seasons, which He accurately predicted
(D) initiation of His disciples into the secret deeper truths
B
The importance of Acts in the NT is best appreciated by recognizing…
(1) its strategic placement in the NT canon and its role in refuting heresy
(2) its early acceptance into the collection of Pauline Epistles
(3) that together with Luke it always held its position of acceptance with the Christian community because of its early composition date (before AD 60)
(4) that it equally describes the advancement of Christianity in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
1
The early Christian community was characterized by…
(A) great patience under widespread persecution
(B) self-sufficiency and pride in their God-given role as disciples
(C) reflective research into the OT’s historical setting and theology
(D) obedience, unity, prayer, and application of Scripture to their needs
D
The significance of the book of Acts is that it serves as a…
(A) basis for most of our Christian doctrine
(B) bridge between the Gospels and the rest of the NT
(C) reinforcement of secular historical writings during this period
(D) historical record of Christianity’s advance into Africa, Asia, and Europe
B
(More than one answer is possible.) The book of Acts was written to…
(A) trace the development of Christianity in the 2nd century AD.
(B) provide an account of the church’s origin and expansion by showing how the gospel went from its Jerusalem base to Rome.
(C) give a full historical account of the fire in Rome in AD 64 and the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70
(D) indicate that Paul’s apostleship is affirmed by the same signs as Peter’s
(E) defend Christianity by commending it as a nonseditious faith to the Roman government.
(F) show that the gospel is universally available to all people.
B, D, E, F
(More than one answer is correct.) What internal evidences given in the NT imply that Luke was the author of Acts?
(A) the author clearly names himself on at least 4 occasions in Acts as he identifies himself with the incident recorded.
(B) the author included himself in 4 scriptural settings in the text, which are known as the “we” passages.
(C) the Scriptures demonstrate that he was a traveling companion of Paul.
(D) Acts 28 shows specifically that Luke was with Paul in Rome, and we therefore conclude that Luke was the author.
(E) It is highly probably that the author would be named in the Prison Epistles written from Rome. Luke is specifically mentioned in at least 2 of these letters.
B, C, D, E
The best probably date for the writing of Acts is prior to AD 64 because…
(A) Luke does not mention Nero’s intense official persecution beginning in AD 64 nor the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Had these events occurred, they would surely have been noted.
(B) Luke indicates this time setting in his history.
(C) no other date or time sequence would be possible.
A
Critics claim a much later date for Acts based on…
(A) the book’s internal evidence according to their interpretation
(B) the book’s apologetic nature according to their interpretation
(C) their assumption that the gospel is more the church’s theology than Jesus’ actual history and that the NT is historically unreliable.
(D) a reference made in Acts to Emperor Trajan, who reigned from AD 98 to 117
C
(More than one answer is correct.) Which statements list the leading characteristics of the book of Acts as a whole? Luke…
(A) writes history in a careful step-by-step, chronological way.
(B) shows that if good people use good methods and strategy, the gospel will inevitably triumph.
(C) records history as a photography who records a series of pictures.
(D) presents the Holy Spirit as the key to the success of the gospel.
(E) records many sermons and speeches in his narrative.
(F) demonstrates the strategic importance of Jerusalem and Syrian Antioch in the gospel’s expansion.
C, D, E, F
(More than one answer is correct.) The major aspects of Jesus’ postresurrection ministry included His…
(A) revealing many new teachings during this time.
(B) enlarging on His previous teaching about the Kingdom of God and charging His disciples to wait in Jerusalem to be baptized in the Holy Spirit.
(C) presenting Himself alive to His chosen apostles by many infallible proofs.
(D) ascending into heaven, implying that the disciples were to depend on the Holy Spirit in His absence and that His departure was prophetic of His return.
B, C, D
Jesus pointed the disciples’ emphasis away from their interest in the earthly kingdom to…
(A) their need for organization, structure, and stability within the group.
(B) asceticism and the austere living required of holy men and women of that time.
(C) abolition of slavery and sexual equality.
(D) his concern that they receive power to witness of Him.
D
Acts speaks of the continued activity of Jesus Christ through His followers who were eyewitnesses of His life, death, resurrection, and ascension and who knew without a doubt He had risen from the dead. This statement is one of…
A. objective truth
B. subjective feeling
A
The selection process of Matthias reveals that the Christian community…
(A) was totally unorganized and could not function effectively
(B) was characterized by simple obedience, prayerfulness, application of the Scriptures to their need, and real unity of spirit and purpose.
(C) showed fear, instability, and insecurity
(D) was insensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance prior to Pentecost.
B
What is the most convincing Scriptural proof that Pentecost is for all believers at all times?
Acts 2:38-39
T/F
Luke specifically reports three occasions in Acts where the Spirit baptism was experienced and the receiving believers spoke in tongues. Elsewhere, this accompanying phenomenon is strongly implied.
T
T/F
Tongues are a sign to unbelievers, devotional for the believer, and edifying to the church.
T
T/F
The pilgrims gathered in Jerusalem for Pentecost came primarily from the area of greater Israel, that is, the areas Israel once controlled when at the zenith of her monarchical power.
F
T/F
Holy Spirit chose this particular time so that the beginning of the gospel proclamation would have maximum effect. Pilgrims from the far-flung Roman Empire would carry the good news back to their home areas with their focus on the person of Christ.
True
T/F
The last days began with the advent of the Spirit and continue until the cosmic disturbances that herald the end of the last days.
T
T/F
The day of the Lord refers to a protracted period of time beginning with Christ’s visible return to earth and ending with the cleansing of the heavens and earth by fire prior to the Lord’s making new heavens and earth.
T
T/F
The last days will be characterized by 2 movements going in opposite directions: God’s Spirit will be greatly effective in giving a great spiritual harvest, while the increase in wickedness will be apparent as never before.
T
Luke selected the miracle of the lame man’s healing because it…
(A) was probably the most notable miracle the apostles performed.
(B) set in motion an entire series of events that was crucial in the early church’s development.
(C) was the first major miracle ever performed by an apostle.
(D) was typical of the miracles wrought by the early church leaders.
B
Luke, as a historian of excellence and mastery, was keenly aware of the…
(A) relative importance of various miracles
(B) importance of selecting the event or miracle most likely to inspire faith in his audience
(C) importance of the dramatic value of miracle testimonies; thus, he recorded only the sensational miracles
(D) crucial moments - the events that changed the course of church history.
D
The 4 main segments of Acts 3:1-4:31 in sequence are…
the lame man’s healing, Peter’s 2nd sermon, Peter & John’s arraignment, and the believers’ prayer after Peter & John’s release
Your study guide author believes that the lame man in Acts 3 had…
(A) probably never been introduced to the Christian faith. No one took beggars seriously during this period of time.
(B) probably heard the gospel but failed to act on it for religious reasons. (He might have been rejected by the synagogue leaders and been excommunicated.)
(C) undoubtedly heard the gospel and had perhaps been present during some of the important events of Jesus’ life that had occurred in the temple area.
(D) been treated by Luke as a medical doctor in Antioch, had come under Cornelius’ influence, had denied his pagan heritage, and had fully accepted the Jewish faith and practice.
C
After spending the night in prison and then being called into the presence of the tribunal that had condemned Jesus, Peter & john…
(A) seized the initiative, attributed the healing to Christ, and quickly condemned the Sanhedrin for murdering Him.
(B) explained that the healing stemmed from faith in Christ, that salvation could be found only in Him, and that the Resurrection had verified Christ’s messiahship.
(C) agreed to pacify the Sanhedrin by not pointing out that they were solely responsible for the Crucifixion. Their philosophy was to emphasize any points of agreement and deemphasize any areas of disagreement.
(D) began praying and fasting that the Holy Spirit would literally shake the temple with an earthquake and convict the Sanhedrin of their sins.
B
Jesus’ statement “whoever has will be given more” represents…
(A) the basic principle that the more aggressive one is in the world’s economic system, the more one will get.
(B) a principle of learning that describes how the Lord and His Word are received. The more one acts on what one knows, the more one can be taught.
(C) a basic self-help principle of work and thrift, from which we derive the saying, “God helps those who help themselves”
(D) a concept that includes all of the above principles (economic, pedagogic, and psychological)
B
Why did Jesus refuse to give the Pharisees and Sadducees a specific sign from heaven? (choose multiple)
(A) they had not acted on or received the evidence of His words and works already given as confirmation of His messiahship.
(B) Jesus’ method of self-revelation was consistent from beginning to end. He, not others, chose the way He would disclose Himself.
(C) Jesus could not give a sign that would dispel people’s doubts. No matter what He did, some would disbelieve. This was also beyond His power and the scope of His mission.
(D) Like Judas Iscariot, the Pharisees and Sadducees were demon-possessed and could never believe no matter what Jesus did.
A & B
Jesus did not appear to the Sanhedrin after the Resurrection because, if He had, He…
(A) would have consented to their demands that He offer Himself to be the Messiah who matched their expectations.
(B) may have been taken by force and proclaimed king, which would have been premature according to the divine plan.
(C) feared a repetition of the earlier trial, miscarriage of justice, and shame of crucifixion.
(D) would have violated a principle of divine justice because the high priest family were demon-possessed.
A & B
T/F: The lame man’s response to his miraculous healing may be described as highly emotional.
True
T/F: As the former cripple raced through the temple, the people heard him praise and glorify the apostles for their acts of kindness.
False
T/F: The purpose of the miracle was the healing of the lame man, but the product was a gathered multitude.
True
T/F: Peter’s sermon was essentially what he remembered from the Lord’s last message to His disciples in Acts 1.
False
T/F: Peter’s second sermon, like his first, shows that he began with what was of immediate interest to the crowd.
True
T/F: Peter especially contrasts Jesus’ fate in the people’s hands with His exaltation by God.
True
T/F: Peter demonstrates the grace of God when he attributes ignorance as motivating the people and their rulers to crucify Jesus.
True
T/F: Peter thought it was unimportant to establish the link of relationship between “the God of our fathers” and the person of Jesus.
False
T/F: The priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees approached Peter and John while they were speaking. They were highly disturbed over the content of the sermon.
True
T/F: Peter & John were placed in jail for the night, and few of the people who heard the message believed because of the conflict this caused.
False
T/F: Luke records that after the lame man’s healing, the number of male believers was about 5,000
True
T/F: The “greater works” that Jesus promised His disciples would do were in the realm of quality, not quantity.
False
T/F: Jesus did not appear to those who crucified Him after His resurrection because they had not acted on or received the evidence of His words and works already presented as confirmation of His messiahship.
True
T/F: The strategy against Peter & John was simply to get rid of the key leaders.
True
T/F: Satan may attempt to discourage you by trying to destroy your confidence in the church through the failure of one of its leaders.
True
T/F: the first recorded prayer of the Christian church after Pentecost reflected great confidence in the Lord.
True
T/F: The church’s prayer is a request for staying power in the midst of trials and for power to hold and consolidate the gains of the church.
False
T/F: The prayer meeting following the apostles’ imprisonment was climaxed by a physical shaking of the building and a fresh filling of the Spirit by all who attended.
True
4 tactics Satan used to halt the church’s advance:
get rid of the key leaders.
tempt by blaming God.
tempt with worry and discouragement.
tempt with feelings of inferiority.
tempt with feelings of hatred.
intimidation and threats.
The expanded church of Acts 4 and 5 is characterized by… (4 things)
(A) the breaking of bread, fellowship, prayer, and the study of the apostles’ teaching
(B) unity, sharing of possessions, great power in witnessing to Jesus’ resurrection, and abounding grace
(C) study, prayer, concern for social welfare needs in and around Jerusalem, and activism in combating the Sanhedrin’s negative influence
(D) prayer, study, and promotion of abolition of slavery and equality for women
B
Luke uses what teaching technique to link together his narrative?
(A) He uses many colorful events to weave his story, and he ties them together with the frequent speeches of main characters.
(B) He follows the chronological timetable and uses events as they occurred.
(C) He bridges the accounts of single events with summaries that serve as a link between events.
(D) He relates all the major events recorded in Acts to political historical events, thus comparing the timetable of the church’s advancement to the Roman Empire’s history
C
The Christian community was united in a special way by the use of smaller units or cells that…
(A) met together regularly in homes and at the temple
(B) met, as needed, to hear Peter’s sermons
(C) meant that as long as they agreed with the Apostles’ Creed, they were part of the Christian community. Unity was a matter of doctrine
(D) initiated new converts into the deeper secret truths of the church
A
From the Scriptural record we conclude that laying money at the apostles’ feet means…
(A) the early church depended on tithing
(B) people decided how, when, and where their contributions would be spent
(C) Christians gave to a central fund administered by the church leaders
(D) the apostles appointed a finance committee who invested church resources to obtain the greatest possible interest returns
C
Luke records the gifts of Barnabas and Ananias and Sapphira to present sound giving principles that we may apply. In addition, we learn that it…
(A) does not matter how you give; only the amount matters.
(B) does not matter whether you give or not; someone will always help meet the church’s needs.
(C) is wise not to keep records of individual giving
(D) is better not to give than to give with a wrong motive
D
The judgment visited on Ananias and Sapphira was severe because it was intended to…
(A) establish the principle that it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God
(B) establish the credibility of the Holy Spirit’s presence in the church
(C) produce fear of the church and its new institutions within the community
(D) show that Ananias and Sapphira were demon-possessed
B
Bruce points out a rather startling parallel between the case of Ananias and Sapphira in the NT and that of…
Achan
In anticipating church discipline, Jesus instituted the general principle that discipline…
(A) should always be immediate, punitive (involving punishment), and destructive
(B) should be exercised carefully with a view to restoration rather than destruction; but if this does not work, excommunication must be undertaken as a last resort
(C) is something we should pray about and leave with the Lord. obviously this kind of activity is unpopular, and it should be avoided at all costs.
(D) should include delivering the sinners’ bodies to Satan so their souls can be saved on the Day of the Lord
B
Luke’s summary statement in 5:12-16 gives details about the background for the apostles’ arrest. Although the apostles were working many signs and wonders, the real reason the Sanhedrin arrested them was that the…
(A) apostles were disrupting the regular temple services
(B) Sadducees were demon-possessed and demonically influenced in their actions
(C) Sadducees felt compelled to do something because of Peter’s actions in the case of Ananias and Sapphira
(D) Sadducees were jealous of the apostles’ influence with the people
D
The apostles’ jail experience was cut short by an angel who said…
(A) “Submit yourselves to lawful authority, pray for those who despitefully use you, and preach in private homes rather than in the temple.”
(B) “Ignore their threats and keep the people behind you as a show of strength and unity”
(C) “Go stand in the temple courts and tell the people the full message of this new life”
(D) “Call lightning from heaven to destroy the high priest and his family”
C
Which statement best represents the Lord’s program regarding the imprisonment of Christians and church leaders?
(A) it is the Lord’s will to always intervene supernaturally when Christians are imprisoned if those imprisoned exercise faith
(B) divine intervention of the lack of it is in the Lord’s hands. He knows best what will advance the gospel most, and He acts accordingly.
(C) these acts of divine intervention were simply demonstrations of power on a once-for-all-time basis
(D) with the growth of the church, God needed more angels in heaven to work with the church; the martyred saints became those needed angels.
B
The chief priests and temple guard reacted to the apostles’ release with…
(A) bewilderment and shock
(B) fear because of the consequences
(C) extreme anger
(D) appeal to the Roman authorities for help
A
When Peter & John first faced the Sanhedrin, the apostles’ popularity caused the Sanhedrin to act cautiously. The 2nd time, the Sanhedrin’s mood might be described as…
(A) angry, determined to stop the apostles’ accusations no matter what the people thought
(B) resolved to destroy the apostles by imprisoning them, thus depriving the church of its leadership
(C) dedicated to the systematic destruction of the Christian faith by martyring any who dared to embrace the faith
(D) cooperative with the Roman authorities in the attempt to stop the spread of the Christian faith
A
Gamaliel’s advice to the Sanhedrin might best be described as a policy of…
(A) watchful waiting before the application of more radical procedures.
(B) application of Aristotle’s logic to the problem
(C) peaceful coexistence with a hostile point of view
(D) passive waiting as a final solution (leave it alone! ignore it!)
D
in a church faced with a new and nonbiblical doctrine, Gamaliel’s advice is…
(A) generally good
(B) safe and will not offend sensitive people
(C) dangerous, especially for a Christian leader who is responsible for his or her flock
(D) not relative, the problems of the church today differ greatly from the early church’s
C
When Gamaliel rendered his decision concerning the apostles, he demonstrated a….
(A) pharisaical belief in God’s sovereignty
(B) pharisaical belief in humankind’s free will
(C) philosophical concept popular in that day
(D) sound biblical principle
A
Satan’s 3 strategies against the church are…
(A) the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life
(B) defeating its spirit through doubt, fear, and blaming; defeating it by promoting division; and defeating it through persecution or seduction
(C) political, institutional, and psychological opposition
(D) all of the above
B
When the church is truly Spirit-filled, Satan’s attacks are always met with a countering Spirit-directed offensive, which leads to what deduction?
(A) never give up or be weary in well doing. someday a victory may come.
(B) it is not important whether we win or lose; the important thing is how we fight the enemy.
(C) we must always press our claim for Christ. Delays in our advance are not denials. It is God’s work, and it shall be done.
(D) sit back, do nothing, and passively allow the Holy Spirit to sovereignly work through the church.
C
At the conclusion of Acts 5, the church is beset by opposition and persecution; nevertheless, the church is characterized by…
(A) vitality and growth
(B) division and despair
(C) cautious optimism
(D) financial prosperity
A
The beating affected the apostles by…
(A) sobering them and making them realize that many trials would accompany the completion of their work
(B) leading them to seek the Lord in greater prayer and fasting
(C) causing them to change their tactics in ministry
(D) giving them a sense of joy that they were counted worthy of suffering shame for Jesus’ Name
D
T/F (and if F, change it)
The requirements or qualifications of the seven “deacons” were three: (1) they
must have followed the Lord during His earthly ministry, (2) they must have
seen Him after His resurrection, and (3) they should have experienced Pentecost
as part of the 120.
False
“three”: Spirit-filled, full of wisdom, had good reputation
T/F (and if F, change it)
The church problem of Acts 6 had an important effect on the church, since it
eventually led to the believers’ scattering abroad and thus helped them to fulfill
the Great Commission.
true
Of the seven men chosen as “deacons,” two are identified a bit more fully. They are ______ and _____.
To properly administer funds to the needy, responsible people needed to be selected. In the process, the _____ established requirements for the “deacons,” and the ____ selected men from the Christian community
Stephen & Nicolas
Apostles
multitude of believers
Initially, the problem seemed to arise from the alleged neglect of Hellenist widows.
When the election was concluded, it appears that the congregation had chosen seven men who were ____.
Hellenists
Stephen’s ministry was a blessing to the church. In addition to his duties as servant of the people, Stephen did great _____ and ____ among the people.
wonders & signs
Stephen’s ministry to the Freedmen demonstrated that he had insights into the meaning of Christ’s life and work which led to but one conclusion: the ____ and ____ had been superseded by a new order, that of Jesus.
Law & temple
Stephen’s sermon indicated that Abraham was called, placed in a covenant relationship with God, and consistently walked in obedience to God…
1
because of his attitude toward the Law.
2
because of his faith apart from the Law.
3
in fulfillment of the natural law.
4
only after he submitted to circumcision as a sign of God’s covenant.
2
Stephen’s sermon also referenced Joseph, the one God chose to preserve the children of Israel, and noted that…
1
in spite of God’s revelation, Jacob’s sons betrayed their brother because they resented God’s method and thus rejected God.
2
people’s responses are not important, since God always works things out in spite of people.
3
since people do not understand God’s works, they are not responsible for their conduct.
4
because of Joseph’s faithfulness, the future Messiah would come from him.
1
According to Stephen, Moses had all the credentials of being God’s chosen leader, yet…
1
Israel consistently challenged his leadership and proved their unwillingness to walk in God’s will and way.
2
with the Law, the tabernacle, and the Levitical system of worship (plus God’s visible presence) to help direct them, Israel learned to walk in God’s way only over the many centuries.
3
he was rejected because the people wanted only God as their leader rather than a human representative.
4
he refused to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into the Promised Land because of their rebellion; therefore, God struck Moses dead in front of all the people, and he was replaced by Joshua.
1
In referring to the temple worship of Israel, Stephen inferred that…
1
the temple with all its rich symbolism would continue to figure in Israel’s worship program.
2
Israel’s total experience under the Law had been a failure.
3
no earthly dwelling could house God; therefore, Israel should look beyond a building to true spiritual worship.
4
based on a quote from Ezekiel, a future temple would be perpetually called “a house of prayer.”
3
Stephen’s sermon ended at an intense level as he compared previous generations of his compatriots with his own by noting that…
1
Israel’s historical pattern of rejecting God had continued in his audience’s behavior.
2
the same dedication and esteem of the Law had continued as a pattern of zealously doing God’s will.
3
the only alternative to the spiritual problems of his day and all preceding generations was the destruction of the old system and the establishment of a new and better system.
4
the present temple would be totally destroyed within some of their life spans.
1
Stephen’s treatment of the new order of worship that Jesus established involved the same type of approach as that found in the book of…
Hebrews
The crowd’s response to Stephen’s summary may best be described as…
1
severe but lawful, everything having been done to guarantee a fair trial.
2
fierce, savage, and blind. They responded much as animals would have.
3
consistent with the normal treatment of a convicted criminal.
4
repentant; many members of the Sanhedrin responded to his preaching and accepted Jesus as their Messiah.
2
Stephen’s reaction to the “justice” of the mob may be described as…
1
fearful.
2
revengeful.
3
selfish.
4
Christlike.
4
Gamaliel advocated a policy of “hands off” concerning the new faith. But Saul, one of his disciples, adopted a policy of…
1
combining Christian and pharisaical theology.
2
mentally disagreeing, but without physical violence.
3
ignoring the problem altogether.
4
instituting cruel repression.
4
As a result of Stephen’s death, persecution…
1
greatly reduced the church’s effectiveness and radically affected its growth.
2
caused the church to change its tactics so its preaching would no longer offend anyone. It would seek to win converts by example only.
3
drove the believers out everywhere helping them to fulfill Acts 1:8, and growth accompanied the scattering abroad in a phenomenal way.
4
forced the believers to appeal to the Roman government for protection.
3
The immediate result of Stephen’s martyrdom that concerned the church was an outbreak of…
persecution
From the divine perspective, the scattering abroad of the church was the nudge required to get believers to fulfill….
the Great Commission
Special power was evidenced in the ministry of Philip the “deacon” in Samaria. What 2 particular types of signs did the Samaritans see?
the lame and paralyzed were healed,
&
evil spirits were cast out
Peter and John were sent to Samaria for what reason?
They were sent to express the love and concern of the Jerusalem church and to foster a sense of unity, to show a kindred spirit toward their fellow Christians regardless of geographical location.
The leading of the Lord into the two specific ministries of Philip teaches us what lesson?
We as Christians should be ready to minister to a multitude or one person, but we should move as the Lord directs—not according to our own estimate concerning what is the more important ministry.
The abruptness of Philip’s departure from the newly converted eunuch tells what about the Spirit’s method?
The Holy Spirit can and will lead the new convert into all truth (John 16:13).
From Saul’s method of serving his religious system before his conversion, we see that he was what kind of individual?
He was a zealous and conscientious Jew. He aggressively pursued what he believed was right. He was dedicated to his faith.
Of what significance are the Lord’s words, “Why do you persecute me?” when Saul is in fact pursuing followers of “the Way”?
Christ is the head of the church. When one persecutes His body on earth, He, the Head in heaven, as Bruce notes, cries out in their behalf.
What effect would the Lord’s words, “This man is my chosen instrument,” have on Saul in his later ministry?
These words would be indelibly etched on the apostle’s heart. In the midst of adversity, danger, or even at the point of death, he could rest in the fact that he was a chosen instrument in the hands of his Master (Philippians 1:20–23).
When Saul visited Jerusalem he debated with what group of Jews (who tried to kill him)?
The Hellenists or Grecian Jews
According to Acts 9:32–35 and Bruce, after Peter’s exposure to the Samaritans, he…
1
turned exclusively to ministry among the Jews.
2
engaged in evangelism throughout Transjordan and the desert regions to the east and south of Palestine with great success.
3
undertook an itinerant ministry, visiting the dispersed Christian communities of Judea in a territory that was partly Gentile.
4
remained in Jerusalem as the titular head of the church and directed all its activities.
3
What effect did the outstanding miracle in Lydda have on that region?
1
The entire coastal plain of Sharon and the interior country heard, and multitudes turned to the Lord.
2
Since the region near Lydda was semi-Gentile, knowledge of the saving message was greatly extended.
3
The healing’s effect extended beyond the healing itself.
4
All of the above
4
Peter’s staying in Joppa with Simon the tanner is significant in that it…
1
indicates that his lifestyle was never strictly governed by the requirements of Jewish taboos and ceremonial laws.
2
points to the fact that many Jews were only nominally faithful to their religious convictions.
3
shows that his behavior in associating with a social outcast is like that of the Lord Jesus.
4
shows that Peter openly opposed the existing religious system and set the pattern, in this matter, for the early church.
3
Your Study Guide indicates evidence of the Lord’s leading in all of Peter’s ministerial experiences. These experiences…
1
were measured steps calculated to bridge the gap from the house of Simon the tanner to the home of Cornelius the Gentile centurion.
2
were intended to break down the parochial nature of early church leaders—to make them men of the world.
3
were simply educational opportunities designed to broaden the apostles’ intellectual and cultural horizons.
4
would forever prove to the apostles the Jews’ exalted and privileged position after seeing the wretched condition of the Gentile world.
1
Our exposure to military men in the New Testament leads us to what conclusion?
1
Jesus looks past the military occupation and uniform to the man in it.
2
In both Matthew and Luke, we see an incident in which a centurion exercises greater faith than Jesus had seen in all Israel.
3
It was a Roman centurion at the Crucifixion who declared that Jesus was the Son of God.
4
All of the above
4
Which statement best describes the “God-fearers,” such as Cornelius, who served as the link or bridge that brought Jew and Gentile together?
1
Many Gentiles were attracted to Jewish synagogue worship through the Jewish teaching of monotheism, high ethical standards, and a promised coming Messiah.
2
A few Gentiles of this period were attracted to the simple but beautiful synagogue worship of the Jewish people.
3
Officers of the Roman occupation army in Palestine were under command to identify with the Jewish religion as “God-fearers” for public relations.
4
A few Gentiles who married Jewish women identified with the Jewish religion as “God-fearers.”
1
When we examine the frequent appearance of the supernatural (angels and visions) in Acts, we are led to conclude that…
1
God gave either visions or angelic visitations to any believers who wanted them.
2
Cornelius, Peter, Ananias, and Philip insisted on supernatural help in order to know what to do next.
3
Cornelius, Peter, Ananias, and Philip could not have taken the particular actions they took without supernatural intervention.
4
the use of the supernatural in the early church’s experience was intended to establish a normative pattern for divine intervention in the life of the church.
3
Which of these is a valid reason or justification for the initial use of the supernatural in the early church’s life, growth, and development?
1
The visions and angelic appearances resulted from God’s sovereign act and were unexpected and unannounced.
2
Visions and angelic intervention became sources of direction for action determined by God, not people.
3
Angels may give directions, but they do not declare the gospel message.
4
All of the above
4
We have discussed the importance not only of divine programming but also of divine timing. In this lesson, divine timing allowed Peter…
1
to be prepared for a new ministry he would otherwise have refused because of prejudices.
2
the time to challenge Jesus’ command in Matthew 10:5, “Do not go among the Gentiles.”
3
to recognize the fallacy of all rules and regulations.
4
to do all of the above.
1
Peter’s housetop experience in which he fell into a trance indicates that he…
1
was physically weak and just fell into a state of semiconsciousness.
2
was “outside himself,” a state in which he experienced heightened or intense exaltation of mind and feelings.
3
was more or less caught up in fantasy or daydreaming.
4
had been extremely bothered by the problems of bridging the barriers between Jew and Gentile; therefore, he had a meaningful and enlightening dream, the result of his fruitful subconscious state.
2
Peter’s vision on the housetop was necessary for him to fully understand…
1
the implications of Jesus’ teaching on clean and unclean meats as recorded in Mark 7:14–23.
2
the significance of dietary laws for all people’s health and well-being.
3
that since Calvary, people were no longer required to be vegetarians; they could now enjoy all meats.
4
that in God’s sight, Israel still held a preferential status—even though all people were now acceptable to God.
1
The practical application of Peter’s vision, that is, the deduction he came to, was that…
1
all meats, regardless of the manner in which they were prepared, were acceptable when blessed.
2
God had demonstrated that he should not regard any person as impure or unclean.
3
dietary laws were significant but their effect on society was more important. They must not place a barrier between people.
4
all of the above were true.
4
The best summary of the Holy Spirit’s ministry in this crucial episode is that…
1
His function was no different than that of the angel or the vision.
2
He completed what the angel and the vision left unfinished, but He did not fully reveal all that was to happen; Peter still had to exercise human faith and trust.
3
when He guided and directed, Peter was not in any way responsible for what he said and did.
4
all of the above are true.
2
In the somewhat different, and perhaps difficult, meeting of Jew and Gentile, which statement represents the most probable feelings of Cornelius?
1
Cornelius appeared unsure of the exact purpose for the meeting, but he felt Peter knew and had a specific message.
2
Cornelius felt unsure of himself because he had no knowledge of the Jewish religion.
3
As a military officer, Cornelius was aware of the goal of the Jewish Zealots, and he was uneasy, not knowing how Peter might relate to the Zealots.
4
As a commanding officer of the Roman occupation army, Cornelius was self-confident of his authority when Peter appeared.
1
Of Peter’s sermon to Cornelius’ household, we may say that…
1
it was very brief and concise.
2
Luke probably based his report of this message on Peter’s previous sermons.
3
given his need for economy in writing, Luke gave us an accurate condensation of the major elements in Peter’s message.
4
this message was exactly the same in all particulars as his previous messages.
3
What was the significance of the Holy Spirit’s outpouring on the Gentiles?
1
It demonstrated a change of status for Jews from “most favored” to “least favored.”
2
It clearly revealed that God accepted non-Jews without their first becoming Jews and being circumcised, and it opened a whole new world of evangelism.
3
Through Cornelius, Christianity became acceptable as a religion to the Roman Empire independent of Judaism.
4
All of the above
2
The “Gentile Pentecost” demonstrated anew the miracle of tongues that was…
1
initiated to proclaim the gospel.
2
used here for the edification of believers—old and new.
3
miraculously employed in praising God and in magnifying His works.
4
used here as a sign to unbelievers.
3
Luke devoted a great deal of space to the episodes connected with Cornelius because…
1
he believed they were more important than other events.
2
the implications of these events posed the early church’s single greatest theological problem—whether or not a Gentile could be saved without first becoming a Jew.
3
he wanted to pacify both Jews and Gentiles by giving equal recognition to the problems surrounding their relationship.
4
he tended to spend more time in writing any material that was biographical in nature.
2
Not everyone in the Jerusalem church accepted the fact of Gentile equality in the body of Christ. The circumcision party responded by…
1
refusing to recognize or at least ratify what God had done at Caesarea.
2
endeavoring to gain control of the Jerusalem church and to reduce apostolic authority.
3
producing missionaries whose goal was to proclaim legalism, that is, that there is no salvation apart from the Law and its cultic and ceremonial requirements.
4
sending the apostles out from Jerusalem so that the party leaders could control church policy.
3
Antioch became the prototype of Paul’s missionary strategy. According to this strategy, the gospel was…
1
taken first to the outlying areas, and from there efforts were made to win the more difficult urban centers.
2
brought first to the major urban centers, and from there it spread to the outlying areas.
3
presented in selected cities in each nation, and from these national centers, the local people devised evangelism strategies.
4
taken first to the affluent and educated people of major urban centers and then from these people to the common people and slaves.
2
Which statement is a valid factor for the growth of the Antioch church?
1
Both pioneer founders and early leadership had a proper mindset in this novel situation. They knew and appreciated both the Lord and their new host culture.
2
The city of Antioch was ripe for conversion. It had a beautiful philosophical base on which the church’s doctrines and practices could be built.
3
The vast majority of people were either God-fearers or Hellenized Jews; therefore, evangelism occurred naturally in Antioch.
4
Most of the people in Antioch were struggling with financial problems and poor health. The early church offered a prosperity and divine healing (here and now) gospel.
1
As a result of Agabus’s prophecy, the Jerusalem church members were
1
confirmed in their rigid adherence to the Law and the cultic requirements of Judaism.
2
overwhelmed by the practical expression of Gentile Christians’ love and concern for them, and they were prepared for the onset of famine.
3
repaid for their initial efforts in helping to develop the strong central base of Christianity at Jerusalem and for the great sacrifices they had endured to establish universal church growth principles.
4
able to concentrate all their time on prayer and ministry in the Word as they no longer needed secular employment or an income.
2
To the unbelieving world, the Antiochan believers’ famine relief mission…
1
proved the rightness of the church government system in which a new church owed a practical debt to older, established churches.
2
was a real evidence to the work and reality of Christian love.
3
proved that the church’s only real objective was social and civic action, humanitarian and not political.
4
demonstrated all of the above.
2
Which statement best describes the reason for James’ death and Peter’s deliverance?
1
James died because he somehow moved out of God’s will, but Peter was delivered because he was in God’s will.
2
Because James died, a great missionary in later church history was converted. Peter’s deliverance merely boosted the church’s morale.
3
James’ death has no understandable human reason this side of heaven. Actually, it was a promotion for James. Peter’s deliverance was evidence that Jesus had not abandoned His own.
4
Before Creation, James was predestined for an early death, and Peter was predestined for a later death. No amount of prayer or personal action could change God’s sovereign will. Neither James nor Peter had any choice in the matter.
3
The attack against the church’s apostolic leadership in Jerusalem apparently contributed to…
1
the rise of able leaders among the nonapostolic members of the Jerusalem church.
2
the lack of evangelistic ministry in Judea and the decrease in growth in this area.
3
the realization that the emphasis in ministry should now turn away from Jerusalem because it had been an unresponsive field.
4
all of the above.
1
Why was the Jerusalem church not directly responsible for founding the church at Antioch or other Gentile churches in the Mediterranean? (multiple)
1
Gentiles could be reached more successfully by a church that taught the Jewish way of life was best.
2
There were far more Gentiles in the world than Jews.
3
Gentiles could more readily accept Jesus as Lord when the gospel was separated from the Jewish way of life, that is, from customs that were nonessential for believers in Christ.
4
Jews could be reached more successfully by other Jews who had come to believe in Jesus as Messiah and who permitted Jewish believers to continue Jewish customs that did not contradict Christian faith.
2, 3, 4
Which of the following statements describe positive gains that came to the Antioch church as a result of Agabus’s prophecy? (multiple)
1
God raised up in the Antioch church many others who had a prophetic ministry similar to Agabus.
2
The generosity of the Antiochans entitled them to a fair hearing at any council meetings in which differences arose between Jewish and Gentile churches.
3
God blessed the believers of Antioch because they willingly gave.
4
Their response to Judea’s need confirmed their love for the saints of Jerusalem.
3, 4
According to your Study Guide, in Mark 3:14–15, Jesus appointed the Twelve as apostles so that… (multiple)
1
they had authority to drive out demons.
2
they would establish His church and implement appropriate structures for its operation.
3
He might send them out to preach.
4
they would simply be with Him.
1, 3, 4
Why could Peter sleep peaceably on the eve of his execution? (multiple)
1
As a veteran of the Lord’s service, he committed his problems to the Lord and went to sleep.
2
He knew his release was possible through the Sanhedrin’s decision to reverse Herod’s judgment, but since that was not a decision he could influence, he simply slept.
3
He was aware that an angel could release him, as previously, if the Lord willed. Since that was something he could not influence, he slept.
4
He was passive because fatalism had robbed him of reason; therefore, he slept to escape from worry.
5
He was aware that he had been chosen to be with the Lord. If this was the appointed place and time for that, he concluded, so much the better. He rested beautifully with such thoughts.
1,2,3,5
T/F (if false change it)
Acts 13:1 names five leaders of the Antioch church. The one who was named first is regarded as the foremost leader, whose name was [Saul].
False
Barnabas
T/F (if false, change it)
Simeon called Niger was one of the “prophets and teachers” of Antioch. The Latin nickname Niger probably denotes [a citizen of the land of Niger in Africa].
False
his dark complexion
T/F (if false, change it)
Lucius of Cyrene may have been one of those who first preached to the Gentiles of Antioch. He came from Cyrene [in North Africa].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Manaen is described as Herod’s foster brother, but it is more likely that he [had only gone to school with Herod and other royalty].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
The fifth in the group of Antioch church’s “leaders and prophets” was [John Mark, the cousin of Barnabas].
false
Saul
T/F (if false, change it)
From a brief analysis of this group of leaders, we conclude that they were individuals [much alike in background, education, culture, and language].
False
very different in background, education, culture, and language
T/F (if false, change it)
Coming to Antioch from homes in various geographical locations, these leaders helped build a strong church that was [open to the Lord’s leading and willing to carry out the challenge to preach the gospel to every creature without exception].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
A church such as the one at Antioch that had both Jewish and Gentile members, people from wealthy and poor backgrounds, and people from different cultural backgrounds would most likely favor [a worldwide outreach for the gospel that would cross political, national, religious, social, racial, and cultural barriers].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
As the first mission to the Gentiles arrived in Cyprus, we see the first principle of Paul’s missionary strategy: Missions requires [strong personalities who can act alone in proclaiming the gospel].
false
a team effort
T/F (if false, change it)
A second principle of Paul’s missionary strategy is seen in his choice of fields. New missionaries should begin their work by going [to a culture of which they know nothing, which makes them operate by faith].
false
to a place close to home
T/F (if false, change it)
One of the early principles of missionary strategy Paul and Barnabas used was to [proclaim the gospel to Gentiles first].
false
always proclaim the gospel to the Jew first
T/F (if false, change it)
A notable feature of missionary strategy Paul and Barnabas demonstrated was to [move frequently, staying for a length of time only at key population centers].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul and Barnabas realistically expected opposition to their message. They believed that attacks were to be [met by persons who were filled by the Holy Spirit].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Another principle Barnabas and Paul demonstrated is that faithfully declaring the gospel in truth and in power [is all one can do; he or she should not expect much, if any, response].
false
results in people coming to believe in the Lord
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul’s first recorded sermon in Acts may be divided into two parts. [The first part dealt with the blame Paul assessed against Israel, and the second dealt with a tentative solution to Israel’s problems].
false
The first part traced God’s sovereign acts in Israel’s history until Christ’s coming, and the second explained Jesus from the OT Scriptures.
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul and Stephen both emphasized God’s sovereignty in calling and sustaining Israel. However, Paul, unlike Stephen, [did not dwell on the theme of Israel’s rejection of God].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
According to Bruce, both Paul and Stephen followed Jewish lines in the structure of their exhortations—chiefly [the form of a historical retrospect].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
According to Bruce, historians generally feel that Peter’s Pentecost sermon and Paul’s first recorded sermon in Acts have [little similarity].
false
a great deal of similarity
T/F (if false, change it)
Barnabas and Paul’s experiences of continual harassment, potential discouragement, and constant persecution teach us that [we should expect opposition].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
The two missionaries’ response to adversity teaches us another principle of successful missionary service: [We are all human, and all of us complain and question our leader at times].
false
tough circumstances create new “stretch” in our experience. our new capacity must be filled with the Holy Spirit who brings the joy.
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul and Barnabas’ general approach to initiating ministry within any given city was predictable. Yet, at other times, [they showed a complete lack of purpose and direction in their work].
false
they showed a remarkable adaptability to change their plans according to the requirements of the situation or an inner sense of divine leading.
T/F (if false, change it)
Another principle we learn through Paul and Barnabas’ experience is that sometimes our greatest trials come after [our greatest victories].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Yet another principle taught by adversity is that, when tried, [simply find a place of safety and wait for God’s direct oral orders about what to do].
false
do not become passive. do not yield to a spirit of sinful resignation, to a spirit that says, “you are finished.”
T/F (if false, change it)
As a result of Paul’s South Galatian trials and the turbulent ministry in which he was engaged in this area, he manifested [the fruit of the Spirit, which is tried and developed in this difficult soil].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
The first missionary journey ended when Paul and Barnabas arrived in Antioch and [resumed their previous ministerial responsibilities].
false
gathered the church together to report all God had done through them and how He had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles
The immediate cause or particular incident that led to the calling of the Jerusalem Council was a dispute that took place in the church at _____
Antioch
One of the causes underlying the convening of the Jerusalem Council was the fact that Jewish believers saw the revelation of Jesus as Messiah as…
completing their ancestral faith rather than changing it in any respect
Members of a strong legalistic party within the Jerusalem church said that Gentiles could not be saved unless…
they were circumcised according to the law of Moses.
At the Jerusalem Council, members of the party of the ______ stood and clearly stated the issue.
The _____ and ____ met to consider this serious problem.
According to one apostle, the Gentiles had been saved by the grace of God, since their hearts had been purified by ____.
Pharisees
apostles & elders
faith
According to both James and Peter, the attempt to require Gentiles to become practicing Jews was equivalent to ______ that neither they nor their fathers were capable of bearing.
putting a yoke on the disciples
Based on your study of the procedures used by the Jerusalem Council leadership in reaching a decision, list five of the steps.
- clearly define the problem.
- have a full and open discussion.
- listen to the experiences of godly people whose past walk has given insight into the present situation.
- test experience by Scripture and make decisions that manifest a proper understanding and application of Scripture
- separate major issues that cannot be compromised from minor ones that can be compromised
- clearly communicate the decision to all members of the church
List 3 reasons why one might conclude that Acts 15 and Galatians 2 refer to the same event.
- the date would have been too early for us to link Acts 11:30 with Galatians 2
- Acts 11:30 deals with a relief mission, not circumcision
- as of 11:30, Paul was not recognized as an apostle, having the status only of “prophet and teacher”
Name five of the gains God allowed to grow from the separation of Paul and Barnabas
(1) There were two missionary teams instead of one
(2) Silas was a Roman citizen (16:37), and this proved to be important on this trip
(3) it made room for Timothy on the team
(4) it gave Mark the time and the right spiritual atmosphere (under Barnabas) to mature and develop in ministry
(5) if Mark had not been ready for the first tour, this one would have really crushed him
(6) because of Barnabas’ faith in Mark, Mark developed and wrote the Gospel of Mark
(7) Paul later accepted Mark’s worth.
The second missionary journey originated in Antioch, and from there Paul and Silas…
1
went to Seleucia to find a ship bound for South Galatia.
2
went to Caesarea to find a ship bound for Cyprus.
3
traveled northward from Antioch (either walking or on horses) toward Cilicia and Paul’s home city.
4
traveled along the coast of Asia Minor as they attempted to retrace their earlier route.
3
After strengthening the South Galatian churches, the missionaries moved toward the queen city of Asia, Ephesus, taking with them a new missionary recruit…
1
whose name was Sosthenes, a native of Cilicia.
2
known simply as Silvanus, a man of Jerusalem.
3
who joined the team to care for Paul’s health. His name was Luke.
4
by the name of Timothy, a native of Lystra.
4
As Paul set his face toward Ephesus and the province of Asia, he was prevented from continuing his journey…
1
by the Holy Spirit for unknown reasons.
2
because of the riotous behavior of South Galatian Jews who stirred up resentment against the gospel everywhere.
3
by a sudden physical ailment that threatened to destroy his health.
4
because of word that Apollos was ministering in this area. Paul then decided to pursue his work elsewhere.
1
Turning from Asia to Bithynia, the missionaries once again…
1
experienced the check of the Holy Spirit on their plans.
2
changed directions because of their own uncertainty and fears.
3
met a solid core of opposition from the Jewish people of that area.
4
failed to press forward in systematic ministry because they found no open doors.
1
Coming to Troas, the team experienced what evidence of supernatural direction?
1
After discussing the open and closed doors, the team decided to respond to a Macedonian invitation they received in Troas.
2
Following ministry in Troas in which Paul preached against the city’s wickedness, an earthquake shook the place.
3
An angelic visitor appealed to the missionaries to leave at once for the ripened harvest fields of Macedonia.
4
Paul received a vision of a man from Macedonia who pled for help. All the missionaries (four—for Luke had joined the team) concluded that this was God’s directive.
4
Crucial turning points in Paul’s Philippian ministry included…
1
the conversion of Lydia of Thyatira.
2
the exorcism of the spirit of divination from the slave-girl, the beating and jailing of Paul and Silas, the supernatural release, and the salvation of the jailer’s family.
3
Paul’s demand that the magistrates apologize for their treatment of Silas and him.
4
all of the above.
4
Paul preached his first message and saw his first convert in Europe…
1
in the marketplace of Athens.
2
on the streets of Berea.
3
by the side of the river Gangites (outside the city gates of Philippi).
4
at the amphitheater of Thessalonica.
3
The results of gospel ministry in the European synagogues…
1
were poor in that the missionaries were driven out and few if any souls were saved because of this approach.
2
did not really concern Paul. He was simply discharging his duty as he saw it. However, judging by the uproar his preaching caused and its consequences, we conclude that it was a wasted effort.
3
were uniformly productive in establishing the claims of the gospel, in bringing hope to searching God-fearers and earnest Jews, and in establishing beachheads of believers in each of these synagogue cities because of this approach.
4
caused Emperor Claudius to expel all Jews from Italy, Gaul (France) and Spain.
3
In all but one of the synagogues they visited in Europe, the missionaries were driven out of the synagogue and the city. However, in which one did they move to new quarters and continue the work of proclaiming the Word?
1
Corinth
2
Berea
3
Thessalonica
4
All of the above
1
Based on Acts 16:6–18:22, which describes the second missionary journey, we may infer that the groups of believers established in each of these cities (Philippi, Berea, Thessalonica, and Corinth) were
1
small, isolated, without leaders, and largely ineffective as evangelistic centers.
2
dynamic; experienced growth; evidenced progress in maturity, doctrine, and practical Christian living; were faithful in the midst of severe persecution; and had a real sense of fellowship and sharing in Christ.
3
not characterized by anything in particular. We can only guess at the status of these new converts. There is little evidence of growth or vitality in Luke’s record.
4
composed totally of Gentile God-fearers. The Jews en masse rejected the gospel.
2
T/F (if false change it)
God’s action in prohibiting Paul from establishing a work in Ephesus before the third missionary journey was based on [the fact that it was not God’s time, and circumstances were not yet right for Ephesus to be the strategic center God intended it to be].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Ephesus was located [strategically to the west of all churches Paul had founded previously as he worked farther and farther away from Jerusalem with each successive missionary trip].
false
centrally between the churches Paul established on the first and second missionary journeys
T/F (if false, change it)
In terms of the overall missionary program, Ephesus’ location was important because [it lay on a strategic land transportation route running from east to west. It had the advantage of being a port city on the Aegean Sea, which was a major water route for east-west travel; and it was the major area of Roman administration outside metropolitan Rome].
false
it was readily accessible to all the churches Paul had established for counsel, pastoral care, and oversight; it was central for raising relief funds; and it was an easy place from which Paul could both deploy and receive messengers.
T/F (if false, change it)
Since Ephesus was centrally located between the churches of South Galatia and Greece, it could also [receive visitors from both the east and west, which would add impact to Paul’s ministry there].
true
T/F (if false change it)
Prior to Ephesus, Paul had never had an extended stay in any area in which he established a church, with the exception of [Macedonia].
false
Corinth
T/F (if false, change it)
Establishing the church at Ephesus and organizing effective oversight ministries for all the churches required [a limited campaign of dynamic miracles and power confrontations with Satan in the province of Asia].
false
an expanded ministry and preaching and teaching services that reached out to private homes and public areas until the entire province was moved mightily for God.
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul’s work in Ephesus regularly included [teaching daily in the hall of Tyrannus; working diligently at his trade; teaching from house to house; warning believers constantly with tears; and superintending the spiritual life, growth, and development of all the missionary churches].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul’s ministry and service in Ephesus are significant because [they establish a pattern for the conduct of Christian ministry and provide an appropriate example of behavior for all Christians].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
The impact of Paul’s ministry in Ephesus is best described as [modest since he was run out of the city after a riot].
false
amazing, for all the people of the Asian province heard the gospel and multitudes believed. In addition, the gospel threatened the basis of idolatry and proved its ability to win in confrontations with the occult.
T/F (if false, change it)
One of the most dramatic evidences of the gospel’s impact on pagan Ephesus is seen in [its effect on at least one segment of the economy].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
The confrontation between the gospel and the occult produced [amazing results in the heathen community, and it had even more dramatic results (at least apparent results) in the community of believers].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Through the riot in Ephesus, we learn that the gospel message was [known to and received by only the slaves, the poor, and the tradesmen of the city].
false
known and respected by those who were administrative leaders of the city, some of whom were Paul’s friends.
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul returned to the churches he had established to strengthen the believers’ faith and to encourage them in the midst of trials [after his third and final missionary journey]
false
on each of his journeys
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul’s follow-up ministry gave him an opportunity to [combat heresy and to give sound doctrinal teaching to established believers in order to help them mature in the faith].
true
T/F (if false, change it)
Paul’s final ministry to Ephesus (from Miletus) gave him an opportunity to challenge the church leaders to [consider his record of ministry and service and to warn them of future dangers, which he said were imminent].
true
Earlier, in our study of Acts 16, we saw the Holy Spirit forbid the missionaries to pursue a course of ministry. However, in this lesson the Spirit repeatedly warned that bonds and affliction awaited Paul in Jerusalem in order to…
1
prevent a needless arrest, imprisonment, and possible death.
2
see whether Paul was willing to endanger his life for the gospel.
3
reveal Paul’s forthcoming imprisonment (and no more), for Paul did not initially discern what end his imprisonment would serve.
4
test the commitment of the disciples who surrounded Paul, for his imprisonment or death would affect many.
3
As Paul returned homeward to Jerusalem to face uncertain issues, we conclude that he made no mistake because he…
1
knew the compelling voice of the Spirit was drawing him homeward (Acts 20:22–24).
2
felt guilty and wanted to return to the only place where he could atone for his previous acts against Christians.
3
knew that he alone could qualify as a mediator between legalistic Jews and the infant Gentile church.
4
believed his stature as the missionary statesman of the church would protect him from any serious problem with the Jerusalem Jews.
1
From the evidence in this lesson regarding the personal prophecy directed to Paul, we can conclude that…
1
believers had greater insight into the things of the Spirit than Paul did.
2
at least a few believers were more sensitive to the Spirit than Paul was.
3
some believers were so carnal that they actually became afraid.
4
some of the people exercising the gift of prophecy went beyond in deducing the consequences and thus tried to persuade Paul to avoid Jerusalem.
4
As we mature in our spiritual life, we must learn to carefully weigh a message of personal prophecy directed to us and, before acting,
1
get as many opinions as possible from spiritual leaders as to the course we should take.
2
make sure the Spirit confirms to our own spirit what the message in prophecy indicated.
3
try to reason out the course of action indicated by the Spirit to see if it is possible and logical.
4
read as many books as possible about spiritual people who claim to have insights into the will of God.
2
As Paul reported to the Jerusalem church, he had with him both a cash gift from the Gentile churches and representatives of these churches. This expression served to…
1
make Paul immensely popular with the church at large and could have lifted him to a leadership role in the church.
2
show that Gentiles felt they owed some debt to the Jerusalem church, and this was the easiest way to discharge such a debt or duty.
3
show the practical value of Christian love, demonstrate the unity of the church, and meet serious material needs.
4
show that the Gentile churches had a patronizing or superior attitude and needed to help the older and weaker Jewish church.
3
Paul’s reception by the churches outside Jerusalem generally may be described as…
1
warm, affectionate, and appreciative.
2
cool, reserved, and noncommittal.
3
cold, hostile, and noncooperative.
4
indifferent, restrained, and somewhat suspicious.
1
When Paul and his company arrived in Jerusalem, the believers received them with…
1
guarded optimism.
2
warmness.
3
polite coolness.
4
obvious suspicion.
2
When Paul met with James and all the elders, he gave a detailed report of what God had done. The elders responded by…
1
expressing fear that the Gentile church was growing too fast and was outgrowing proper administrative leadership.
2
being mildly interested in the evangelistic enterprise in the regions beyond, but they seemed jealous of Gentile successes.
3
frankly claiming that Paul had disregarded the Jerusalem Council’s letter to Gentile believers, which was causing real problems.
4
being grateful to God for the victories wrought; however, they also expressed concern over widespread misinformation about Paul and his ministry among Gentiles.
4
Paul’s decision to pay for the offerings of four men under the Nazarite vow was consistent with what philosophy?
“To the Jew, I became as a Jew to win the Jews.”
Paul’s decision to honor the elders’ request resulted in imprisonment. In spite of the riot, his beating, and his prison experience, the Lord appeared and told him,
1
“Take courage!” The Lord also informed him that he would testify in Rome.
2
“Be of good cheer!” Then the Lord told him that his experiences would end in death.
3
“Set your house in order,” for his ministry had now ended.
4
“Cheer up; for if God be for us, who can stand against us?”
1
Paul’s imprisonment restricted his freedom of movement and his general missionary ministry. How did he respond to the confinement?
1
He gradually showed evidence of strain, and he was quick to point out the injustice of Roman law and the prejudice of his accusers.
2
Paul demonstrated the spirit of Jesus. He was courteous to his captors, generous to his judges, and grateful to God for even his prison opportunities.
3
Like Job, he questioned what good this imprisonment could serve, since there did not seem to be any logical reason for more than two years in prison.
4
Paul knew by revelation from the Holy Spirit that it would be at least two thousand years before Christ would return and that he had to be imprisoned in order for ten books of the New Testament to be written.
2
Luke’s record of Paul’s defense makes it clear that before Felix, Paul was…
1
clearly indicted on three civil charges.
2
fully cleared of all charges.
3
not condemned, but he was held on no substantial charge pending the arrival of another witness.
4
charged with splitting Jewish synagogues in Asia Minor and Europe by proselyting the God-fearers away from Judaism.
3
Luke lays fact upon fact and uses solid evidence in building the case to prove that Paul was…
1
never indicted on any civil charge, and therefore neither he nor Christianity was guilty of sedition or disloyalty.
2
the victim of a rivalry between Judaism and Christianity. Thus, Luke’s purpose was to expose the hatred of Judaism.
3
imprisoned because he was the champion of Gentile Christianity, and his confinement resulted from the jealousy of Christian Judaizers.
4
indicted for instigating religious riots in all the cities where he traveled.
1
Felix left Paul bound; Festus had no charge against Paul to send to Rome; Paul denied all charges against him; and his accusers had no proof to back their charges against Paul. These statements show us that part of Luke’s purpose in writing Acts was
apologetic
The Sanhedrin was split in its decision concerning Paul’s guilt. The Pharisees declared they found no fault with him (23:9). In fact, according to Paul, the only charge he was guilty of (24:21) was his…
message that focused on the centrality of the Resurrection
To the charge that he was a ringleader of the Nazarene sect, Paul countered with a splendid response, declaring that he was
a follower of the Way
Many modernists claim that Christianity is but one faith among a number of claimants to religious truth. Paul denied this, declaring that Christianity is…
uniquely the Way
Paul’s response to the general charges of the prosecution was specific. He claimed that…
1
as a faithful Jew he had a right to be in Jerusalem and to take part in the temple festivities.
2
his motives for coming to Jerusalem were right, his conduct was blameless, and his arrest unwarranted.
3
Christians were never given fair trials and were always denied due process of law.
2
The Way of which Paul spoke was a way of truth. Paul made four affirmations of faith:
1
belief in a God, in a written record of sacred writings, in some kind of future existence, and in some activity of the conscience.
2
belief in a supreme deity, in a code of laws, in a moral standard, and in future accountability.
3
belief in the God of the Jewish fathers, in the Law and Prophets, in the same hope as Judaism, and in the liberty of a clear conscience.
3
Paul had prayed many times that the Lord would permit him to go to Rome (Romans 1:10), and he stated his readiness to go there while he was in Ephesus (Acts 19:21). If he had gone directly to Rome from Ephesus, which statements are TRUE regarding the gains for the gospel that would not have been realized?
(A) He would not have had the privilege (promised at his conversion) of witnessing before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.
(B) Paul would have missed the opportunity to proclaim the gospel aboard ship and to the people of Malta.
(C) The procurators of Judea, Felix and Festus, King Agrippa II, and a host of government soldiers and administrators likely would not have heard a direct, systematic, and reasoned Christian apologetic.
(D) The huge crowds celebrating Pentecost, the local Jewish people, and the Sanhedrin would have had no knowledge of Paul or of the Way if he had not been arrested, imprisoned, and sent to Caesar.
(E) Countless believers who were being severely persecuted for their faith would not have received encouragement had Paul not cheerfully suffered the humiliation, the restriction of movement, the curtailment of his ministry, and the uncertainty of the future his imprisonment brought about.
(F) Luke would not have had time and opportunity during Paul’s two years of imprisonment in Caesarea to do the research necessary to write his Gospel and the early part of the book of Acts.
B, C, E, F
Which statements below are TRUE comparisons or contrasts between Paul’s imprisonment at Caesarea and Rome?
(A) Paul’s ministry in Caesarea was limited, in a sense, to responding to charges against him, whereas in Rome he was able to proclaim the gospel freely.
(B) In Caesarea Paul ministered to rulers, a king, and Gentiles, as well as to the religious leaders of the Jewish nation, whereas in Rome, Luke records that Paul preached the gospel and taught all who came to him. We do not read of any political rulers or kings coming to Paul during his Roman imprisonment.
(C) In Caesarea Paul was kept under close arrest and had no freedom of movement or visitation rights from his friends. In Rome he had a degree of freedom, living in a rented house.
(D) From the evidence given, it appears there was less political intrigue against Paul in Rome than there had been at Caesarea (and Jerusalem).
a, b, d
Although Luke does not record details of Paul’s trial and release, evidence suggests that Paul was released and later rearrested by Nero. In comparing the circumstances of Paul’s imprisonment described in Acts 28:30–31 with those of his imprisonment described in 2 Timothy 1:16–17; 4:9–18, we can say that which statements are TRUE?
(A) The circumstances of the two imprisonments are the same.
(B) Acts 28 records the first imprisonment, in which Paul has a degree of freedom and unlimited company. In 2 Timothy we see different conditions: only Luke is with Paul, Paul is apparently closely confined, and he is in need of extra clothing and some reading material.
(C) In 2 Timothy, Paul speaks of his “first defense” in which no one supported him (because all his companions had deserted him). Since he writes from prison, we conclude that either Paul was released after his “first defense” and was rearrested later, or that he was kept in prison after failing to secure release because of an unsuccessful “first trial.”
B, C
During the voyage to Rome, Paul demonstrated some of the practical aspects of communicating the gospel to those with whom he was associated. Which statements are TRUE in describing the practical Pauline examples?
(A) Paul courteously offered advice regarding the attempt to continue sailing in the dangerous weather, but he did not insist (even though he knew the consequences).
(B) Paul and Luke, as well as the crew members and other prisoners, helped to secure the ship; that is, they worked willingly in helping when such help was needed.
(C) In the midst of the storm, with all hope gone, Paul was quick to blame the mariners for the difficulty and danger. He needed to prove that speaking out is the quality of a great leader.
(D) Paul challenged his shipmates with a word from the Lord. Although he foretold their ultimate shipwreck, he also predicted the salvation (from the sea) of every person on board based on the angel of the Lord’s word.
(E) Paul encouraged the others by his own example. They had not eaten for fourteen days and were weak. In view of the coming crisis, he encouraged them to eat so they would have the strength required to reach land safely.
(F) Because of his position as a minister of the gospel, Paul stood quietly by and watched while the natives of Malta and the mariners made a fire to warm the shipwreck victims.
(G) Together with Luke, Paul ministered to the physical needs of the people of Malta.
A, B, D, E, G
“In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Which statements below bear out the truth of this statement?
(A) Because the ship was blown off its course, the people of Malta were blessed by the gospel message and ministry.
(B) The Jews’ jealousy and narrow prejudice moved them to assault Paul, but this gave him an opportunity to move into a new realm of ministry (to rulers and kings) and to obtain a free trip to Rome.
(C) God worked through the apparent hopelessness of the mariners’ situation, giving Paul a chance to present a positive gospel message to 274 people (besides himself and Luke) who needed this word.
(D) The fact that Paul was immune to the viper’s bite enhanced his credibility with the people of Malta.
(E) The route dictated by the storm conditions and shipwreck actually brought Paul into contact with people he would surely never have seen otherwise.
(F) The relative freedom to preach and teach in Rome under the custody (and protection) of the Roman government may have been a blessing in disguise both for its practical and its apologetic value.
(G) Without Paul’s imprisonment in Rome, we would not today have Paul’s epistles to the Ephesians, Philippians, and Colossians and Paul’s personal letters to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Also, Luke may not have written his Gospel and the book of Acts. Likewise, we may not have the Epistle to the Hebrews today.
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