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THE BOOK OF ACTS: Week 10 – Aug. 4-Aug. 10

Acts 19-20 By whom and how are churches strengthened?

In this reading we head out with Paul on his third journey. The style and place of ministry is well established and we hear about many people involved with Paul in this mission.

  1. Acts 19:1-10       Ministry in Ephesus – 3 months in the synagogue, two years in a lecture hall
  2. Acts 19:11-20     Ephesus – believers give up unhealthy practices
  3. Acts 19:21-41     Ephesus – Timothy & Erastus sent on; Gaius & Aristarchus caught in riot
  4. Acts 20:1-6a       Ministry in Macedonia & Greece – 3 months
  5. Acts 20:6b-12     Paul’s long sermon in Troas
  6. Acts 20:13-38     Paul’s eagerness to get to Jerusalem and his farewell to Ephesian elders

 

Chapter 19: “The Way” Confronts Evil, Economics, a Riot and a Town Clerk.

In this and the previous chapter, Christians are beginning to call themselves “the Way.” Can you come up with some reasons why this might be a good description?

What does this chapter specifically credit the Holy Spirit and God doing? How was Paul used by God in this chapter? How did God use a simple town clerk?

Action Plan: Many Bibles, including the study Bibles at church, have an introduction before each “book” written by people who have studied biblical history. Read the introductions to 1st Corinthians, 1st Thessalonians and Ephesians. These are letters written by Paul (or on Paul’s behalf) to the congregations in places we have read about in the last three chapters.

 

Chapter 20: Farewell and Godspeed

The author (Luke) joins Paul at Troas where the Christians meet for conversation and to “break bread” (a meal which included prayer and communion). What do you notice and wonder about in this brief story (vs.7-12)?

Paul is convinced of where he must go and what awaits him in his future and wants to say some final words to the leaders at Ephesus. Last words are important. If you were one of the Ephesians, how would Paul’s last words be a guide for your future work in that congregation?

 

Action Plan: Has someone who was important to you ever said “last words” to you? If so, write down ways these words affected you? Or write down words you might say or write to someone you have mentored in faith if you were to find out you would never see them again.