Are you meeting regularly with a discussion group? If you meet just once a week, you can find all of this week’s discussion questions in one place right here.
Question: What place is influential in your world – where do the orders come from?
[16] And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him. [17] After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. [18] When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. [19] But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar—though I had no charge to bring against my nation. [20] For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.” 21] And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you. [22] But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against. [23] When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. [24] And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. [25] And disagreeing among themselves, they departed…(Acts 28:16-25 ESV)
Question: Why did Paul go to his fellow Jews first? Do you think they were prejudiced by the rumours? How do you think it felt for him to be so summarily rejected?
[30] He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, [31] proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance. (Acts 28:30-31 ESV)
Question: Why do you think it’s relevant that Paul lived there at his own expense?
Challenge: Dream up what you’d do to advance the good news of Jesus with two years of freedom. Now, what would you do with two days of freedom? Finally, what would you do with two hours of freedom?
[permalink append=”#comments”]Discuss the Challenge[/permalink]Two Dates to Remember:
- Our Outdoor Movie Night Returns – THIS FRIDAY – September 19th at 7:30pm in Ajax – More Info