As Paul looked upon the beauty and grandeur surrounding him, and saw the city wholly given to idolatry, his spirit was stirred with jealousy for God, whom he saw dishonored on every side, and his heart was drawn out in pity for the people of Athens, who, notwithstanding their intellectual culture, were ignorant of the true God.
The apostle was not deceived by that which he saw in this center of learning. His spiritual nature was so alive to the attraction of heavenly things that the joy and glory of the riches which will never perish made valueless in his eyes the pomp and splendor with which he was surrounded. As he saw the magnificence of Athens he realized its seductive power over lovers of art and science, and his mind was deeply impressed with the importance of the work before him. (AA 234.1-234.2)
Reading Plan, Week 37
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapters: 19–25
Monday: 188.1–203.3
Tuesday: 204.1–220.1
Wednesday: 221.1–236.3
Thursday: 237.1–254.1
Friday: 255.1–268.1
All page/paragraph numbers are the original page numbers and can be used with any edition of Conflict of the Ages (shown in gray on the inside margin within The Conflict Beautiful).
The following is an overview of this week’s reading. Each chapter is introduced with a short paragraph, followed by a couple of thoughts/questions for you to consider.
Chapter 19: Jew and Gentile
Among the Christian believers, Jewish tradition and Gentile culture continue to clash, and the church leaders are pressed to address the tension between the growing number of new converts and the unique identity of the children of Israel. God must lead despite prejudice and pride.
As you read, watch for ways God’s people perceive God’s plans for them. How do they stay true or correct their course?
What temptations to “exclusiveness and bigotry” are present among God’s people today? How do you resist these temptations?
Chapter 20: Exalting the Cross
When Barnabas and Paul prepare for another missionary journey, they have a falling out over whether to include Mark. Paul returns to the churches they planted and finds a willing and faithful student in Timothy. The apostle will carefully train and mentor this young minister of the Gospel, and together, they will uplift Christ crucified.
How has interpersonal conflict affected your Christian journey?
How can you use your God-given abilities to exalt Christ this week?
Chapter 21: In the Regions Beyond
Paul and his team of witnesses answer God’s call to Macedonia. In Philippi they are opposed by the entrenched forces of Satan, but even though beaten and imprisoned, Paul and Silas are filled with joy and strengthened with song. When they are freed by a miraculous earthquake and repentant authorities, the Gospel gains a powerful foothold in enemy territory.
What do the roles of both Lydia and the enslaved woman tell us about the Gospel?
Notice how Paul and Silas look at those who mistreat them. How do you respond when you feel persecuted?
Chapter 22: Thessalonica
Paul and Silas arrive in Thessalonica wearing clothes still tattered from their beating in Philippi, but they bring to this city’s large Jewish congregation the treasured new interpretation of ancient prophecy--the Messiah has come. While many believe, a jealous contingent again stirs up the mob against the Christians and the apostolic team must once more push on, leaving their converts to embody Christ to their own city.
How do prophecies encourage your faith?
How did Christ and the early Christians respond to suffering and persecution? How should this guide us today?
Chapter 23: Berea and Athens
In Berea, Paul and Silas find a community whose hearts are ready for the Gospel and whose minds are keen to verify its truths with Scripture, but when enemies from Thessalonica pursue them, Paul leaves for Athens. Here under the gaze of stone gods and marble edifices, Paul engages the great philosophers of the world with the wisdom of Christ.
Paul speaks to the Athenians in language they can understand. How do you adapt your Gospel language to those who you engage with?
When have you felt alone in the Kingdom of Heaven? What Christian companionship do you draw strength from?
Chapter 24: Corinth
Paul travels to Corinth, a wretched hive of vice and prostitution and a major trade hub of the Roman empire. The sin of the city and the violent opposition of his own people test Paul’s faith, but encouraged by God, Paul stays. Victory for the Kingdom of Heaven is hard won, but humility and grace pave the way for a new church in this heart of darkness.
As you read, watch for the ways the Gospel triumphs in Corinth. What does this reveal about God’s love of and work for humanity?
When have you felt spiritually discouraged? What encourages you to continue working for the Gospel?
Chapter 25: The Thessalonian Letters
Through a series of letters to the church in Thessaloniki, Paul seeks to encourage and strengthen those whom he has led to Christ. These words of love, instruction and correction are treasured by the church that receives them and offer truths that shine to this day.
As you read, what parts of Paul’s messages to the Thessalonians stand out to you?
What messages of hope might you send to encourage someone in Christ?