Until his last hour the life of Paul testified to the truth of his words to the Corinthians: “It is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.” 2 Corinthians 4:6–10. His sufficiency was not in himself, but in the presence and agency of the divine Spirit that filled his soul and brought every thought into subjection to the will of Christ. The prophet declares, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3. The heaven-born peace expressed on Paul’s countenance won many a soul to the gospel. (AA 510.1)
Reading Plan, Week 40
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapters: 43–51
Monday: 447.1–462.3
Tuesday: 463.1–478.3
Wednesday: 479.1–497.1
Thursday: 498.1–513.1
Friday: 514.1–528.1
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 43: In Rome
In chains, Paul finally arrives in Rome. The enthusiastic welcome he receives from the local believers gives him courage and strength. On the recommendations of Julius and Festus, he is allowed to be kept under house arrest instead of in prison, which allows him to continue his ministry.
Think back on your journey of faith. Who do you consider to be your spiritual “parents”? How can you affirm them and their influence this week?
Paul wrote about principles of equality in a society that accepted slavery as a natural way of life. What societal structures in today’s world could be undermined by fully embracing Paul’s (and Jesus’) message of inclusion?
Chapter 44: Caesar’s Household
Though physically limited by his imprisonment, Paul’s spiritual influence continues to spread as the community in Rome witnesses his patience and faith in the midst of his difficulties. Even members of Nero’s household are converted and able to carry the message of Jesus into that inhospitable atmosphere.
Many traditional church and outreach activities are currently limited by the pandemic. Ask God how He could use this “limitation” to expand your influence for His Kingdom as He did Paul’s while under arrest.
Have you observed a Christian who remains patient and cheerful through difficult circumstances? How did their witness affect your life? What is the source of their peace, and how can you tap into it as well?
Chapter 45: Written from Rome
While imprisoned in Rome, Paul writes to the churches in Colossae and Philippi. His letter to the Colossians encourages them and us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, rejecting false teachings and moving forward in the knowledge of God that “will re-create the soul in the image of Christ” (p. 475). To the Philippians, he writes a letter of thanks for their generosity and shares with them how his difficult circumstances have actually led to the spread of the Gospel. He advises them to take Jesus as their model, who left the throne of God for servanthood, and to lean on God’s power for spiritual growth.
How are you growing in your knowledge of God? How is this knowledge transforming your life and character?
How has God used difficult circumstances in your life for His glory in the past? How can this give you courage and faith when encountering new difficulties?
Chapter 46: At Liberty
Paul comes before Nero and is, surprisingly, set free. He leaves Rome shortly before a great fire and subsequent persecution of Christians breaks out. Though growing older and becoming weaker, Paul travels from place to place strengthening the believers wherever he goes.
When have you witnessed God’s protection in a seemingly dire or hopeless situation?
Has God ever given you “more time” than you expected to have? How have you used this extra time for Him?
Chapter 47: The Final Arrest
In an effort to hinder Paul’s work among the new Christian churches, some unbelieving Jews accuse him of setting or instigating the fire that had damaged Rome. He is arrested and brought back to Rome, where he is imprisoned in a dungeon. One by one, his friends leave him until only Luke is left. Visits from Onesiphorus help to cheer and comfort the apostle.
Think of people in your circle of influence who may feel isolated and lonely. How can you reach out to them this week?
Chapter 48: Paul Before Nero
Paul is brought before Nero for his trial on charges of Rome’s burning. Although permitted to have an advocate, Paul is unable to find anyone to stand with him, so he faces Nero alone. Illuminated by the Holy Spirit, he delivers an impassioned appeal to the emperor and all who are listening. Momentarily moved but unwilling to repent, Nero does not sentence Paul to death but nonetheless declines to release him. Soon afterwards, Nero dies at his own hand during an insurrection.
In the midst of his trial, Paul is moved by the thought of Jesus interceding for those in attendance, even his accusers and judge. Ask God to give you
His eyes of love for those around you in every situation you encounter this week.
Chapter 49: Paul’s Last Letter
Recognizing that his reprieve will likely be short, Paul writes a final letter to call for his beloved Timothy and share important thoughts in the event that they are not able to see each other again. Outlining the responsibilities of ministry, Paul encourages him to remain strong in God’s grace, to call out sin in love where he sees it, and to face difficulties with courage.
Who is especially precious to you? If you could share your final thoughts with anyone, who would it be? What affirmation and encouragement can you share with this person today?
Chapter 50: Condemned to Die
Though stirred by Paul’s testimony at his trial and unwilling to immediately sentence him to death, Nero sends him back to prison and later determines to have him executed by beheading. Kept private to avoid inspiring other Christians, his last moments are nonetheless a powerful witness to the soldiers attending him. Secure in God’s love and hope of eternal life, Paul goes peacefully to his death.
How does understanding the saving love of God and having hope in the resurrection impact your perspective on life today?
Chapter 51: A Faithful Undershepherd
Although scarcely recorded in the book of Acts, Peter’s ministry in Jerusalem has continued on through the years. Having learned through experience his need of relying on Christ, he is able to tenderly lead and guide the church in the same way Jesus led him. Toward the end of his ministry, he writes a letter to encourage believers who are encountering difficulty and affliction. He provides the church with instruction on living in a sinful world while at the same time pointing them toward the future hope of heaven.
Reflect on the ways God has shown mercy and forgiveness to you while also leading you toward His high ideal. How can this inform your attitude and actions toward those around you?
How can you balance an eternal perspective with the needs of daily living in a sinful world?