Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” “Her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal. Also she had a great and high wall with twelve gates, and twelve angels at the gates, and names written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel.” “The twelve gates were twelve pearls: each individual gate was of one pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. But I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.” Revelation 21:2, 11, 12, 21, 22. (AA 591.3)
Reading Plan, Week 41
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapters: 52–58
Monday: 529.1–542.3
Tuesday: 543.1–556.1
Wednesday: 557.1–571.2
Thursday: 572.1–586.3
Friday: 587.1–602.3
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 52: Steadfast to the End
As Peter’s ministry comes to an end, he writes to his fellow believers, encouraging them to strive for the example Christ’s life gave to all. By clinging to the promises of the Savior and continually praying for forgiveness, Jesus’ followers are to strive for the perfection provided by His grace. Peter follows in his Master’s footsteps all the way to a cross.
The thought of perfection can be intimidating for anyone in this world. What does it mean to you personally to strive for perfection in Christ
How are you keeping alive the promise of Christ’s second coming?
Chapter 53: John the Beloved
Through John’s close relationship with Jesus, he transforms from a self-serving individual to a servant leader overflowing with God’s love.
Where have you witnessed God’s power of transformation in someone’s life? How has that impacted your walk with Him?
In what ways does God reveal His love to you? How are you sharing those revelations with others?
Chapter 54: A Faithful Witness
John observes the church’s loss of focus on the love of Christ as the members turn towards criticism of one another. Taking up his pen once more, John urges his brethren to turn their eyes back toward the love of Jesus and the power of love for one another. Combating division and false teachings, John admonishes his fellow believers in love.
Who in your life embodies the love of Christ? Have you been a personal witness to someone who exudes the love of Christ? Who was that person and how did they impact your walk with Christ?
In what ways can you express brotherly love for those around you today? What do you need to change in order to do so more freely
Have you ever been admonished in love from a fellow believer? How did that feel compared to other times of correction?
Chapter 55: Transformed by Grace
John’s transformation through Christ enables him to write to his fellow believers regarding the process of sanctification. Living for Christ requires daily practice of self-sacrifice.
As you read, reflect on the thought that none of the apostles claimed to be without sin. What does this say to you about the idea of sanctification? How might this encourage you no matter where you are in your walk with God?
Is there anything in your life that you are not yet willing to submit to God? What would it look like if you yielded that to God today?
Chapter 56: Patmos
As the last of the twelve disciples, John faces the wrath of the Jewish leaders and the Roman emperor. Exiled on the prison island of Patmos, John receives visions from God concerning the closing chapters of earth. John continues ministering to those around him and dwelling on the wonder of God’s creation.
What wisdom have you had the blessing of gleaning from an elder believer? When was the last time you were blessed by fellowship with an elderly believer? Who is an elderly believer that you can spend time with?
As you read, consider the freedom and strength God gives to His followers in the face of hardship.
Chapter 57: The Revelation
Darkness surrounds the church as new leaders introduce false doctrines and trivial matters. John, the last living of the apostles, is in exile on Patmos when Jesus appears to him, showing him the future of humanity. John records these things as a warning and encouragement for the struggling church.
How have you viewed the book of Revelation in the past? How does it apply to your life today?
Christ is portrayed as both merciful and just. How have you seen those roles played out in your Christian experience?
Chapter 58: The Church Triumphant
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.
Ellen White points out that the apostles were able to achieve much because they expected much. How does this impact your view on your relationship with Christ?
In what ways can you help further the message of Christ in your day to day life? How can you help to continue building for Christ?