[Practical Application Review – Week 23]
Greetings,
We continue our journey of exploring all 260 chapters of the New Testament, five (5) chapters each week. Let us continue in the book of Acts.
Schedule – Week 23:
Please read and/or listen to Acts 22, 23, 24, 25, 26
Even though reading and listening to the Bible being read is valuable, our primary goal is learning to live the Bible (to the best of our ability).
Consider our Practical Application Review process…
For “every” chapter:
Step 1: Select a passage of interest
Step 2: Identify area of teaching
Step 3: Consider a practical application
Now let us explore an example (of our three-step process) for each of these five chapters…
Text #1: Acts 22
Passage: (vv. 22-29)
Teaching: When Paul said the Holy Spirit told him that he would be sent afar to preach to the gentiles, many people said he should not live. Paul later questioned the centurion about laws protecting him from scourging a Roman who was not condemned.
Application: At times, knowing the law within your nation and region may keep you from needless pain and suffering. Please remain faithful anyway, even if you are mistreated for your Christian faith.
Text #2: Acts 23
Passage: (vv. 1-9)
Teaching: While Paul was addressing his accusers, he realized two different groups of people, Pharisees and Sadducees. His affiliation had been a Pharisee (since his youth), so he associated with their group. He seemed to reduce his enemies about in half.
Application: Never forget your origin, where you came from. It likely was intended to be a stepping stone to where you are now (and will be). Associations can increase friends and/or reduce enemies.
Text #3: Acts 24
Passage: (vv. 24-27)
Teaching: Governor Felix and his wife Drusilla heard Paul concerning the Chrisitan faith. Paul spoke to them about righteousness, holiness and the coming judgment, which caused fear for Felix. Expecting a bribe, the governor continued to invite Paul to converse with him.
Application: As a Christian, you and I should know enough about the Bible to have something to discuss with others. Especially when on trial, be prepared to share your wisdom and experiences.
Text #4: Acts 25
Passage: (vv. 13-22)
Teaching: Festus, the governor after Felix, spoke to King Agrippa and Bernice about a prisoner named Paul. Agrippa seemed to be somewhat interested in an opportunity to hear Paul’s defense.
Application: Never forget there are people who are genuinely curious about your life experiences, especially in faithfully following our Lord Jesus.
Text #5: Acts 26
Passage: (vv. 24-29)
Teaching: As Paul was sharing his testimony and faith, Governor Festus said that much study has made him mad. King Agrippa said with little effort he almost is persuaded to become a Christian.
Application: Some will not understand your sincere life following Jesus Christ. Others will likely be just one step away from joining you. May we remain faithful and patient as we love and help others.
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo