Sermons on Suffering
Paul’s Witness in Rome
Acts 28:17-31 Paul in Rome under house arrest; calls Jewish leaders, explains he is imprisoned for “the hope of Israel” (the Messiah). Jewish leaders curious, having heard of Christianity as a controversial “sect.” Paul teaches from the Law and Prophets about Jesus from morning to evening; some believe, some reject. Response echoes prophecy in Isaiah 6: some hear but don’t understand. Paul declares salvation has also gone to the Gentiles. Paul remains imprisoned for two years (AD 60–62), welcoming all,…
Trusting God Through Every Trial
Acts 28:1-16 Paul and his companions were shipwrecked on the island of Malta around 58 AD, but all survived. Despite cold and rain, the locals showed kindness by building a fire. As Paul helped, a viper bit him. The locals assumed he was a criminal being punished by fate, but when he remained unharmed, they changed their minds and called him a god. This shift highlights how quickly people judge based on appearances. The lesson drawn is to avoid snap…
Trusting God in Life’s Storms
Acts 27:21-44 Faith and trust in God — believing He will fulfill His promises, has things under control, and will guide our path. The core question is: How does God use challenges to prepare us for life’s storms? Paul’s journey in Acts 27, from Crete to the shipwreck at Malta, shows that despite dangerous storms and loss of cargo, Paul’s faith and God’s promise assured all 276 aboard would survive. Paul relied on God’s word over visible circumstances, prayed for…
Sailing against the Wind
Acts 27:1-20 Paul, after being in Caesarea for two years, appeals to Caesar to avoid danger in Jerusalem. Festus arranges for his journey to Rome. Purpose of the journey: to witness to Gentiles, Caesar, and the Roman Empire, establishing the Christian Church in Rome. In Acts 25–26, Paul defends himself before Festus and King Agrippa, almost persuading Agrippa. Luke, Aristarchus, and other companions travel with Paul, providing support through hardships. Timothy is notably absent, possibly on another mission. Paul travels…
Trial before Felix
Acts 24:1-27 Paul is transferred to Governor Felix in Caesarea due to a plot against his life in Jerusalem. Five days later, his accusers arrive. Accusation by Tertullus (the Jewish prosecutor): Flattering Felix falsely, claiming peace and prosperity under his rule. Accuses Paul of being: A “plague” (spreading the gospel). An instigator of unrest among Jews. A ringleader of the “sect of the Nazarenes” (early Christians). Claims Paul tried to profane the temple—an unproven and false charge. Paul’s Defense: Calmly…
Paul’s First Trial
Acts 23:1-35 Background Recap: Paul completes his 3rd missionary journey, heading to Jerusalem despite warnings of danger. At the Temple, he testifies until he mentions “Gentiles,” which incites the crowd. Roman commander Claudius intervenes, rescues Paul, and prevents his scourging after learning of his Roman citizenship. Sanhedrin Trial (Acts 23:1-5): Paul begins by declaring he has lived in good conscience, referring to life after his conversion. His bold statement prompts Ananias, the high priest, to order him struck. Paul rebukes…
Paul in Jerusalem
Acts 21:24-40 Paul arrives in Jerusalem and helps four Jewish men complete their Nazirite vows to show he respects Jewish customs. This act is costly, costing Paul about €4560. Despite his efforts, Jews from Asia falsely accuse Paul of bringing Gentiles into the temple, inciting a violent mob. The mob seizes Paul, drags him from the temple, and shuts the doors. The temple leadership rejects the truth Paul brings. Roman soldiers from the nearby Antonia Fortress intervene just in time…
To Go or Not To Go
Acts 21:1-16 describes the end of Paul’s third missionary journey as he heads toward Jerusalem, fully aware he will be arrested. In Acts 20:22–24, Paul states he is “bound in the Spirit” to go to Jerusalem and is willing to face imprisonment or death to fulfill his ministry. As Paul travels, he stops in various cities where believers, through the Holy Spirit, warn him not to go to Jerusalem. This creates an apparent tension: the Spirit both compels Paul to…
Paul’s farewell to the Ephesians
Acts 20:17-38 Paul, on a determined journey to Jerusalem, urgently gathers the Ephesian church leaders to deliver a heartfelt final message. He recounts his ministry in Ephesus: Served with humility. Endured suffering with tears and trials. Preached and taught faithfully in public and private settings. Urged repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes he is “bound in the Spirit” to go to Jerusalem, despite knowing suffering awaits him. His mission and calling outweigh personal safety. He models ultimate dedication…
Paul in Corinth
Acts 18:1-17 In Corinth, Paul meets Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish tentmakers who had been expelled from Rome. They become close friends and ministry partners. Paul follows his usual ministry pattern: preaches in the synagogue every Sabbath, persuading both Jews and Greeks. When his co-workers Silas and Timothy arrive, Paul is reinvigorated and preaches more boldly, declaring Jesus as the Christ. Some Jews resist and blaspheme. Paul, frustrated, declares he will now focus on preaching to Gentiles. A key lesson: We…
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