This is the first two of five scenes in which Jesus scandalizes the spiritual leadership in Israel. Here his authority is displayed in the forgiveness of sins and the forgiveness of sinners.

Mark in a series of scenes shows us what happens in one day of the life and ministry of Jesus. His authority shines through every moment.

Mark shows us in a series of scenes Jesus' early ministry in Galilee. We see his authority and identity revealed as he teaches, heals, delivers people from demons and calls disciples.

Mark mirrors the opening words of the Bible, to convey that God in the person of Jesus is finishing the story of what he had started when he created the world and called Israel to be his people. Here we see how we can enter into God's new beginning.

We find both encouragement and challenge as Acts closes with Paul in chains but the message of the transcendent Kingdom of God marching forward. The spread of the gospel is unstoppable.

Luke closes the story of Acts by encouraging Christians about how they should meet hardship and affliction as they live for Christ in a hostile world. We also see some of how we are to negotiate the challenge of living in a pluralistic society that at times brings religious or governmental opposition.-Outline--I. Look for God's Invisible Hand-II. Expect Gods Comforting Presence-III. Follow Paul as a Model of a Life Well Lived in Hardship and Adversity

Compelled by the Holy Spirit, Paul urgently journeys to Jerusalem. Along the way he strengthens the churches. In this speech, the only one in Acts that is addressed to Christians, he gives us timeless teaching about church leadership and how the gospel works to carry forward a church.

Paul's ministry in Ephesus is the conclusion of the Third Missionary Journey. Luke narrates the power of the Word of the Gospel and its impact in the fourth largest city in the Roman empire. The conflict with both magic and the worship of Artemis points to the uniqueness of Christianity.

Luke reports on the mixed reception, in two Greek cities, to the gospel. We explore the ways the gospel turns the world upside down.