We set the context for reading and understanding Paul’s Prison Letters – Colossians, Philemon, Ephesians and Philippians.

In our last session for the course, we look at the last chapters of Acts. On the way to Rome, Paul faces storms at sea, shipwreck, and snake bites. Yet in all of the this, the Lord delivers Paul. Paul arrives in Rome and addresses the Jewish leaders. Yet it becomes clear that as they…

We take a closer look at Paul’s defense before Festus and Herod Agrippa II. In this final speech by Paul, many of the themes originating in Luke’s Gospel are brought full circle. We also have several great summaries of key theological ideas.

Governor Festus inherits Paul’s case after Felix is removed from office. When Paul realizes that Festus may not be on his side, he appeals to have his case go before Caesar in Rome. In the meantime, Herod Agrippa II and his sister Bernice arrive to welcome Festus which gives them opportunity to hear Paul. Paul…

After his defense before the Jewish crowd outside the Temple fails, Claudius Lysias takes Paul in to be “examined by the scourge.” Once Paul reveals that he is a Roman citizen and a plot to have him murdered is revealed, Lysias transports him to Caesarea to Governor Felix. Paul turns his accuser’s case on their…

After addressing the Ephesian Elders/Overseers/Shepherds, Paul continues his journey to Jerusalem. Even after warnings that imprisonment awaited him there, Paul knows the Lord has plans for him in Jerusalem. After trying to subvert the “conspiracy theories” that have been worked him, Paul is arrested by the Romans. He also tries to give a defense before…

Paul continues his Third journey spending three years in Ephesus which becomes a major “hub” of effective outreach. After stirring up trouble with the idol makers at the Temple of Artemus and almost inciting a riot, he moves on back to Macedonia and then decides to return to Jerusalem. On the way, he encourages and…

Paul concludes the second missionary journey after sharing the Gospel in Corinth amidst much turmoil. In the meantime, Priscilla, Aquila and Apollos enter the scene, building up the churches through their teaching. Paul then begins his third journey heading through the interior of Asia Minor and arriving in Ephesus. We also discuss some cultural distinctives…

Paul addresses the Areopagus in Athens. Addressing a primarily Greek/Gentile audience, Paul creates the context for understanding the significance of Jesus’ Resurrection and The Gospel. This is the second of three “model sermons” that Luke presents to represent Paul’s apostolic teaching.

Paul and Silas are incarcerated after stirring up trouble in Philippi. After being set free by supernatural intervention, Paul shares the Gospel with the Jailer and he and his family become believers. The group moves on to Thessalonica where they stir up more trouble. Paul is sent on to Athens where he preaches one of…