In this chapter, Paul is once again on trial. Using discernment and relying on the disciplines that have helped him to grow strong in his faith, Paul is able to stand firm in God's will. He isn't pushed by the winds of pressure, but trusts that God is working in the seasons of waiting.

Paul is put on trial before the governor of the region, and the Jews continue their false accusations against him. In the face of injustice, Paul doesn't respond in anger, but he is slow to speak, he speaks the truth in love, and he is faithful even when leaders are unfaithful. 

Paul faces increasing pressure from being put on trial, false accusations, and the threat of death. But we also learn that God is with Paul in the midst of these troubles. Through it all, Paul demonstrates how we should react when we are under pressure. Not in explosions of emotion, but it peace, trust, and patience.

In this chapter, Paul retells the story of his conversion. He shares what he was like before Jesus, how he was transformed by obedience to Jesus, and ultimately points people towards Jesus. People may argue against the Bible or our theology, but they cannot argue against how God has changed our life.

When Paul returns to Jerusalem, many Jews misinterpret his message and seek to arrest him. When they see him in the temple, they try to kill him, but a Roman officer takes him away. Through it all, Paul remains patient, trusting that God will make things right in His timing.

Movements depend on a influential leader, human effort, and strive to change systems. How could Christianity spread when Jesus did the opposite? There is only one answer, because it is the truth. Christ is the answer to the mystery of history.

In the final leg of Paul's third missionary journey, he sets a course for Jerusalem. Many believers warn him of the trouble that awaits him their and try to persuade him not to go, but Paul knows that is where God is leading him. He follows God's will, and he won't be persuaded by man's wisdom.

In this chapter, Paul bids farewell to several groups as he heads to Jerusalem. He knows this will likely be the last time he sees these churches, and so he gives them many instructions on how they should act. We learn that as the church, we are called to practice true hospitality and share with those in need around us.

In this passage, we see how the spiritually blind lead others into further blindness. They defend their idols, find comfort in them, and completely miss how God is at work, but in the end, all of their efforts amount to nothing.

In this passage, we learn the difference between authentic faith and a counterfeit. Jesus' name has power over every other name, but the power of prayer comes in a relationship with him, not in a method of praying. The word of the Lord continues to prevail in Ephesus as people turn from sin to follow Christ.