In the book of Acts God's Spirit-empowered witnesses boldly proclaim the gospel. It all started with a small, fledgling group of disciples in Jerusalem at Pentecost, but remarkably the good news of Jesus spread like wildfire to Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. At last, Paul arrives in Rome and here too he will proclaim that Jesus is the Christ - the hope of Israel and salvation for the Gentiles.

The Apostle's journey to Rome has begun, but a storm and shipwreck threaten to derail his plans. Yet, in the midst of this chaos the sovereign Lord assures him that he and all that are with him will be brought safely to land and that he will ultimately testify before Caesar. Our God rules over storms and shipwreck and he will bring his people safely home to the shore of our salvation.

Paul testifies to King Agrippa that Jesus' death and resurrection were simply a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. He proclaims with the aim to persuade and desires for Agrippa to become like him - "except for these chains". Do we testify with the same kind of zeal? Do our hearts yearn for the lost to be saved?

True worship of God is our response to God's true salvation in Christ Jesus. It involves "believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, having a hope in God...that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust." Is this our hope? Do we long and yearn for the resurrection of our bodies? Do we live in light of this reality?

Paul remains in prison but is once again called to testify before the Jewish High Priest and religious council. Faced with terrible circumstances from an earthly perspective, the risen Jesus appears to Paul assuring him of his presence and commanding him to "Take courage" and "Testify." The risen Jesus cannot be stopped by any power on earth.

Paul's teaching about the gospel is misrepresented by the Jews, and he is taken captive by the Romans. Yet, through it all, Paul uses his gospel freedom for the glory of God and the good of the church. Read the passage beforehand to be prepared to hear God's Word as we gather.

Instead of being a holy nation unto the LORD, the people had become corrupt and wicked in their ways. They brazenly practice sexual immorality, which leads to civil war among the tribes. Sin brings with it destruction and death - only Jesus can save us from our moral corruption.

The steadfast love of the LORD endures forever. He will fulfill his purposes for us. Therefore we give thanks to the LORD with our whole heart and to sing his praise before the gods, for great is the glory of the LORD.

The Lord is the great King above all other gods. He invites us to worship him with joy because he is the rock of our salvation. The great King warns us as well from falling into unbelief and hardening our hearts. Are you continually trusting God's word or beginning to listen to the voice of this world?