“Acts 16” – Seeking Truth Catholic Bible Study from Discerning Hearts on Vimeo.

“The Lord opened her heart.” With these beautiful words, we learn about Lydia, a wealthy woman from Philippi and dealer of purple cloth. The story of Lydia serves as a springboard of encouragement for us to open our own hearts to the Lord, who is always knocking at but never forcing His way into our hearts. Sharon then gives us some fascinating details about the production of purple dyes and the political/social significance of this precious fabric. We also learn more about Timothy, who accompanies Paul during this part of his ministry and is later installed as the bishop of Ephesus. Sharon gives us insight into the cultures of Philippi and Ephesus, which helps us better understand the pastoral issues that Paul and Timothy addressed in their letters to these Christian communities. The chapter ends with an amazing jailbreak: secured by stocks, Paul and Silas witness to their fellow prisoners, only to be freed through a miraculous earthquake. The despondent jailer is about to take his own life, but Paul and Silas convince him otherwise, preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ, and the jailer along with his entire household are baptized.

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Sharon Doran serves as the teaching director of “Seeking Truth.” An experienced Bible Study teacher, Sharon has a passion for scripture that will motivate and challenge you to immerse yourself in God’s Word and apply His message to your every day life.

“Seeking Truth” is an in-depth Catholic Bible Study, commissioned by the Archdiocese of Omaha in response to John Paul II’s call to the New Evangelization as well as Pope Benedict XVI’s exhortation for all Catholics to study scripture. To learn more go to:www.seekingtruth.net