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Acts 26 on 11/4 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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Standing before King Agrippa, Paul once again turned his defense into an opportunity to share the gospel. With respect and courage, he told his story—how he had once lived as a zealous Pharisee, opposing Jesus and persecuting His followers (vv. 4–11). Then, on the road to Damascus, a light brighter than the sun surrounded him, and the risen Jesus spoke to him, calling him to be His servant and witness (vv. 13–16). Jesus sent Paul to proclaim forgiveness and salvation, to turn people “from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God” (v. 18).

Paul declared that he had been obedient to this heavenly vision, preaching repentance to both Jews and Gentiles (vv. 19–20). Though his message led to persecution, he boldly testified that Christ’s death and resurrection fulfilled what Moses and the prophets had promised (vv. 22–23). When Festus interrupted, calling Paul insane, Paul calmly insisted that his message was true and reasonable (vv. 24–25). Then he turned directly to Agrippa: “Do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe” (v. 27). Agrippa’s response revealed a heart almost—but not entirely—persuaded (v. 28). Paul’s closing words captured his mission and his heart: “I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains” (v. 29).

When the hearing ended, Agrippa and Festus agreed: Paul was innocent and could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar (v. 32). Yet God’s purpose was unfolding—Rome was next.

🌀 Reflection:
Like Paul, every believer is called to be a witness to the risen Jesus. Who in your life still needs to be invited to “turn from darkness to light” and receive forgiveness through Christ (v. 18)?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Share your testimony this week. Tell someone—briefly and sincerely—how Jesus met you, changed you, and called you to walk in His light (vv. 13–18).

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Acts 25 on 11/3 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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When Festus arrived, the Jewish leaders quickly tried to pressure him into transferring Paul to Jerusalem—hoping to ambush and kill him on the way (vv. 1–3). But Festus insisted the trial be held in Caesarea, unknowingly protecting Paul (vv. 4–5). Once again, the Jews brought serious accusations that they couldn’t prove, and Paul firmly defended himself: he had not broken the law of the Jews, profaned the temple, or rebelled against Caesar (vv. 7–8). When Festus, trying to please the Jews, suggested another hearing in Jerusalem, Paul appealed to Caesar—exercising his right as a Roman citizen (vv. 9–11). This bold move ensured his safety and set the course for his journey to Rome, just as the Lord had promised (23:11).

Soon after, King Agrippa II and his sister Bernice visited Festus, who explained Paul’s situation and admitted that the charges were purely religious—centered on “a certain Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive” (vv. 18–19). Agrippa agreed to hear Paul himself (vv. 22–23). As the royal pair entered the hall with great pomp, surrounded by Roman officials and city leaders, Paul was brought in—not as a defeated prisoner, but as a faithful witness for Christ. Festus admitted his dilemma: he had “nothing definite to write” about Paul’s charges to Caesar (vv. 26–27). What man saw as confusion, God was using for His sovereign purpose—to bring the gospel to the highest courts of Rome.

🌀 Reflection:
Even when falsely accused or misunderstood, God’s purpose still stands. How can you, like Paul, trust that your trials may become divine opportunities to witness for Jesus (v. 11; cf. 23:11)?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Look for an “occasion for testimony” this week (Luke 21:13). Use your circumstances—good or bad—as a platform to speak about the risen Jesus (v. 19).

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Acts 24 on 11/2 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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After five days, the high priest Ananias and a lawyer named Tertullus arrived to accuse Paul before the governor, Felix (v. 1). Tertullus began with flattery, praising Felix’s leadership even though his rule was marked by corruption and unrest (vv. 2–4). Then he accused Paul of being a troublemaker, a leader of the “sect of the Nazarenes,” and one who tried to defile the temple (vv. 5–6). When Paul was allowed to respond, he calmly explained that he had come to Jerusalem only to worship and bring offerings, not to cause trouble (vv. 11–13). He confessed his faith in “the Way,” affirming belief in the Law, the Prophets, and the resurrection of both the just and the unjust (vv. 14–15).

Paul’s defense focused on truth and integrity. He reminded Felix that none of the accusers from Asia were even present to testify, and that his real “crime” was proclaiming the hope of resurrection through Jesus (vv. 19–21). Felix, who knew about Christianity through his Jewish wife Drusilla, delayed judgment and kept Paul under light custody (vv. 22–23). Later, when Paul spoke to Felix and Drusilla about faith in Christ—especially righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment—Felix grew afraid and sent Paul away (vv. 24–25). Though he often sent for Paul, hoping for a bribe, he never repented. For two years, Paul remained imprisoned—but right where God wanted him, waiting for his next opportunity (vv. 26–27).

🌀 Reflection:
Felix heard the truth but delayed responding. How often do we do the same? Don’t wait for a “better time” to obey God’s Word or share your faith—today is the time to respond (v. 25).

💬 Mission Challenge:
Start a spiritual conversation this week. Like Paul, speak with courage and clarity about faith in Jesus, righteousness, and the hope of resurrection (vv. 14–15, 24–25).

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Acts 23 on 11/1 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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Before the council, Paul declared that he had lived with a clear conscience before God (v. 1). The high priest Ananias ordered him struck, prompting Paul to rebuke his hypocrisy—though he quickly apologized when told it was the high priest, honoring the Scripture’s command to respect rulers (vv. 2–5). Seeing the council divided, Paul wisely pointed out that he was on trial for believing in the resurrection—a truth the Pharisees accepted but the Sadducees denied. The resulting argument turned violent, forcing Roman soldiers to rescue him (vv. 6–10).

That night, the Lord appeared to Paul and said, “Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome” (v. 11). Meanwhile, more than forty men plotted to kill Paul, vowing not to eat or drink until they had done so (vv. 12–15). God used Paul’s young nephew to uncover the plot and alert the Roman commander, who secretly arranged for Paul’s transfer to Caesarea under heavy guard—470 soldiers in all (vv. 16–24). The tribune Claudius Lysias wrote to Governor Felix, affirming that Paul had done nothing deserving death (vv. 25–30). By God’s providence, Paul arrived safely in Caesarea, where he would await trial before Felix (vv. 31–35).

🌀 Reflection:
Even when opposition rises and fear surrounds you, remember—Jesus stands beside His people. Where might God be calling you to “take courage” and trust His plan today (v. 11)?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Encourage someone who feels weary in their faith. Send a message or pray with them, reminding them that the Lord still stands by His servants in every trial (v. 11).

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Acts 22 on 10/31 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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Paul stood before an angry mob and began his defense by speaking to them in their own language, showing respect and connection (vv. 1–2). He shared his story—his Jewish upbringing under Gamaliel, his zeal for the law, and his persecution of “the Way” (vv. 3–5). Then he recounted the moment that changed everything: when a blinding light from heaven revealed Jesus of Nazareth, whom he had been persecuting (vv. 6–8). Through Ananias, a devout and respected Jew, God restored Paul’s sight and commissioned him to be a witness of what he had seen and heard (vv. 12–15). Paul was baptized, his sins washed away, calling on the name of the Lord (v. 16).

Later, while praying in the temple, the Lord told Paul to leave Jerusalem, for his testimony would be rejected there. Instead, he was sent to the Gentiles (vv. 17–21). At that word, the crowd erupted again, demanding his death (v. 22). As Roman soldiers prepared to interrogate him by flogging, Paul calmly asked whether it was lawful to scourge a Roman citizen without trial (v. 25). When the tribune learned Paul was a citizen by birth, he became afraid and released him from his bonds (vv. 28–29). God used Paul’s testimony, tact, and even his Roman status to position him for what was coming next—the gospel reaching Rome itself.

🌀 Reflection:
Your testimony is powerful because it’s personal. How can you, like Paul, use your story to point others to the grace and truth of Jesus (vv. 3–16)?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Share your testimony this week—either in person or in writing—with one person who needs to hear how Jesus met you and changed your life (vv. 14–15).

Click here to return to the contents page for NT260 | Phase 2.1.

Acts 21 on 10/30 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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Paul’s journey to Jerusalem was filled with both love and warning. The believers at Tyre urged him through the Spirit not to go, but Paul’s heart was set on obeying God’s call (vv. 4–6). In Caesarea, the prophet Agabus bound himself with Paul’s belt, foretelling his arrest in Jerusalem (vv. 10–11). Even then, Paul would not turn back—he was ready “not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus” (v. 13). His companions could only answer, “Let the will of the Lord be done” (v. 14).

In Jerusalem, Paul was warmly received by James and the elders (vv. 17–20). To counter false rumors that he rejected Jewish law, Paul joined in a purification ritual at the temple (vv. 23–26). But when some Jews from Asia saw him there, they accused him of defiling the temple by bringing in a Gentile, which sparked a violent mob (vv. 27–29). Roman soldiers rushed in to stop the chaos, arresting Paul and carrying him away as the crowd shouted, “Away with him!” (vv. 30–36). Yet even then, Paul asked to speak to the people (vv. 37–40)—still seeing opportunity for the gospel where others saw only danger.

🌀 Reflection:
Are you willing to follow Jesus when obedience costs your comfort—or even your safety? True faith stays the course, trusting that God’s will is good even when the path is hard (vv. 13–14).

💬 Mission Challenge:
Encourage someone who’s facing hardship for their faith—write, call, or pray with them today, reminding them that the Lord’s will is worth every step (vv. 12–14).

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Acts 20 on 10/29 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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After the uproar in Ephesus, Paul encouraged the disciples and traveled through Macedonia and Greece, strengthening the churches (vv. 1–3). On the first day of the week in Troas, he taught late into the night; Eutychus fell from a third-story window and was taken up dead, but God restored his life through Paul, and the believers were greatly comforted (vv. 7–12). Paul then hurried past Ephesus, aiming for Jerusalem by Pentecost (v. 16).

From Miletus he called the Ephesian elders and reminded them of his humble, tearful, and courageous ministry—teaching publicly and from house to house, calling all to repentance and faith (vv. 18–21). Though the Spirit warned of chains ahead, Paul’s aim was to finish his course and testify to the gospel of grace (vv. 22–24). He declared himself innocent of their blood because he had preached the whole counsel of God (vv. 26–27), charged them to shepherd the church God bought with His own blood (v. 28), and warned of fierce wolves—even from among themselves (vv. 29–30). He commended them to God and the word of His grace (v. 32), modeled hard work and generosity, and recalled Jesus’s words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35). They wept, prayed, and saw him to the ship, sorrowing that they would not see his face again (vv. 36–38).

🌀 Reflection:
Where is God calling you to steady, tearful faithfulness—teaching, serving, or guarding your heart—so that you can “finish your course” with joy (vv. 18–21, 24, 28, 31)?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Encourage a shepherd: send a brief note (or text) today to your pastor/elder quoting Acts 20:32 and one way their ministry has strengthened you this month.

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Acts 19 on 10/28 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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Paul reached Ephesus and met disciples who had only known John’s baptism. He pointed them to Jesus; they were baptized in His name, and the Holy Spirit came upon them (vv. 1–7). For three months Paul preached in the synagogue, and when some resisted, he taught daily in the hall of Tyrannus for two years so that “all Asia” heard the word (vv. 8–10). God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, exposing false power when the sons of Sceva were shamed; many new believers confessed their sins and burned their magic books—worth a fortune—as the word of the Lord “continued to increase and prevail mightily” (vv. 11–20).

After Paul purposed to travel through Macedonia and Achaia, then on to Jerusalem and Rome (v. 21), a riot erupted. Demetrius the silversmith stirred the city, angry that the gospel was ruining idol sales and threatening Artemis worship (vv. 23–29). The mob filled the theater shouting, but the town clerk calmed them, noting Paul and his friends were not lawbreakers and directing any charges to the courts (vv. 30–41). The gospel changes lives, confronts idols, and still stands under scrutiny.

🌀 Reflection:
Where might “hidden” practices be dulling your love for Jesus? Bring them into the light today—confess, turn, and let the Spirit’s power make room for the word to prevail in you (vv. 18–20).

💬 Mission Challenge:
Identify one “idol” spot in your week (a habit, feed, or purchase) and replace it once with intentional Scripture and prayer—then share a brief testimony with a friend about what changed (vv. 26–27)..

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Acts 18 on 10/27 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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Paul left Athens for Corinth and teamed up with Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers who had been forced out of Rome (vv. 1–3). He reasoned in the synagogue each Sabbath, and when Silas and Timothy arrived, he devoted himself to preaching that “the Christ was Jesus” (vv. 4–5). After opposition, he moved next door to Titius Justus’s house; even Crispus, the synagogue ruler, believed, and many Corinthians were baptized (vv. 6–8). The Lord strengthened Paul in a night vision: “Do not be afraid … for I am with you,” so he stayed eighteen months teaching God’s word (vv. 9–11). When the Jews hauled Paul before Gallio, the proconsul threw out the case—another reminder that the gospel was no crime under Roman law (vv. 12–17).

Paul then sailed with Priscilla and Aquila, briefly reasoned in Ephesus (promising to return if God willed), greeted the church in Judea, and came back to Antioch before setting out again to strengthen the disciples in Galatia and Phrygia (vv. 18–23). Meanwhile, Apollos arrived in Ephesus—eloquent and mighty in the Scriptures, though he knew only John’s baptism—so Priscilla and Aquila privately explained “the way of God more accurately.” He went on to Achaia and powerfully showed from the Scriptures that the Christ is Jesus (vv. 24–28).

🌀 Reflection:
Where do you need the Lord’s “Do not be afraid” today? Ask Him for courage to keep speaking, trusting that He has people He intends to save through the word (vv. 9–11).

💬 Mission Challenge:
Encourage a fellow servant: write a short note (or text) to someone in ministry this week, reminding them “The Lord is with you—keep going” (vv. 9–11).

Click here to return to the contents page for NT260 | Phase 2.1.

Acts 17 on 10/26 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

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Paul preached in Thessalonica for three Sabbaths, showing from the Scriptures that the Messiah had to suffer and rise, and declaring, “This Jesus … is the Christ” (vv. 2–3). Some Jews, many devout Greeks, and leading women believed, but jealous opponents stirred a mob and accused the believers of treason for proclaiming Jesus as King (vv. 4–9). Sent away to Berea, Paul found hearers who received the word eagerly and examined the Scriptures daily; many believed—women and men of high standing—until agitators from Thessalonica arrived and stirred trouble again (vv. 10–14).

Escorted to Athens, Paul’s spirit was provoked by the city’s idols, so he reasoned in the synagogue and the marketplace (vv. 16–17). Taken to the Areopagus, he proclaimed the Creator who needs nothing, who made all nations and calls all people to repent because He has fixed a day to judge the world through the risen Jesus (vv. 24–31). Some mocked the resurrection, some wanted to hear more, and some believed—among them Dionysius and Damaris (vv. 32–34).

🌀 Reflection:
Where is your heart “provoked” by the idols of our age, and how will you respond—with patient reasoning from Scripture and a clear call to repent and trust the risen Christ (vv. 16–17, 30–31)?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Practice the Berean pattern this week: pick one conversation about Jesus, open a Bible together, and “examine the Scriptures” with that person (v. 11).

Click here to return to the contents page for NT260 | Phase 2.1.