As Luke continues this account of Paul coming to Jerusalem, honoring the request to be purified in the temple, being dragged out and beaten because of the Jews from Asia, and his arrest by the Romans. Here the Roman tribune asks the Sanhedrin to gather and rule on Paul's case. They do gather, but cannot agree because of the foundational issue of the resurrection - a key issue to Paul in message of Jesus. Paul is once again taken away by the Roman soldiers for his own safety. The next night, the Lord stands beside Paul in the night and offers him the reassurance that he will go to Rome and share the truth of his message in Rome. In the rest of the chapter, Luke shows us two examples of God's protection. First, through the nephew of Paul, who becomes aware of the plot against Paul's life. Second, the Roman army, maybe the most powerful in history, takes up the protection and defense of Paul. God demonstrates his presence and protection to Paul, and his presence and protection are just are real and evident in our lives today. You must rest in the presence and protection of the Lord in your daily life! 

Acts is a unique book in our New Testament, because it is the only book of history that we are given. As Luke writes, a second edition to his gospel, he continues with two vital themes – first, that Jesus offers salvation to men and second, that this work – the mission is accomplished – in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus had already instructed his disciples about the Holy Spirit and his ongoing ministry to them and all who would come to believe in Jesus. Despite the obvious focus on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Acts, this book is about Jesus. Throughout Acts, Jesus is described as Lord (the most common title for Jesus in Acts), Jesus (67x), Christ (25x), Servant, Holy One, Just One, a Prophet like Moses, Savior, Son of God, Son of Man, Author of Life, Judge, Man and God. There is absolutely no question that Acts is the continuing account of all that Jesus began to do and to teach as presented in the gospel of Luke. The outline of Acts is very straightforward: Witnesses in Jerusalem (1-7), Witnesses in Judaea & Samaria (8-12), and Witnesses to the ends of the earth (13-28). Luke focuses throughout on this truth: You will receive power from the Holy Spirit and be my witnesses to the ends of the earth. May God strengthen us to be effective witnesses for Jesus.

Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers and Engaging our Community. 

Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!