Bent Oak Church

Faith is Not a Life of Risk Management (Acts 21:27-22:24)

Paul's plan failed. He was spotted in the temple by his opponents and quickly seized. I riot formed, and Paul was dragged out of the temple. But after the Romans intervened, Paul was given a chance to offer a defense. He did not defend himself but instead told the truth. God was extending salvation to the Gentiles. We look at Paul's courage and his willingness to risk his own safety for the truth and God's mission.

Doing Good Doesn't Always Work (Acts 21:1-26)

Paul finally arrived in Jerusalem. While the believers there celebrated his work, there was danger. Rumors were spreading that Paul was teaching people to abandon the Jewish law. Paul decided to go to the temple in an act of piety to prove them wrong. We look at Paul's arrival, the plan, and why it doesn't ultimately work.

Paul's final advice for the church in Ephesus (Acts 20:17-38)

On his return to Jerusalem, Paul stopped in to say goodbye to the church in Ephesus. He explained that they would not see him again, as the Spirit had confirmed that he would face suffering and arrest in Jerusalem. Luke records Paul's goodbye speech, and by it, some of Paul's most moving and impassioned words for the leaders of that local church.

A Long Sermon and A Resurrection (Acts 20:1-16)

On his return to Jerusalem, Paul stopped in for a brief visit at Troas. There he preached long into the night. But there was an ancient and a young man who died. Paul paused his service, raised the boy to life, and went back to ministering. We take a closer look at why Luke included this story and the unique way he narrates it.

Religion, Riots, and Greed (Acts 19:21-41)

While Paul was still in Ephesus, a major disturbance broke out. Led by a silversmith, the city was concerned that Paul's teaching was jeopardizing the worship of Artemis. But Luke recognizes a deeper concern. The town is worried it will affect their businesses and wallets. We take a closer look at our idolatry and false religion, which lead to greed and a self-interest that produces fear and chaos.