Study Questions – Acts #27
An Honest Answer
Acts 23:31 – 26:32
INTRODUCTION: This is a long passage, and honestly, your group may not be able to work all the way through it in one night. That is totally ok.
This passage all hinges around Paul’s confession in 26:29, 29 And Paul said, “Whether short or long, 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.” It comes at the end of a long scene with Paul being in Roman custody for over two years because Felix had forgotten him to gain political favor (24:27). But, this confession makes clear Paul’s motive for enduring such hardship and even the point of his life. Yes, he desires all to know Jesus, even Agrippa. And he is willing to declare Jesus whether it takes a short or long time. Again, we see Paul giving an honest answer for his life and the hope that resides within him. Hope is a key idea in the speech, appearing three times. Agrippa’s reaction is also important. It shows that Paul’s testimony registers with some force, although Agrippa does not come to believe. Paul testifies to kings as Jesus predicted of him (Acts 9:15). The speech is an apologetic (i.e., defense) for the resurrection but also a presentation of the gospel. There is proclamation as well as apologetic here.[1] Paul’s example in this moment reminds us that hope is too valuable to hide.
GETTING STARTED – As you begin your group time, talk about the value of an honest life. That is, talk about examples of people you have watched live honest lives. They could be Christians or not. What did they do that communicated with clarity and honesty what they were all about? What resonated with you? Or, what challenges were created for you?
IN THE WORD – Let’s dig back into the passage. It is important to strengthen our muscles in reading God’s Word. On Sunday, we walked through the passage in the sermon. Hopefully, that helped you to see the landmarks of the passage with fresh eyes. Now, with your group, go back through it and see what God is saying to you specifically.
First, before you read the passage, take a moment to ask God’s Spirit to quiet your mind and heart and to illuminate the text to you. Second, read the passage aloud to the group. Then, follow the simple method below. (O.P.A)
Observe: Make 8-10 observations from the passage. Pay close attention to observe and note repeated words and phrases, names, places, and themes.
Principles: From your list of observations, what patterns or big ideas do you see emerging? Can you distill it down into 2-4 big idea truths?
Apply: Moving from your list of principles, it is time to apply God’s Word. Remember, we believe that God’s Word is living and active and that it can change the way we live Monday- Friday. What is one tangible way to apply a truth from your list above?
[1] Darrell L. Bock, Acts, Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2007), 706.