Acts 37. Acts 18:1-17

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 8. What did God promise Paul in Corinth (see 18:9-10)? 
  “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people.”
1. I am with you
2. No one will attack and harm you
3. Your labours will be fruitful - there are many of those appointed to eternal life in this city. 
 
 9. How did Paul respond to that promise (see 18:11)? 
He stayed a year and six months (cf.  < 4 weeks in Thessalonica in v.17:2). There was committed labour in response to the promise.
 
 10. How did God keep His promise (see 18:12-17)? 
 God granted Christianity legal status within the Empire, as a Jewish sect, through a Roman official
 
N.B. Sosthenes may have taken over from Crispus as synagogue ruler following the conversion of the latter. He may have become/been a Christian himself (1 Cor 1:1)
He may have been beaten up a) out of frustration by Jews who felt he did not do a good job of representing their case to Gallio b) he was the target of anti-Jewish sentiment by the Greeks c) he had become a Christian and the Jews knew the Romans would not interfere with their persecution.
 
11. What do the events of 18:1-17 tell you about God? 
God works through coincidental meetings (Aquila and Priscilla) and major historical events (Claudius expelling Jews from Rome)
God works through second options (Paul leaving the synagogue and staying next door to the synagogue)
God works directly to reassure those who serve Him
God elects people to salvation. ("I have many in this city")
God works through non-Christian officials (like Gallio)

He keeps promises.
He provides for Paul’ needs through Timothy and Silas.

 
12. Describe at least one way in which 18:1-17 is relevant to your life. Is there a promise, an example, or an insight about God that you might take to heart? 
 Meeting people
 
For Thought and Discussion: Does God still use secular officials to further the gospel, as He did in 18:2,14-16? If so, how? 
 Common grace, to enforce the law
 
Optional Application: Has God ever made any promises to you similar to the one in 18:9-10? If so, has He been faithful? How should you act in light of that promise? 

 

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