Luke/Acts for Beginners

This allows his narrative to be researched and proven correct. It is a form of internal validity that offers readers insights into the truthfulness of his account. It has the same value to us today as we face challenges to the accuracy of scripture.

Although Paul and the other experienced travelers knew of the danger, it was decided to travel on. A storm comes, just as Paul expected and the travelers were in peril. Paul tells the travelers that none will be lost. Finally, after many days of travel in peril, they are shipwrecked but are rescued on Malta.

Paul knows that he will be in Rome so he has confidence that none will be lost. His exhortation lays the foundation for those on the ship to see the power of God. Although they would face more dangers, they would survive. After being shipwrecked on Malta, Paul uses this opportunity to further the gospel in that place.

This episode demonstrates that God is in charge. Recall from Luke 8:22 that the disciples were in a boat with Jesus when a storm came up. Jesus calms the storm and teaches a lesson on faith. This is Paul's opportunity to teach the travelers and us about faith. God always remains in control through life's storms. We may face danger, even death, but we continue to trust in God.

Paul uses every opportunity to teach God's word. Through miracles and teaching, many believe Paul's message and are converted to Jesus. This is consistent with Paul's normal efforts and his exhortation to be ready teach always (in season and out – II Timothy 4:2).

We will also find ourselves in storms and danger but must always be ready. We don't know that God hasn't placed us in a situation because those who are experiencing storms in their lives can be taught about Jesus. God places the responsibility to carry the good news of salvation in our hands (II Corinthians 4:7). He will bring the seeker and the teacher together so that His will is carried out. That's the message behind Romans 8:28. God does the calling and we help the seeker answer.

Paul and the rest arrive safely to Rome where Paul is placed in house arrest. Paul uses this time and situation to continue his ministry. He calls the Jewish leaders together. They accept Paul's teachings and bring yet others to listen to him. As a result, some believe while others still resist. This is the normal pattern for Paul and the reactions of those hearing God's word. Note Luke's statement in Acts 28:27 that the hearers had become dull. It is true that no matter who teaches the truth of God's word, there are those who cannot or will not respond as God wills. Paul then shifts his focus to teaching Gentiles. He doesn't close the door to his Jewish brethren, he simply shifts the emphasis. Paul used his time to teach all that would listen. He also wrote the prison letters (Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon). All of this shows clearly the path put before him by our Lord beginning in Acts 9 when Paul was converted. He would indeed follow God's will.

Answers will vary. Look for responses that indicate that God has a plan and we must follow it. No matter who we are or in what situation we find ourselves, God will use us. We must accept God's will ourselves and then teach others and help others do the same.

The characters in Acts clearly demonstrate their faithfulness and serve as an example for us. They not only teach faithfulness as a core characteristic of Christians but demonstrate it through their actions in good times and hard times. We must also remain faithful no matter the opposition or situation. In our faithfulness we must look for opportunities to fulfill our role as teachers of our Lord's message of salvation. We do that in word and deed.

In all things we give God the glory as we live as faithful servants.