Day One StudyLet’s return to the chronological story of Paul from Acts. In Acts 21 he completed his third missionary journey when he arrived in Jerusalem about 57 A.D.
Read Acts 21:17-26.
1. What rumor about Paul’s teaching had circulated among the Jews (Acts 21:20-21)? Why was it upsetting to them?
Extra Training: The teaching they attributed to Paul was not the issue that had been decided by the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15, but they sound similar. What differences do you see here and in Acts 15:5-11, 20-21?
2. What did the church elders suggest that Paul do to avoid conflict with these Jews (Acts 21:22-24)? How did Paul respond to their request?
There are several suggestions as to the nature of this vow or purification. A likely option for its purpose was “to restore purity after he has traveled in Gentile-areas; for the others, it is an affirmation of their Nazirite vow of at least thirty days.â€7
3. Would you agree with the decision for Paul to be purified in light of the situation in Jerusalem? Consider 1 Cor. 9:12, 19-22 and Gal. 1:10, which you read in previous lessons.
4. Sharing question: Who in your life is from a different cultural or religious background than yours? Perhaps it is a co-worker or neighbor. Can you think of any barriers that stand in the way of your reaching her with the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection? Are there barriers that can be removed so that you don’t shut her off from hearing you? Talk with your small group if you are uncertain; they may have some good ideas for you.
5. Responding to God: Pray for this person and ask God to show you ways of loving her.
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