Reaching Thessalonica [17.1-9]

Acts 17 continues Paul’s second missionary journey. This is a further account of Paul’s preaching to challenge others in following Jesus. We are to believe and preach that Jesus is the one we should follow, and that He is the only one who can save us.


[Acts 17.1-9]

17.1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. 2 And Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3 explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus, whom I proclaim to you, is the Christ.” 4 And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a great many of the devout Greeks and not a few of the leading women. 5 But the Jews were jealous, and taking some wicked men of the rabble, they formed a mob, set the city in an uproar, and attacked the house of Jason, seeking to bring them out to the crowd. 6 And when they could not find them, they dragged Jason and some of the brothers before the city authorities, shouting, “These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also, 7 and Jason has received them, and they are all acting against the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus.” 8 And the people and the city authorities were disturbed when they heard these things. 9 And when they had taken money as security from Jason and the rest, they let them go.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Do you think it was fear of change that hindered some Jews from believing that Christ was our savior?

+ Do you think God is calling us to risk our own comfort and security?

+ Why would Cesar perceive people believing Christ was a King as a threat?

+ Has your faith been challenged recently? 

+ How do you think Paul convinced the Jews who Jesus was? 

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ How are you proclaiming your faith in Christ on a daily basis?

+ How do you remain committed or faithful in times of turbulence? 

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ How was I inspired to turn toward God and accept Him into my heart?

+ Who can I invite to the Sunday Gathering?