Bible Study: Acts Chapter 20

We are a society set on schedules. Moreover, we don’t take it kindly when someone interferes with our routine, especially when that someone is the pastor.

Has anyone ever fallen asleep during the message? It’s amusing to watch a dozing parishioner – bobbing head, drool, heavy breathing, and snorts. Then, the rude awakening when the snort becomes too loud, the poor fellow jerks and gawks around as if he has no clue where that sound came from. If the snort doesn’t do the trick, the wife’s elbow firmly planted in his ribs gets him every Sunday.

The mere fact that the crowd grew weary after a long day did not encumber Paul. He preached through the night. Young Eutychus dozed off, as do our weary benchwarmers. Unfortunately, Eutychus’ seat was a windowsill. When he entered a deep sleep, he fell to his death. Paul prayed over him and God restored the young man.

Although we find amusement in the dozing parishioner (as long as he doesn’t fall out the window), there is nothing amusing about the spiritual dozer. During these last days, every believer needs to be on guard because the enemy lurks nearer than ever. It is far more dangerous to succumb to a deep sleep and fall to our spiritual death.

What are some signs of spiritual slumber?

As Paul took the responsibility to pray over Eutychus, we need to pray for those we see in this condition. People who are asleep spiritually do not realize it and are not easily aroused to consciousness. Paul literally fell upon the young man and prayed. We need to fall on our knees and ask God to revive the sleepers.

Desiring to be at Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost, Paul moved on. He grieved over the hostility of his fellow Jewish citizens. Gathering the elders of the Ephesian church, Paul’s discourse included the warnings he had received in every city. The Holy Spirit confirmed that he would face bondage and much tribulation if he proceeded to Jerusalem. Luke ended this chapter with the sorrow they all shared in Paul’s decision to continue his pilgrimage. Even in the face of diversity, this man of God refused to back down to the enemy’s threats.

As springtime buds with the blossoms of a hopeful harvest, it reminds us of the hope we have in Christ. It is the perfect time to pray for revival in the hearts of complacent believers. Part of the apostasy of the church is the lack of urgency for the lost. Focusing on our own needs, we lose the drive to help others. We convince ourselves that whatever they believe is all right as long as it gives them peace. When we attempt to awaken slumbering believers, we may face ridicule and heartache. Regardless, let us press forward as Paul did, never ceasing to pray for our adversaries.

Melinda & Barry and family, Jenn, Jordan, Joey, Phyllis and husband, Barb, J.J., Nora, Ann, Trinity, Wyatt, Johanna, Irene, Enos, Jace, Sam, Joe, Mona, Emma, Samantha, Ray, Wyoming Ave. Baptist Church, offenses received from fellow "Soldiers," our Monday Bible Study, special unspoken needs, and remember me, Brenda Hendricks.

Jace, a thirteen-year-old who recently had surgery to remove a tumor between his eyes, is recovering. The doctors are very please at the results of his surgery and were able to do far more than they thought they’d be able to do. We are looking forward to your praise reports. Please keep us informed so we can share the wonderful grace of Jesus.

Read Acts 21. Following in Spite of Tribulation

If you are free in Christ Jesus, pray for those who remain captive. And tell others, Christians as well as non-believers, what Jesus has done for you. Your testimony will benefit them and help you to strengthen your confidence in Christ’s work in your life and in the future.

If you’d like to participate in our Monday Bible Study, please contact us with your comments, questions, and prayer requests or at twosmallfish@twosmallfish.org.