Preaching Under Pressure

Follow Along with the Message

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

Acts 25:1-12

Preaching Under Pressure

Getting Started

How does today’s culture put pressure on Christians to conform to non-Christian values and beliefs?

Background

Acts 24 records Paul’s defense before Gov. Felix.  Although Paul was innocent of the charges against him, Felix left him in prison for two years.  Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus.

Digging In

1. Read Ac 25:1-5. What did the religious leaders ask Festus to do?  What was their motive?
2. How did Festus respond to their request?
3. Read vss. 6-8. Write a brief summary of these verses.
4. How did Paul defend himself against their charges?
5. Read vss. 9-12. Do you think Festus’ request was reasonable?  Why or why not?
6. How did Paul respond? Why do you think he finally made an “appeal to Caesar” (which was his right as a Roman citizen)?
7. How do you think the Lord’s statement in Ac 23:11 might have figured into Paul’s decision to appeal to Caesar?
8. What was Festus’ decision in the matter?

Getting Personal

• In what ways have you experienced pressure
  to compromise your Christian beliefs?
• What has helped you remain faithful to Christ and his word?
• How can Rom 12:1-2 help us resist the pressure to conform to the world?
• How does Paul’s determination in Ac 20:22-24 reflect the teaching of Jesus in Luke 9:23-25?
• What key lessons have you learned from Ac 25 and these other passages that will help you persevere under pressure?