Acts 28:1-10 After the shipwreck on the island of Malta, Paul is suddenly bitten by a venomous snake. A symbol of evil, the locals believe it happened because of justice against Paul. But, since Paul never falls ill, it becomes an example that evil will not prevail. Instead, the Gospel spreads across the island and many are healed and saved. Evil may try, but, it will never have the last word. The Gospel has prevailed time and time again and won't stop now.

When heading towards a wreck, we need to flex our trust in God.

Big issues require immediate attention, but often get neglected. We dive into three big issues in one's spiritual life that require immediate attention, and discuss what it looks like to fix them.

Acts 27:1-26 As Paul sets sail for Italy on his way to Rome, his ship is caught in a terrible storm. While those on the ship become frantic and terrified, Paul remains steadfast and cool in the hope he has in Jesus and the promises his voice has given Him. As Christians, we are called to be "hope markers" for those caught in the everyday storms of life.

Acts 26:20-32 As Paul continues his defense before Festus and King Agrippa, he begins to press them with the message of Jesus. Their responses are typical when a person is confronted with the reality of the Gospel. Festus attacks and King Agrippa avoids. What is our response to the message of Jesus and various aspects of it? Do we tend to attack it, avoid it, or accept it? Only one response will bring change in our lives and in the world around us.

Acts 26:1-19 As Paul stands before King Agrippa, he makes the case that because of Jesus he has changed from a zealous Pharisee opposing the name of Jesus to a zealous follower of Jesus preaching the name of Jesus. His life has been dramatically changed because of Jesus and the good deeds that are coming from it are changing the lives of others. When a person places their faith in Jesus, life changes. And, through a changed life comes the power and courage to change the lives of others.

Acts 25:13-27 Paul gains an audience with King Agrippa and his sister Bernice. Before he does, though, Festus catches Agrippa up to speed on the situation and lets him know that nobody knows what to do with him. He's being accused of all sorts of things, but Paul's integrity is undisputed. What Paul has refined in private has become his primary mode of witness in public. Similarly, as Christians, what is refined in us privately is witnessed publicly.

Easter 2024 at Genesis Church

Pastor DJ Uithoven takes us into our next segment of Acts. Are you ready to follow Jesus and do what's right?

Acts 24:1-27 As Paul stands before Felix in Caesarea, it is clear that both the Jewish lawyer, Tertullus, and Felix, are increasingly uncomfortable with the message of the Gospel. Which is to be expected. The good news of Jesus, while gracious to us, challenges our current state of living. It is countercultural to how our society operates. Following Jesus, therefore, is a practice in becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable.