2025-11-09_Acts_25_1-27.docx

of the Sermon (Acts 25:1-27):**

Today’s sermon walked us through Acts 25, where Paul, after two years of unjust imprisonment, faces yet another round of accusations and political maneuvering. We saw how God’s sovereignty is at work, even through the actions of those who don’t acknowledge Him, and how Paul’s unwavering focus on Christ allows him to see every circumstance—even injustice and suffering—as an opportunity for gospel witness. The text highlighted the futility of earthly power and the emptiness of accusations against Paul, who remains innocent and steadfast. Through comparisons to other faithful believers who suffered for their faith, we were reminded that the Christian’s hope and perspective must be anchored in eternity, not in the shifting sands of present circumstances. The call was to examine our own focus: are we looking at our troubles, or are our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith?

**K

Key Takeaways

• 1. God’s Sovereignty in the Midst of Chaos: Even when human leaders act out of fear, self-interest, or confusion, God is quietly weaving His purposes through their decisions. Paul’s protection from assassination and his eventual journey to Rome are not the results of luck or cleverness, but of a sovereign God who uses even the unwilling to accomplish His will. This invites us to trust that God is at work in the details of our own lives, even when we can’t see the full picture.
• 2. The Power of a Christ-Centered Perspective: Paul’s ability to remain bold, gracious, and focused in the face of repeated injustice comes from his gaze being fixed on Christ, not on his circumstances. He doesn’t allow bitterness or self-pity to take root, but instead sees every trial as a new platform for the gospel. This challenges us to examine where our own focus lies—are we consumed by our troubles, or are we seeking the things above, where Christ is?
• 3. Innocence and Integrity Under Fire: Paul’s repeated declarations of innocence, and the inability of his accusers to prove any wrongdoing, highlight the importance of living with integrity before God and others. Yet, even a blameless life does not guarantee fair treatment in this world. The call is to remain faithful and true, knowing that our ultimate vindication comes from God, not from human courts or opinions.
• 4. Eternal Perspective Transforms Suffering: The stories of Joseph, Daniel, and others remind us that suffering and injustice are not the end of the story for God’s people. When our hope is anchored in eternity, even the sting of death is removed, and we are freed to live courageously and sacrificially. This eternal perspective allows us to see beyond temporary pain to the lasting glory that awaits in Christ.
• 5. Every Circumstance is an Opportunity for Witness: Paul’s trials, rather than silencing him, become opportunities to proclaim the resurrection and lordship of Jesus to new audiences, including kings and governors. Our own hardships, disappointments, and delays can likewise become platforms for gospel witness if we are willing to see them through the lens of God’s mission. The question is not just “Why is this happening?” but “How can Christ be made known through this?”

1. What were the main accusations brought against Paul in Acts 25, and how did Festus and Agrippa respond to them?
2. How does Paul describe his own innocence and integrity during his defense?
3. According to the sermon, what role did God’s sovereignty play in the events surrounding Paul’s imprisonment and trial?
4. What similarities did the sermon draw between Paul’s situation and the stories of Joseph and Daniel?

1. Why do you think Paul was able to remain bold and gracious even after two years of unjust imprisonment and repeated false accusations?
2. How does the example of Joseph in Genesis 50:20 help us understand God’s ability to use evil intentions for good purposes?
3. In Colossians 3:1-3, Paul urges believers to “seek the things that are above.” What does it look like, practically, to set your mind on things above when facing suffering or injustice?
4. The sermon mentioned that neither Festus nor Agrippa had real power over Paul’s fate. What does this reveal about where true authority lies, and how should that affect a Christian’s response to unfair treatment?

1. When you face unfair criticism or accusations, what is your natural response? Is it more like Paul’s (focused on Christ and the gospel), or do you tend to become bitter or self-focused? Share a recent example.
2. The sermon challenged us to see every circumstance—even suffering—as an opportunity for gospel witness. Can you think of a current hardship or disappointment in your life that could become a platform for sharing Christ? What would that look like?
3. Paul’s hope was anchored in eternity, not in his present circumstances. Are there specific worries or troubles that are keeping your focus “down” instead of “up”? What practical step could you take this week to shift your perspective?
4. The stories of Joseph, Daniel, and others show that a blameless life does not guarantee fair treatment. How do you handle it when doing the right thing doesn’t lead to immediate reward or recognition?
5. The sermon asked: “Are we looking at our troubles, or are our eyes fixed on Jesus?” What is one distraction or “earthly thing” that is pulling your attention away from Christ right now? How can you address it?
6. Paul used his trials as opportunities to proclaim Jesus to new audiences. Who in your life might be “watching” how you handle adversity? How could your response point them to Christ?
7. The sermon ended with a story about a girl who lost her fear of death after trusting Jesus. How does your view of eternity affect the way you handle fear, suffering, or loss? Is there an area where you need to ask God for a more eternal perspective?