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A Denarius Coin With Tiberius’ Inscription

The Bible clearly states that Jesus conducted his ministry under the rule of Tiberius Caesar. Some people who opposed Jesus attempted to trick him by asking about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus, perceiving their deceit, responded, “Why are you testing me? Show me a denarius.” They brought him one, and he asked, “Whose image and inscription are on this?” They replied, “Caesar’s.” Jesus then said, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” The people were amazed at his response. (Mark 12:15-17)

Denarius of Emperor Tiberius, commonly referred to as “the Tribute Penny.”

Archaeologists have discovered a silver denarius coin featuring the likeness of Tiberius Caesar. This coin was circulated around 15 C.E., aligning with Tiberius’ reign as emperor, which began in 14 C.E. This finding provides additional support for the biblical account that John the Baptist’s ministry commenced in the 15th year of Tiberius, around the spring of 29 C.E. (Luke 3:1, 2).

This archaeological discovery strengthens the historical accuracy of the biblical narrative, affirming the presence of Tiberius Caesar during Jesus’ time and corroborating the events described in the New Testament. It offers valuable insight into the historical context and further validates the connections between biblical accounts and the wider world.

Pontius Pilate Inscription

In 1961, an important archaeological discovery was made regarding Pontius Pilate. A stone slab found in Caesarea had the name of Pontius Pilate inscribed in Latin.

The so-called Pilate Stone. The words […]TIVS PILATVS[…] can be clearly seen on the second line.

This finding provides historical evidence of the existence of Pontius Pilate, who is mentioned in the Bible in relation to Jesus’ crucifixion. The inscription on the stone slab confirms the presence of Pontius Pilate as a historical figure during that time.

The Book of Acts, also known as the Acts of the Apostles, is a key text in the New Testament that provides valuable insights into the early history of the Christian Church. The book documents the activities of the apostles and other early Christian leaders in the years following the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and it provides a detailed account of the development of the Christian faith in the first century CE. In this article, I will explore the archaeological evidence that supports the historical accuracy of the Book of Acts and the ways in which this evidence sheds light on the early history of the Christian Church.

Archaeological Evidence

Archaeological excavations have uncovered a number of sites and artifacts that provide valuable insights into the historical accuracy of the Book of Acts. These sites and artifacts offer a glimpse into the social, cultural, and political context in which the early Christian Church developed, and they provide tangible evidence of the people and places described in the book.

One of the most significant archaeological discoveries related to the Book of Acts is the ancient city of Ephesus, located in modern-day Turkey. According to the Book of Acts, the apostle Paul spent over two years in Ephesus, where he established a Christian community and wrote a number of letters that have become an important part of the New Testament.

Archaeological excavations in Ephesus have uncovered a number of important sites related to Paul’s ministry, including the so-called “Ephesus Inscription,” a large stone block that contains a number of inscriptions related to the political and religious life of the city. The inscription provides valuable insights into the social and political context in which Paul conducted his ministry, and it highlights the ways in which the early Christian community was both influenced by and in conflict with the broader cultural and religious traditions of the ancient world.

Another important archaeological discovery related to the Book of Acts is the ancient city of Philippi, located in modern-day Greece. According to the Book of Acts, Paul spent time in Philippi, where he established a Christian community and wrote a number of letters that have become an important part of the New Testament.

Archaeological excavations in Philippi have uncovered a number of important sites related to Paul’s ministry, including a number of churches and other religious buildings. One of the most significant sites is the so-called “Prison of Paul,” a small building that is believed to have been the location of Paul’s imprisonment during his time in Philippi. The Prison of Paul provides valuable insights into the conditions faced by early Christians, and it highlights the persecution and hardship that Paul and his followers faced in their efforts to spread the Christian message.

Other important archaeological discoveries related to the Book of Acts include the ancient city of Corinth, where Paul spent over a year establishing a Christian community, and the ancient city of Jerusalem, where many of the events described in the book took place.

Historical Accuracy

The archaeological evidence related to the Book of Acts provides strong support for the historical accuracy of the text. The sites and artifacts uncovered by archaeologists confirm many of the details described in the book, and they provide a tangible link between the events described in the text and the historical reality of the ancient world.

The Book of Acts also provides valuable insights into the social, cultural, and political context in which the early Christian Church developed. The book documents the ways in which the early Christians were both influenced by and in conflict with the broader cultural and religious traditions of the ancient world, and it provides a detailed account of the social and political pressures that the early Church faced in its efforts to spread the Christian message.

The book also provides valuable information about the early Christian community, including its leadership structure, its beliefs and practices, and its efforts to establish a coherent and unified theology. Through its detailed descriptions of the activities of the apostles and other early Christian leaders, the Book of Acts provides a window into the inner workings of the early Christian Church, and it sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that the early Christians faced as they sought to establish a new religious tradition in the ancient world.

The Book of Acts is an important text that provides valuable insights into the early history of the Christian Church. The book documents the activities of the apostles and other early Christian leaders, and it provides a detailed account of the development of the Christian faith in the first century CE. The archaeological evidence related to the Book of Acts provides strong support for the historical accuracy of the text, and it sheds light on the social, cultural, and political context in which the early Christian Church developed.

By exploring the archaeological evidence and historical context of the Book of Acts, we can gain a deeper understanding of the rich and complex history of Christianity and the ways in which the faith has been shaped by the social, cultural, and political forces of the world around it. The Book of Acts provides a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of the early Christian Church, and it serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith in the lives of individuals and communities across the world.

The Book of Acts as a Historical Source

The 42nd book of the Bible, written by Luke, tells the account of Jesus and his followers until he goes to heaven. The 44th book, Acts of Apostles, continues the account by describing how the Holy Spirit helped create the Christian community and how the message spread from Jews to people of all nations. The first 12 chapters focus on Peter, while the next 16 cover the work of Paul. Luke was close to Paul and traveled with him often.

The book is written to Theophilus, who is addressed as “most excellent,” suggesting he held a high position. The book provides an accurate historical record of the Christian congregation, starting with Jesus’ appearances to his disciples after he rose from the dead. It covers important events from 33 to about 61 C.E., spanning about 28 years.

The same person who wrote the Gospel of Luke wrote Acts. Both books were written to Theophilus. Luke connects the two accounts by repeating the end of his Gospel in the beginning of Acts, making it clear that they are by the same author. It is thought that Luke finished writing Acts around 61 C.E. while staying with the apostle Paul in Rome for two years. Because it describes events up to that year and leaves Paul’s trial unresolved, it must have been completed then.

Bible scholars have considered Acts to be a part of the canon since ancient times. The book is found in some of the oldest Greek Scripture manuscripts, such as Michigan No. 1571 (P38) from the 3rd or 4th century C.E. and Chester Beatty No. 1 (P45) from the 3rd century. This suggests that Acts was circulating with other books of the Bible and was included in the catalog at an early date. Luke’s writing in Acts is just as accurate as his Gospel. Historian Sir William M. Ramsay considers Luke to be among the first-class historians because his writing is trustworthy and truthful.[1]

Luke’s writing is characterized by its accuracy and attention to detail. For example, Edwin Smith, a British warship commander during World War I, noted that Luke’s description of a ship’s steering system in Acts 27:40 was accurate. He explained that ancient ships were steered with two large oars, one on each side of the stern, rather than a single rudder as modern ships are. Smith also found that Luke’s descriptions of the ship’s movements were confirmed by independent sources, and that his descriptions of the places they visited were accurate. Smith concluded that Luke’s observations and statements were reliable and trustworthy. This example illustrates Luke’s commitment to accuracy in his writing.

Archaeological discoveries support the accuracy of Luke’s writings. For instance, excavations at Ephesus have uncovered the temple of Artemis and an ancient theater where the Ephesians rioted against the apostle Paul, as described in Acts 19:27-41. Inscriptions have been found that confirm Luke’s use of the term “city rulers” to describe the officials of Thessalonica, as mentioned in 17:6, 8. Additionally, two inscriptions from Malta confirm Luke’s reference to Publius as “the principal man” of the island, as stated in 28:7. These archaeological findings provide further evidence of Luke’s attention to accuracy and detail in his writing.

Luke’s record of speeches made by Peter, Stephen, Cornelius, Tertullus, Paul, and others shows that they were all unique in style and content. Paul’s speeches even varied in style depending on the audience. This suggests that Luke recorded only what he had heard firsthand or had been reported to him by eyewitnesses. These differences in speech style and content support the authenticity of Luke’s account and indicate that he was not making up stories.

We know very little about Luke’s personal life. He was not one of the apostles but worked closely with them, as described in Luke 1:1-4. The apostle Paul mentions Luke by name three times in his letters (Colossians 4:10, 14; 2 Timothy 4:11; Philemon 24). Luke was Paul’s companion for several years and was referred to as “the beloved physician.” The account in Acts shifts between “they” and “we,” indicating that Luke was with Paul in Troas during his second missionary journey, stayed in Philippi when Paul left, and then rejoined him for the trip to Rome for trial, as mentioned in Acts 16:8, 10; 17:1; 20:4-6; 28:16.

On the date of Acts being written Norman L. Geisler writes, “Acts ends with Jerusalem and the temple still standing and Paul alive and well in a Roman prison. This indicates that Acts was written before Jerusalem fell in 70 CE and before Paul was martyred by 68 CE. Further, there is no indication the Jewish War had begun (in 66 CE). Nor had Nero’s persecutions commenced (in 64 CE). What is more, James the brother of Jesus is still alive, and he died, according to Josephus, in 62 CE. On the other hand, the Book of Acts must have been written after 54 CE when Gentiles were attracted to Christianity (Acts 18:2, 54 CE) since Luke gears his message to them. Most likely, it was written when Luke had time while Paul was in jail (Acts 23). Since Paul came to Rome in 50 CE and was there two years (28:30), about 61 to 62 CE is the likely date.”[2]

Archaeological Discoveries from the Sites Mentioned in Acts

The Book of Acts provides a detailed account of the early Christian church, including its origins, spread, and major figures. Many of the places mentioned in Acts have been excavated by archaeologists, providing further insights into the history of the region and the accuracy of Luke’s account.

One of the most notable sites mentioned in Acts is Jerusalem. Excavations have uncovered the remains of the Second Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. Other discoveries in Jerusalem include the Pool of Bethesda, where Jesus performed a healing miracle (John 5:1-18), and the Pool of Siloam, where Jesus healed a blind man (John 9:1-7).

The city of Caesarea, mentioned in Acts as the place where the apostle Paul was imprisoned (Acts 23:33), has also been excavated. The remains of a large amphitheater, which could seat up to 10,000 people, have been discovered, as well as a large palace complex that is believed to have been used by Herod the Great.

Ephesus, where the apostle Paul spent two years (Acts 19:10), is another site of archaeological significance. Excavations have uncovered the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, as well as a large theater where Paul preached and where a riot occurred (Acts 19:23-41).

Other notable sites mentioned in Acts include Athens, where Paul delivered his famous speech on the Areopagus (Acts 17:16-34), and Corinth, where Paul spent 18 months (Acts 18:1-18) and where a large temple to the goddess Aphrodite once stood.

The archaeological discoveries from these and other sites mentioned in Acts provide valuable insights into the history of early Christianity and the accuracy of Luke’s account. They also demonstrate the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.

Insights into the Early Expansion of Christianity

The early expansion of Christianity is a fascinating period in history, marked by the rapid spread of a new faith across the ancient world. While much of this expansion is documented in the New Testament, there are also many other historical and archaeological sources that shed light on this period.

One of the key factors that contributed to the early expansion of Christianity was the widespread use of the Greek language. Greek was the language of commerce and culture in the eastern Mediterranean at the time, and it was the language in which the New Testament was written. This made it easier for early Christian missionaries to communicate their message to a wide audience, especially in urban areas.

Another important factor was the extensive network of Roman roads and sea routes, which allowed for easy travel and communication throughout the empire. This facilitated the spread of Christianity to distant regions, such as Asia Minor and Greece, as well as to major urban centers like Rome and Alexandria.

In addition, the early Christian church was highly organized and adaptable, with a strong emphasis on evangelism and missionary work. The apostles and early church leaders were highly motivated and dedicated to spreading the Gospel, and they employed a wide range of strategies to do so, including preaching, teaching, and healing.

Archaeological discoveries also provide valuable insights into the early expansion of Christianity. For example, the discovery of early Christian catacombs in Rome and other cities demonstrates the existence of a large and growing Christian community, despite persecution and opposition from the authorities.

Similarly, the discovery of ancient Christian churches and other religious buildings, such as the house churches of Corinth and the basilicas of Rome, provides evidence of the rapid spread of Christianity throughout the Mediterranean world.

Overall, the early expansion of Christianity was a complex and multifaceted process, driven by a variety of social, cultural, and historical factors. While much of this history remains shrouded in mystery, the archaeological record and other historical sources continue to provide valuable insights into this fascinating period of human history.

Contents of the Acts of the Apostles

Events till Pentecost (Acts 1:1-26)

The Book of Acts begins with a prologue that sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the following chapters. The prologue introduces the main characters and themes of the book, and provides important context for understanding the early Christian church.

The first chapter of Acts describes the events leading up to Pentecost, which marks the beginning of the early Christian church. After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, his disciples are instructed to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit to come upon them.

During this time, the disciples choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot, who had betrayed Jesus and later died. They select Matthias, who is added to the group of apostles.

As they wait for the Holy Spirit, the disciples spend time in prayer and reflection, and Peter addresses the group, reminding them of their mission to spread the Gospel throughout the world. They also spend time together, sharing meals and fellowship.

Finally, on the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples in the form of tongues of fire, and they begin speaking in different languages. This attracts a crowd of people who are amazed by the spectacle.

Peter addresses the crowd, explaining that what they are witnessing is the fulfillment of prophecy, and that Jesus, whom they had crucified, is the Messiah. Many people are moved by Peter’s words and decide to become followers of Jesus.

The chapter ends with a description of the early Christian community, which is characterized by a strong sense of community and a shared commitment to spreading the Gospel. The disciples continue to perform miracles and share the Good News, and their numbers continue to grow.

The Memorable Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-42)

The second chapter of Acts describes the memorable day of Pentecost, which marks the birth of the early Christian church. On this day, the Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples, filling them with power and enabling them to speak in different languages.

As a result, a large crowd gathers to witness the spectacle, and Peter stands up to address them. He explains that what they are witnessing is the fulfillment of prophecy, and that Jesus, whom they had crucified, is the Messiah.

Peter’s words have a powerful effect on the crowd, and many people are moved to repentance and faith. In fact, the text says that about 3,000 people are baptized and added to the church that day.

The rest of the chapter describes the early Christian community and its practices. The believers meet regularly for teaching, fellowship, and the breaking of bread (communion). They also share their possessions and resources, caring for one another and meeting each other’s needs.

The chapter ends with a summary of the early Christian community, which is characterized by unity, generosity, and a strong commitment to Jesus and his teachings. The text says that the believers continued to meet regularly, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.

Overall, the memorable day of Pentecost is a key moment in the history of the Christian church, marking the beginning of a new era of faith and devotion. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, which enables us to speak and live boldly for Christ.

The Witness Expands (Acts 2:43–5:42)

The Book of Acts continues with a description of how the witness of the early Christian community expands in the wake of Pentecost. The believers continue to meet regularly for teaching and fellowship, and they perform miracles and signs that attract many people to the faith.

The section begins with a description of the unity and generosity of the early Christian community. The believers share their possessions and resources, caring for one another and meeting each other’s needs. The text says that they have everything in common and that there are no needy persons among them.

Despite this unity and generosity, however, the early Christian community faces opposition and persecution from the authorities. Peter and John are arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin for preaching about Jesus, but they boldly proclaim their faith and refuse to be silenced.

The section also includes a famous account about a man named Ananias and his wife Sapphira, who sell some property but lie about the amount they received for it. Peter confronts them about their deceit, and they both die as a result.

Despite these challenges, the early Christian community continues to grow and expand. The apostles perform many signs and wonders, and people from all walks of life come to believe in Jesus. The text says that the number of believers grows to about 5,000 men.

As the community expands, the apostles appoint seven men to oversee the distribution of food to widows and other needy persons. One of these men, Stephen, is described as being full of faith and the Holy Spirit. He performs many signs and wonders and preaches boldly about Jesus.

However, Stephen’s preaching angers some of the Jews, and he is brought before the Sanhedrin for trial. He delivers a powerful defense of his faith, recounting the history of Israel and showing how Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy. Despite this, he is stoned to death, becoming the first Christian martyr.

The section concludes with a description of the spread of the Christian faith to Samaria, Ethiopia, and other regions. The text says that Philip, one of the seven men appointed to oversee the distribution of food, preaches in Samaria and performs many signs and wonders. Many people come to believe in Jesus and are baptized.

Overall, the section highlights the challenges and triumphs of the early Christian community as it seeks to spread the Gospel to the world. Despite persecution and opposition, the believers remain committed to their faith and continue to bear witness to the transforming power of Jesus Christ.

Stephen’s Martyrdom (Acts 6:1–8:1a)

The Book of Acts describes the martyrdom of Stephen, one of the seven men appointed to oversee the distribution of food to widows and other needy persons in the early Christian community.

The section begins with a description of a dispute that arises between the Greek-speaking and Hebrew-speaking members of the community. The apostles decide to appoint seven men to oversee the distribution of food, so that they can focus on prayer and preaching.

Stephen is one of the men appointed to this role, and he is described as being full of faith and the Holy Spirit. He performs many signs and wonders, and he preaches boldly about Jesus.

However, his preaching angers some of the Jews, who accuse him of blasphemy and bring him before the Sanhedrin for trial. Stephen delivers a powerful defense of his faith, recounting the history of Israel and showing how Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy.

Despite this, the Sanhedrin finds him guilty of blasphemy and sentences him to death by stoning. As he is being stoned, Stephen has a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God. He prays for his executioners, saying “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”

Stephen’s martyrdom is a key moment in the history of the Christian church, demonstrating the bravery and faith of its early members. It also highlights the opposition and persecution that the early Christians faced from the authorities and from some segments of the Jewish community.

The text notes that Saul (later known as Paul), a young man who approved of Stephen’s execution, was present at the scene. This sets the stage for Saul’s later conversion to Christianity and his subsequent ministry as a key figure in the early church.

Persecutions, Saul’s Conversion (Acts 8:1b–9:30)

The Book of Acts describes a period of intense persecution against the early Christian community following the martyrdom of Stephen. The text notes that Saul, a young man who had approved of Stephen’s execution, became a leader in this persecution, arresting and imprisoning many Christians.

However, Saul’s life is dramatically transformed when he has a vision of Jesus while on the road to Damascus. He is struck blind and hears a voice saying, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” He is led into the city of Damascus, where he is visited by a Christian named Ananias. Ananias lays hands on Saul, and he receives his sight and is baptized.

Saul becomes one of the most important figures in the early Christian church, taking the name Paul and embarking on a series of missionary journeys to spread the Gospel throughout the Mediterranean world. His conversion is a key moment in the history of Christianity, demonstrating the transformative power of Jesus and the universality of his message.

The section also includes a number of stories about Philip, one of the seven men appointed to oversee the distribution of food in the early Christian community. Philip preaches in Samaria and performs many signs and wonders, leading many people to believe in Jesus and be baptized. He also baptizes an Ethiopian eunuch who is reading from the book of Isaiah.

Overall, the section highlights the challenges and triumphs of the early Christian community as it seeks to spread the Gospel in the face of persecution and opposition. It shows the transformative power of Jesus’ message and the way in which it transcends cultural and geographical boundaries to reach people from all walks of life.

The Gospel Goes to Uncircumcised Gentiles (Acts 9:31–12:25)

The Book of Acts describes a significant turning point in the early Christian church, as the Gospel begins to spread to uncircumcised Gentiles. This section begins with a description of the church enjoying a time of peace and growth in the region of Judea, Galilee, and Samaria.

The text then shifts to the account of Peter, who has a vision in which God commands him to eat unclean animals, and tells him that what God has made clean, he must not call unclean. This vision prepares Peter for his encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion who has had a vision of his own, in which an angel tells him to send for Peter.

Peter goes to Cornelius’ house and preaches the Gospel to him and his household, who believe and are baptized. This is a significant moment in the history of the Christian church, as it represents a shift away from a strictly Jewish interpretation of the Gospel and toward a more universal understanding.

The section also includes the account of James, the brother of John, who is executed by King Herod. This prompts the arrest of Peter, who is imprisoned but is miraculously freed by an angel. Peter then goes into hiding, while Herod meets a gruesome end, being struck down by an angel of the Lord.

The section concludes with a description of the church in Antioch, where the followers of Jesus are first called Christians. This is a sign that the movement has taken on a distinct identity and is no longer simply a sect within Judaism.

Overall, the section highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by the spread of the Gospel to Gentiles, as well as the dangers posed by persecution and opposition from those in power. It also shows the resilience and faith of the early Christian community as it navigates these challenges and continues to grow and expand.

Paul’s First Missionary Journey, with Barnabas (Acts 13:1–14:28)

The Book of Acts describes the first missionary journey of Paul, accompanied by Barnabas, as they spread the Gospel throughout Asia Minor. The journey begins with the commissioning of Paul and Barnabas by the church in Antioch and their departure for Cyprus.

On Cyprus, they preach the Gospel to the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, who believes and is baptized. From there, they travel to the region of Pisidia, where they preach in the synagogue and many Jews and Gentiles believe.

However, opposition arises from the Jewish leaders, and Paul and Barnabas are forced to leave the city. They travel to Iconium, where they again preach in the synagogue and many believe, but again face opposition from unbelieving Jews. They continue on to Lystra and Derbe, where they perform miraculous healings and are mistaken for gods by the local people.

However, things take a turn for the worse when Jews from Antioch and Iconium arrive in Lystra and stir up the people against Paul and Barnabas. Paul is stoned and left for dead, but he miraculously recovers and continues on with Barnabas to other cities, before returning to Antioch to report on their journey.

The section highlights the challenges faced by Paul and Barnabas as they spread the Gospel throughout Asia Minor. It shows the power of their message to transform lives and communities, but also the opposition and persecution they faced from those who rejected their message.

It also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of adversity, as Paul and Barnabas continued on despite setbacks and challenges. The section provides valuable insights into the early Christian church and the challenges it faced as it sought to spread the Gospel to the world.

Settling the Circumcision Issue (Acts 15:1-35)

The Book of Acts describes a significant dispute within the early Christian church over the issue of circumcision and how the issue was resolved through a council held in Jerusalem.

The dispute arises as some Jewish Christians, who have been taught that circumcision is necessary for salvation, insist that Gentile converts must also be circumcised. This leads to tension and conflict within the church, as some argue that faith in Jesus Christ is sufficient for salvation, regardless of circumcision.

To settle the issue, Paul and Barnabas are sent to Jerusalem to confer with the apostles and elders of the church. There, they argue that circumcision should not be required of Gentile converts, and Peter testifies to the signs and wonders performed by God among the Gentiles who have come to faith.

After much debate and discussion, James, the brother of Jesus and leader of the church in Jerusalem, proposes a compromise. He suggests that Gentile converts should not be required to be circumcised, but should be asked to abstain from certain practices associated with idolatry and immorality.

This proposal is accepted by the council, and a letter is sent to the Gentile converts, outlining the decision and encouraging them to abide by these guidelines. The letter is received with joy and relief by the Gentile converts, who are now able to participate fully in the Christian community without being burdened by Jewish customs.

The section highlights the challenges faced by the early Christian church as it sought to reconcile the traditions and practices of Judaism with the new teachings of Christianity. It also shows the importance of open dialogue and debate in resolving conflicts within the church.

Ultimately, the resolution of the circumcision issue paved the way for the Gospel to be preached to people of all nations and helped to solidify the early Christian church as a diverse and inclusive community.

Ministry Expands with Paul’s Second Journey (Acts 15:36–18:22)

The Book of Acts describes Paul’s second missionary journey, during which he travels to various regions to preach the Gospel and establish churches.

The journey begins with Paul and Barnabas planning to revisit the churches they had established on their first journey. However, they soon have a disagreement and decide to separate. Paul chooses Silas as his new companion and sets out to visit churches in Syria and Cilicia.

In Derbe and Lystra, they meet Timothy, a young believer who becomes a valuable partner in their ministry. They then travel to Troas, where Paul receives a vision directing him to go to Macedonia, and they embark on a journey that takes them to Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens.

In each of these cities, they preach the Gospel and establish churches but also face opposition and persecution from both Jews and Gentiles who reject their message. In Philippi, they are beaten and imprisoned, but a miraculous earthquake leads to the conversion of their jailer and his family.

In Athens, Paul preaches to the philosophers on Mars Hill, but his message is met with skepticism and ridicule. Despite these challenges, they continue on to Corinth, where they establish a strong church and Paul stays for a year and a half, teaching and ministering to the people.

The Areopagus, also known as Mars’ Hill, played a significant role in one of Paul’s most renowned speeches in Athens, Greece, around 50 C.E. (Acts 17:16-34). It was on this occasion that some Athenians apprehended Paul and brought him to the Areopagus.

The Areopagus is a rocky hill, approximately 370 feet (113 meters) high, located just northwest of the Acropolis of Athens. Carved steps lead to its summit, where one can still observe rough, rock-hewn benches arranged in the shape of a square. The Areopagus stands to this day, confirming the Bible’s account of the setting for Paul’s impactful speech.

The section highlights the expansion of Paul’s ministry and the spread of the Gospel to new regions. It shows the challenges faced by Paul and his companions as they encountered opposition and persecution, but also the triumphs as they established churches and converted many to the faith.

It also emphasizes the importance of partnerships in ministry, as Paul and his companions worked together and supported one another in their mission. The section provides valuable insights into the early Christian church and the challenges it faced as it sought to spread the Gospel to the world.

Paul Revisits Churches, Third Journey (Acts 18:23–21:26)

The Book of Acts describes Paul’s third missionary journey, during which he revisits many of the churches he had established on his previous journeys and continues to spread the Gospel to new regions.

The journey begins with Paul traveling to Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening the churches there and teaching the believers. He then travels to Ephesus, where he spends three years teaching and establishing a strong church.

While in Ephesus, Paul performs many miracles and gains a large following, but he also faces opposition from local craftsmen who fear that his teachings will threaten their livelihoods. This leads to a riot, but Paul is eventually able to calm the situation and continue his ministry.

From Ephesus, Paul travels to Macedonia and Greece, visiting many of the churches he had established on his previous journeys. Along the way, he continues to preach the Gospel and encourage believers but also faces challenges and opposition from both Jews and Gentiles.

Eventually, Paul returns to Jerusalem, where he is arrested and imprisoned. He faces trial before the Roman governor and ultimately appeals to Caesar, which leads to his eventual journey to Rome.

The section highlights the importance of revisiting and strengthening existing churches, as well as the challenges faced by Paul and other early Christian missionaries as they sought to spread the Gospel to new regions. It also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and faith in the face of opposition and persecution.

Overall, the section provides valuable insights into the early Christian church and the ways in which it spread and established itself throughout the Mediterranean world.

Paul Was Arrested and Tried (Acts 21:27–26:32)

The Book of Acts describes Paul’s arrest and trial, which took place in Jerusalem and Caesarea.

While in Jerusalem, Paul is falsely accused of bringing Gentiles into the temple, which was a violation of Jewish customs. A mob forms and tries to kill him, but he is rescued by Roman soldiers and taken into custody.

Paul is then brought before the Jewish council, where he gives a powerful defense of his actions and proclaims his faith in Jesus Christ. However, his testimony only angers the council, and he is sent to Caesarea to stand trial before the Roman governor, Felix.

While in Caesarea, Paul is given several opportunities to defend himself before Felix and his successor, Festus, but ultimately he appeals to Caesar, which allows him to continue his mission of preaching the Gospel to the highest levels of government in Rome.

The section highlights the challenges faced by early Christian missionaries as they sought to spread the Gospel in a hostile and often violent environment. It also demonstrates Paul’s courage and commitment to his faith, even in the face of persecution and imprisonment.

Furthermore, the section shows the importance of the Roman legal system in protecting the rights of citizens, including Paul’s right to a fair trial and the ability to appeal to Caesar. This legal system allowed Paul to continue his mission and spread the Gospel to new regions.

Paul Goes to Rome (Acts 27:1–28:31)

The Book of Acts describes Paul’s journey to Rome, which took place after his arrest and imprisonment in Caesarea.

Paul is put on a ship bound for Rome, along with other prisoners and soldiers. However, the ship is caught in a violent storm and is eventually shipwrecked on the island of Malta.

Despite the many challenges he faced during the journey, including the storm and shipwreck, Paul continued to minister to his fellow passengers and remained steadfast in his faith. On the island of Malta, he healed many people and preached the Gospel to the locals.

After spending three months on the island, Paul and the other passengers are able to find passage on another ship bound for Rome. Along the way, they stop at several ports and Paul continues to minister to those he encounters.

Upon arriving in Rome, Paul is placed under house arrest but is allowed to receive visitors and continue preaching the Gospel. Many people come to hear him speak and are inspired by his message.

The section highlights the many challenges faced by Paul during his journey to Rome, including the storm, shipwreck, and imprisonment. It also demonstrates his unwavering faith and commitment to spreading the Gospel, even in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, the section shows the importance of the early Christian church in spreading the Gospel throughout the Roman world. Despite facing persecution and imprisonment, Paul and other early Christian missionaries were able to spread the message of Jesus Christ to many different regions and people.

The Arch of Titus

The Arch of Titus stands as a silent testament to the destruction of Jerusalem and its temple by the Romans under the rule of Titus in 70 C.E. The following year, Titus celebrated his triumph in Rome alongside his father, Emperor Vespasian. The triumphal procession included 700 Jewish prisoners and various spoils of war, including treasures from the temple.

Titus went on to become emperor from 79 to 81 C.E., and after his death, the Arch of Titus was completed and dedicated in his honor. The arch features bas-relief carvings depicting the victorious procession. On one side, Roman soldiers carrying the sacred furniture from Jerusalem’s temple, such as the seven-branched lampstand and the table of showbread, are shown. The other side portrays Titus standing in a chariot drawn by four horses, with a woman symbolizing the city of Rome guiding the chariot.

The Arch of Titus, still standing in Rome, serves as a reminder of Jesus’ prophecy and the fulfillment of God’s judgment upon rebellious Jerusalem, as described in the Bible. Thousands of visitors come each year to witness this triumphal arch and reflect on its historical significance.

Archaeological discoveries, including the Arch of Titus, have often supported the historical reliability of the Bible, confirming its accuracy in terms of history, chronology, and geography. However, it is important to note that archaeology is not infallible, as interpretations can vary. While archaeology can provide additional insights into the background and setting of biblical events, faith should ultimately rest on the Bible itself, not solely on archaeological findings. The Bible contains its own evidence of being the authentic “word of the living and enduring God.”

[1] St. Paul the Traveller, 1895, page 4.

[2] Norman L. Geisler, A Popular Survey of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2014), 110.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).