Studies in the Book of Acts: Paul in Philippi: What’s Love Got to Do With It?

Digging Deeper into Acts 16

1. Luke tells us that “The Lord opened Lydia’s heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul” (Acts 16: 14). Share with the group how God first opened your heart to believe. Describe what aspects of the Gospel struck you most profoundly: e.g., conviction of your sin, God’s love for you, Christ’s death on the cross, etc.
2. Read Acts 16: 19-34. Remind each other of the description Lukas gave regarding the prison conditions Paul and Silas were in. Lukas also suggested that Christ’s love for Paul compelled him to serve with joy no matter his situation (read 2 Corinthians 5: 14-15). How much thought have you given to Christ’s love for you? To what level does it motivate you to serve no matter the consequences?
3. Read Acts 16: 35-40. Why do you suppose Paul required the authorities to come and release him instead of just going away quietly? How did this serve the Gospel? Is there any application for us today?