Weekly Lesson: Acts Chapters 16

Teacher: Bro. Chris Sims

Acts 16 – Paul and Silas are joined by Timothy. Timothy was a prominent man in his day. His mother was a Jew and his Father was a Gentile.

Acts 16:3 – Under the unusual circumstances in this verse, Paul went ahead and performed a circumcision of Timothy. It seemed strange in the light of Paul’s belief of circumcision but he wasn’t performing this as a form of salvation but for service, in that he wanted Timothy to join him in his ministry. Paul knew the Jews would listen to Timothy’s ministry and the preach word if he was circumcised. Paul didn’t want this to be a stumbling block for the Jews to hear the word. Timothy joined Paul and became his spiritual “son in the faith”.

NOTE: Paul is Timothy’s guide but he is led by the “Spirit”. Remember we should always be led by the Spirit. The Spirit is our guide. If it worked for Paul it will work for us. For example, Paul desired to preach in Asia but the Holy Ghost would not allow him. There is always a reason why and we should not question it. Be sensitive to the Holy Ghost.

Acts 16:10 – A vision appeared to Paul guaranteeing him of his journey to travel to Macedonia and preach the gospel unto them. We are human instruments unto the Lord. However, the Lord can’t always tell you what he wants to do with us.

Acts 16:11-15 – The ladies in the verse have a great desire to pray. They were led to pray. The lady was converted and at this time understood who Paul was. Paul was being obedient to the Spirit. Had Paul not been obedient she many not have been saved. Blessings for the Will of God.

Acts 16:16 – There was a damsel possessed with a spirit of divination. Paul’s spirit didn’t connect with her spirit.
Have you ever had your spirit connect with another? It’s always important to be sensitive to the Holy Ghost. This certain damsel was even bragging on Paul. Always pray for direction. Paul was guided by the Spirit during this encounter.

Acts 16:24 – They turned on Paul.

Acts 16:25 – Paul and Silas are in prison.
How many of you could have been beaten and put I prison and still be able to stop, pray and sing praises unto God? Think about this. Paul and Silas loved God faithfully.

Acts 16:26 – The response from heaven is moving.

NEXT WEEK: Acts Chapter 16:25-40