"A Study of the book of Acts" by Neal Pollard - Part 11

August 16, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class In this episode from the class "Challenges the Early Church Faced," Neal unpacks Acts 19–21 to identify obstacles the early church encountered during Paul’s third missionary journey and draws practical lessons for today. The session covers Paul’s extended ministry in Ephesus (three years), his pattern of reasoning and persuading in the synagogue, and the moment he withdraws to the Hall (School) of Tyrannus when faced with hardened hearts. Listeners will hear close reading of Acts 19:8–10 and discussion of how gospel preaching meets stubbornness, ignorance, and resistance to change. The class also examines extraordinary signs and competing beliefs: Luke’s account of miracles, handkerchiefs and aprons bringing healing, and the dramatic episode of Sceva’s seven sons attempting exorcism in Jesus’ name. The lecture traces how Paul’s encounters shift from Jewish opposition to Gentile superstition and idolatry, and how early Christian witness collided with local religious practice and professions. Money and profession emerge as a central challenge when the gospel undermines lucrative trades—highlighted by the Demetrius-led uproar in Ephesus and the report of costly books and shrines being burned (valued at 50,000 silver pieces). The discussion connects those events to modern tensions between vocational interests, cultural identity, and wholehearted commitment to Christ. Throughout the episode Neal engages class participants on practical questions like when to persist and when to move on, how to build common ground (appealing to shared Scripture), how to reason persuasively (Isaiah 1:18; 1 Peter 3:15), and how to handle fellowship concerns (Romans 14; 2 John). The class is invited to address comparative-religion issues and how to respond to world religions in our context. Expect a mix of expository teaching, real-time Q&A and pastoral application: historical overview of Paul’s journeys, close textual study of Acts 19–21, examples of resistance (hard hearts, competing beliefs, economic pushback), and concrete guidance for modern evangelism, apologetics, and church fellowship. This episode is for listeners wanting biblical insight into opposition the early church faced and practical tools for faithful ministry today.   Duration 40:48