"A Study of the book of Acts" by Neal Pollard - Part 8

July 26, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class This episode is a teaching session from Cumberland Trace exploring Acts 16 and the start of the Second Missionary Journey. Neal sets Acts 16 in context—after the Paul–Barnabas split—and examines the secondary yet pivotal roles of Timothy and John Mark, with reference to Paul, Silas, Luke and the decisions of the Jerusalem council in Acts 15. Topics covered include Timothy’s background (a disciple with mixed Jewish–Greek heritage, taught Scripture by his mother and grandmother, well regarded in Lystra and Iconium, circumcised to remove barriers to ministry), John Mark’s early role as an assistant and his later significance as the author of the Gospel of Mark, and Luke’s appearance on the journey. Scriptural references and practical implications from Acts 16:1–5 and later New Testament passages are used to build the case. Neal also shares congregation-specific data and concerns: the church averages about 400 in morning worship; there are roughly 57–60 people in their 20s and 30s, about 97 children and teenagers (plus several expectant mothers), producing nearly 200 people who fit the Bible’s definition of youth when combined with college-aged members. These numbers frame the urgent opportunity and responsibility in developing future leaders. Key challenges discussed are modern distractions (technology and cultural influences), generational gaps and intimidation in approaching young people, attrition and moral pressures, the limits of the church when the home doesn’t prioritize Christ, and perceived or real shortages of mentors. The teaching repeatedly returns to the principle “to whom much is given, much is required,” emphasizing accountability. Practical takeaways and action steps include: identify and invest in raw material—young people with potential; put them into responsible service roles that stretch them; balance encouragement (à la Barnabas) with loving admonition; model faith in an intergenerational context; cultivate mentoring relationships rather than cold approaches; and prioritize parenting support (the speaker mentions an upcoming parenting seminar). The session closes with a clear call to action for listeners: commit to encourage or mentor a young person, remember that adequacy comes from God (2 Corinthians 3:5), and actively use the church’s resources and relationships to raise the next generation of leaders. Listeners should expect a blend of biblical teaching, local congregation statistics, candid discussion of obstacles, and concrete mentorship strategies they can put into practice.   Duration 37:59