"A Study of the book of Acts" by Neal Pollard - Part 9

August 2, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class In this episode we walk through Acts 16–18 with a practical focus on the personal and corporate challenges the early church faced — especially the difficulty of discerning and submitting to God’s will. Neal reflects on recent ministry experiences (including trips to Cambodia and Tanzania) and open with a short anecdote about learning not to “hesitate.” Guests and voices in the conversation include Hiram (co-teacher) and references to Chris Young’s earlier study of Acts; the talk frequently cites Paul, Luke, Timothy and Silas as the missionary team and highlights Luke’s joining the group in Troas. The teaching traces Paul’s second missionary journey, the Holy Spirit’s direct leading in Acts 16:6–13, and the vision that sent Paul into Macedonia. Key biblical themes covered: how to discern God’s direction (Scripture, prayer, renewing the mind), the role of providence, Proverbs 16:3 and Romans 12:6–8 as practical guides, and the idea that sometimes God’s leading is understood only in hindsight — the “rearview mirror” of divine guidance. The episode compares three city responses in Acts 17 — Thessalonica (hostility and persecution), Berea (eager reception and daily Scripture examination), and Athens (skepticism, ridicule, and a few conversions) — drawing out lessons for evangelism, teaching, and living in a largely non‑religious culture. Practical takeaways include honest tools for decision making when multiple “doors” seem open: anchor decisions in Scripture, commit plans to the Lord, stay in prayer, watch for opportunities to use spiritual gifts locally (and globally), and accept that planting seeds is part of the calling even when immediate results are unseen. Listeners can expect scriptural exposition, real-life ministry illustrations (including an extended personal example about discerning whether to serve overseas), and direct application for congregational life — how to spot a “Macedonian call” at home or abroad and how to respond in faith whether you meet mockery, delay, or belief.   Duration 40:39