Pastors Study Week 6

3-12-2025 Will Dyer The Challenge of Acts by N.T. Wright The meeting focused on discussing Acts 17 through 20, highlighting the theological and political issues raised by Paul's central message. ​ The discussion emphasized the tension between Paul's proclamation of Jesus as the true king, which challenged the authority of Caesar, and the resulting opposition and riots. ​ The group examined Paul's experiences in Thessalonica, Corinth, and Ephesus, noting how his teachings stirred controversy among Jews and Romans. ​ In Thessalonica, Paul faced charges of declaring another king, Jesus, which threatened the Roman order. ​ In Corinth, Paul was accused of teaching illegal worship practices, but the Roman governor Gallio dismissed the charges, granting Christians a religious exemption. This led to complacency among the Corinthian church. ​ The discussion concluded with reflections on the implications of these historical contexts for contemporary Christian practice, particularly the need to balance political engagement with ultimate allegiance to Jesus.