Further Study

Review Questions

These questions are designed to help you review important material covered in the lecture.

1. What significant events preceded Paul’s arrest?
2. What particular circumstances led to Paul’s arrest in Jerusalem?
3. Summarize the events and nature of Paul’s imprisonment in Caesarea.
4. Summarize the events and nature of Paul’s imprisonment in Rome.
5. How did Paul’s imprisonment reveal important insights about God and about Paul’s own ministry?
6. Describe three things that the book of Acts teaches us about Paul’s ministry during his imprisonment.
7. Describe four things we learn from Paul’s letters about his ministry in prison.
8. Summarize three ways in which Paul developed the doctrinal theme of Christ’s kingship over creation.
9. Describe Paul’s doctrine of the believer’s union with Christ. What are some of its implications?
10. Summarize Paul’s explanation of the requirements for ethical living implied by Christ’s kingship and our unity with Christ.
11. What is the main theological truth that underlies the theological unity of Paul’s prison epistles? How does it relate to the themes of Christ’s kingship over creation, our union with Christ, and ethical living?

Application Questions

Application questions are appropriate for written assignments or as topics for group discussions. For written assignments, it is recommended that answers not exceed one page in length.

1. Paul received many warnings regarding impending danger in Jerusalem, yet he continued toward the city. What gave Paul the confidence and fortitude to move forward in faith? How may we learn from the example of Paul as he faced difficult circumstances and adversity?
2. Why was Paul able to minister freely both to Jews and to Gentiles? What does it look like for believers today to live out Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 9:20-21?
3. God used Paul’s imprisonments to advance the gospel and the Kingdom of God. How has God worked through adverse circumstances in your life to advance his gospel and kingdom?
4. Explain how suffering can be a form of Christian ministry. Compare and contrast Paul’s outlook on suffering with your present understanding of suffering.
5. While Paul’s situation as a prisoner was not ideal, he still continued to seek opportunities to proclaim the gospel. What opportunities do you have to proclaim the gospel?
6. Paul spoke often of our union with Christ. In what ways does understanding the doctrine of our union with Christ bring you hope and comfort?
7. What is the most significant insight you have learned from this study?

Discussion Video

Additional information concerning the lesson topic is provided in a video presentation of a question and answer session. If you are struggling to understand any portion of the lesson or if you would simply like to deepen your understanding of the subject, this video will be helpful.