The Abstinence of The Apostles

Newsong Fellowship

The Abstinence of The Apostles

July 21, 2024 • Grant Romoser-Claunch

As Paul and Barnabas' missionary journeys continue to expand the ekklesia into other parts of the Roman world and cultures, the apostles are faced with a very practical problem: As Jewish people extending God's invitation to Gentile people, what will be required of the Gentiles as they join God's community of believers?

The Subversive Kingdom In Plain Sight

September 22, 2024 • Dave Romoser

Luke concludes his work in the book of Acts, having described the birth and expansion of the Way of Jesus as it moved throughout the known world, just as Jesus had instructed. His final chapter closes with a scene in which Paul is under house arrest in Rome "proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance". But his final words reveal a subversive plot that's just getting started in this new movement.

Surviving A Storm

September 15, 2024 • Grant Romoser-Claunch

What do you do on your worst day? How do we get through the storms of life, when it feels like everything is up in the air, even like life itself is unraveling at the seams? In Acts 27 Paul is at sea, arrested and on his way to Rome and his certain death, when a weeks-long storm strikes and threatens the life and security of all on board. Reading this story allegorically, and seeing ourselves within it, we are invited to reflect on our own experiences and the grace of God at work around us.

All Sons and Daughters

September 8, 2024 • Dave Romoser

Paul arrives in Jerusalem and is soon confronted, beaten and arrested over a declaration he's made about the gospel of the Kingdom that that, once again, enrages the religious leaders... one that often provokes the same reaction in religious circles to this day, although much more subtly yet equally divisive and alienating.