PAUL’S PRISON EPISTLES
STUDY GUIDE 1.1
Lesson 1: Paul’s Imprisonment
Section 1: Background


OUTLINE FOR TAKING NOTES

Introduction

I. Background

A. Events Preceding Arrest

B. Arrest in Jerusalem

C. Imprisonment in Caesarea

D. Imprisonment in Rome


REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Where does Dr. Kidd believe Paul was when he wrote the prison epistles?

2. Explain Paul’s purpose in returning to Jerusalem. What was he hoping to accomplish? What warnings were given to him before he went to Jerusalem?

3. What rumors were circulating about Paul? Were they true? Why or why not?

4. Explain Paul’s view of the Old Testament law and Jewish practices.

5. What did James and the elders of the Church in Jerusalem ask Paul to do to avoid further rumors?

6. What happened that angered the Jews so much that they wanted to kill Paul?

7. Explain the meeting at the Sanhedrin. What did Paul say that caused discussion? Why?

8. Where did they take Paul after the trial in Jerusalem at the Sanhedrin?

9. Summarize the events and nature of Paul’s imprisonment in Caesarea.

10. Why did Paul appeal to Cesar?

11. Explain what happened on the journey to Rome?

12. Summarize the events and nature of Paul’s imprisonment in Rome. What restrictions did he have? How long was he in prison? What years?

13. Note key Bible verses quoted in the section.

APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. 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?