1. Paul’s Hope: What Exactly Is He Defending?
In Acts 24:14–15, Paul says he worships “the God of our ancestors” and affirms the resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.
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Why is the resurrection so central to Paul’s defense?
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How does belief in a future bodily resurrection shape how we understand the gospel?
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What happens to Christianity if the resurrection (and final judgment) is removed?
2. Eschatology Drives Discipleship
Paul says in Acts 24:16, “I always strive to have a clear conscience toward God and men.”
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How does belief in a coming judgment produce a clear conscience now?
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In what ways does our culture try to disconnect future judgment from present behavior?
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What specific area of your life would look different if you lived more consciously “like there’s a courtroom coming”?
3. Fear, Conviction, and the Gospel
When Paul reasons with Felix and Drusilla about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix becomes afraid (Acts 24:25).
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Why do you think Paul emphasized those three themes?
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Is fear of judgment a legitimate part of evangelism? Why or why not?
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What is the difference between manipulative fear and biblical conviction?
4. Courage Before Power
Paul speaks plainly about judgment to a corrupt governor and his morally compromised wife.
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What would have tempted Paul to soften his message?
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What risks are involved in speaking truth to people in authority?
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Where might God be calling you to speak with similar clarity and courage?
5. Love as the Engine of Evangelism
In Second Corinthians 5:10–11, 14–15, Paul connects judgment, persuasion, and the love of Christ.
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How do judgment and love work together in Paul’s thinking?
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Why is love essential if we are going to speak about coming judgment?
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Who in your life needs to hear both the warning and the hope of the gospel?
