Scripture engagement leads to knowing God—and lives changed forever. Now more than ever, Americans need to know God’s Word and the hope we have in its transformative message. The State of the Bible is a yearly, in-depth study, asking Americans their opinions and practices relating to the Bible, all made possible by generous supporters like you.
These Bible insights can provide critical information and give you direction for your Biblical ministry to help better serve the needs of people in your community.
What Did You Think of A.D. (Episode 10)?
Episode 10 Overview: Saul has some trouble overcoming his reputation as an enemy of Jesus. He has to be sent away from Jerusalem by the other disciples after causing uproar in the city by his passionate preaching. Mary Magdalene and Joanna continue their undercover lives as Christians in the royal court, and they get in trouble for sharing their faith…
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What Did You Think of A.D. (Episode 9)?
Episode 9 Overview: Saul arrives back in Jerusalem, after his preaching in Damascus nearly cost him his life. In Jerusalem, he meets with Peter and the disciples. They eventually agree to welcome him into the church with much reluctance and only after Barnabas persuades them to trust him. Bible Connections: Acts 9:20-27. Other Sources: In the third century, church leader…
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What Did You Think of A.D. (Episode 8)?
Episode 8 Overview: On the way to Damascus to arrest Jesus-followers, Saul has a dramatic conversion. Philip is meeting the challenges of ministry in Samaria. Meanwhile, Pilate has some misadventures on his quest for greater influence. Bible Connections: Acts 8:14-25; Acts 9:1-22. Other Sources: Emperor Tiberius died in 37 AD, succeeded by his grand-nephew Gaius, nicknamed Caligula, who turned out…
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What Did You Think of A.D. (Episode 7)?
Episode 7 Overview: Persecution drives some of the disciples to new territory. One of the new leaders, Philip, leads a revival in Samaria. Meanwhile in Jerusalem, the power struggles continue—especially when the Roman emperor visits. Bible Connections: Acts 8:4-13; Luke 8:2-3 (Joanna). Other Sources: We now see three different sets of power-players all jockeying for position: the Roman rulers (Tiberius,…
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What Did You Think of A.D. (Episode 6)?
Episode 6 Overview: The political maneuvering continues in Jerusalem, with Pilate, Herod, and the high priest’s family all struggling for power. Meanwhile, the Jesus movement has a new enemy, a man named Saul, breathing threats and arresting many. Bible Connections: Acts 8:1-3. Other Sources: Ancient historian Josephus records the power-shifts within the Jewish high-priesthood. Caiaphas had served in that post…
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What Did You Think of A.D. (Episode 5)?
Episode 5 Overview: While Pilate continues to hunt down his would-be assassin, the Jesus movement experiences some growing pains. Peter and John are re-arrested for sharing their faith and thrown in prison imprison again. After a miraculous escape, they go back to their preaching and are arrested again and publicly flogged. This inspires the fiery Stephen to preach in the…
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