Doug’s Coffee Break

Cornelius sends trusted men to summon Peter, acting swiftly on divine instruction. As Peter engages in his regular rhythm of prayer, a rooftop vision awaits—one that will challenge centuries of tradition and open new doors for the early church.

The miracle of Dorcas’s resurrection leads directly into one of the most groundbreaking moments in Acts: the gospel’s extension to the Gentiles. As Peter stays in Joppa, a Roman centurion named Cornelius receives a divine vision—setting up an encounter that will reshape the early church’s mission. This episode explores how divine timing, cultural tension, and prophetic fulfillment all come together in Acts 10.

Peter’s miracle in Joppa—the raising of Dorcas—was a powerful moment in early church history. More than just a resurrection, it marked a shift in Peter’s ministry, preparing him for a broader mission to the Gentiles. This story highlights early Christian faith, cultural tensions, and divine strategy in expanding the gospel.

Peter’s ministry picks up momentum as he travels to Lydda, where a miraculous healing sparks a wave of new believers. Set on the edge of the fertile Sharon plain, this moment marks a turning point—the gospel is beginning to reach a broader, more Gentile audience. We trace the steps of Peter, the echoes of Philip, and the growing movement of faith along the Judean coast.

After Saul's fiery debates nearly cost him his life, the early church hustled him out of Jerusalem and into a quieter chapter in Tarsus—an ancient, intellectual hub. With the threat gone, the church enjoyed a rare season of peace and growth. Luke closes this section of Acts with a pause in the action—but all signs point to a gospel about to go global.

After his dramatic conversion, Saul’s preaching in Damascus made him the target of a deadly plot—forcing an escape that mirrored the irony of his transformation. Acts 9:23–30 traces how early believers like Barnabas played a key role in integrating Saul into the Christian community, despite deep fears rooted in his past.

In this episode, we dive into Saul’s stunning transformation just days after his Damascus road encounter. From blind and broken to boldly proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God, Saul’s rapid shift leaves his audience—and us—astounded. What changed? And why did it matter so much?

God flips the script—Saul, once a persecutor, is now God’s chosen messenger. In this episode, we follow the divine call that transforms Saul’s life, Ananias’ brave obedience, and the moment “Brother Saul” enters the church. From blindness to boldness, it’s a powerful glimpse into the grace that launches Paul’s mission.

hen God tells Ananias to meet Saul, fear and faith collide. In this episode, we look at Ananias’ reluctant obedience, the historical setting of Straight Street in Damascus, and the first mention of believers as “saints.” It’s a turning point in Acts—where fear gives way to faith, and an enemy is welcomed as a brother.

After his dramatic encounter with Christ, Saul’s journey takes a humbling turn. Blind and waiting, he begins to grasp the weight of his mission. In this episode, we explore how Saul received his call directly from Jesus, what his companions really heard on the road, and how grace reshaped a persecutor into a vessel for the gospel.