In seeking to build up the church, Paul addresses the vulnerability of the church to opposition. As Christians we should rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. We should not seek to revenge opposition but be kind to those who persecute us.

In Caesarea, Paul is imprisoned. The High Priest, Tertullus and other Jews come to accuse in the legal court. Paul defends himself. Felix the Governor, hesitates to make a decision and Paul is kept in prison for two years.

Stephen answered the charges against him by reminding the Sanhedrin of their history and that at every point the Jews had resisted God - just as they had done, when they rejected him. In an emotional response, Stephen was stoned to death becoming the first Christian martyr.

About 120 people who had followed Jesus remained in Jerusalem including the eleven remaining Apostles, Mary the mother of Jesus and Jesus' brothers and other disciples - both men and women. A twelfth Apostle was chosen.

Darkness comes and the whole atmosphere changes. Through the four statements Jesus makes, we can understand the physical, emotional and relational cost to Jesus and what the cross achieved for us.

In the first three hours of Jesus on the cross he makes three statements showing his concern for others - those within his sight, the criminal and his mother.

The Sanhedrin insists that Pontius Pilate should try Jesus, find him guilty and have him crucified. Pilate cannot find any reason to do this but does so to have an easy life. All involved are 'judged' within a generation of Jesus' death.

The tragic stories of Peter and Judas are told. Peter is forgiven but Judas kills himself.

Jesus is taken to Annas, and then to the High Priest's house where he is tried by the Sanhedrin and found guilty of blasphemy. He remains silent except when asked a direct question under oath.

In the face of violent arrest, Jesus does not offer violence and rebukes Peter for using a sword. Jesus is in control of the scene and understands it must be so to fulfil scripture.