Persevering Faith
Welcome to our For Your Neighbor series. This week, we talk about the perseverance of faith in Acts 5. To view our adult devotional, click here.
To access Pete’s video explaining our Commitment Cards for Commitment Sunday on October 12th, click here. To find our mission partners’ wish lists from Sunday, September 28 visit smc.church/giveback.
Ice Breaker: What is one trend that you’re glad is gone now?
Read Acts 5:33-40 (you may want to begin in verse 27 for full context)
1.What do you think about Gamaliel’s point in this passage?
2. Why do you think the disciple’s faith was able to endure persecution, while so many trends fade at the slightest resistance?
3. What’s one fear or challenge that holds you back from being bold about your faith? How can you invite the Holy Spirit into that space?
Read Isaiah 32:1-8
4. Try to put yourself in the shoes of an ancient Israelite. Based on this passage, what kind of Messiah would you expect?
5. How does that match or not match what Jesus actually did? How does this match or not match what we see in our world today?
Read Romans 12:4-5
6. How does these verses explain how Jesus (and the Church) fulfills what we justread about in Isaiah?
7. What is this passage calling us to do (or to be) as the Church?
Concluding Questions
8. Where do you feel God is inviting you to take a stand in your faith this week—however big or small?
9. Who in particular needs your prayer and encouragement?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
