In this series focusing on the book of Acts, we will explore the ways in which we as the Church are called to follow the Spirit as we move out of our comfort zones—for our neighbors!
Warm-Up: Who is someone who introduced you to something you really enjoy today—a favorite band, hobby, restaurant, book, or activity? What made you glad they shared it with you?
Think about a time you received news that you were excited to share with someone else. What made you want to tell them?
Read Acts 9:1-6 for Paul’s “origin story”.
1. What strikes you about Paul’s conversion story? What impact do you think this encounter had on Paul? What impact did this encounter have on the church, and on us?
2. In Acts 9:15, Paul becomes God’s “chosen instrument to take the gospel to the Gentiles, to kings, and also to the people of Israel”—a diverse variety of people. What barriers—personal, cultural, social, or otherwise—can keep us from sharing the good news with people, especially those who are different from us? How might we begin to overcome those barriers?
Read Acts 16:11-15.
3. Paul and his companions went where they “expected to find a place of prayer” (the river) to find people with whom to share the gospel of Jesus. What are some places today that may be especially open to hearing the gospel? What (if anything) is stopping you for going to those places?
4. What are some ways we can communicate the good news of Jesus through our actions and relationships, as well as through what we say? How do those things work together?
5. What makes sharing our faith uncomfortable or difficult? How can we become more comfortable talking about Jesus without making those conversations feel forced or unnatural?
6. Who is someone who has brought the good news of Jesus into your life? Who might God be inviting you to encourage, serve, or share the gospel with?
Read Acts 16:14 again.
7. Discuss these words: “the Lord opened her (Lydia’s) heart to respond to Paul’s message.” How does this emphasis impact how you understand our role, and God’s role, in this work? How is this helpful?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
