The Gift of Quiet in a Chaotic World

Read Matthew 3:13-17 and Matthew 4

• What stood out to you most after reading these passages in the Bible?

Reflect on these questions

• Jesus was baptized in the wilderness; He fasted in the wilderness; He resisted the Devil’s temptation in the wilderness. Why do you think all of these things took place in a wilderness (a deserted, desolate, solitary, and quiet place)?

• The public ministry of Jesus began after He got baptized, fasted, and resisted temptation in private. What conclusions can we draw from this truth? How can these things apply to our lives as Christians?

Respond with faith in action

• Matthew 4:1 says that the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness, a quiet place of solitary strength. How might the Holy Spirit be leading you into more effective quiet time with Him?

Where is God? Bible Study

Read Matthew 1

• What stood out to you most after reading this chapter in the Bible?

Reflect on these questions

• The geneaology in Matthew 1 breaks tradition with other ancient geneaologies by mentioning four women who were a part of the legal ancestry of Jesus (through Joseph). Those four women are listed below. What are some reasons they may have been included in Matthew’s genealogical account?

  • Tamar, who bore twin sons to her father-in-law at the end of a scanadal-ridden story (Genesis 38).

  • Rahab, a former prostitute, who helped aid the Israelites and whose family was spared from the collapse of Jericho as a result (Joshua 2; 6:22-23).

  • Ruth, a Moabite who followed her mother-in-law to Israel after the death of her husband. She later married Boaz. (The book of Ruth).

  • Bathsheba, who was formerly married to King David’s loyal solider, Uriah. She eventually gives birth to Solomon, the next King of Israel.

• The name Immanuel means God with us. What do you think it means to be close to God?

Respond with faith in action

• Joseph and Mary went on a long journey before and after the birth of Christ, taking many steps in faith.

  • Where do you think you are in your journey with God? (Are you still exploring faith? Are you ready to follow Jesus? Are you living for Him?)

  • What’s one step you can take in faith to follow God a little more closely?

From Water's Edge to Deeper Faith

Main Thought

In the books of Revelation and Ezekiel, God reveals an image of a river of life proceeding from God’s throne. The water is bright and beautiful. It gets deeper along the way, and it brings life everywhere it goes. This prophetic image points to the ultimate restoration of creation, and the eternal life that is available in God. Yet we don’t need to wait until eternity to jump into this river. We can experience a deeper life in God now! God calls people to leave shallow waters and move into a deeper experience of Him.

Main Passages

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb

- Revelation 22:1

3 Going on eastward with a measuring line in his hand, the man measured a thousand cubits, and then led me through the water, and it was ankle-deep. 4 Again he measured a thousand, and led me through the water, and it was knee-deep. Again he measured a thousand, and led me through the water, and it was waist-deep. 5 Again he measured a thousand, and it was a river that I could not pass through, for the water had risen. It was deep enough to swim in, a river that could not be passed through. 6 And he said to me, “Son of man, have you seen this?” Then he led me back to the bank of the river. 7 As I went back, I saw on the bank of the river very many trees on the one side and on the other.

- Ezekial 47:3-7

8 And he said to me, “This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, and enters the sea; when the water flows into the sea, the water will become fresh. 9 And wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish. For this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes.

- Ezekial 47:8-9

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Pastor Roland mentioned five areas of personal focus for the next five months. Which of these five things stands out to you most and why?

   1. Be formed by the gospel.

   2. Be empowered by the Spirit.

   3. Be equipped to make disciples.

   4. Be mobilized to take steps of faith.

   5. Be bold and engaging in gospel conversations.

3. God’s river life of life spreads restoration and healing wherever it flows. Who can you help bring God’s river of life to?

John 3: Bible Study

Read John 3

• What stood out to you most after reading this chapter in the Bible?

Reflect on these questions

• Nicodemus came to Jesus at night. As a Pharisee, things like peer pressure, societal expectations, image or status might have made it difficult for Nicodemus to seek Jesus. Have any of these things ever made seeking Jesus difficult for you?

• Why did Jesus use birth as a metaphor for the way he saves and changes people?

Respond with faith in action

• The chapter ends with John the Baptist telling people that Jesus must increase, and that he (John the Baptist) must decrease.

  • What do you think that means?

  • How can you apply this principle to your own life?

Note: We did not have a regular Worship Service on Sunday since we met a Paul Meyer Park, so this Discussion Guide is not connected to a sermon.

Above and Beyond: Bible Study

Read Luke 5

Reflect on these questions

• What stood out to you most after reading this chapter in the Bible?

• What’s one thing in this chapter that inspires you to believe in Jesus and/or love Him more deeply?

• Luke 1:1-4 reveals Luke’s intent in writing his gospel account, which ends with: “...that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” Luke wanted us to be certain that Jesus really is “the Christ of God.” (Luke 9:20.) With that purpose in mind, why do you think Luke included the content we find in Luke 5?

Respond with faith in action

• Think about the qualities or characteristics of Jesus revealed by this chapter. (His personality, His heart, His mindset, etc.) What’s one thing about Jesus that you find most compelling? How can you practically imitate Jesus in that regard?

A Family to Belong

Main Thought

All families have ties that unite them. It can be through blood relation, marriage, adoption, or some other deep connection. God’s Church is a family too. The church family spans denominations and ethnicities, breaking down barriers and boundaries to unify Christians across history. What connection do we share? We share faith in Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God, whose sacrifice makes us right with God. God the Father adopts us into His family, and the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in every believer. The connection we share is rooted in the deepest part of our beings. We should therefore strive to love one another, include one another, and build with one another.

Main Passages

19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

- Ephesians 2:19-22

12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

- John 1:12-13

14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

- Romans 8:14-16

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. The following three statements are powerful truths about our place as the family of God. Which one is most impactful for you, and why?

   1. We were dead, but now we live.

   2. We were separated, but now we’re included.

   3. We were foreigners, but now we’re family.

3. How can viewing yourself as a son or daughter of God change the way you interact with people?

Parenting: Honoring the Past, Guiding the Future

Main Thought

Where does God want people to experience Him for the first time? In a church, a conference, or maybe even a concert? The Bible is clear: a child’s first experience (or introduction to God) is actually meant to be in the home. If a Christian parent’s goal is to educate their children on God’s principles, then that parent must first embrace God’s principles for themselves. The best way to teach love isn’t by mandating it - it’s by modeling it. (Jesus did this when He perfectly fulfilled the Great Commandments to love God and others with His death on the Cross.) Then, God intends for parents to teach their children His Word and ways diligently. We can intentionally seek regular opportunities, or capitalize on random ones. In addition to teaching and instruction, we’re meant to impart love for God through our passionate examples. Some things are caught, not taught. Those who don’t have their own children can assist and support parents in many ways as a part of the Church, which is a very important part of Christian family.

Main Passages

4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

- Deuteronomy 6:4-9 

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

- Matthew 28:18-20

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

- Ephesians 6:1-4

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Did anyone in your family teach you about God in an impactful way? Who was it, and how did they do it?

3. How can you be a blessing to the Next Generation, and teach them the ways of the Lord?

Singled Out

Main Thought

Society can obsess over romantic love, attraction, and sex. Even Christians can unintentionally turn marriage into an idol, hoping that it will their fulfill their ultimate needs and desires. But being single (biblically defined as unmarried and celibate) is a valid option in God’s eyes. It’s such a good option that even Jesus chose it while He walked the earth! Singleness provides special opportunities and freedom to people. It grants a greater level of autonomy than that which is experienced by those who commit to covenant marriage. A single person can use their increased opportunities to serve God and impact eternity, like the Apostle Paul did. Choosing to be unmarried and celibate, even for a season, gives people an opportunity to discover fulfillment in God as they exercise self-control. This fulfillment can be displayed to the world as a beautiful testimony, in which God’s love is experienced differently in manner yet equally in measure.

Main Passages

17 Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him.

- 1 Corinthians 7:17

10 The disciples said to him, “If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” 11 But he said to them, “Not everyone can receive this saying, but only those to whom it is given. 12 For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let the one who is able to receive this receive it.”

- Matthew 19:10-12

32 I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. 33 But the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife, 34 and his interests are divided. And the unmarried or betrothed woman is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to be holy in body and spirit. But the married woman is anxious about worldly things, how to please her husband. 35 I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord.

- 1 Corinthians 7:32-35

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Is the love of Jesus Christ sufficient to meet the deepest needs of intimacy in a person’s life? Why or why not?

3. If you are single, how can you best cherish the life that God has called you to lead? If you are married, how can you best support those around you who are single right now?

The Power of Commitment

Main Thought

Today’s world is all about “me.” Marriage is no different. People want to know what they will “get out of” marriage. This kind of self-centeredness will not provide a foundation for a long-lasting and happy marriage. Christians, on the other hand, have a responsibility to look beyond themselves when it comes to marriage. God created marriage to mirror His love toward us. Jesus laid down His life in order to  put God and other people above Himself. Husbands and wives should seek to love each other with the same self-sacrificing love. When we commit ourselves to doing this well, our love stories can become a real-life picture of God’s love for the world.

Main Passages

21 …submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. 22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. 24 Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. 25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, 26 that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27 so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. 28 In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.

- Ephesians 5:21-28

29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, 30 because we are members of his body. 31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. 33 However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

- Ephesians 5:29-33

16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.

- John 3:16

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above and why?

2. If you’re married, what does being married mean to you? If you’re single, what does marriage mean to you?

3. Does the idea that Christian marriage is meant to be different from other marriages outside of Christianity sound strange to you? Do you agree or disagree? 

The Unstoppable Gospel

Main Thought

It’s football season! Everyone hopes that their favorite team or teams will be “unstoppable.” The gospel (or good news) about Jesus has been unstoppable ever since Jesus came from heaven to save the world. What did the early believers do to carry the unstoppable gospel to the ends of the earth? How can we see the gospel spread through our lives ? It can be as simple as living the gospel, connecting with others, and sharing the gospel with them. Living the gospel means we look for opportunities to serve people, like Jesus did. That becomes a bridge to connecting with others. We can then learn about what’s happening in peoples’ lives, ask them questions, and listen to them thoughtfully. Eventually, we’ll find opportunities to share what Jesus has done for us. The Holy Spirit empowers us as we engage this process and engage people in faith. If we will share the good news with God’s help, we’ll become unstoppable witnesses of the gospel.

Main Passages

30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!

- Acts 28:30-31

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

- Acts 2:42-47

8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

- Acts 1:8

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the main thought and passages above?

2. Think about the process of living the gospel, connecting with others, and sharing the gospel with them. What’s the hardest part of that process for you in this season of your life?

3. What is one practical step you can take in the next one or two weeks toward living the gospel, connecting with others, and/or sharing the gospel?

The Lord is My…

Main Thought

Moments of distress are unavoidable throughout our lives. We can’t determine when those things happen, how they happen, or how long they last. But we can determine our response! How does God want to respond to distress? We can start by declaring the Word of God. Declaring the Word reminds us of God’s promises and transforms our fear into faith. Yet we shouldn’t be naive; we need to beware of the Enemy’s forces. Opposition is unavoidable when we’re headed in the right direction. Striving to draw near to God is one of the greatest things we can do to ensure we’re heading the right way. As we continue, we should declare God’s Word and praises again. Our spirits need the reminder, and God deserves the praise. Finally, we can prepare for breakthrough in wisdom and faith as we persistently pursue God. Distress matters less when we press into God.

Main Passages

6 David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God. 7  Then David said to Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelek, “Bring me the ephod.” Abiathar brought it to him,  8  and David inquired of the Lord, “Shall I pursue this raiding party? Will I overtake them?” “Pursue them,” he answered. “You will certainly overtake them and succeed in the rescue.”

- 1 Samuel 30:6-8

The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh, my enemies and foes, they stumbled and fell. 3 Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. 4 One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.

- Psalm 27:1-4

5 For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock. 6 And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me; therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord. 7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. 8 When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.”

- Psalm 27:5-8

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Are you facing any sort of distress? If so, what?

3. Which one of the five underlined words or phrases can you apply in response to the distress you’re facing?

Join the Journey

Main Thought

In Acts chapter 21, we are inspired by the apostle Paul’s journey. His example teaches us that following God is both rewarding and challenging. He recognized God's will for his life and demonstrated incredible faith and determination in fulfilling it, even in the face of immense difficulties. This included returning to Jerusalem even when it looked like certain doom. Paul could have easily buckled to fear or rationalized his way out of God's plan, but he chose to trust and obey Him anyway. Paul could’ve reserved his rights. Instead, he relinquished his rights for the sake of others - imitating Christ and His sacrifice for us. As a result, God was glorified and Paul left a lasting mark in history.

Main Passages

10 After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11 Coming over to us, he took Paul’s belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, “The Holy Spirit says, ‘In this way the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.’” 12 When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” 14 When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.” - Acts 21:10-14

2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. - Romans 12:2

3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:3-11

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Do you feel that you “relinquish your rights” for the sake of serving others? Why or why not?

3. How can we discern the will of God for our lives and become confident that we’re walking in it?

How to Find What You're Looking For

Main Thought

On Paul’s second missionary journey, he found himself waiting for Silas and Timothy in Athens. While there, he was provoked by what he saw. Paul recognized the fine sculptures and architecture for what they really were: pointless pursuits of gods who could never hear or answer the people who sought them. Paul was moved to share the gospel; when he did so, his presentation was both accurate and adapted to fit the cultural context. The gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to uniquely address the needs of individuals, cultures, and communities. 

What might this look like in the city and cultural context of Las Vegas? Many in Las Vegas are pursuing fulfillment through money, pleasurable experiences, status and more. Yet temporary things can only bring temporary happiness. Our pursuits leave us isolated, with a trail of brokenness behind us. Yet the love of God, demonstrated by the Cross and secured by the Resurrection, is so valuable that’s it’s worth exchanging any other pursuit in order to experience it. We can abandon lesser pursuits because we’ve found greater hope and love in Christ. This is just one example of how the gospel can help us find what we’re looking for.

Main Passages

24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.

- Acts 17:24-27

45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46 When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.

- Matthew 13:44-46

11 For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 12 It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

- Titus 2:11-14

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Has there ever been a “pointless pursuit” that captured your attention? What do you think God’s Word says about that pursuit?

3. In your own words, how can the gospel (along with all of its implications) help us find what we’re looking for?

Confronting Contradictions

Main Thought

We will all face contradictions in our journey of faith: situations that seem to contradict God’s will for our lives. These may include struggles in our finances, relationships, health, and more. We often doubt God’s goodness and love when these contradictions arise. There are at least three things can help us confront these contradictions. We need to remember the word of God. We need to persevere in prayer. We should remain faithful and act in accordance to God’s will. When we persevere in these ways, greater faith and resilience are developed in us as we await greater victories in the future.

Main Passages

17 Some time later the son of the woman who owned the house became ill. He grew worse and worse, and finally stopped breathing. 18 She said to Elijah, “What do you have against me, man of God? Did you come to remind me of my sin and kill my son?” 19 “Give me your son,” Elijah replied. He took him from her arms, carried him to the upper room where he was staying, and laid him on his bed. 20 Then he cried out to the Lord, “Lord my God, have you brought tragedy even on this widow I am staying with, by causing her son to die?”

- 1 Kings 17:17-20

21 Then he stretched himself out on the boy three times and cried out to the Lord, “Lord my God, let this boy’s life return to him!” 22 The Lord heard Elijah’s cry, and the boy’s life returned to him, and he lived. 23 Elijah picked up the child and carried him down from the room into the house. He gave him to his mother and said, “Look, your son is alive!” 24 Then the woman said to Elijah, “Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the Lord from your mouth is the truth.”

- 1 Kings 17:21-24

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son…”

- Romans 8:28-29

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and passages above?

2. Are you facing any “contradictions” in your life right now?

3. How can you confront the contradictions in your life, based on the three things mentioned in the Main Thought?

The Divine Doorkeeper

Main Thought

Almost all of us have felt the frustration of “closed doors.” Maybe we don’t have the opportunities we want because of things like distractions, delays, and denials. When doors begin to close in our faces, it’s important for us to remember that God is the Divine Door Keeper. He opens doors that no one shut! Nothing can stop God’s perfect will. Knowing this can inspire us to faithfully obey God even when faced with closed doors. If we want His guidance, then we need to faithfully follow His instructions. We’ll eventually encounter open doors when we walk with Jesus. Open doors often have open hearts waiting on the other side. We’ll find incredible opportunities to know God more, and to make Him known.

Main Passages

6 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 11 From Troas we put out to sea and sailed straight for Samothrace, and the next day we went on to Neapolis. 12 From there we traveled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.

-  Acts 16:6-12

13 On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. 14 One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. 15 When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home. “If you consider me a believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us.

- Acts 16:13-15

7 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens. 8 “‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut.

- Revelation 3:7-8a

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?

2. Are you facing the frustration of a closed door right now?

3. What might it look like for you to faithfully explore, follow, or obey God while waiting for the right doors to open in your life?

What’s Missing in the Mission?

Main Thought

Barnabas and Paul brought God’s message of salvation to people who had never heard it before. As their team made disciples, they took their place in the mission of God. We’re invited to discover purpose as we participate in God’s mission. If we want to do that, then we can learn from the example of these men. There are at least five elements of effective mission present as their mission trip began in Acts 13:1-5. 

• Church: Paul and Barnabas were a part of a local church, and they started churches at every stop along the way. The primary way that God advanced His Kingdom in the New Testament was through local churches. 

• Community: Jesus called a community to be His followers and “fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19.) We can engage the mission together.

• Consistent prayer and fasting: The first missionaries recognized that they would bear much fruit in God by abiding in God (John 15), so they prayed and fasted regularly.

• A course of action (or a strategy): One reason they began with Cyprus is because Barnabas was from that island. He knew the roads, culture, and people well.

• Connections: Starting their mission in each city by visiting Jewish synagogues made it easier to connect with people. These connections turned into discipleship relationships as they preached and met with people.

If each of us improves in just one of these elements of mission individually, then our collective effort and impact would multiply greatly.

Main Passages

1 Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. 4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John to assist them.

- Acts 13:1-5

“‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

- Acts 13:47

18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

- Matthew 28:18-20

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Which one of the five elements of effective mission are you currently strongest in?

3. Which one of the five elements of effective mission can you improve on?

Disrupting the Darkness - Paul’s Encounter With The Light

Main Thought

Acts 9 presents a contrast of Saul’s life. (Saul would eventually come to be known as Paul.) We see him before Christ and after his conversion in Christ. What happened between verses 1 and 31? Saul encountered the presence and power of God in the form of a divine light. During this encounter, he experienced three things which would change him for the rest of his life. First, Jesus confronted Saul with the truth of the gospel. The gospel message points out our sin, and it reveals that the hope we need is in Jesus Christ. Next, we see that Saul reaches the point of conversion. He becomes a Christian, which is recognized outwardly by water baptism. Finally, we see that Saul answered the Great Commission and shared Christ with others. When we do this, we disrupt the darkness and help others encounter the light.

Main Passages

But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.”

- Acts 9:1-6

17 So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; 19 and taking food, he was strengthened.

- Acts 9:17-19

For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. 20 And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” 21 And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?” 22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.

- Acts 9:19b-22

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and/or Passages above?

2. Mirror Saul’s story in Acts 9 by reflecting on your Faith Story (or testimony) with God.
   a. What was you life like before Christ?
   b. How did you come to know Christ? (Confrontation and conversion)
   c. How has your life changed for the better since coming to know Christ?

3. Pray for at least one person to share your Faith Story with by name, then try to set up time to spend with that person within the next month!

Simon Says

Main Thought

In Acts 8, we read about an interesting individual: Simon the Magician. Simon’s magic captured the attention of Samaritan people for a long time. He had a great deal of influence until Philip the Evangelist arrived. Philip preached the gospel of Jesus Christ in Samaria. Many believed, including Simon. The Bible tells us that Simon went through the motions of being a Christian for a while. Yet his underlying motives remained unchanged. Simon still wanted the power, control, and approval that came from being viewed by others as “great.” Ultimately, we don’t know what became of Simon. He might have faded into history. He might have even become an early enemy of the church. How can we avoid ending up like Simon? By learning to search our hearts.

We can ask ourselves questions to reveal where our hearts stand before God, like:

1. Why do I feel this way? How can I surrender to the Lordship of Christ?

2. What motivates me?

3. Who am I becoming? Who, or what, is helping me get there?

Main Passage

9 But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” 11 And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. - Acts 8:9-13

14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” - Acts 8:14-19

20 But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.” 24 And Simon answered, “Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.” - Acts 8:20-24

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Is there an area in which you currently feel that you’re “going through the motions?” How might God want to inspire or motivate you in that area?

3. Search your heart by picking one of the three questions listed above that stands out to you most, then answering it in conversation with your group.

Even When It Doesn't Make Sense

Main Thought

We all know that we’ll face different obstacles and opposition throughout our lives. These things come in all shapes and sizes. They often make us feel like we’ve been pushed off-course. We may even wonder whether or not we’re living in God’s will. When this happens, it’s important for us to remember that God can use the things we face to position us for opportunity. If we want to experience this, then we need to obey God - even when it doesn’t make sense! God leads us through His Word, His Spirit, and His people. We may discover incredible open doors of opportunity when we follow God in faith.

Main Passages

4 Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. 5 Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. 6 And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was much joy in that city.

- Acts 8:4-8

26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is a desert place. 27 And he rose and went. And there was an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure. He had come to Jerusalem to worship 28 and was returning, seated in his chariot, and he was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “Go over and join this chariot.”

- Acts 8:26-29

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. How might God call us to obey Him in a way that doesn’t make sense? Give one or two examples.

3. How do you currently process God’s will in the face of a difficult decision? What can you do to get better at this process?

Fathers and Faith

Main Thought

In Acts 7, as Stephen addresses the crowd, he references a handful of the “fathers of the faith.” These are men who helped form the foundation of Christianity. We can learn a lot from their example. While these lessons can apply to every believer, they have a unique emphasis for fathers who want to live as God intended. Fathers are called like Abraham. God calls fathers to reflect the love of Christ to their spouses, and to demonstrate God’s love to their children. Fathers contend like Moses. Fathers contend for their families through things like prayer, consistency, and hard work. Fathers pay the cost like Stephen. Fathers are called to sacrifice; when they do this with joy, it reveals God’s love in a profound way. Finally, fathers are called to continue like Saul, who eventually became Paul. There may be moments in which any of us - fathers, mothers, everyone - feel like failures. The temptation in that moment is to give up or check out. But the grace of God gives us the opportunity to continue, and that’s exactly what we should do.

Main Passages

“Brothers and fathers, hear me. The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, 3 and said to him, ‘Go out from your land and from your kindred and go into the land that I will show you.’

- Acts 7:2-3

35 “This Moses, whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’—this man God sent as both ruler and redeemer by the hand of the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36 This man led them out, performing wonders and signs in Egypt and at the Red Sea and in the wilderness for forty years.

- Acts 7:35-36

…for though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again…

- Proverbs 24:16

Discussion Questions

1. What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?

2. Why is it important for the people we lead or influence to see us pay the cost, or sacrifice, in our leadership? In what ways do you try to apply this principle?

3. Have you ever felt like giving up or checking out because you failed in some way? What’s the best way for you to continue by God’s grace?