This past Sunday I had the honor of teaching through Acts 9:10-19. In this passage we are given a glimpse into the power of (ordinary) discipleship through the life of Ananias. Ananias’ example leaves us with five characteristics worthy of our imitation.
The sermon discussion guide is below the message. We will be meeting on Wednesday at 8pm via Zoom to discuss this text. All are invited to join us. The connection info is here: Renovation Church – Zoom Information
Book of Acts – Week 24 – Acts 9:10-19
Discussion Guide
Before working on this discussion guide, please do the following:
1. Watch the message from this past Sunday if you were unable to attend the online service. You can find the message on our Facebook Page and on our website (renovationchurchsd.com).
2. Spend 5 minutes or so in prayer. You can either pray through the “Lord’s Prayer” or simply share what is on your heart. It is also good to spend at least 1 full minute in silence so that God can quiet your heart and mind as you prepare to study the Scriptures.
Discussion Questions
1. Read slowly and prayerfully through Acts 9:10-19. What stands out to you? What questions do you still have after reading through the text?
2. In the beginning of this passage we are introduced to a man named Ananias. He is described simply as being a “disciple” of Jesus. In your own words, what does it mean to be a disciple? Take a few moments to read through Jesus’ invitation to discipleship in Luke 9:23-27. What does this passage teach us about discipleship?
3. The second characteristic that we should emulate from Ananias is that he was available to God. This is evident in his response to the vision by saying, “Here I am, Lord.” First, what does it mean to be available to God? Second, what are some practices we can adopt to make ourselves more available to be used by God?
4. The third characteristic that we should emulate from Ananias is that he was obedient to God. Many Christians will nod their heads and agree with a passage in the Bible but very few of us seek to apply these passages to our lives. This was a common situation even in the early church and the letter of James was written to correct this. Read James 1:22-25 – what is some insight we should take away from this passage?
5. The fourth characteristic to emulate from Ananias is that he saw people the way God saw them. When he sees Saul, he refers to him as “Brother Saul…” This is likely the inspiration behind Saul/Paul’s words in 2 Cor. 5:16-21. Read through this passage – what stands out to you? How should this change the way we view others in the church?
6. Finally, the fifth characteristic we see in Ananias’ life is that he was a conduit of the Holy Spirit. Have you ever met someone who seemed to be full of the Holy Spirit? What about them stood out to you? What are some steps we can take to become better “conduits” of the Holy Spirit to those around us?
Tyler Ramsbey 