This past Sunday, I had the honor of teaching through Acts 13:42-52. In this passage, we see two things the early church prioritized: discipleship and obedience. As a result of these two priorities, three effects followed: multiplication, persecution, and maturity. In this message, I unpack what each of these mean practically in our own lives.
The “Sermon Discussion Guide” can be found below the message to help you go deeper in the text. I will be leading a small group online via Zoom this Wednesday at 8pm (central time) to go through the guide. All are invited to join us. The connection info is here: https://renovationchurchsd.com/online-service-information/
Book of Acts – Week 33 – Acts 13:42-52
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 13:42-52. What stands out to you? What questions do you still have after reading through the text?
2. One of the first evidences that the Holy Spirit is drawing a person to a life of discipleship is a deep hunger to know God through His Word. Read 1 Peter 2:2-3. What stands out to you from this short passage by Peter on this subject?
3. One of the ways we grow as disciples is to follow and submit to human leaders as they follow and submit to Jesus – this is clear in the reality that the crowd “followed” Paul and Barnabas as a means of following Jesus (Acts 13:43). Read Hebrews 13:17. Practically speaking, what does this passage mean? What about when leaders are ungodly or have disqualified themselves from ministry?
4. One of the major themes of the Book of Acts – and one that we see in this passage – is the more obedient you are to God the more you will likely suffer and face rejection. Why do you think this is? What are some steps each of us can take so that we are ready for suffering and rejection as a result of following Jesus?
5. Acts 13:48 says, “all who had been appointed to eternal life believed.” It’s important to discuss and think through difficult verses. What are your thoughts on this verse and the concept of “pre-destination”?
6. When Paul and Barnabas were kicked out of the city, the text says the shook the dust off their feet. What is the meaning behind this? Is there ever a time when we need to do something similar in our own lives? If so, when?
Tyler Ramsbey 