This past Sunday I had the honor of continuing our series through the Book of Acts by teaching on Acts 14:8-20. In this passage, we see the people of Lystra exalt Paul and Barnabas as gods. The reality is, idolatry is something all of us are guilty of. The way Paul and Barnabas respond provides relevant teaching on how each of us can keep our hearts firmly fixed on Jesus.
The “Sermon Discussion Guide” is below the video. We will be meeting on Wednesday at 8pm to discuss it via Zoom. Connection info is here: https://renovationchurchsd.com/online-service-information/
Book of Acts – Week 35 – Acts 14:8-20
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 14:8-20. What stands out to you? What questions do you still have after reading through the text?
2. Tyler said in the message that the man crippled from birth mirrors our spiritual condition apart from Christ. Read Ephesians 2:1-3 – what stands out to you about your identity before you came to know Jesus?
3. What set the crippled man apart from others is that he truly listened and received God’s Word. According to James 1:21 we are to “receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” Practically speaking, how do we receive God’s word with “meekness”?
4. The people in Lystra commit idolatry by proclaiming that Paul and Barnabas are gods who have come to visit them. In the same way, our culture is full of idolatry but it’s not as explicit (but just as dangerous). What are some false gods that are prominent in our culture today?
5. Read slowly through Paul and Barnabas’ response to the worship of the people in Lystra in Acts 14:14-17. What did you think of their response? What are some things that stand out to you that all of us should consider for our lives today?
6. Finally, what is at least one way you are seeking to apply this text to your life this week?
Tyler Ramsbey 