This past Sunday, I had the honor of teaching through Acts 22:30-23:11. In this passage, Paul is placed on trial as a result of the Gospel. Through Paul’s response, we learn that all of us should respond with boldness, humility, discernment, and with a focus on Jesus when we are judged for the Gospel.
The “Sermon Discussion Guide” can be found below the message to help you go deeper in the text. As usual, we will be going through these questions for an online small group via Zoom on Wednesday (April 21st) at 8:30pm. Connection info can be found on our website: www.renovationchurchsd.com
Acts 22:30-23:11
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 22:30-23:11. What themes stand out to you? What questions do you have about this passage?
2. In the beginning of this passage, Paul is placed on trial. Tyler made the point in the message that your life is the “5th Gospel” that displays to the world who Jesus is. Read 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 where Paul explains this in more detail. What stands out to you?
3. When placed on trial, Paul responds in four ways: with boldness, humility, discernment, and with a focus on Jesus. Which of these is most difficult for you? Why?
4. When Paul is struck on the mouth, he lashes out against the high priest in anger (and then apologizes when corrected). According to Scripture, what are some specific ways we should respond when we are slandered and attacked for our faith? How has the church failed to do this throughout history?
5. In order to fully understand this passage (and much of the New Testament) you need to understand the difference between the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Explain their different belief systems in your own words.
6. When Paul realizes continuing to argue is a losing battle, he intentionally divides the group to remove himself from the situation. Read Matthew 7:6. First, what does this passage mean? Second, what are some signs we should look for to realize we are throwing the “pearl” of the Gospel to “pigs”?
Tyler Ramsbey 