THE BOOK OF ACTS: Week 4 – June 23-29
Acts 7-8 How involved and what do new leaders do?
Now we journey into the dramatic events that change this early group forever. Stage one ends – being witnesses in Jerusalem – and the next begins – to Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth.
- Acts 7:1-53 Stephen’s speech before the Council
- Acts 7:54-60 The Council becomes enraged
- Acts 8:1-3 Saul approves of Stephen’s stoning and leads a persecution
- Acts 8:4-8 The city of Samaria eagerly receives Philip’s message
- Acts 8:9-13 Many are baptized including Simon the magician
- Acts 8:14-25 Peter and John sent by the apostles to Samaria
- Acts 8:26-40 Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. Philip comes to Caesarea
Chapter 7: Last Words
In chapter 6 Stephen was accused of insulting Moses and God and speaking against the temple and the law. How does Stephen’s defense prove that accusation to be false? Of what does Stephen accuse the Council? Of whom does Stephen’s last words remind you?
Where is the Holy Spirit at work in this chapter?
In what ways might you expect the Jerusalem church to react now that one
of their leaders was stoned for his faith? Fleeing? Protests? Fear? Discouragement? Courage? Hiding? Keep doing what they are doing? Prayer?
Action Plan: Write a note from you to the early church, encouraging their faith after the event of Stephen’s stoning. What do you think is important for them to hear?
Chapter 8: Spreading Out
Where and what is the Holy Spirit up to in this chapter?
How is the growing persecution on the church in Jerusalem affecting mission? Where is the gospel being heard now and what barriers are being broken?
Are there any barriers that the Holy Spirit might be calling our congregation to cross over to carry out God’s mission in our community?
Action Plan: Go for a walk or drive with a friend around a local neighborhood. Ask God to open your eyes to needs and for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of those whose homes you pass. What barriers might need to be crossed?
