· - Why does God sometimes use miracles to affirm the Gospel?

· - How did the healing of the lame man open the door for the message in Lystra?

· - How do we see God’s power working today to draw people to Him?

· - Why do you think the people of Lystra confused Paul and Barnabas with their gods?

· - What are modern examples of people worshiping or elevating humans instead of God?

· - How can we guard against taking God’s glory for ourselves?

· - How did Paul and Barnabas respond to being mistaken for gods?

· - What does their reaction teach us about humility in ministry?

· - In what ways can we redirect attention and glory back to God in our daily lives?

· - What does Paul’s perseverance after being stoned teach us about faith and resilience?

· - How does opposition often reveal the depth of someone’s commitment to Christ?

· - How do you personally handle discouragement or opposition when serving God?

· - What encouragement can we take from Galatians 6:9 when serving feels exhausting?

· - Why was Paul more concerned with planting churches than seeking fame or recognition?

· - How can we apply Paul’s example of perseverance and focus in our own spiritual walk?

Paul and Barnabas, continuing their first missionary journey, arrive in Pisidian Antioch. Invited to speak in the synagogue, Paul delivers his first recorded sermon. This message becomes a model of how to proclaim the Gospel in a Jewish context—by grounding it in Scripture, pointing to Christ, and calling for repentance and faith.

Paul begins by recounting Israel’s history, reminding the audience of God’s faithfulness. He establishes shared heritage as a foundation for the message.

Reflection Question: How can we wisely find “common ground” with those we share the Gospel with today?

Paul emphasizes that Jesus comes from Israel’s line: “He is one of us.” Despite this, He was persecuted and put to death. Paul speaks honestly about Israel’s rejection of the Messiah.

Reflection Question: Why is it important to recognize both the humanity and the suffering of Jesus?

Paul declares the heart of the Gospel: “But God raised Him from the dead.” This is the turning point of the sermon—death did not have the final word.

Reflection Question: How does the resurrection shape the way we face trials and suffering today?

Through Jesus, forgiveness of sins and freedom from the law are proclaimed. Paul does not avoid addressing those responsible for Christ’s death, yet he still offers them grace and repentance.

Reflection Question: How can we speak the truth boldly while still offering grace and hope to others?

Many beg Paul and Barnabas to continue teaching. One week later, nearly the whole city gathers to hear the word of God.

Some Jews respond with jealousy, contradicting and slandering Paul. Persecution rises against Paul and Barnabas.

Reflection Question: What are some ways jealousy and pride can hinder people from receiving the Gospel?

They boldly declare that the Gospel must now also go to the Gentiles. Paul cites Isaiah’s prophecy: a light for the Gentiles, salvation to the ends of the earth.

The Gentiles rejoice and glorify the word of the Lord. Many believe, and the Gospel spreads throughout the region.

Reflection Question: What does this moment teach us about God’s heart for all nations?

This sermon shows the pattern of Gospel preaching: common ground → Christ proclaimed → call to repentance → mixed responses. Paul demonstrates grace and truth even when faced with hatred and persecution. This is a turning point in Acts, as the Gospel increasingly moves toward the Gentiles. Jesus prepared His disciples for this: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18).

Reflection Question: How can we remain faithful to the Gospel when faced with rejection or hostility? 

· Who accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey, and where did it begin?

· What does the starting point of Antioch in Syria teach us about the church’s role in sending missionaries?

· What pattern often followed Paul’s ministry when he entered new cities (arrival, preaching, persecution)?

· Why do you think persecution so often followed Paul’s preaching? How does this relate to the gospel today?

· What do verses 4–7 show us about the openness of some to hear the gospel?

· How did Elymas oppose Paul and Barnabas, and what was the result of his opposition?

· Why is it significant that Paul (who once persecuted and blinded others spiritually) is now the one God uses to strike Elymas with blindness?

· How does this moment reflect God’s power to transform lives for His purposes?

· Who was Sergius Paulus, and why is his conversion so important in this passage?

· How does his faith demonstrate that the gospel is effective even when faced with opposition?

· What does his story teach us about the influence of the gospel on people from all walks of life?

· Why is the name change from Saul to Paul significant?

· What does this shift represent about the gospel’s movement from a Jewish audience to a Gentile audience?

· How can conflict in your life or opposition to your faith lead to opportunities for others to see Jesus more clearly?

· Share a time when someone came to faith—or grew in faith—because they witnessed how you (or another believer) handled challenges.

Suffering: Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?
 

· Why do you think this question (“Why do bad things happen to good people?”) comes up so often in conversations about faith?

· How might the tone or intent behind the question (“Gotcha” vs. Genuine) change the way we respond?

· Who gets to define what is “bad”? How do our definitions compare to God’s?

· Have you personally asked this question before? What was going on in your life at the time?

· How does understanding the fall of man in Genesis help us explain the existence of suffering and evil in the world?

· Read Romans 8:19. What does it mean that creation itself “waits with eager longing”?

· Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned.” How does this truth affect the idea that there are “good” people?

· What does 1 Peter 2:11 teach us about how to live in the middle of suffering and temptation?

· 2 Corinthians 4:17 calls our afflictions “light” and “momentary.” How does that perspective shift the way we endure pain and hardship?

· How can we hold together both God’s sovereignty and human free will when thinking about suffering?

· Have you ever seen God bring good out of suffering in your own life or someone else’s?

· Read John 15:18–20. Why should we expect to experience rejection, suffering, or even hatred as followers of Christ?

· How does knowing that Jesus Himself suffered give us comfort and perspective when we go through trials?

· What might it look like to live faithfully in a world where suffering is guaranteed, but God’s glory is promised?

The Book of Acts is similar to the Old Testament in that God does miraculous works to establish and affirm His kingdom. In Acts 12:20–25, we see a contrast between a king who thought he was worthy of worship and the One who truly is.

- Why did Herod Agrippa believe he was “worthy of worship”? How does the Greek word axios (equal weight/value) deepen our understanding of what it means to be “worthy”?

- What role did Agrippa’s pride and position of power play in his downfall? How does the saying, “absolute power corrupts absolutely” apply here?

- According to Josephus’ account, how did Agrippa’s appearance add to his arrogance and sense of worthiness?

- In what ways do people today seek recognition or “worship” that belongs to God alone?

- What was Agrippa’s sin that brought God’s judgment upon him?

- How does John Piper’s definition of an idol (“anything we come to rely on in place of God”) challenge us to examine our own lives?

- Read Psalm 115:4–8. How do idols make those who worship them become like them? What are some modern “idols” that can blind or paralyze us spiritually?

- What does Agrippa’s death teach us about God’s jealousy for His glory?

- Contrast Agrippa’s pursuit of worship with the Scriptures declaring who alone is worthy (Romans 12:1, Revelation 4:11, 2 Peter 3:18, Psalm 145:3). What differences stand out to you?

- How does presenting our bodies as a “living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1) express true worship?

- Why is it important to continually grow in the knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18) as part of our worship?

- How do these passages shift our focus from earthly rulers to the eternal King?

- Read Revelation 5:11–13. How does this heavenly scene of worship inspire and shape the way we worship today?

- Why is Jesus Christ alone “worthy of worship”?

- How should this passage challenge us to redirect any misplaced worship or idolatry in our lives back to the Lamb who was slain?  

August 17th Study Questions Acts 12:1–19 The Unleavened Bread Upheaval

- Who was James, and how did his death impact the early church?

- Why do you think Herod’s actions against the church were “approved of” by the people?

- What does this passage remind us about the reality of suffering in the Christian life?

- How does Luke balance the “growth and expansion of the church” with reminders of persecution and hardship?

- What does it mean that the church was praying “earnestly” for Peter?

-. How does the picture of something being “stretched out to its fullest” help you understand the nature of earnest prayer?

-. Why is it important for prayer to be a regular mark of the church, and not only something done during times of crisis?

-. How can we grow in practicing this kind of continual and earnest prayer as a church today?

-. Why was Peter arrested during Passover, and what does this reveal about Herod’s motives?

- How did the Roman practice of four squads of soldiers highlight the seriousness of Peter’s imprisonment?

- Describe how God delivered Peter from prison. What does this teach us about God’s power and timing?

- How did the believers respond when Peter appeared at the house? What does their reaction reveal about their expectations in prayer?

-. Why is this passage considered one of the last accounts of Peter’s ministry in Acts, and how does the focus shift after chapter 12?

- What role should earnest prayer play in both the church and our personal lives?

-. How can we intentionally pray for one another in the same spirit as the early believers?

- What does this story teach us about God’s sovereignty in both suffering and deliverance?

- What caused the church to be dispersed, and how did God use this dispersion for His purposes?

- Who were the men from Cyprus and Cyrene, and what is significant about them preaching to the Hellenists?

- How does this passage challenge our view of where and how the Gospel can spread?

- What evidence is given in the passage that God was blessing the new church in Antioch?

- Why was Barnabas sent to Antioch, and what was his response when he saw what God was doing?

- What role did Saul play in the development of the Antioch church?

- What does it mean that “the disciples were first called Christians” in Antioch, and why was this label originally meant as ridicule?

- What is the meaning of the word Diakonía, and how does it reflect the church’s mission?

- How did the Antioch church respond to the needs of other believers, and what does that teach us about generosity in the church today?

- Why is it significant that giving to the hurting and needy was part of the church’s identity from the beginning?

- What three main focuses of the church are highlighted in this passage, and how do they compare to the priorities of many churches today?

- Why do you think Luke made no mention of numbers or building size in this account? What does that teach us about the true measures of a church’s health?

- How can we personally live out the Antioch church’s example in preaching, teaching, and giving?

• Why did some Jewish believers criticize Peter for eating with Gentiles? What does this reveal about their assumptions and traditions?
• Peter himself initially resisted God’s instructions in his vision (Acts 10:14). How does this parallel the reaction of the believers here?
• How do passages like Ezekiel 4:14, Daniel 1:8, Leviticus 11, and Deuteronomy 14 shape Jewish views of purity? Why was it so difficult for them to accept Gentiles as equals?
• How can we apply the truth that we can’t control what others accuse us of—but we can control our response?

• Why do you think some of the hardest opposition to God’s work can come from inside the church?
• How have you seen “We’ve never done it that way before” hinder spiritual growth, mission, or outreach?
• Reflect on a time when you were resistant to change. What did God teach you through it?

• Why does Peter recount his entire experience with Cornelius? What does this teach us about patience and communication when facing criticism?
• Verse 17 is central: “If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us…who was I that I could stand in God’s way?”
  
  • What does this statement teach us about recognizing God’s work, even when it defies our expectations?
  • How should we respond when God blesses others in ways we didn’t anticipate or think possible?

• Why is it important to rejoice when others come to faith—even if it’s through methods or ministries different from our own?
• In your life, do you find it easy or difficult to celebrate what God is doing through others? Why?

• What happened in the hearts of those who originally criticized Peter once they heard his explanation?
• How does their response—falling silent and glorifying God—model humility and openness to correction?
• Why is it essential for Christians and churches to be willing to adapt when God shows a better way?

• Reflect on Peter’s words: “Who was I that I could stand in God’s way?” How can you make sure you’re not standing in God’s way in your own life, family, or church?
• Acts 1:8 speaks of the gospel going to “the end of the earth.” How does this passage in Acts 11 show that God’s plan truly includes all people?
• How can you practice being open to God’s guidance, even when it challenges your traditions or comfort zones?
• When life doesn’t go according to your plans—like an unexpected change during the school year—how can you discern whether it’s a course correction from God?

Ask God to show you any area where you might be resisting His guidance or standing in His way. Commit to responding with humility, like those who eventually fell silent and glorified God.

1. A Turning Point in the Church

• Why is Acts 10 considered a major turning point in Christian history?
   
• How does this chapter begin to fulfill Acts 1:8?
   
• What barriers (cultural, religious, social) are being broken down in this story?
   

Cornelius:

• What do we learn about Cornelius’s character and spiritual life in verses 1–2?
   
• How do his actions reflect a sincere pursuit of God, even before formally hearing the gospel?
   
• How did God respond to Cornelius’s prayers and generosity (v. 4)? What does this say about God's attentiveness?
   

Peter:

• Read Peter’s vision in verses 9–16. What was Peter’s initial reaction to the command?
   
• Why do you think Peter resisted? What does this reveal about long-standing religious beliefs?
   
• What lesson is God teaching Peter through this vision?
   

• How do the dietary laws in Leviticus and Deuteronomy connect to Peter’s resistance?
   
• What does God mean when He says, “What God has made clean, do not call common” (v. 15)?
   
• How does this vision prepare Peter for a new kind of ministry?
   
• In what ways does God challenge our assumptions or biases about who we think is “ready” or “worthy” to receive the Gospel?
   

• In verse 17, Peter is still confused—yet the men from Cornelius show up exactly at that moment. What does this show about God’s timing?
   
• How does Peter respond to God’s command in verse 20?
   
• What can we learn from Peter’s willingness to “Rise and go without hesitation”?
   
• How does obedience—even when we’re unsure—lead to clarity and deeper impact?
   

• In verses 25–26, Cornelius falls at Peter’s feet. Why is this significant, and how does Peter respond?
   
• What does this teach us about keeping God—not people—at the center of our faith?
   

• How does this encounter confirm the unity of Jews and Gentiles in the gospel?
   
• Why is it important that both Cornelius and Peter receive visions and instructions independently?
   
• How does God use their collaboration to reinforce the truth of the Gospel's universality?
   

• How does Acts 10 reinforce the truth of Acts 1:8?
   
• Do you view the command to be a witness “to the ends of the earth” as a personal call or just a church-wide mission?
   
• Who are the “Gentiles” in your life—people different from you—whom God may be calling you to reach?
   
• What steps can you take this week to “Rise and Go” with the Gospel, even if it takes you out of your comfort zone?
   

Pray that God will open your eyes—like Peter—and open doors—like He did with Cornelius. Ask for courage to say “yes” without hesitation when God tells you to rise and go.

• Why do you think Luke shifts focus back to Peter after discussing Saul’s conversion?
   
• What does it say about Peter’s faith and priorities that he went “here and there” sharing the message of Jesus (v. 32)?
   
• How can we adopt Peter’s mindset of ministering to others “as we go” about our daily lives?
   

• What stands out to you about Peter’s healing of Aeneas (v. 33–34)? Why does Peter emphasize “Jesus Christ heals you”?
   
• How can we stay mindful of giving glory to Jesus—not ourselves—when serving others?
   
• In what areas of your life might God be calling you to step out in bold faith and obedience like Peter?
   

• How is Tabitha described in verse 36? What does this tell us about the kind of life she lived?
   
• What do her acts of charity and kindness teach us about the power of a faithful, generous life?
   
• What role did the community play in this miracle (vv. 37–39)? How can Christian community respond in faith when tragedy strikes?
   

• Verse 42 says, “many believed in the Lord.” How did both Aeneas’s healing and Tabitha’s resurrection lead to faith in Jesus?
   
• How can your personal testimony—your story of God at work—be used to draw others to Christ?
   
• Do you find it easier to serve through actions (like Tabitha) or words (like Peter)? How can both be used together to glorify God?
   

• What does it mean to “minister as you are going”? How does that change your view of everyday life?
   
• How can you ensure that your deeds—like healing, helping, or encouraging—are done in Jesus’ name and for His glory?
   

This week, look for one opportunity in your daily routine—at work, in your neighborhood, or online—where you can serve or encourage someone in Jesus' name. Pray for God to use it to bring glory to Him and open doors for the Gospel.

· • Why were the believers in Jerusalem hesitant to welcome Saul, even after his encounter with Christ (v. 26)?

· • Think of a time God dramatically changed someone you know. How did others respond to that change, and what does it teach us about extending trust and grace?

· • What practical steps can a church take today to discern genuine conversion without falling into perpetual suspicion?

· • Barnabas risked his own reputation by vouching for Saul (v. 27). What qualities of 'encouragers' make them so valuable to the body of Christ?

· • Read Acts 4:36‑37. How does Barnabas’s earlier act of generosity foreshadow his later advocacy for Saul?

· • Who has played a 'Barnabas role' in your life or ministry, and how did their support shape your trajectory?

· • How can you intentionally cultivate a Barnabas‑like habit of spotting untapped potential in others? List two concrete actions you could take this week.

· • Luke reports that the church 'enjoyed peace … was strengthened … and grew in numbers.' What conditions contributed to that season of peace and growth?

· • Which of those conditions are within our control today, and which rely solely on God’s timing and grace?

· • “Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit” (v. 31, NIV): What do these twin postures look like in everyday Christian practice?

· • How does unity among believers amplify the church’s witness in a skeptical world? Give modern examples.

· • What threatens unity in your own congregation or small group right now, and how might Acts 9 guide your response?

· • Saul’s story shows that a transformed life becomes a powerful testimony that precedes us (v. 28‑29). In what ways is your personal testimony opening—or closing—doors for the gospel?

· • How can the group pray for one another to “go before” the Lord this week?

· • Choose one person whose potential you can affirm this week. Write them a brief note—or speak directly—sharing the ways you see God at work in them. Then pray that God will multiply encouragement and unity, just as He did in Acts 9.