Summary: The gospel of Jesus makes a splash in lives and the ripple effects continue to affect us for a lifetime. The church has good news that is speaks to physical and spiritual needs.
Reflection Questions:
1. As you reflect on your own faith, what person/people made the biggest splash in your life?
2. Were there specific areas we covered today (physical/spiritual/calamity) where you could make a splash in the life of another person/people?
3. In what ways have you underestimated the power of the gospel in your life? Can you name them? Purpose to confess this to your Dgroup.
4. Reflect on ways you’ve been persecuted for your faith. Was there fear generated more from actual physical persecution or what you perceived “might” happen to you? Brainstorm ways in your life where you can offer the good news to the need around you.
5. What will be the thing that moves you from shrinking back with your witness to “getting back up” and going into the city?
In Acts, the story follows the gospel expansion from city to city as Paul and his coworkers obey the Spirit’s call. As they proclaim the gospel, the word of the Lord spreads throughout Gentile lands and many become disciples. And something more. God establishes His church among various people and places. The churches are local, diverse, communal, and caught up in God’s saving mission.
We see the gospel on the move – moving into cities, neighborhoods, lives. Settling in and turning the world upside down. The same God has the same good news. Through this series, we’ll look at the church now & then, here & there. What can we learn from its different receptions and different responses? In our time and place, what changes and what remains the same?
