Summary: As we see how God did extraordinary work in Ephesus, we see the trail markers of revival and are inspired in our desires for him to awaken Charlottesville.
Reflection Questions:
1. What’s the difference between magic and walking by faith? Where are we subtly trying to control or manipulate God to action?
2. Do you hunger for God’s word? What could cause this hunger to grow? Pray in your small groups for the fruitfulness of the Word in our area.
3. What distinguishes the visible work of the Holy Spirit from other supernatural activity emerging from “spiritual forces of evil” (Eph 6:12)?
4. Has the abounding work of the Word and Spirit changed your life? Spend some time in your small group praying for this abounding work of transformation in our area.
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?
