In the book of Acts, Luke records the compelling narrative of the early Church. The risen King Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to dwell among his people—God’s fiery presence no longer resides in a physical temple, but in the hearts of Jesus’ followers. And so the first members of the Church ignite a movement that will spread throughout the world as they bear witness to the truth of the gospel and its power to bring God’s heavenly kingdom to earth.
WEEK 1: Promise of the Spirit
January 9 Acts 1:1-26
WEEK 2: Birth of the Church
January 16 Acts 2:1-47
WEEK 3: Faith, Healing, and Repentance
January 23 Acts 3:1-26
WEEK 4: Obeying God Rather than Men
January 30 Acts 4:1-31
WEEK 5: Ananias and Sapphira
February 6 Acts 4:32-5:11
WEEK 6: Build the Church
February 13 Acts 6:1-7
WEEK 7: Stephen
February 20 Acts 6:8-7:60
WEEK 8: Responses to the Gospel
February 27 Acts 8:1-40
WEEK 9: Saul's Conversion
March 6 Acts 9:1-31
WEEK 10: What God has Made Clean
March 13 Acts 9:32-11:18
WEEK 11: Opposition and Deliverance
March 20 Acts 11:19-12:25
WEEK 12: First Missionary Journey
March 27 Acts 13-14
WEEK 13: Council at Jerusalem
April 3 Acts 15:1-35
WEEK 14: Second Missionary Journey Begins
April 10 Acts 15:36 - 16:40
WEEK 15: Responses to the Gospel (Thessalonians & Bereans)
April 24 Acts 17:1-15
WEEK 16: Paul at Athens
May 1 Acts 17:16-34
WEEK 17: Third Missionary Journey
May 8 Acts 18-19
WEEK 18: Paul with the Ephesian Elders
May 15 Acts 20
WEEK 19: Paul's Persecution and Arrest in Jerusalem
May 22 Acts 21:1-36
WEEK 20: Paul's Story, Rejection, and the Plot to Kill Him
May 29
Call Upon the Lord | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 18:3-2 • 2 Corinthians 3:17 • Hebrews 13:5-6
Faithfulness | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:22-23 • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 • Romans 15:13
Build My Life | Passion | Apple Music | Spotify
Matthew 7:24-27 • Colossians 2:6-8 • Psalm 145:3
The Lord is Great and Mighty | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 40 • Ezekiel 36:26
Come Alive | Red Rocks Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Matthew 11:28 • Psalm 46 • Ezekiel 37
In Your Presence | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 16:7-8 & 11 • Deuteronomy 31:6 • Romans 8:31-34
Overcome | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Romans 8 • Psalm 145:13 • John 16:33
Hope of the Ages | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Corinthians 15:3-28 • Romans 5:1-2 • 1 Peter 1:23-25
In Christ Alone | Passion | Apple Music | Spotify
Jude 1:24-25 • Philippians 3:7-11 • Romans 8:38-39
Lamb of God | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
John 1:29 • Hebrews 4:14-16 • Romans 6:5-11
But God | The Village Church | Apple Music |Spotify
1 Peter 2:9 • Ephesians 2:4-7
Who You Say I Am | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 2:9-10 • John 8:36 • Romans 8:14-17
Overcome | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Romans 8 • Psalm 145:13 • John 16:33
Hope of the Ages | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Corinthians 15:3-28 • Romans 5:1-2 • 1 Peter 1:23-25
In Christ Alone | Passion | Apple Music | Spotify
Jude 1:24-25 • Philippians 3:7-11 • Romans 8:38-39
Lamb of God | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
John 1:29 • Hebrews 4:14-16 • Romans 6:5-11
But God | The Village Church | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 2:9 • Ephesians 2:4-7
Who You Say I Am | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 2:9-10 • John 8:36 • Romans 8:14-17
Trust You (You are Good) | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Mark 9:24 • Luke 12:27-32 • Psalm 107:28-30
The One Who Saves | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Chronicles 16:31-35 • Ezra 3 :11 • Jeremiah 33:11
Never Be the Same | People & Songs | Apple Music | Spotify
John 4:13-14 • 2 Corinthians 5:17 • Romans 8:11
Endless Surrender | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Hebrews 4:12 • Philippians 3:8-11 • Titus 3:3-8
Hope of the Ages | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Corinthians 15:3-28 • Romans 5:1-2 • 1 Peter 1:23-25
Yes I Will | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 130:5-8 • Philippians 2:9-11 • Isaiah 28:30
Greater Than All Our Words | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 19:1 • Romans 12:1 • Job 40:4
To the King | Grace Church Worship
Philippians 3:20-21 • 1 Peter 1:18-21 • Psalm 95:1-6
New Album Coming This Spring!
To the Cross I Cling | The Village Church | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 • Ephesians 2:4-6
Only a Holy God | CityAlight | Apple Music | Spotify
Isaiah 6 • Revelation 4:8 • Philippians 2:1-11
What a Savior | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
John 9:35-39 • Psalm 71:14 • Psalm 149:4
Behold | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music| Spotify
Philippians 2:6-11 • 1 Peter 3:18 • Isaiah 53:3-5 • Revelation 19:11-16
To the King | Grace Church Worship
Philippians 3:20-21 • 1 Peter 1:18-21 • Psalm 95:1-6
New Album Coming This Spring!
Nobody Like You | Red Rocks Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 33:6-7 • Exodus 15:11 • Phil 2:5-11 • Jeremiah 10:6
All Things Together | 10,000 Fathers | Apple Music | Spotify
Revelation 22:13 • Colossians 1:17
Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me | CityAlight | Apple Music | Spotify
Galatians 2:20 • 1 Corinthians 15:10 • Philippians 2:13
Hope of the Ages | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Corinthians 15:3-28 • Romans 5:1-2 • 1 Peter 1:23-25
O God of Our Salvation | Grace Church Worship |Apple Music | Spotify
1 Chronicles 16:29
Give It All | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music| Spotify
Psalm 101:1 • Romans 12:1 • Romans 5:8 • Galatians 2:20
To the King | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Philippians 3:20-21 • 1 Peter 1:18-21 • Psalm 95:1-6New Album Coming This Spring!
Morning by Morning | Pat BarrettLamentations 3:22-24 • Psalm 27:1 • Proverbs 3:5-6
More Like Jesus | Passion | Apple Music | Spotify
John 3:30 • 1 Peter 2:21 • Romans 8:29 • Ephesians 4:22-24
This We Know | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Isaiah 55:8-9 • Hebrews 10:23 • Colossians 2:15 • 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 • 1 Peter 1:3-7
Call Upon the Lord | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 18:3-2 • 2 Corinthians 3:17 • Hebrews 13:5-6
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/call-upon-the-lord-live/1059055043?i=1059055046
The Lord's Prayer | Grace Church Worship
Matthew 6:9-13
New Album Coming Soon!
More Grace | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
James 4:6-10
Look What God Has Done | Corey Voss & Madison Street Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalms 77 • Philippians 2:9-11
No One Else | Grace Church Worship
Psalm 104 • Psalm 107 • Isaiah 40
New Album Coming Soon!
Man of Sorrows | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Isaiah 53 • 1 Timothy 2:5-6 • Hebrews 5:5-9
I Am Not The Same | Grace Midtown | Apple Music | Spotify
John 16:33 • Psalm 107:13-15 • Mark 13: 24-26 • 1 John 5:4-5 • Philippians 1:20-21
There Is a Fountain | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Zechariah 13:1 • John 1:29 • Hebrews 9:12-14
O Come to the Altar | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 John 2:2 • Hebrews 13:12 • Romans 12:1-2
I Surrender | All Sons & Daughters | Apple Music | Spotify
Romans 12:1 • Luke 22:41-43 • Matthew 6:19-21
What a Savior | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
John 9:35-39 • Psalm 71:14 • Psalm 149:4
Never Be the Same | People & Songs | Apple Music | Spotify
John 4:13-14 • 2 Corinthians 5:17 • Romans 8:11
To the King | Grace Church Worship | New Album Coming April 1!
Philippians 3:20-21 • 1 Peter 1:18-21 • Psalm 95:1-6
All Creatures of Our God and King | David Crowder Band | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 66:1 • Psalm 148 • Revelation 5:13
Only a Holy God | CityAlight | Apple Music | Spotify
Isaiah 6 • Revelation 4:8 • Philippians 2:1-11
Singing in the Victory | Austin Stone | Apple Music | Spotify
John 14:27 • 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 • Romans 8:35-39
Hope of the Ages | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Corinthians 15:3-28 • Romans 5:1-2 • 1 Peter 1:23-25
Who You Say I Am | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 2:9-10 • John 8:36 • Romans 8:14-17
Yes I Will | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 34 • Hebrews 13:5-6 • 2 Chronicles 20:6
Morning by Morning | Pat Barrett | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:22-24 • Psalm 27:1 • Proverbs 3:5-6
Unfailing (Psalm 5) | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 5
The Lord is Great and Mighty | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 40 • Ezekiel 36:26 • Psalm 34: 15-18
Mighty God (Another Hallelujah) | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 95:1-7 • Mark 4:35-41
King of Kings | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Philippians 2:5-11 • Luke 24:1-8 • 1 Timothy 6:15-16
Faithfulness | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:21-26 • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 • Psalms 36:5-9
Exalted Over All | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Philippians 2:6-11 • Colossians 1:15-20 • Hebrews 12:2
Promises | Maverick City Music | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:22-27 • Deuteronomy 7:9 • Psalm 105:7-11
Christ Be Magnified | Cody Carnes | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 148 • 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 • Romans 6:1-11
Come Alive | Red Rocks Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Matthew 11:28 • Colossians 2:13-14 • Hebrews 4:16
Lamb of God | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
John 1:29 • Hebrews 4:14-16 • Romans 6:5-11
Hallelujah for the Cross | Chris McClarney | Apple Music
Colossians 1:13-22 • 1 Peter 2:22-25 • Romans 2:4
No One Else | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 104 • Psalm 107 • Isaiah 40
In Your Presence | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Deuteronomy 31:8 • Psalm 16:7-11 • Psalm 48:9-14
Once For All | CityAlight |Apple Music | Spotify
Hebrews 7:23-28 • Hebrews 9:24-28 • 1 Peter 3:18
O Come to the Altar | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Hebrews 13:10-14 • Isaiah 55:1-3 • Romans 12:1-2
The Lord's Prayer | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Matthew 6:9-13
To the King | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 1:18-21 • Psalm 95:1-7 • Philippians 3:20-21
Worthy of it All | CeCe Winans | Apple Music | Spotify
Revelation 4 • Revelation 5:8
Build My Life | Passion | Apple Music | Spotify
Matthew 7:24-27 • Colossians 2:6-10 • 1 Samuel 2:2
Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me | CityAlight | Apple Music | Spotify
Galatians 2:20 • Colossians 3:1-4 • Philippians 2:12-13
Dwell | Aaron Keyes | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 91 • Isaiah 54:17
Look What God Has Done | Corey Voss & Madison Street Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalms 77 • Psalm 126:2-3 • Philippians 2:9-11
Call Upon the Lord | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 18:3-2 • 2 Corinthians 3:17 • Hebrews 13:5-6
Only a Holy God | CityAlight | Apple Music | Spotify
Hebrews 12:18-29 • Isaiah 6:1-7 • Revelation 15:3-4
Great Are You Lord | All Sons & Daughters | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 104 • Psalm 98:4-9 • John 1:4-5
No One Else | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 104 • Psalm 107 • Isaiah 40
Singing in the Victory | Austin Stone | Apple Music | Spotify
Isaiah 26:3-4 • 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 • Romans 8:35-39
What a Savior | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Philippians 3:8-11 • Hebrews 10:32-34 • Mark 8:34-35
There Is a Fountain | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Zechariah 13:1 • Hebrews 9:11-28 • Revelation 7:13-14
Hope to Carry On | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
2 Corinthians 4:8-18 • 1 Thessalonians 3 • 1 Peter 1:6-7
All Things Together | 10,000 Fathers | Apple Music | Spotify
Revelation 22:13 • Colossians 1:17
Come Alive | Red Rocks Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Matthew 11:28 • Colossians 2:13-14 • Hebrews 4:16
Firm Foundation | The Belonging Co & Cody Carnes | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 2:6-8 • Matthew 7:24-27 • Psalm 62:5-8
I Will Look Up | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 5:7 • Philippians 4:6-7 • Jeremiah 10:6-7
Greater Than All Our Words | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 19:1 • Romans 12:1 • Job 40:4
Mighty God (Another Hallelujah) | Elevation Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 95:1-7 • Mark 4:35-41
Promises | Maverick City Music | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:22-27 • Deuteronomy 7:9 • Psalm 105:7-11
The Greatness of Our God | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Isaiah 40:26-31 • Romans 8:38-39 • Jeremiah 10:6-7
Firm Foundation | The Belonging Co & Cody Carnes | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 2:6-8 • Matthew 7:24-27 • Psalm 62:5-8
Look What God Has Done | Corey Voss & Madison Street Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalms 77 • Philippians 2:9-11
Yes I Will | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 34 • Hebrews 13:5-6 • 2 Chronicles 20:6
Mercies Have No End | Grace Church Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:23-33 • Psalm 23 • Ephesians 2:10
Faithfulness | Hillsong Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:21-26 • Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 • Psalms 36:5-9
Worthy of it All | CeCe Winans | Apple Music | Spotify
Revelation 4 • Revelation 5:8
Nobody Like You | Red Rocks Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 33:6-7 • Exodus 15:11 • Phil 2:5-11 • Jeremiah 10:6
Christ Be Magnified | Cody Carnes | Apple Music | Spotify
Psalm 148 • 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 • Romans 6:1-11
Never Be the Same | People & Songs | Apple Music | Spotify
John 4:13-14 • 2 Corinthians 5:17 • Romans 6:5-11
Firm Foundation | The Belonging Co & Cody Carnes | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Peter 2:6-8 • Matthew 7:24-27 • Psalm 62:5-8
Morning by Morning | Pat Barrett | Apple Music | Spotify
Lamentations 3:22-24 • Psalm 34:4-10 • Proverbs 3:5-6
More Like Jesus | Passion | Apple Music | Spotify
John 3:30 • Philippians 2:6-11 • Romans 12:1-2
This We Know | Vertical Worship | Apple Music | Spotify
1 Corinthians 15:54-58 • 1 Peter 1:3-9 • Isaiah 55:8-9
Hallelujah for the Cross | Chris McClarney | Apple Music | Spotify
Colossians 1:13-20 • 1 Peter 2:22-25 • Romans 2:4
These daily readings will help prepare you for the upcoming teaching you will hear this weekend at Grace Church. These passages will create some context for the sermon by showing you Scriptures the teacher might be quoting and some passages that contain related ideas. Our hope is that as you follow this reading plan, it will help you become more defined and directed by Scripture.
WEEK 1: Promise of the Spirit
WEEK 2: Birth of the Church
WEEK 3: Faith, Healing, and Repentance
WEEK 4: Obeying God Rather than Men
WEEK 5: Ananias and Sapphira
WEEK 6: Build the Church
WEEK 7: Stephen
WEEK 8: Responses to the Gospel
WEEK 9: Saul's Conversion
WEEK 10: What God has Made Clean
WEEK 11: Opposition and Deliverance
WEEK 12: First Missionary Journey
WEEK 13: Council at Jerusalem
WEEK 14: Second Missionary Journey Begins
WEEK 15: Responses to the Gospel (Thessalonians & Bereans)
WEEK 16: Paul at Athens
WEEK 17: Third Missionary Journey
WEEK 18: Paul with the Ephesian Elders
WEEK 19: Paul's Persecution and Arrest in Jerusalem
Many of us aren’t on mission for God because we’re waiting for specific information about what to do or how to do it. What is something you know God has called you to do? How can you move forward with that mission even if you don’t have full clarity around it?
Instead of looking for God, we often simply want him to solve our problems and make our lives better. How have you seen this to be true in your life? What can you do to grow in awareness of how God has revealed himself to you?
In this sequel to the Gospel of Luke, the author focuses on what Jesus is continuing to do through the apostles who are empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus’ presence signals that the Kingdom of God has come to earth, and he is trying to help the disciples understand the nature of the kingdom and what it means to be part of it.
Like the disciples, we often think our biggest problem is lack of clarity and information. However, our primary problem is that we don’t move and trust that God will give us clarity when we need it.
God always begins by revealing himself to those who aren’t worthy. Then, he asks them to identify with him, forsake all else, and follow him on the mission of his purpose.
Only when we trust God, move towards him, and embrace his mission will the power of the Spirit work through us to change the lives of others and grow our own faith.
Everyone has a worldview—a lens through which they interpret and evaluate the world. When you read the Bible, do you find passages that support your way of thinking? Or do you realize you’ve been thinking wrongly about some things? Why is it a red flag to assume that you have a fully biblical worldview?
Acts 2:21 says, “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” What is your natural response to the idea that you have no hope in and of yourself—that you must call on something outside yourself for rescue?
The first members of the Church were interdependent even though they were from vastly different backgrounds. They not only worshiped together, they also shared resources. How does that align with your view of biblical community? What do you think biblical community should look like? How have you experienced true community?
Consider why you are part of a local church. How would you try to convince someone else that joining a church is important?
Although it rests on the shoulders of Judaism, from its first moment, Christianity is an international movement. This makes it unique from all other religions.
When Peter speaks the truth of the gospel, the people respond by asking for direction. So too should we look to the Word for direction and allow it to disrupt and form our worldview.
The first members of the Church were intimately dependent on one another despite their cultural differences. They not only worshiped, prayed, and took communion together, but they also generously shared resources.
While many of us view church and community as a place for like-minded people to affirm one another, that is not the case. These believers came together because they realized what they had in common was their need for Jesus.
As believers, our lives should be distinct from the world. We should act in such a way that it raises questions for those around us. How does your life need to change so that you create opportunities for other’s lives to change by telling them about who God is and what he is doing?
We should also be ready to explain to others why our lives are different. Have you ever had this kind of conversation with an unbeliever? What was that like? Is there work you need to do to be more prepared to give an answer for the hope that you have?
Repentance should be a continual facet of the Christian experience. When was the last time you repented of sin? What is the Holy Spirit convicting you of now that you need to repent of? How can you turn to God and lean into him?
After Peter heals the man lame from birth, he seizes the opportunity to explain his actions to the crowd. Telling them about Jesus is far more important than the miracle he performs.
We too should act in such a way that it requires an explanation. Then, we must be ready to share our faith and how Jesus has changed our lives.
Peter explains to his audience that while they were rejecting Jesus, God was at work, and his mercy still extends to them if they will receive him on his terms.
Not only must we repent of our sins and turn to God for salvation, but we must adopt a constant posture of repentance. Only then, when we lean into God, can he refresh our souls.
God’s mercy is wide—he accepts all who turn to him. However, the way to God is narrow, as he is accessible only through the person and work of Jesus.
Peter and John are not surprised to experience persecution as they seek to move God’s kingdom forward. Does their story resonate with you? How have you encountered resistance in trying to spread the gospel or live in a way that reflects Christ?
When God’s people put themselves in vulnerable situations in order to further his mission, God’s power, strength, and wisdom flow through them to accomplish it. Can you think of a time when you have experienced this? How did it affect you?
As Peter and John face persecution for preaching the gospel and healing in Jesus’ name, it becomes apparent that the Church is a unique entity.
Peter is clear that Jesus is exclusive—we can either come under his authority, be evaluated by him, and let him provide for us; or, we can decide to evaluate God and try to provide for ourselves.
When the ruling government opposes God, we must obey until we can’t. When the authority’s laws ask us to sin or disobey God, we obey God and suffer the consequences.
The nations always have been and always will be against God and his mission. However, the Church often flourishes and becomes more powerful when persecuted.
We should not be surprised when we encounter resistance to God’s message and mission in the world. Instead, we should allow God’s Spirit to fill us and give us power to move God’s kingdom forward.
In this passage, many believers sell their assets and give the proceeds to provide for others in the church body. How are you engaging the needs of the church? In what ways can you give of your time, resources, and talents to build up those in need?
Ananias and Sapphira lie because they fear the opinions of those around them. How have you struggled with the fear of man in the past? What steps do you need to take to gain freedom from this sin?
God sacrificed his only Son to make a people for himself. Have you ever considered the fact that Jesus’ suffering made it possible for us to gather with other believers? How should this truth influence the way you view the local church?
When the apostles encounter opposition, they do not seek to “win” the day. Instead, they use the opportunity to explain who Jesus is and how he is using them. Have you ever encountered opposition to your beliefs? What was that like?
As God builds his church, a pattern emerges—God gives miraculous signs, the apostles interpret their meaning, and many people repent and believe the gospel.
In the early church, many are generous to provide for those in need. We also should be sure that there are no needy among us. Caring for one another well is a mark of the Holy Spirit within us.
Driven by the fear of man, Ananias and Sapphira lie about their gift to the church. In doing so, they ultimately lie to the Holy Spirit. This should prompt us to fear God rather than man.
God will not tolerate corruption in his church. To guard against corruption, we must practice the discipline of confession.
When the apostles are persecuted and have the opportunity to incite the crowds against the Jewish leadership, they choose not to. Instead, they continue with their mission to spread truth about who God is and what he has done through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
We are humans with limited energy. Consider how you spend your energy at home, in the church, and in your personal life. What are the good things you have to say no to in order to say yes to the things God has made you most responsible for?
The early church experienced division because they allowed worldly distinctions to become greater than God’s distinctions. Have you ever seen this happen in the church? How did it affect those involved and the church as a whole?
God calls us to elevate his mission over our comfort. What does it look like for you to maintain a regard for God’s holiness and address issues that God exposes in your life? What sins do you need to confess even if it makes you uncomfortable?
Each member of the church has a significant and valuable contribution to make. What does it look like for you to engage the needs of the church and invest your life in serving others who cannot benefit you and may be different than you? How can you utilize structure in your life to meet the needs of God’s family in a way that supports responsiveness to the Holy Spirit?
Through the church, God is building a people for himself who demonstrate his power and image in the world. And in order to flourish, the church must be willing to deal with corruption.
The division in his passage is a result of the church allowing worldly distinctions to become greater than God’s distinctions. Even if we are different, as believers, a more important reality should unite us.
The apostles address the division directly. They are willing to open themselves up to change and redirection. So also should we be willing to openly address any problems in our church body.
If we want to maintain a regard for God’s holiness and see his power at work in our lives personally and in the church, we must address our sin honestly. Our church’s ability to address hard issues begins with our ability to deal with sin in our lives.
The apostles understand that they have limited energy, so they delegate responsibility to others. We too must say no to some good things in order to say yes to the things God has made us most responsible for.
Each member of the church body has something significant and valuable to contribute. As believers engage the needs of the church, it matures and gives glory to God.
Jesus could have saved Stephen from being stoned, and he chooses not to. Reflect on the idea that we are called to worship a God who allows us to experience difficult moments when we serve him. What is your response to this idea? Have you ever struggled with this notion?
Give thanks for Stephen’s sacrifice, for his death sparked the gospel to spread to the uttermost parts of the earth, including us. In light of this, how should we view the persecution of our faith? Have you ever experienced any form of persecution? What was that like?
The Jewish leaders are offended by Stephen’s message, but telling them the truth is the most loving thing he could do for them. Who in your life needs to hear the gospel? Are you willing to speak it to them verbally? If this idea is challenging to you, what makes you hesitate? What does that reveal about what is most important to you?
The spreading of the gospel is inherently both verbal and hostile. We must speak gospel truth to those who need it, and they must understand that they are at war with God.
The Jewish leaders react strongly to Stephen because their way of life is being threatened. Often, we also disregard facets of Scripture when it threatens what we value.
Even though his life is at stake, Stephen focuses on communicating the truth. Spreading the gospel is more important to him than self-preservation.
While Stephen’s message may not seem loving on the surface, telling his audience the truth is the most loving thing he does.
Those who come to Jesus must understand that salvation is not a transaction. It’s about moral, relational, and directional allegiance.
In his death, Stephen sees Jesus, and his words reflect Jesus’ love and forgiveness. He is free to forgive those who are persecuting him.
God is able to use Philip because he is in step with the Holy Spirit. If we want to be used by God, we also must be captivated by his mission so we can respond when the Spirit prompts us. What captures your imagination now (a relationship, career, house, hobby, travel, etc.)? Consider the idea that your passion for neutral or even good things can numb you from being captivated with God’s mission
Our lives should be structured by divine priorities so we can be useful witnesses for the gospel. How is your life ordered now? How can you move towards prioritizing giving, serving, and being in community with other believers?
Once the Ethiopian eunuch hears and believes the gospel, he immediately obeys and identifies with Jesus through baptism. If you are a believer who has not been baptized, what is keeping you from taking that step? Who can you talk to about that decision?
After Stephen is stoned, a great wave of persecution scatters the believers at Jerusalem, and in turn, the gospel begins to spread throughout the world.
Saul, who would later be converted and become Paul, is energized to further persecute believers. His eventual conversion illustrates that God can take our greatest shame, pain, or guilt and use it for his good purposes.
Philip travels to Samaria and preaches the gospel. In this most unlikely place, people believe and are added to the church.
Simon, a sorcerer in Samaria, also believes. However, he still seeks personal power, and Peter rebukes him. Likewise, all spiritual leaders must be courageous and discerning when dealing with sin in their midst. We cannot call what is unholy, holy.
When the Holy Spirit prompts him, Philip shares the gospel with a powerful and wealthy Ethiopian eunuch. God uses both Philip’s humility and the eunuch’s obedience to expand his kingdom.
Only when we are in step with the Holy Spirit, connected to God’s mission, and focused on structuring our lives around God’s Word can we be used as witnesses for Jesus
After his conversion, Saul must deal with the reality of his past sin for the rest of his life. How does the gospel offer hope to those who struggle with guilt? If you carry guilt from past sin, what steps can you take to find freedom and forgiveness in Christ?
God asks Ananias to risk his safety for the sake of the gospel, and we also must be willing to risk things in order to advance God’s kingdom. Can you think of a time when you risked something for God (a relationship, resources, a job)? What might God be calling you to risk for him now?
When Jesus confronts Saul on the road to Damascus, he asks, “why are you persecuting me?” Christ identifies with the Church to such an extent that to harm a believer is to harm Jesus.
Although the circumstances of Saul’s conversion are disorienting, God’s grace is evident in his discipline and pursuit of Saul’s soul.
When God asks Ananias to go to Saul, he gives no assurance of his safety, and Ananias must be willing to risk his life in obedience to God.
Ultimately, Saul suffers greatly for the sake of the gospel, and God will use a “thorn in the flesh” to keep Saul dependent on him. We too must realize that suffering is part of the Christian life.
As Saul begins preaching the gospel, he is persecuted by the very people he used to lead. He also encounters resistance from fellow believers. However, the apostles humble themselves and see God is using Saul to advance his mission.
If we want to be part of God’s mission to bring people into his family, our lives must be oriented towards creating access, or “highways,” for people we view as unlikely or who don’t have access to the gospel. What could that look like in your life? How can you rid yourself of any complacency you have in this area?
We must adopt a posture of openness and humility in order to be used by God. When was the last time you realized your thinking was wrong about something? Are you open to the idea that, like Peter, your knowledge is limited and could actually be an obstacle to God moving in and through you?
God does not answer all our questions. Do you struggle to move in faith when you have limited information? Is there an area of your life where you feel God is prompting you to move, but you are fearful? How can you take a step towards obedience?
When Cornelius is visited by an angel and receives instructions from God, he acts immediately even though he has limited information.
Peter experiences a vision from God, and he is confused and limited by his knowledge. But God in his mercy reassures Peter, who then acts in obedience.
Ultimately, Peter and Cornelius both receive clarity from God, and the gospel is advanced through the power of the Holy Spirit. God’s mercy is wide, and he wants to bring people from all nations to himself.
Like Peter, we must be willing to humble ourselves and be open to the idea that God is not like us. He advances his kingdom on his own terms, and he expects our faithful obedience even when our questions remain unanswered.
Many of us overvalue certain ideas or perspectives (about marriage, parenting, etc.), and that can limit God’s ability to work in our lives. We must be willing to let the Holy Spirit guide us so God’s power can be manifested in our lives.
We can trust that God will work and bring people to repentance by the work of his Spirit. People are saved not by the power of our words but of God’s desire and his presence as we are willing to speak about what he has done in our lives.
When Peter is imprisoned, the church gathers and expresses their dependence on God through prayer. Instead of viewing prayer as something on your to-do list, how can you develop a worldview of dependence on God? What steps do you need to take to humble yourself and express your need for God in everything?
God creates highways to bring people into the body of Christ who are very different from the original group of believers, which creates some tension for them. How can you pursue people who are not like you who do not know God? In what ways can you intercede for them?
Consider the idea that God is inscrutable—we cannot fully understand him and his ways. How does this idea affect you? What questions does it raise for you? What does your response reveal about your willingness to accept God on his terms?
Peter and the leadership of the early church realize that God is bringing Gentiles into the body of believers, which creates tension for Jewish believers.
As the gospel takes root in foreign soil, the church in Antioch grows exponentially, creating access for all who believe in Jesus.
When Peter is imprisoned, the church is faithful to intercede for him. They are dependent on God for what they cannot do. We also should develop a worldview of dependence on God for all things.
Although both Stephen and James have died for the gospel, Peter is freed from prison, showing that we cannot know God or understand his ways.
God’s decisions and direction are informed by his infinite wisdom. While there is much in life we cannot understand—both good and bad—we can trust that God is working according to his good purposes.
The leadership of the church at Antioch is able to discern the Holy Spirit’s leading because they are actively engaging God and seeking his direction. Consider the spiritual disciplines of fasting, prayer, and worship. How can you engage God in such a way that you are sensitive to the movement of the Holy Spirit in your life?
In order for others to hear and believe the gospel, we have to verbally tell them about Jesus and what he has done in our lives. In what ways is this difficult for you? What keeps you from speaking to others about Jesus?
Consider the idea that God calls us to specific works in order to expand his kingdom. Have you ever felt the Holy Spirit prompting you to a particular area of ministry or outreach? How can you respond? To whom should you talk in order to get wisdom and insight about how to move forward?
This first missionary journey marks a shift—Christianity is no longer centered in Jerusalem but is being spread elsewhere, and Gentiles are being actively recruited and brought into the church.
Paul and Barnabus are sent by the church at Antioch. This is an intentional, strategic move to expand God’s kingdom.
As the gospel is preached, we see both acceptance and rejection.
There is also a correlation between persecution and the expansion of God’s kingdom. In his sovereignty, God allows circumstances of resistance and opposition to show his power.
Even in the face of persecution—nearly to the point of death—Paul continues to preach the gospel. He is fully convinced that he is spreading the truth.
Christianity is fueled by sacrifice. We must be willing to risk reputation, relationships, energy, and resources in order to tell others about who Jesus is and what he has done for us.
The Jews had to humble themselves in order to receive the Gentiles into the church. When was the last time you engaged with someone significantly different from yourself? How did that affect you? How can you actively move to spend time with people who are different from you?
The Gentiles had to humble themselves and change their lives in order to bring credibility to their faith. Consider the idea that you may have to sacrifice some freedoms in order to be an effective witness for Jesus. Where in your life might you need to limit your liberty in order to expand your ministry?
There are many times when church leadership provides practical wisdom and insight into issues that are not clearly addressed in the Bible. Is it difficult for you to receive that instruction? Why or why not?
As more Gentiles come to faith in Antioch, many Jewish leaders think they should be circumcised in order to join the church. This creates conflict, and a delegation of leaders meet at Jerusalem to make a decision.
The Jewish believers have faced some major shifts in their thinking and identity over the past several years. Ultimately, they must align with the truth that salvation is free and available to all—both Jew and Gentile.
Unity is most powerful where diversity is present. Both Jews and Gentiles need to make sacrifices in order to remain committed to one another as believers even when they disagree on some things.
The Jews must remember that they are not the standard for holiness. And the Gentiles must come under the authority of the church and change their lives in order to bring credibility to their faith.
Even though both Jews and Gentiles have to make sacrifices, the believers rejoice that church leadership has provided clear direction. So should we seek to preserve unity in the church.
Twice, the Holy Spirit prevents Paul and Silas from following their original plans. Have you ever experienced a time when God unexpectedly changed the course of what you believed you were called to do? How did that affect you? What should our response be in these situations?
The Philippian jailer believed there was no hope for him; however, that was a false insight. If you have ever experienced this kind of despair, what helped you walk through it? What truths about God’s character should you remind yourself of during those times?
A Christian’s life is marked by repentance—moving away from sin and towards God. When was the last time you truly repented of sin in your life? Take some time to consider where God is calling you to repent now.
When Paul and Barnabas embark on their journey, they disagree over the inclusion of John Mark and ultimately part ways. However, both of their views are valid, and God is at work regardless of their tension.
All of Christianity revolves around Jesus—a man who gave up his divine rights for the sake of God’s mission. He will surely ask us to give up some of our freedoms to expand his kingdom.
While it is easy to allow our gifts and talents to drive our direction in ministry, God’s plan must take precedence. Our job is not to get God on board with our plan—our job is to find out where God is working and join him.
When the Philippian jailer faces despair, Paul offers him hope in the gospel. The truths of God’s love, trustworthiness, and sovereignty also give us hope during seasons of darkness.
A believer’s life should be marked by baptism and repentance. Living in the light of Jesus’ sacrifice for us means that we identify with him physically and publicly through baptism and that we consistently move away from sin and towards holiness.
Paul and those ministering with him are aware that they have been graciously rescued by Jesus, and they are fully committed to furthering his mission.
Those who are aware of their unworthiness see the beauty of the gospel and are ready to receive it. Why is it important for us to become well acquainted with our own sinful nature? How does that awareness prepare us to receive God on his terms?
The Jews who are jealous cannot let go of the status quo—they are too attached to their power and control. In what ways has the gospel disrupted the status quo in your life? Is there anything God is prompting you to let go of in order to receive something better?
The Jews in Berea have both a posture of humility and a process of examining God’s Word to find truth. How can you take steps to grow in both of these areas? When you experience conflict, how difficult is it for you to consider that you may not be right?
When Paul preaches the gospel in Thessalonica, those on the fringe of society—who are well acquainted with their unworthiness—see its beauty most clearly.
However, many of the Jews are jealous, desiring to maintain their power and influence. In the same way, if we are attached to the status quo, we will always have a difficult time following Jesus, for the gospel is inherently disruptive.
Rejection leads to opposition. You cannot be neutral towards Jesus—you must either accept or reject him.
The Jews in Berea have both a posture of humility and a process of examining God’s Word to find truth. We also must be capable of discerning Scripture and open to learning from others.
There is a kingdom of light and a kingdom of darkness, and they are in continuous, raging conflict.
Jesus was clear that as believers, we will endure trials, so we should not be surprised when we experience difficulty. There will be joy on the other side of suffering.
We all worship something—family, athletics, control, comfort, peace, status, etc. How can you grow in awareness of your idols? Consider specifically how you allocate your time and money.
It is also true that idols leave us empty. They do not deliver what they promise. How can the idolatry of our culture create opportunities for us? In what ways can you help others recognize the emptiness of their idolatry?
Like Paul, we should be filled with compassion and share the gospel with those around us. Who in your life needs to hear the good news of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection? How can you move towards having that conversation with them?
Anything we build our lives around—even good things—can be an idol. We are all natural worshipers who orient our lives around what we believe will feed our souls.
When Paul sees the idolatry of the Athenians, he is moved with compassion. He knows that idols are imposters which leave us empty and heartbroken.
We often fail to see others with compassion, either because we are not troubled by their idolatry, or because we see their way of life as a threat.
While the gospel offers hope, it can be difficult to receive. People must see their sin, understand their need of God, and be willing to turn from what they are already worshiping.
What you believe about God has no bearing on who God is. He does not need our belief in order to exist.
While building relationships with people is good, the most important thing is to share the gospel. We must be clear that God does not offer a better life, but he does offer eternal life.
When the leaders of the church at Ephesus see Apollos’ ignorance, they move towards him in order to bring clarity and truth. Has anyone ever filled that gap for you? How did it affect you? What steps do you need to take in order to be that type of leader for others?
Often, we are more interested in tapping into God’s power for our own purposes than in aligning ourselves with his mission. Can you think of a time when you appealed to God for something you wanted that wasn’t necessarily part of his plan? How can you submit your plans to God’s power?
When God disrupts our lives, we can either surrender to him and his lordship, or we can fight back. How do you tend to respond when your idols are threatened? What is God calling you to destroy so that you can give him all your worship?
Apollos receives correction well, and it is to his credit that he is willing to move with the insight he possesses. We need to be willing to move with the insight we have and trust God to give us what we need.
As Paul preaches the gospel at Ephesus, some receive the truth, and others reject it. If we ignore God’s revelation, over time, our hearts will become hardened to his truth.
God gives Paul extraordinary power to perform miracles. In this way, God speaks to the Ephesians in terms they understand and thus advances his kingdom.
God is the greatest version of what our souls deeply crave—power, significance, peace, comfort, etc.
Some of the Ephesians accept the gospel and burn their books on sorcery. Others reject God and incite a riot. You cannot become a worshiper of God without turning from the other things you worship.
Paul’s hope is not disrupted by the chaos around him. The world cannot compete with the hope we have within our souls.
Consider the idea of spiritual authority. Who in your life has spiritual authority over you? Can you think of a time when you submitted to spiritual authority even when you wanted to make a different choice?
Our lives are not the important thing—they are platforms for the greater cause of God’s kingdom. What people or causes most deplete your energy and resources? How do you need to channel your resources so that you are depleting them for God’s people?
Paul lived in such a way that the only thing that made sense of his life was heaven. How can you sacrifice for others and carry weight for God’s purposes so that the trajectory of your life points towards heaven?
Paul and the Ephesian elders have reoriented their lives around a cause that is different and greater than themselves—spreading the gospel.
Suffering is integral to ministry. If you are going to serve God’s people, there will be hardship. However, God uses our sacrifices to build the church and care for his people.
Truth is more important than fellowship. As believers, we are responsible to speak God’s truth to those around us.
Elders and pastors in particular must guard themselves against corruption, pride, and the craving of prominence.
The authority of the church is vital to our spiritual well being. Believers must be willing to come under that authority as its intent is to guard their souls.
To lead others well is to pour out your life, making yourself vulnerable. This puts you in a position where only God can fill you.
Paul is committed to sharing the gospel to the Jews because he feels a deep sense of responsibility to them. Who in your life is on your conscience? To whom do you feel responsible to share the gospel? What steps do you need to take to be obedient in this area?
When the Holy Spirit is at work, it often creates tension among believers. How is the Holy Spirit changing your life? In what ways has that created tension in your relationships? If this isn’t happening, why do you think that is?
When we humble ourselves and make ourselves vulnerable to others, this opens us up to real risk or hurt. However, it also puts us in a position to see God act on our behalf. How have you seen this truth play out in your life? What are your greatest obstacles to being vulnerable with others?
Before his conversion, Paul was a zealous Jew—a leader against Christianity. Now, he feels a deep sense of responsibility to share the gospel with the Jewish people.
In a short period of time, the gospel has put down deep roots. God has worked through Paul’s ministry to grow the church exponentially among both Jews and Gentiles.
The Holy Spirit is at work among the people—this is a cause of both power and tension, for the Holy Spirit does not create uniformity.
Unity is only maintained by humility. Those who are begging Paul not to go to Jerusalem must humble themselves, and so must Paul. They can have unity without perfectly understanding one another.
Humility for the sake of unity will lead to real vulnerability. However, this puts us in a position to see God work on our behalf.