A Community of Transformation - Part 2

A Community of Transformation - Part 2
  • Dan Haakenson
  • Oct 17, 2010
  • Series: What are WE here for? Lessons from Acts
Further Reflection, Discussion, and Application
  1. Review the stories of how the good news of Jesus changed the lives of the Ethiopian, Saul, and Cornelius (Acts 8:26-11:18). What stands out to you about these stories as you review them?
  2. The main idea from the message was: ‘partner with God in seeing the good news change lives’.  This came from two foundational truths in these passages:  God is the one who changes lives and He uses us.  Do you agree with those two statements?  What is your reaction to the idea of partnering with God in seeing the good news change lives?
  3. What lessons do you glean from Philip and his interaction with the Ethiopian (8:26-40)?  Have you ever sensed God’s prompting to go or share in a particular situation?  If so, how did you respond and what happened?
  4. Philip asks the Ethiopian a question; how have you used questions in ‘partnering with God to see the good news of Jesus change lives’? Also, Philip shares the good news about Jesus from Scripture (8:35); how would you do with using Scripture to share the good news?
  5. Saul’s conversion, while unique, shows another glimpse of how God uses people like us in the lives of others.  What was it like for Ananias (9:10-19)?  What lessons can we learn and apply from Ananias?
  6. Have you ever had someone come to you or stand up for you when you were not expecting it (as Ananias did; compare the similar role of Barnabas in 9:26f)?  If so, what was the effect?
  7. Luke gives a fairly full account of the story of Cornelius (10:1-11:18). How do the details that are given illuminate God’s role and our role in sharing the good news?
  8. There were applications mentioned of specific ways that we can partner with God in seeing the good news of Jesus change lives: build relationships; be prayerful; engage stories; share the gospel. Which of these is most natural to you?  In which area do you most need to grow?
  9. End by sharing how you can pray for one another in light of this discussion; and then do so (pray).

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