Spring 2010, Week 7 – Small Group Questions

The sermon for this week from the series “Acts in 3 Acts: Act 3” is titled “Antidote to Fear“.

Read Acts 22:30-23:11 out loud. What stands out for you in this passage? What questions do you have?
How does Ananias’ action show that he violates the Old Testament Law? Why (and how) does Paul show respect for the Jewish Law (vv. 1-5)?
Why does Paul change the focus of attention from keeping the Law to his hope in the Resurrection?
What effect does the split between the Pharisees and Sadducees have on Paul’s case (vv. 7-10)?
It’s amazing that the Pharisees actually come to Paul’s defense. Why is that unusual? What do we learn from this passage about the continuity between Christianity and Judaism?
How does Paul’s understanding of “the bigger story” help him to “take courage” (v. 11)?

Where have you experienced fear or anxiety in your life?
How has the Lord encouraged you during hard times?
What does it mean to you to know that your life is part of something much bigger than yourself?
In what area of your life right now do you need God to stand by you and encourage you? Where do you need to hear Jesus say to you, “Take courage!”

Joys and Challenges: What joys and challenges are you facing this week?
Application: Pray for each other, asking God to give us courage in the areas of fear in our lives.
Here at Northminster: Pray for our Worship SERVICE Day next Sunday. Pray for energy and strength as we work. And pray that we would truly be a blessing to our neighborhood.
Beyond Northminster: Pray for those in our neighborhood who will experience the benefits of our service next week. Pray that our service will be evidence to them that there is a God who really cares about them.