Short, but meant to go along with reading the verses.
Readings & Questions:
Acts 3:1-10
- In your experience how does this relate to MIRACLES in other religions?
This one was mainly for provoking thought.
Acts 3:11-26
- For man or God?
This is an obvious response as we are to follow God or else we are putting ourselves in his place.
Acts 4:1-22
- What conflicts do we face today?
Again, thought provoking.
Acts 5:1-11
The most interesting thing is that God supernaturally provided the “pastors” insight into what the “congregants” were up to. Our leaders are also men, but they seek to work through the power of God for the good of the flock, and sometimes we need to be called out for our sin that only God knows.
Acts 5:12-16
- Anything new or just more of the same?
Rhetorical?
Acts 5:17-42
- Of human origin, it will fail. What a great phrase. How far reaching is it?
As with abiding in the vine, I think we cannot do any real good without relying on the Holy Spirit and we can do nothing on our own.
Acts 8:9-25
- Buying the ability to give the Holy Spirit. Misguided, and his heart not in the right place, but can you see how easy it is to misapply the truths of God?
This example is a look into the need for the Church to spend great effort teaching new believers the essential doctrines of Christianity. Our youth group is spending three years covering 99 essential doctrines to the “children”.
Simon did not grow up in the church, but in a world where pretty much anything was available for a price. While he had been exposed to Christ, he had yet to understand how the Holy Spirit worked.
Wouldn’t it be great if we all could pass out the Holy Spirit like voting pamphlets and save everyone? It does not work that way.
Each person must have a personal relationship of their own choosing to be saved. Believing in God and knowing Christ is the only path are not enough, you actually have to receive the gift of salvation for yourself.
We must pass along the gospel, but we cannot give the Holy Spirit. Studying scripture is necessary, but being led by those who have gone before really helps the learning curve and prevents missing the point.