This week, we will continue our journey through the Acts of the Apostles.

Don’t forget to check out the Rooted Facebook page for a bit more discussion on each chapter.


Discussion Questions:

• What does it mean that God shows no partiality? (Acts 10:34-35)

• What is the significance of the believers in Antioch being first called Christians? (Acts 11:25-26)

• Are you ever surprised by the way God might answer your prayers? (Acts 12:12-16)

• Why do you suppose Saul began to use his Roman name of Paul? (Acts 13:9)

• When Paul and Barnabas came to Lystra and healed a man, why did the crowd identify them as Zeus and Hermes? (Acts 14:8-13) (Hint: the story in this link seems related: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baucis_and_Philemon)



Some Answers from Last Week's Questions:

• How would you respond if you were to suffer because you proclaimed Jesus? (Acts 5:41-42) – Hopefully, we would praise God for the privilege of suffering for Christ.

• The sixth chapter begins with a conflict within the church in Jerusalem and its resolution. What was the result of the resolved conflict? (Acts 6:7) – The church grew tremendously.
Chapter seven recounts the trial and execution of Stephen. 

• What do you think of his last words as he was being stoned? (Acts 7:60) – His words followed the example of Jesus on the cross. And they set an example for us in forgiving others. Even if they are not repentant.

• If you were involved in a growing ministry with many people being saved, how would you react to God sending you into the desert? (Acts 8:26) – I would find it challenging. Hopefully, I would obey and go.

• Is there anyone you would be surprised to see come to the Lord and have a great public ministry? (Acts 9:15) – There are any number of people I see in the public spotlight that I would be surprised to see come to the Lord.





Prayer: Lord, as I read through Acts this week, remind me that Your grace is for everyone and that You can use anyone for Your purposes. Help me to trust You even when Your plans surprise me, and give me courage to follow wherever You lead. Teach me to live boldly as a Christian - not just in name, but in the way I love, forgive, serve, and speak about Jesus. And when I pray, help me believe that You are still moving and working in ways greater than I can imagine. In Jesus’ name, amen.


Helpful Resources:


• Rooted Facebook Group for online sharing and further exploration 

• Bible Project New Testament overview videos
• Bible Gateway, a Bible app with many translations and some other free helps
• A Clay Jar Devotionals