31 May
The Spirit Strengthens the Church (Acts 14:1–28)
As the gospel spreads amid opposition, the Spirit strengthens new believers with courage, perseverance, and joy. This passage invites us to see how God establishes his church through hardship and faithfulness, forming communities that endure and bear witness to his grace. (Note: study questions for the message are released on the church’s sermon page on the Monday after each sermon, and to find them, go here and scroll until you find the Sunday listed: https://wcc.org.au/podcasts/media/series.)
Comprehension Questions
- In Acts 14:1-7, what happens when Paul and Barnabas preach in Iconium, and what leads to their decision to flee to Lystra and Derbe?
- In Acts 14:8-18, how do the people of Lystra respond to the healing of a crippled man, and what mistake do they make in their response to Paul and Barnabas?
Going Deeper Questions
- How does Paul and Barnabas’ response to being mistaken for gods in Acts 14:14-18 reflect their humility and commitment to pointing others to the true God?
- In Acts 14:19-22, after being stoned and left for dead, how does Paul demonstrate perseverance and a commitment to strengthening the believers in the cities they visited?
Personal Application Questions
- Reflecting on the opposition Paul and Barnabas face in Acts 14:1-7, how can you remain faithful to your mission and calling when you face challenges or opposition in your own life?
- Considering Paul and Barnabas’ response to the people of Lystra in Acts 14:14-18, how can you ensure that your actions and words always point to the glory of God rather than yourself?
