Reading
Acts 9:32-12:25
Truth for Today
We are quick to exclude from our group those we deem undesirable - those who fail to flatter us, support our opinions, reinforce our prejudices, boost our pride, feed our egos, or whose style of life is significantly different. The world in general expresses its intolerance and bigotry in conflicts at every level, from silent prejudice to outright war. Even believers are not immune to this tendency. Those of another culture, skin color, social status, educational group, or income level often find themselves unwelcome in some churches. Such intolerant exclusivism grieves the heart of the Lord Jesus Christ, whose purpose and prayer was that believers "may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me" (John 17:21).
Reflecting on the Text
1. Why do you think God led Luke to include the events of chapter 12 in his writings? What lessons can be found in Herod's persecution of church leaders and his subsequent death?
2. How is God leading you to cross racial or cultural barriers with the love of Christ? What are some specific actions you can take?
3. In these chapters we see the extraordinary events that happen when the children of God call out in faith to their heavenly Father. On a scale of 1-10 (with 1 being "on life support" and 10 representing "I'm in communion with God all day every day") how would you rate the health of your prayer life?
4. What do you specifically need to change?
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1 comment:
Hello- I would like to see if you have this entire study digitized in one document. If you can e-mail me at revjeffprice@gmail.com I would be most grateful.
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