3 Ways of Being in the World
Acts 5:17-42
Richard Dahlstrom, Senior Pastor, www.spiritsoulbody.org
The disciples' response to people in power reveals three vital truths for this moment - when we too are trying to relate to people in power as Christ followers.
- Grasping and Domination Systems
- Single Consideration
- Patient Ripening
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Discussion Questions
Before questions, attempt to give the group a bit of a summary of the main points of the sermon and then choose a few questions that fit your group’s needs and style. We don’t intend for you to use all of these. Three to five questions may be a good number.
Read 1 Samuel 18 and the example of Saul’s jealousy. Discuss the difference between jealousy and coveting; how does maintaining power play a role in that difference?
Pastor Richard reminds us that success has perks, but that is exactly why it’s dangerous, in that when the most important thing is no longer obedience to your calling and to God but to the preservation of your status quo.
Have you experienced this need to recheck that you are living life with open hands?
Is there something you can name that needs re-surrendering or losing?
If every movement toward the good, including Christianity, is corruptible, how do we avoid the corrupting influences of power and success and the seduction of that?
The cost/benefit paradigm is always with us; how living in response to the "carrot or the stick" counter to Kingdom of God culture?
Read Phil 1:29 and 1 Peter 1:7. In light of these passages, what stands out regarding following Christ in times of suffering and/or miracles?
Take 4 minutes of silence to listen: What does the holy spirit ask YOU to do in the moment? What is he asking you right now in following him? Choose whether to share with the group.
As followers of Jesus called to obedience and not to success, what practices are helpful in fostering Holy Spirit intimacy? As we wrestle with the day, what will allow you to remain focused on the question: What does Jesus want right now?