Respond | FBG

Acts 5:12-42

Read all of this week's passage, and consider the following questions.

In Acts 5:17–20 the apostles are arrested for doing exactly what God called them to do. What does this teach us about the relationship between God’s will and human suffering? How does this challenge common assumptions we have about obedience leading to comfort?
The angel frees the apostles and sends them right back into the temple to teach. When has God called you to stay faithful in a place or situation where you would have preferred escape? What helped you remain obedient?
Peter tells the Sanhedrin, “We must obey God rather than people.” Where do you feel the tension between pleasing people and obeying God right now? How can this group pray for courage in that area?
Gamaliel reminds the council that if a work is from God, no one can overthrow it. How does this truth give confidence as we face opposition, setbacks, or spiritual struggle? Where do you need to remember that God’s purposes cannot fail?
The passage ends with the apostles rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer for the Name. What would it look like for us to see suffering for Christ not as failure, but as participation in His mission? How can a church family cultivate this kind of perspective together?

PRAY

Acts 5:12-42

Read all of this week's passage, and consider the following questions.

The apostles declared 'We must obey God rather than people' (Acts 5:29). What are some areas in your life where you might be tempted to prioritize human approval over God's commands?

Acts 5:32 says the Holy Spirit is given to those who obey God. How does obedience relate to experiencing the filling and power of the Holy Spirit in your life?

On Sunday, Pastor Kevin mentioned viewing your job as a 'platform for mission' rather than just a means of income. How might this perspective change the way you approach your work or daily responsibilities?

The apostles rejoiced that they were 'counted worthy to be treated shamefully on behalf of the Name' (Acts 5:41). How do you typically respond to opposition or criticism for your faith?

Gamaliel advised to 'stay away from these men' because if their work was from God, it couldn't be overthrown (Acts 5:38-39). What does this teach us about aligning ourselves with God's purposes?

Suffering is a normal part of the Christian life. How can we prepare ourselves and our families to have a biblical perspective on suffering?

Despite increasing persecution, the apostles 'continued teaching and proclaiming the good news' (Acts 5:42). What obstacles or fears might prevent you from boldly sharing the Gospel?

On Sunday, Kevin said, “God's mighty works demand explanation, creating opportunities for Gospel proclamation.” Can you think of ways God has worked in your life that could open doors for sharing your faith?

Acts 5:12-42

Read all of this week's passage, and consider the following questions.

In Acts 5:17–20 the apostles are arrested for doing exactly what God called them to do. What does this teach us about the relationship between God’s will and human suffering? How does this challenge common assumptions we have about obedience leading to comfort?
The angel frees the apostles and sends them right back into the temple to teach. When has God called you to stay faithful in a place or situation where you would have preferred escape? What helped you remain obedient?
Peter tells the Sanhedrin, “We must obey God rather than people.” Where do you feel the tension between pleasing people and obeying God right now? How can this group pray for courage in that area?
Gamaliel reminds the council that if a work is from God, no one can overthrow it. How does this truth give confidence as we face opposition, setbacks, or spiritual struggle? Where do you need to remember that God’s purposes cannot fail?
The passage ends with the apostles rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer for the Name. What would it look like for us to see suffering for Christ not as failure, but as participation in His mission? How can a church family cultivate this kind of perspective together?