Acts: Kingdom Privileges & Responsibilities

REVIEW. “What did you take away from last time?” [Refer to last week’s responses.] “How did that go?” Sermon Summary: Here in Acts 10:23-48 we see the three markers of Christians – baptism, forgiveness, and the gift of the Spirit – have now been given to the Gentiles. This clarifies the constitution of God's Kingdom; it is not a matter of a common culture or location, but a common devotion to Jesus as Lord, a common need of forgiveness, and a common gift of Spirit-filled love. Only as we lay down our rights for these privileges and responsibilities can we hope to experience fellowship with God and others. READ. Key Passage: Acts 10:23b-48 Discussion Questions: Truth: Read Acts 2:38 and discuss the significance of these three elements now being given to the Gentiles (Acts 10:48, 43, 44). How do these three things constitute the foundation for our relationship with God and His church? Repentance: How has a lack of repentance (baptism), forgiveness and/or empowerment hurt your relationship with God and others? Give examples. Faith: Why does it take faith to repent, receive forgiveness, or walk in the Spirit? Specifically, where and how is God inviting you to respond? RESPOND. Ask God, how can today’s discussion further your relationship with God, one another, and the world? Pray together. [Record responses and prayer requests.]