Bayside Church Orange County Campus Services

Summary: Courage is not the absence of fear it’s choosing to follow Jesus even when fear is present. In Acts 4, Peter and John boldly proclaim the name of Jesus even after being threatened by powerful leaders. Their courage didn’t come from their own strength but from the Holy Spirit and their deep conviction about who Jesus is. Big Idea: Courage grows when our convictions about Jesus are stronger than our fears. Catch Up: When was the last time you had to do something that felt scary or intimidating? What helped you push through it? Pray: Pray for the group that you may be present with each other, and present to the Spirit of God as you gather. Lift up those who are not able to gather with you tonight. Discussion Questions: ● Read: Acts 4:8–12 ○ What stands out to you about Peter’s response to the leaders? ○ Why do you think Peter was able to speak so boldly in that moment? ○ The text says Peter was “filled with the Holy Spirit.” How does the Spirit give believers courage today? ○ When have you experienced God giving you courage in a situation where you felt afraid? ● Point 1: Courage is God-Given ○ Scripture: Acts 4:8 ○ Why do we often try to rely on our own strength instead of God’s? ○ What fears tend to hold people back from stepping out in faith? ○ How would your approach to difficult situations change if you truly believed God was with you in them? ○ Read 2 Timothy 1:7. ■ What does this verse say about the kind of spirit God gives His people? ● Point 2: Courage is Fueled by Conviction ○ Scripture: Acts 4:10–12 ○ What convictions about Jesus motivated Peter and John to speak so boldly? ○ Why is it difficult to live courageously if we aren’t clear about what we believe? ○ What are some convictions about Jesus that shape how you live your life? ○ Have you ever stayed silent about your faith when you felt you should speak up? What held you back? ● Point 3: Courage is Contagious ○ Scripture: Acts 4:13–21 ○ The leaders were “astonished” by Peter and John’s courage. What made their courage so noticeable? ○ Verse 13 says they recognized that Peter and John “had been with Jesus.” What do you think that means? ○ Who is someone whose faith and courage has influenced your life? ○ How can courageous faith inspire others in a community? ○ Why do you think fear is such a powerful force in our lives? ○ What situations today require courage for followers of Jesus? ● Personal Reflection/Next Steps ○ What is one area of your life where you need courage right now? ○ What would it look like to trust God with that situation this week? ○ Is there one step of faith you sense God inviting you to take? Pray for each other as a group and encourage them to invite somebody to come to church this weekend. See you Sunday!