2022
Devoted
Passage: Acts 2
Speaker: Patrick King
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
Read Acts 2. What surprises, encourages, or sparks questions for you?
The identity of every Christian is marked by repentance (being devoted to Jesus) and baptism (being devoted to church community). How do these marks of the Christian life shape your self-understanding? Consider the first two questions asked at Covenant for membership: 1) Do you acknowledge yourself to be a sinner in the sight of God? 2) Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and Savior of sinners, and do you receive and rest upon Him alone for salvation?
Megan Hill in the book Identity Theft writes: “The church is not a human invention – a group of people who thought it would be a good idea to get together since they share the same beliefs and spiritual practices. The church is established by Christ, protected and nourished by Christ, governed by Christ, and exists for the glory of Christ. Because of this, the church is also not optional – a group that you could join or not join, depending on your personality and preferences. The church is fundamental to the identity of everyone who belongs to Christ.” What hinders you or others you know from being devoted to church community as described in Acts 2:42-47?
In what ways can you intentionally leave room for those “who are far off” (v 39)?
What from this passage do you need to remember, rejoice in, request, or repent of?
PRAYER
Share with your group how they can be praying for you: what is weighing on you from this past week? What are you praising God for from this past week?
“O God, you have been the refuge of your people through many generations; be my refuge in every moment and every need that I face today. Be my guide through all uncertainty and darkness. Be my guard against all that threatens my spiritual well-being. Be my strength in times of testing. Cheer my heart with your peace; through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.” – John Baillie, A Diary of Private Prayer