2023
Devoted
Passage: Acts 2:37-47
God, whoever would have guess that a ragtag band of Jewish Jesus-followers could be bound together into a movement that would turn the world upside down? Only because of your Holy Spirit, who is fully God. Do that work again in our day; take wildly diverse people who don’t naturally fit together, and make a peculiar and compelling community, beautiful because of Jesus. In his name we pray, Amen. (Philip Reinders, Seeking the Face of God)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What comes to you mind for the word: devoted? What does it mean to be devoted? What are a few examples of what our culture might encourage us to be devoted to?
Read Acts 2:37-47. What does this passage reveal to us about God and about the human condition?
In what ways do we see the church in this passage living, learning, loving, and leaning out in community together?
If the church is a family expecting guests, how does this impact your expectations and experience of being part of church?
Why did the people devote themselves to being the church? If someone asked you why you go to church, how would you answer? How do you think the early church would have answered?
The sermon shared five reasons for us to be devoted to the church (for Jesus, for your good, for the person next to you, for the good of our city, and to practice for heaven). Interact with these reasons. How have these reasons been part of your church experience? How do these reasons shape your desire for church?
In what ways are you already or could you be devoted to Christ’s body at Covenant Church? Consider regularly joining the Sunday gathering – a commitment to be present weekly, being known and knowing others, or leaving room in your life. What are the challenges and joys involved in these practical steps?
PRAYER
Spend time praying for Covenant Church: for fellowship with the risen Jesus, spiritual renewal and refreshment, for thankful hearts, for wisdom, faithfulness, and a commitment to do justice and show mercy.
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?
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13