Sermon Based Group Homework
For the message on April 10, 2022
Passage: Acts 16:22-35
QUICK REVIEW
In part 9 of our Resilient series, Mike shared some valuable lessons from the spiritual transformation of a Philippian Jailer and his family.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
What is the darkest “prison” you’ve experienced in life where you felt there was no way of escape? How did God help you get out?
LET’S GO DEEPER
1. Paul and Silas were stripped and beaten for obeying God and telling people about Jesus. No one said following Jesus would be easy, convenient, or popular. We should expect that in this world, we will be unfairly treated. What doe the following passage tell us about what we should expect as devoted followers of Jesus?
2 Timothy 3:10-12 (NLT2)
10 But you, Timothy, certainly know what I teach, and how I live, and what my purpose in life is. You know my faith, my patience, my love, and my endurance. 11 You know how much persecution and suffering I have endured. You know all about how I was persecuted in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra—but the Lord rescued me from all of it. 12 Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
When has following Jesus cost you something?
2. God used the unfair treatment of Paul and Silas to reach a Jailer and his family with the gospel. This should remind us that God has the last word in any circumstance and that it’s unwise to judge a book until the final chapter is read! What does the following passage in the life of Joseph teach us about God’s sovereignty over every situation?
Genesis 50:15-21 (NLT2)
15 But now that their father was dead, Joseph’s brothers became fearful. “Now Joseph will show his anger and pay us back for all the wrong we did to him,” they said. 16 So they sent this message to Joseph: “Before your father died, he instructed us 17 to say to you: ‘Please forgive your brothers for the great wrong they did to you—for their sin in treating you so cruelly.’ So we, the servants of the God of your father, beg you to forgive our sin.” When Joseph received the message, he broke down and wept. 18 Then his brothers came and threw themselves down before Joseph. “Look, we are your slaves!” they said. 19 But Joseph replied, “Don’t be afraid of me. Am I God, that I can punish you? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. 21 No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.” So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.
When has God taken something bad and used it for good in your life? Explain.
3. When the Jailer experienced the gospel, everyone around him benefitted! Paul and Silas were no longer treated harshly but were treated for their wounds and fed a good meal. The Jailer’s family came to know the grace of Jesus that night and they experienced joy life never before. When Jesus enters our life, the people around us get to experience the overflow! How have your family and friends benefitted from you coming to know Jesus? Who needs to benefit from your relationship with Jesus by receiving an invitation to Easter at NorthStar?
Close in prayer by asking that God would draw many to a saving faith in Jesus this Easter season!
TAKE IT HOME
1. What is your biggest takeaway from this sermon and study?
2. Do you have any prayer requests for your group?
Prayer Requests:
