Sermon Discussion Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-ItLsx9tHkt-XPR0RGKSYzytfEvoSQZf/view?usp=sharing - Or just keep scrolling:
Sermon Discussion Guide (for use at home this week)
Opening prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for completing your work on earth - and continuing your work on my behalf in heaven. AMEN.
About Me
Have you ever doubted whether you had faith? If so, what were the circumstances?
Into the Bible – Acts 7:54-60
Verse 54: “When they heard these things…” Look back at chapters 6-7, and especially 7:44-53. What are the “these things” that infuriated the crowd?
Verse 55: What did Stephen see? Identify the comfort of this sight.
Verse 56: Identify the name for Jesus in this verse, and compare with vv. 52-53.
Verse 58: Who was overseeing this sudden execution?
Verse 59-60: How does God describe Stephen’s death (v.60)? Compare Stephen’s words with the words of Jesus on Good Friday.
Application
4 I have given them your word. The world hated them, because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I am not asking that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them from the Evil One. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. John 17
In Sunday’s sermon, Pastor discussed the difference between a “means of grace” belief and a “non-means of grace” belief. What is that difference? Name two reasons why this matters.
In Sunday’s gospel reading from John 17, Jesus prays for his believers. What do we learn about Jesus in the Gospel reading, and what does Jesus tell us about ourselves? Identify the specific tool that Jesus uses to protect his people.
Look at the verse above. Describe two differences between the world and the believer. What are some of the implications or natural results of the world’s hatred? Look back at the Acts 7 reading from above, and identify the comfort Stephen experienced (and still experiences today).
“…but help and befriend him in every bodily need.” The Christian bears fruits of love toward God and neighbor. Consider those in your life, especially those who live in close proximity. Think of a way that you can act as a neighbor toward someone, especially in relation to one’s physical needs - food, shelter, clothing. On your own or with a friend / family member, reach out and demonstrate love in some tangible way this week.
“Witnesses of Resurrection Peace - With a Voice of Certainty.” What’s the relationship between Christ’s promise to work through his Word - and our confidence as Christians? Name two ways that we can make greater use of his Word.
Jesus prays for us. Write a prayer, thanking Jesus for being our intercessor and high priest. Ask him to continue blessing his Church on earth, especially our work in the greater Toledo area.
Prayer: Almighty God, your Son our Savior was taken up in glory and intercedes for us at your right hand. Through your living and abiding Word, give us hearts to know him and faith to follow where he has gone; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever; AMEN.
Show Notes
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2021 Bible Reading Schedule: https://bit.ly/rwj2021
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Gospel of John videos from St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church of Beaver Dam, WI - featuring Pastor Paul Stratman: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZkCzVm8cKaTjhcRhxr13na3TEugbO0eQ
Music from Joseph McDade: https://josephmcdade.com
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Sunday school lessons courtesy of Northwestern Publishing House.