Notes and Questions for Study and
Prayer on Acts Chapter 2 verses 37 – 47
This passage
comes immediately after Peter, emboldened by the Holy Spirit, has told the
assembled crowds that they are responsible for the death of the one whom God
had sent to save them from a disaster they were bringing upon themselves by
refusing to obey God’s call and commandments. It is clear from this passage and
from elsewhere that God expects people to repent on hearing the Gospel and to
receive a gift that will enable them to bear his ‘good news’ to others and live
the life of discipleship. But there are obstacles in the way of our doing so!
Nevertheless, those who hear and obey are enabled to become the ‘Church’
wherever they are. The love that inspires this new family produces some changes
in their lives that for many would go against the grain; not just those who
enjoy their own possessions or who have worked hard for them but also those for
whom society’s expectations of them are important. But when they put their
faith into action great things happen and many are attracted to the church.
1. Why were
the people ‘cut to the heart’ v37? Are people ‘cut to the heart’ today in
the
same way? What things today protect them from such a blow?
2. How do
you understand ‘repentance’? Why do we need to ask for forgiveness on a daily
basis?
3. What gets
in the way of people receiving the ‘good news’ of Jesus? V40
4. How does
God ‘call’ people? V39
5. Why is it
not just about joining the family of the church but also about being ’saved’?
What is the link here?
6. In what
way might ‘church-going’ differ from membership of a local church? What might
be the spiritual dangers in simply cultivating our own ‘spirituality’ or
worshipping only with those of our own ‘churchmanship’, class, or interests?
7. The ‘four
marks of the church’ are described here. What are they, why are they important,
and are they all equally important?
8. Has this
passage inspired you? In what way?
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