Week #26 — FEAR, COMFORT, AND GROWTH
How much knowledge or experience does someone need on a topic to teach it to others? More than almost any other, this is the question that arises (in some form) from many Christians—and the topic is evangelism and the Gospel. Usually, one of two rationales drives this. Either (1) our default setting is to outsource so many things to experts—from tennis lessons to investment management—that we imagine the same approach applies to evangelism, or else (2) we decide that such an important matter requires more knowledge and study, so we think we’re not ready to do it, at least not yet.
In our passage this week, we see a very different approach. Paul has just converted dramatically to faith in Jesus, and what does he do? He “immediately” proclaims Jesus as the Son of God to all who will listen, and even some who won’t. Let’s explore how and why our posture should be far more like Paul’s and far less like our default setting.
Read Acts 9:19B-31 together, and then go through the discussion questions.
In Christ,
Pastor Ken
Week #26 — Questions
- In v20, we see that Saul “immediately” began proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God. What does this reveal about the natural impulse of genuine conversion? Have you seen that impulse in others or experienced it yourself?
- What fears or excuses most often keep Christians from speaking about Jesus early in their walk or consistently over time? How does Saul’s example challenge those hesitations?
- In the sermon, Pastor David walked through some basic apologetics for the resurrection and for the trust in and authority of Scripture. What did you learn in those areas? How might it help you in sharing your faith?
- Saul’s central claim is that Jesus is “the Son of God” (v20). Read Colossians 1:15-20 and Hebrews 1:1-4. Why is this confession so foundational—and so offensive—to both Jewish leaders and the broader world?
- Barnabas advocates for Saul when others are afraid (v27). What qualities make Barnabas such an important figure here? How can you intentionally become a “Barnabas” to someone who needs encouragement or credibility?
- Saul goes from hunting Christians to being hunted because he is a Christian (v23-25). What does this reversal reveal about the cost of following Christ and the transforming power of grace?
- Following Christ may reverse our reputation, relationships, or even our life trajectory. Have you experienced a “reversal” because of your faith? How did God use it for growth or witness?
- In v31, we learn that the church walked “in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit,” and it multiplied. How do awe and reverence (fear) and comfort (encouragement) work together rather than compete? What could you do to cultivate more of both in your life right now?