Resolution and Rejection - Acts
ACTS 6 & 7
We continue our study in Acts 6 and 7, where we see the church deal with a conflict quickly and effectively. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, preaches a tough message to the religious leaders and is murdered. The Jerusalem chapter of the book of Acts draws to a tragic close, but God’s church will continue to be built.
QUESTIONS
Read Exodus 18. What similarities do you see between Jethro’s advice to Moses and the apostles approach to handling the conflict in Acts 6? Compare both these passages to Genesis 2:18. What is the connection or similarity?
All of the seven men selected in Chapter 6 appear to be Greek (they have Greek names). Is there any significance to this?
Luke writes that the whole congregation agreed and chose the seven men. Is this significant? Why or why not?
With your family, do one or all of the following:
Read Stephen’s summary of the Old Testament. Then practice naming the “big” stories of the old testament, in order, without looking at chapter 7.
Brainstorm a list of well-known bible stories that aren’t in Stephen’s sermon.
Make a list of all the way Stephen’s story reminds you of the story of Jesus.
What are some things in your life and surroundings that can tend to harden your heart?
As a family, pray that your hearts would be soft to the leading and teaching of the Holy Spirit. Also pray for your neighbours, by name, that they would become soft to the gospel if they don’t yet know Jesus.
