Acts Reading GuideSample

As the gospel spreads and grows in the early church, a diverse group emerged. What was once a small band of Jewish locals now included a large number of non-Jews or Gentiles. Differences in opinion caused friction among the church body. People hoped the church leaders would pick a side. But they didn’t realize they were all working toward a common vision. Our church must be on guard against division springing up from our different backgrounds, traditions and preferences. While we have many differences, our common denominator is salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone. Our mission to see the gospel spread throughout the world unites us! Peter says in Acts 15:8 that the same Spirit lives in all of us; God has not made a distinction. Those in Christ are all under the love of God. We are the body and we each have a role to fill. Embracing our differences and focusing on our united mission will help us reach people faster. Let’s be mindful that divisions in the church are cancerous to the body. We are one body. 1) What does this passage teach us about God? How does it apply to you? 2) What are the benefits of a diverse church? How can you help make NewSpring the kind of church that welcomes those who are turning to God? 3) Jews and Gentiles were united by the recognition that they could not earn their salvation. The same is true for us today. Are you trying to earn God’s approval through good works? Flip over to Hebrews 11:6. What pleases God?