Acts Reading GuideSample

Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy but I’ve come that you might have life and have it to the full” (John 10:10). How do we measure fullness? How do we know if we are experiencing the fullness Christ offers? Stephen’s recorded ministry career consisted of delivering food to widows—the equivalent of a 1st century Meals-On-Wheels program—and a brief gospel message delivered to a group of stone-throwing religious types. In both ministries, Stephen gave everything he had to the task. He performed faithfully behind the scenes receiving the thanks of a few well-fed widows, and he performed just as faithfully on a more public platform when death seemed his likely end. No doubt Stephen was motivated by an empty tomb and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Stephen’s life was full despite its brevity. The measuring stick for fullness is not the length of our days, the number of our accomplishments or the frequency of our happiness. Stephen was boldly and faithfully obedient in every situation. He was all in. His life shows us that fullness is found in a life of Christ-centered purpose. 1) What does this passage teach us about God? How does it apply to you? 2) How does our culture measure success? What is the biblical definition of success? 3) How is God using you to accomplish His purposes? Is there any thing distracting you from fulfilling God’s purpose in your life?