LifeGroup Notes June 28, 2010; Heroes and Villains; Part Two
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~~Villain Transformation
OVERVIEW: We are in the second week of our summer series Heroes and Villains. As we look at this fascinating account of the how the early Church was formed, we will be looking at some of the personalities that played a role in the establishment of God’s Kingdom through his Church. Last week, we discussed the topic of “heroes.” This week, let’s look at the Hero counterpart: the Villains. As we look at these accounts, let’s ask the Holy Spirit to help us to apply what we learn to the lives we live here in our generation.
DISCUSSION POINT ONE “Religious People”: Read Acts 5: 17-42 out loud in your group, then discuss the following points:
- What was it that made the religious villains so aggressive? See Verse 17. Talk about how jealousy can even blind people in ministry today as they serve in the local church.
- Read verse 29-32. Now, keeping in mind that these religious leaders had just recently called for Jesus to be killed, notice their response (verse 33), to Peter’s proclamation. They were furious. Talk about the dynamic of how religious people can be so focused on defending their “doctrine” that they become “furious” when their position is challenged, and miss the presence of God in their midst.
- Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, was technically on the villain’s side, but he was used by God to save the apostle’s lives. Talk about how God can use the influence of non-believers to change circumstances for his servants. How does that give us hope on our jobs, in our courtrooms, and in our government?
DISCUSSION POINT TWO “Saul the Villain to Paul the Hero” :
- Read Acts 7:59 through 8:1-3. As we can see in these passages, Saul (soon to be Apostle Paul) started out as one of the most heinous of all Villains against the Church. Why do you think God chose a person like Saul to become a key builder of the early church and one of the primary writers of the New Testament?
- Read 1 Corinthians 15: 9-10. How do you think the extraordinary grace Paul was shown by God prepared him to become a hero as God’s messenger of the grace based gospel we know as truth today?
- Read Titus 3:1-8. This passage reveals the Apostle Paul as a hero, mentoring his young apprentice Titus. Talk about what his words to Titus reveal about his transformation from Villain to Hero. Talk about how God’s transforming work in your life.
TAKING ACTION: This week continue reading through the book of Acts. As you read, look for heroes and notice the villains. Ask the Lord to speak to encourage you through the lives of the early Christians, and give you wisdom as you encounter those who resisted the truth of Christ.
MINISTRY TIME