(Acts 2:14-47)
SERMON OUTLINE
“God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact.” (Acts 2:32)
Peter’s Sermon (Acts 2:14-36)
- Story that needs to be heard
- Story that doesn’t shy away from truth
- Act of Obedience to Jesus (Acts 1:8)
People Respond to Sermon (Acts 2:37-41)
- People convicted (Acts 2:37)
- Need guidance (Acts 2:37)
- A church is launched (Acts 2:41)
Engage with Others | We are Witnesses (Acts 2:42-47)
- We are not alone (Acts 2:14, 42)
- Devotion
- Expectation
- Generosity
Engage Others | You are a Witness (Acts 1:8)
- God provides divine opportunities (Acts 2:12)
- Opportunities are not limited by location
- Belief in God’s Power (Acts 2:22, 24, 32, 36)
To proclaim and embody the love of Jesus Christ in the city and in the world.
Discussion Questions
- We are in week 4 of our series at Eastbrook entitled “Activate” about the church energized for God’s mission. This week, we are looking at Acts 2:14-47. Take some time to pray, asking God to speak to you as you read His word.
- It is Pentecost and there is much amazement, but people in Jerusalem do not know what to make of it. Peter seemingly acted in obedience to the command of Jesus in Acts 1:8. How was he obedient?
- In verse 14, Peter stands up with the eleven as he speaks. Why is it significant that all twelve are standing?
- This sermon from Peter is not a “seeker-sensitive” sermon. There are no cute illustrations or props or much preparation, and Peter does not shy away from truth. Do we tend to shy away from truth that might be difficult to either speak or hear? Discuss.
- Why do people feel convicted after Peter’s sermon? What could have kept people from asking for guidance? The apostles have learned how to direct people from the words of Jesus in Luke 24:45-49 and Matthew 28:18-20. How do we give guidance to people that need Jesus?
- The church is launched on this day. At the beginning of the day, there are 120 people gathered. At the end of the day, there are 3,120. That is the equivalent of a church of 2,000 one morning becoming a church of 52,000 by the evening. How could this incredible growth bring challenges?
- Read Acts 2:42-47. What values do you see in this from a community that embraces their calling and engages as witnesses of Jesus? How is this community different from a typical community of believers in 2015?
- The early church is open to receiving new people. That is obvious. Is the church today as open to new people today? Are our communities open to receiving new people?
- How are you engaged in serving Jesus with other followers of Jesus, whether at Eastbrook Church or some other place? If you are not engaged in community, would you consider “Jumping In” with others this summer? Invite someone into community. Join a group. Serve. We are witnesses. We need others. Others need us. We all need Jesus!