The Mystery and Glory of Suffering in the Way of Jesus

What is the role of suffering in the spread of the gospel? Join us this Sunday at CrossWinds Church in Spencer as we consider the answer from Acts 6.

Sermon Discussion Questions

1. In this message, we look at Stephen, a man who lived a Christian life worth following. What spiritual heroes have you admired? How did they help you follow Jesus better?
2. What is one takeaway you have from this passage? How does that affect your daily life in walking with Jesus?
3. Our sermon makes the claim, “suffering in the way of Jesus is a value statement saying, “Jesus is better.” Do you agree with this? Why or why not?
4. Read Acts 6:7. How does the context of this verse remind us of Jesus growing his church even in suffering? How does this affect our reading of Acts 6:8–15.
5. Read Acts 6:5, 8, 10. List the various ways that Stephen is described in these verses. What are their significance? What might it look like for you to cultivate these characteristics today?
6. Read Acts 6:11–15; Matthew 26:57–61; John 15:20. Describe some of the parallels between Jesus and Stephen. What does that tell us about Stephen’s suffering?
7. Read Acts 6:15. What does this verse tell us about God’s approval or disapproval of Stephen? How does that compare to that of the religious authorities?