Rejoicing and Rejection

What can we learn about sharing the gospel with other people, no matter how they respond? Join us this Sunday at CrossWinds Church in Spencer as we consider the answer from Acts 13.

Sermon Discussion

1. Look at the “Message of Acts 13:42–52” above. What is the connection between “not growing weary” and the reign of Jesus?
2. What is one takeaway you have from this passage? What will you do with that this week? What is a question you still have after studying this passage?
3. Read Acts 13:44–45. What causes the Jewish opposition to the gospel? What are some other causes of opposition to the message of God in the Bible (cf. Mark 6; Acts 16; Acts 19) and today? 
4. Read Acts 13:45. In our sermon, Pastor Jordan pointed out that the word “revile” is more literally translated as “blasphemed.” What is the connection to blasphemy and opposition to the gospel?
5. Read Acts 13:46–52. What are some of the ways that God’s plan is accomplished even in the face of opposition to the message
   of Jesus?
6. Read Acts 13:48. Take some time to discuss this verse. How does this verse lead to worship? How does it lead us to comfort in God’s plan when we share the gospel with others?
7. Discuss this quote from JI Packer’s book Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God: 

“C. H. Spurgeon was once asked if he could reconcile these two truths [divine sovereignty and human responsibility] to each other. “I wouldn’t try,” he replied; “I never reconcile friends.” Friends?—yes, friends. This is the point that we have to grasp. In the Bible, divine sovereignty and human responsibility are not enemies. They are not uneasy neighbors; they are not in an endless state of cold war with each other. They are friends, and they work together.”

8. This Time Tomorrow: How does this passage transform your thoughts, actions, or interactions at “this time tomorrow”?