Decisions made alone, because surely I know best, can leave a marriage hanging by a thread, the preacher begins with a very honest confession of his own. From there he takes us to the opening chapters of Acts, where the apostles try to build God’s kingdom the old way while the Holy Spirit begins building it from within, in human hearts (Acts 1 and 2). The sermon reminds us that God does not call the gifted; he gifts those he calls. Listen and ask what plan God has for your place in his kingdom.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Before the ascension, the apostles ask Jesus whether he will restore the kingdom to Israel (Acts 1:6-8). What does their question reveal about their expectations, and how does Jesus redirect their focus?
- At Pentecost there is wind and fire, and pilgrims from many nations hear about God's mighty works in their own languages. What did this event tell the first hearers about the new temple and the reach of the good news?
- Before the Spirit came, the apostles fill the place of the Twelve by casting lots, reaching back to old patterns. Where in your faith is it hard for you to open up to something new that God is offering?
- The sermon says Jesus does not build walls but builds his kingdom from the inside, in the hearts of his people. What does it mean to you that you, not a building, are the temple of the Holy Spirit?
- The list of biblical figures includes a liar, a murderer, a man running from God and one who stuttered. How does the saying that God does not call the qualified but qualifies the called change how you see your own weaknesses?
- The story of a glass of cold water with lime given to Jim, the garbage collector, shows witness in everyday life. Who at home, at work or in your neighborhood could receive a similar gesture from you this week, and how will you pray about it?
