Three soldiers in an abandoned barn: one weeps, another breaks down in fury, the third silently grips an empty bottle. That scene opens a reflection on the man lame from birth who sat at the Beautiful Gate asking Peter and John for a few coins, and heard instead: I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you (Acts 3). The sermon asks what we really have to offer a weary world when we ourselves feel drained, and draws out the difference between believing in Jesus and believing Jesus. Listen, and consider whether you are asking God for small change where he wants to give you fullness of life.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- The man at the Beautiful Gate asked Peter and John for money. What was he expecting, what did he actually receive, and what does that reveal about his real need?
- When the crowd ran to Solomon's Colonnade, Peter immediately refused any glory for himself. Why did he stress so strongly that it was the name of the living Jesus that healed this man?
- The sermon says people expect silver and gold from Christians: money, advice, practical help. How do you understand the idea that the greatest gift we can give is an encounter with the living Jesus?
- What do you see as the difference between believing in Jesus and believing Jesus, and in which area of your life is it hardest to trust what He says?
- Piotrek Stępniak remembered for years three words he heard in prison: Jesus loves you. What moves you most in his story, and what does it teach about being a witness?
- This week, like a phone with a flashing red battery icon, where do you look for quick recharges instead of the real source, and who could you stop for, look in the eye and tell about Jesus?
