The Good News You’ve Been Waiting For Discussion Guide
Sunday Sermon Video HERE
The sermon focuses on Acts 13:26-52, discussing how God fulfills His promises of forgiveness and justification through Jesus's resurrection. Pastor Mike uses the example of Leo Tolstoy, who despite having worldly success, felt an emptiness that could only be filled by what God offers. These aren't merely theological concepts but answers to humanity's deepest longings for acceptance and forgiveness.
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word, open our hearts and minds to understand the depth of Your love and the completeness of Your forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Help us to be honest with one another and receptive to Your truth. Guide our conversation and help us see how this message applies to our lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Question to Discuss
What's something you worked really hard to achieve, but once you achieved it, it didn't bring the satisfaction you expected?
Key Verses
Acts 13:38-39
Genesis 22:18
Jeremiah 31:34
Ezekiel 36:25
1 Corinthians 15:17
Questions
Why do you think even successful people like Tolstoy can feel empty despite having everything the world values?
How does the sermon define the difference between intellectual belief and biblical belief?
In what ways do people today try to justify themselves or find acceptance outside of Christ?
What does it mean to be justified before God, according to the sermon?
Why is the resurrection so crucial to our faith and forgiveness?
How do you relate to the idea of being afraid to let people see behind the 'curtain of your heart'?
What are some 'little kingdoms' people might be reluctant to give up to follow Christ?
How does knowing that you're part of God's bigger story change your perspective on life?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where you've been trying to prove yourself or earn acceptance. Practice surrendering that to God daily, acknowledging that your justification comes through Christ alone, not your performance.
Key Takeaways
God promises both forgiveness of sins and justification through Christ
The resurrection proves that Jesus's payment for our sins was sufficient
We receive forgiveness and justification through believing in Christ, not through our own performance
Choosing to remain undecided about Christ is ultimately choosing rejection
We're invited to leave our temporary story to join God's eternal story
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for offering us complete forgiveness and justification through Your death and resurrection. Help us to stop trying to earn what You freely give and to rest in Your finished work. Give us the courage to surrender our little kingdoms for Your greater Kingdom, and help us to live in the joy of being fully known and fully accepted by You. In Your name we pray, Amen.