CHAPTERS 8-9
CHAPTERS 8-9
SUMMARY
Because people must first hear the gospel to believe, the Lord uses people to preach the Good News of Christ. Stephen’s martyrdom and the persecution that follows catapult the early followers into the larger world outside of Israel as the Missions era begins.
Philip preaches in Samaria, and a mixed-race people group hears and believes. In the midst of this awakening, an angel sends Philip to the desert to preach Christ to an Ethiopian eunuch.
The Pharisee Saul (known as Paul) is on a rampage to arrest believers in Damascus. Instead he is arrested by an encounter with Jesus. That meeting, along with a prophecy by Ananias, alters the trajectory of his life. The apostle to the Gentiles is born.
Peter travels from place to place in Judea visiting believers. News of the Lord is being spread throughout Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth, as Jesus promised in
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
How does Philip fulfill Acts 1:8, and what response does he receive?
Who comes to confirm God’s work in Sanaria, and why does this matter?
How does God prepare the eunuch to receive Philip’s message?
How does Philip’s knowledge of Scripture empower his ministry?
How does Jesus confront Saul on the Damascus road?
How does Saul express his new faith, and what can we learn from Ananias?