Discussion and Prayer Guide: Acts 15 – Gentiles and the Torah
The Role of the Torah for Gentiles
- Question: James outlines four specific instructions for Gentile believers (Acts 15:20) drawn from the Torah’s holiness code (Leviticus 17-19). Why do you think these particular commands (abstaining from idolatry, sexual immorality, strangled meat, and blood) were emphasized for Gentiles?
- Discussion Prompt: Discuss how these commands relate to the broader call to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-40). How can these principles guide our daily lives as believers?
- Prayer Focus: Ask God for wisdom to live in holiness, loving Him above all and loving others selflessly. Pray for strength to avoid practices that dishonor God.
- Question: The sermon emphasizes that Christianity is not “law-free” but “law-full,” rooted in Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:17-20. How does delighting in God’s commands, as described in Psalm 119:14-16, shape our identity as disciples?
- Discussion Prompt: Share a time when obeying God’s commands brought you joy or freedom, even if it was challenging. How can we cultivate a heart that delights in God’s law?
- Prayer Focus: Pray for a deeper love for God’s Word and a joyful heart in obeying His commands. Ask for perseverance in living as faithful disciples.
- Question: James assumes Gentiles will continue to learn from the Torah as it is read in synagogues (Acts 15:21). Why is regularly engaging with Scripture, especially the Torah (Genesis–Deuteronomy), vital for our growth as disciples?
- Discussion Prompt: How can we prioritize reading and meditating on the Torah in our personal or group study? What practical steps can we take to make this a habit?
- Prayer Focus: Pray for a hunger to study and meditate on Scripture, especially the Torah. Ask God to reveal His truth and guide your group’s study.
- Question: The Gentile believers rejoiced at the Jerusalem Council’s letter because it clarified how they could honor God (Acts 15:30-31). How can we respond with joy and obedience to God’s guidance in our lives today?
- Discussion Prompt: Reflect on a time when clear guidance from God’s Word brought you encouragement or direction. How can our home group encourage one another to obey God joyfully?
- Prayer Focus: Thank God for His clear guidance through Scripture and the Holy Spirit. Pray for your group to support and encourage one another in faithful obedience.
