Prayer and Discussion Guide: Acts 15:36-16:5 | Introducing Timothy1. Reflecting on the Apostolic Heart
How to Use This Guide:
- Question: Paul’s deep concern for the churches reflects an “apostolic heart” that cares for the spiritual well-being of others (Acts 15:36; 2 Corinthians 11:28). How can we cultivate a similar heart of love and concern for the people God has placed in our lives, whether in our family, church, or community?
- Prayer Prompt: Ask God to increase your love for His people, giving you a heart that seeks their spiritual growth and joy in faith, like Paul’s.
- Question: Paul and Barnabas had a “sharp disagreement” over John Mark, leading to their separation (Acts 15:37-39). How can we handle disagreements within the church with grace and wisdom, ensuring that God’s work continues despite differences?
- Prayer Prompt: Pray for unity and humility in your church community, asking God to guide disagreements toward outcomes that advance His kingdom.
- Question: The sermon highlights the significant influence of Timothy’s mother and grandmother in his faith (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14-17). How can parents, grandparents, or mentors in the church intentionally disciple the next generation through Scripture and modeling a life of faith?
- Prayer Prompt: Pray for mothers, grandmothers, and mentors, asking God to empower them to raise children and young believers in the knowledge and love of Jesus.
- Question: Paul circumcised Timothy to maintain his Jewish identity and avoid hindering their gospel witness (Acts 16:3). How can we balance cultural sensitivity and faithfulness to the gospel in our own contexts, ensuring our actions support effective ministry?
- Prayer Prompt: Ask God for discernment to navigate cultural or contextual challenges in sharing the gospel, so that your witness remains clear and effective.
- Question: The sermon emphasizes that Paul strengthened the churches with the message of the cross, the coming kingdom, and the need for endurance (1 Timothy 1:15-16; 2 Timothy 4:1-8). How can we share these core truths with others to strengthen their faith, and how do they encourage us to persevere in our own walk with Christ?
- Prayer Prompt: Pray that your church would be strengthened in faith through the message of the cross and the hope of the kingdom, and ask for courage to share this message with others.
How to Use This Guide:
- Use these questions for personal reflection, small group discussion, or family devotions.
- Spend time praying through each prompt, either individually or as a group, to apply the truths of the passage and sermon to your life.
- Consider journaling your responses or sharing them with others to deepen your understanding and commitment to living out the gospel.
