Discussion Guide

Acts of the Apostles: Message Series

Week 5: Acts 13:1-5 

1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the ruler,1 and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." 3 Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. 4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia; and from there they sailed to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John also to assist them.

Synopsis: What kind of a church sends out its best to start new churches? God’s church does. Our impulse is to stay and build, but the Spirit compels us to reach those who haven’t been reached with the grace of Jesus. Where is God calling us? Who will go?

Bottom Line: The Church was meant to be sent.

Questions:

1. In your past, what have you had the most trouble letting go of? Job? Relationship? Responsibility? Place/Location?

2. Reflect on the obedience of Barnabas and Saul in responding to the Holy Spirit's call (Acts 13:4). What life change has required you to step out of your comfort zone in order to follow God’s call on your life?

3. In Acts 13:2, the Holy Spirit speaks to the church leaders as they are worshiping and fasting. How will you create space in your life to hear from God more clearly?