The Kind of People God Uses: Discussion Guide
Summary
This sermon explores what kind of people God uses to advance His kingdom, using Acts 18:18-28 as the foundation. Pastor Mike examines three biblical figures - Paul, Priscilla and Aquila, and Apollos - to demonstrate that God uses faithful, loving, and humble disciples rather than just those with impressive platforms or gifts. Paul exemplifies faithful submission to God's will even when it means leaving successful ministry. Priscilla and Aquila show loving discipleship by gently correcting Apollos in private. Apollos demonstrates humility by receiving correction gracefully, which led to expanded ministry effectiveness. The message emphasizes that God's kingdom advances through ordinary faithfulness and long obedience rather than just explosive moments or impressive credentials. Pastor Mike challenges us to examine whether we are growing in faithfulness, love, and humility, and calls those without Christ to humbly receive the gospel message of salvation through faith alone.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together to study Your Word and learn from the examples of faithful disciples, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us today. Help us to set aside our preconceptions and pride, and make us teachable like Apollos. Show us how You want to use each of us in Your kingdom, whether in big or small ways. May we be faithful, loving, and humble as we seek to follow You. Guide our discussion and help us to encourage one another in our faith journey. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have any job for just one day (with all the necessary skills), what would it be and why?
Key Verses
Acts 18:18-28
Ephesians 4:15
Galatians 2
Psalm 141
Proverbs 27:6
Questions
Paul chose to leave Ephesus despite ministry success and people asking him to stay. When have you had to make a difficult decision to follow God's will even when it didn't make sense from a human perspective?
Paul spent time 'strengthening the disciples' rather than just focusing on new converts. Why is this kind of behind-the-scenes ministry important, and how can we engage in it?
Priscilla and Aquila corrected Apollos privately and gently rather than publicly embarrassing him. How can we apply this principle when we need to address issues with fellow believers?
What made Priscilla and Aquila effective disciplers despite not having impressive titles or platforms? How does this encourage you in your own ministry opportunities?
Apollos was highly educated and gifted, yet he humbly received correction from tent-makers. What can make it difficult for us to receive correction, and how can we cultivate a teachable spirit?
The sermon mentioned that 'faithfulness is measured not by results, but by obedience.' How does this challenge our typical measures of ministry success?
How do the examples of Paul, Priscilla and Aquila, and Apollos show us different ways God uses ordinary people in His kingdom work?
Pastor Mike said, 'If you're unteachable, you're unusable.' How can we guard against pride while still using the gifts God has given us?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where God might be calling you to step out in faithfulness - whether it's having a difficult conversation with someone in love, volunteering for a ministry need at church, or simply being more teachable when others offer correction or input. Take one concrete step toward that calling, trusting that God uses ordinary obedience to advance His extraordinary kingdom.
Key Takeaways
God uses faithful, loving, and humble disciples to advance His kingdom, not just those with impressive platforms or gifts
Faithfulness means submitting to God's will even when it requires leaving success or comfort behind
True discipleship often happens through quiet, loving relationships rather than public platforms
Speaking truth in love requires both courage to address issues and humility to do so gently and privately
A teachable spirit is essential for continued usefulness in God's kingdom, regardless of our gifts or experience
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us through Paul, Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos that You delight to use ordinary people who walk in faithfulness, love, and humility. Help us to submit to Your will even when it's difficult, to speak truth in love to those around us, and to remain teachable throughout our lives. May we not seek platforms or recognition, but simply desire to be faithful servants who strengthen others and advance Your kingdom through ordinary obedience. Use us this week in the ways You see fit, and help us to trust that no act of faithfulness is ever wasted in Your hands. We ask this in the powerful name of Jesus, Amen.