To Be Continued… : Discussion Guide
Summary
This sermon concludes the study of the Book of Acts by examining why Luke ends the narrative with Paul still in chains in Rome, awaiting trial. Pastor Mike argues that Acts doesn't feel finished because it isn't - the story continues through believers today. Using Paul's final years in Rome as an example, the message demonstrates how ordinary Christians can live with gospel intentionality right where God has placed them. The sermon emphasizes that while Paul was physically chained, the Gospel remained unhindered and continues to advance through faithful witnesses. Pastor Mike challenges the congregation to see themselves as part of the ongoing Acts narrative, called to carry the Gospel forward in their daily spheres of influence. He highlights the unfinished nature of global missions, noting that billions still haven't heard of Jesus, while also acknowledging that faithful witness doesn't guarantee positive responses. The Gospel confronts before it comforts, requiring surrender to Jesus as King rather than mere religious adherence.
Intro Prayer
Father, as we gather together today, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us through Your Word. Help us to see clearly how the story of Acts continues through our lives today. Give us ears to hear Your voice and hearts that are willing to respond to Your call. We pray that You would soften any hardness in our hearts and help us to be open to however You want to use us in advancing Your kingdom. Speak to us now, we pray, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's a movie or book that left you hanging with an unresolved ending? How did that make you feel?
Key Verses
Acts 28:17-31
Acts 1:8
Colossians 4:2-3
Philippians 1:12-14
Isaiah 6:9-10
Romans 10:9
1 Samuel 8:7
Questions
Why do you think Luke chose to end Acts with Paul still in chains rather than providing closure to his story?
How does viewing yourself as part of the continuing story of Acts change your perspective on your daily life and circumstances?
Paul prayed for open doors for the Gospel rather than for changed circumstances. How might this shift in prayer focus impact your own prayer life?
The sermon mentions that 3.5 billion people are still considered unreached with the Gospel. How does this statistic affect you, and what role might you play in addressing this need?
Paul made the most of being chained to Roman soldiers by viewing them as a captive audience. What current circumstances in your life could become opportunities for Gospel witness?
Why do you think some people who seem most likely to respond to the Gospel (like the Jews in Paul's day) sometimes reject it, while unlikely people embrace it?
The message states that 'before the Gospel can comfort us, it must confront us.' What does this mean, and how have you experienced this in your own life?
What would it look like practically for you to 'take up the baton' and continue the Acts story in your workplace, neighborhood, or family relationships?
Life Application
This week, identify one specific person in your sphere of influence and commit to praying daily for an opportunity to share the Gospel with them. Look for natural ways to engage them in spiritual conversations, and be intentional about making the most of your time and circumstances to be a witness for Christ right where God has placed you.
Key Takeaways
The Book of Acts doesn't end because the story continues through believers today
Paul is in chains, but the Gospel isn't Christians are called to live with Gospel intentionality right where God has placed them, viewing their circumstances as mission opportunities rather than obstacles
Faithful Gospel witness involves prayer for open doors, patience with people, focus on Christ and His kingdom, and grounding conversations in Scripture
The Gospel confronts before it comforts, requiring surrender to Jesus as King rather than mere religious adherence
The mission to reach the ends of the earth remains unfinished, with billions still unreached and needing faithful witnesses to carry the Gospel forward
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You that Your kingdom continues to advance through ordinary people like us. Help us to see our daily lives as part of the ongoing story of Acts. Give us boldness to speak of You without fear, and open doors for the Gospel right where You have placed us. Soften our hearts to surrender more fully to You as our King, and burden us for those who have never heard Your name. Use our lives to carry this good news forward, whether across the street or across the world. May we be faithful witnesses who take up the baton and continue the mission You began. In Your powerful name we pray, Amen.