God Is at Work

God Is at Work | Acts 16:1-10

Stewart Swain, Pastor of Discipleship

Key Takeaways

• God works specifically, not just generally, in our lives and in the world.

• Specificity sells: Details matter in how we relate to others and share the gospel.

• Specificity strengthens: Concrete actions and decisions can strengthen our faith.

• Specificity saves: The gospel is rooted in specific historical events and a real person - Jesus Christ.

Study Questions

• Question 1

  Stewart mentions "specificity sells." How can paying attention to specific details help us better connect with others and share our faith?

• Question 2

  Reflect on Paul and Timothy's decision to circumcise Timothy (Acts 16:3). How does this demonstrate wisdom in ministry? Can you think of a time when you adapted your approach to better reach someone with the gospel?

• Question 3

  In this Scripture, Paul is prevented by the Holy Spirit from going to certain areas. How do you discern God's guidance in your life? Have you ever felt God closing one door to open another?

• Question 4

  Stewart emphasizes that the Bible points to Jesus as its central figure. How does this perspective impact the way you read and understand Scripture, both Old and New Testament?

• Question 5

  Reflect on this statement: "The problem with us is not that we need more guidance or more evidence or more special moments. The problem with us is that our hearts reject the evidence that is already there." Do you agree or disagree? Why?

5-Day Devotional

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5

Day 1 : God's Specific Work in Our Lives

READING :

Acts 16:1-10

DEVOTIONAL :

As we read about Paul's journey in Acts 16, we're reminded that God works specifically in our lives. Just as Paul was guided to certain places and prevented from going to others, God is actively involved in directing our paths. Today, reflect on how God has been working specifically in your life. Have there been times when you felt led in a particular direction or prevented from taking a certain path? How has God's specific guidance shaped your journey of faith? Remember that God's work in your life is not random or general, but purposeful and tailored to you. Pray for openness to recognize and follow God's specific leading in your life.

Day 2 : Wisdom in Christian Living

READING :

1 Corinthians 9:19-23

DEVOTIONAL :

The decision to circumcise Timothy, despite it not being required for salvation, shows us the importance of wisdom in Christian living. Sometimes, we're called to adapt our approach or practices to better reach others with the gospel. As you read Paul's words in 1 Corinthians, consider how you might become "all things to all people" in your own context. Are there ways you can adjust your approach to better connect with those around you, without compromising your faith? Pray for discernment to know when to stand firm and when to be flexible for the sake of the gospel.

Day 3 : The Strengthening Power of Community

READING :

Hebrews 10:24-25

DEVOTIONAL :

In Acts 16, we see how the churches were strengthened as Paul and his companions visited them. This reminds us of the vital role of Christian community in our spiritual growth. As you read today's passage, reflect on how your faith has been strengthened through fellowship with other believers. How can you contribute to strengthening others in your faith community? Consider reaching out to someone today to offer encouragement or support. Pray for opportunities to both give and receive strength within your church family.

Day 4 : The Specificity of Salvation

READING :

Romans 5:6-11

DEVOTIONAL :

Our salvation is rooted in specific historical events – Jesus, a real person, dying for our actual sins. As you read today's passage, meditate on the concrete nature of our salvation. It's not based on abstract concepts, but on God's specific action in history. How does the reality of Christ's death for you personally impact your faith? Take time to thank God for the specific ways he has worked in your life to bring you to salvation. Pray for a renewed appreciation of the gospel's historical reality and its personal application to your life.

Day 5 : Listening for God's Voice

READING :

John 10:1-10

DEVOTIONAL :

The sermon touched on discerning God's guidance, as Paul and his companions did in Acts 16. Today's reading reminds us that as Jesus' sheep, we can hear and recognize his voice. However, this doesn't always mean dramatic visions or audible voices. Often, God speaks through his Word, circumstances, and the counsel of other believers. As you reflect on this passage, consider how you've experienced God's guidance in your life. Ask God to help you discern his leading, stay attuned to his voice, and seek regular engagement with Scripture and Christian community. Pray for patience and trust in God's timing and methods of communication with you.

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations.

All: Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you!

Psalm 67:1-3

Confession of FAITH

The Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic* church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

*catholic here means the universal church

Confession of Sin

Merciful Father, You raised Timothy to embrace costly obedience for the sake of the gospel. Yet we confess how often we avoid sacrifice, seeking ease instead of mission. You strengthened the churches through your Word and Spirit, but we neglect both. You guided Paul by opening and closing doors, yet we grumble when you redirect us. Forgive our unbelief, O Lord, and make us willing servants, strengthened by Christ’s cross. Amen.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:8-9

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Acts 16:11-40