Welcome

As we continue through Eastertide, our passage this week explores the power of the Holy Spirit in our life and mission. As you think the about the Spirits work, reflect on the first time you heard about the Holy Spirit, and the progression of your thought on the Holy Spirit from then to now. If you want a more lighthearted opening question: as a child, what foods did you refuse to eat? What foods do you still dislike today?

Worship

Read Romans 8:26-27 as a guide to prayer. Bring your thanks, joys, and groanings to God for yourself and others, knowing that the Spirit makes intercession for us when we don’t know how to pray.

Word

Read Acts 10:24-48 together
1. Notice how every word or witness of the Spirit is referenced in the passage. What is the key role of the Spirit in this passage?
2. Given Peter’s experience in verses 9-23, and knowing Cornelius was a Gentile, how do you think Peter was feeling as they greeted each other? What would Peter’s declaration in verse 28 meant to Cornelius?
3. What is Peter’s main point in his sermon (verses 28, 34-43)? What is the central gospel message?
4. Consider the make-up of our church and area. Are there some people who would assume the church is not for them? What would change or remove those barriers? How would you feel about making those changes?
5. What does it mean to you to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit?
6. What did Peter understand in verse 47? In what areas are you challenged to trust and seek out the Holy Spirit’s larger work around you and in the world?
7. What can you learn from Peter and Cornelius’s faith and dependence on God?

Witness

What is one way that the Holy Spirit is leading you to rely on His power this week?