Fellowship—Relationship with a Purpose

• When facing a decision, would you say that the Holy Spirit is typically A) crucial, B) irrelevant, C) helpful, or D) ignored, as you make your decision? Share the reason for your answer.
• What do you wish your answer could be to the above question? Why?

Growth—Thinking About Spiritual Matters

• Why is Paul heading to Jerusalem? See Romans 15:25–27. How would this purpose have the potential to help heal divisions between Jews and Gentiles in the church?
• Have you ever stepped out in faith before, tried to do something you thought was good? Describe the emotions that come from such plans. Read Proverbs 12:11. How can you tell if you are “working the land,” or are you following “worthless pursuits?”
• Do you have the Holy Spirit indwelling you? (See Acts 2:38-39) What confidence do you gain from that fact?
• Do you think the disciples’ desire for Paul to avoid trouble in Jerusalem was encouraging or challenging (see Acts 21:4-13)? Defend your opinion.
• Why was Paul willing to suffer even to the point of death? (21:13)
• How would you have prepared for the trip to Jerusalem if you were Paul, knowing what Paul knew?
• Would you rather be safe or obedient? What choices have you made that demonstrate your preference?
• What decisions require you to listen for the Holy Spirit right now?

Prayer – Taking Your Thoughts to God

• Pray for your fellow believers to actively, persistently, and humbly listen for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Ask God to help us be obedient to whatever the Spirit requires of us, regardless of the cost.