Groups Discussion Guide

Read Scripture. Go Deeper. Ask Questions. Take Action.

Pastor Justin Jenkins

The Inside Track

Scripture

Acts 18:23, Acts 19:1

"After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples... While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when[a] you believed?”

They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”

Main Idea

Paul's experience teaches us about the importance of being spiritually filled. His boldness in the synagogue and adaptability in shifting to the lecture hall of Tyrannus highlight the necessity of taking initiative. His ability to perform extraordinary miracles shows how we can leverage divine influence to expand God’s kingdom. Ultimately, Paul's continued commitment to his mission, despite challenges, urges us to maintain our intention and guard the spiritual investments God entrusts to us. We need to seek our "inside track"—a path defined by proactive faith and staying true to our God-given purpose.

Faithful people know that a crisis serves to grow your character because on the other side of the problem is God's provision.

Discussion Questions

  1. Paul remained focused on his mission to spread the gospel. What are some distractions or challenges that can divert us from our spiritual goals?
  2. God has given each of us influence. How do we ensure we use our influence responsibly?
  3. How can adopting a long-term perspective change the way we approach our spiritual lives and ministries?
  4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate a long-term perspective?

Summary

As a church, we learn from Paul's example the importance of being deeply rooted in our spiritual convictions, using our God-given influence responsibly, and maintaining a long-term vision for our ministry. This sermon calls us, as a community, to stay committed to our divine purposes, encouraging each of us to find and follow the call God has placed on our lives.

Take Action

• Reflect on your circle of influence and write down specific actions you can take to use this influence more effectively for positive impact.

• Challenge yourself to think long-term. What are adctions you can take in the short term to give yourself room to think long-term?

Announcements

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