April 19 | Acts 5 | Threats Within & Without

  1. What factors do you think pose the greatest threats to the church today? Why?

  2. Read Acts 4:32-5:11. What is the difference between the pattern of the early church in Acts 4 and the conduct of Ananias & Sapphira in Acts 5?

  3. Why do you think there was such severe judgment against Ananias & Sapphira? What does their judgment tell us about the character of the Holy Spirit?

  4. Read Acts 5:12-42. We would expect anyone to welcome the wonderful things described in verses 12-16. How and why do the high priest and the Sadducees react to what was happening (5:17-28)?

  5. Compare the heart of the religious leaders to the heart of the apostles. What emotional language is used to describe each group in this chapter? What realities govern the decisions of each group?

  6. What does this chapter teach us about threats to the church, both internal and external? How can we best assess and respond to threats when they arise? Spend time praying for one another and for our church family.

Robb EsperatComment