Acts | Church Drama | Lesson Five

This week, join the Rev. John Sundara and Dr. Kira Moolman Pettit as they discuss Acts 5-6 and the themes of pure-hearted giving and continued boldness. We are introduced to the challenging story of Ananias and Sapphira as well as the encouraging (albeit unconscious) witness of Gamaliel. We also meet Stephen, a new leader in this growing Christian community. 

Discussion questions: 

What does pure-hearted faith look like to you? Who is someone who models that to you, either in the Bible or in your own life? 

In verses 33-42, we hear some advice from a religious leader named Gamaliel. Gamaliel puts things into perspective for the others saying that many new religious movements have come and gone over time. Gamaliel points out that if this new movement (the followers of “the Way”) is just another of these, it will come to nothing. “But,” Gamaliel says, “if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” (v.39). In your group, speculate a bit. Is Gamaliel sympathetic to the followers of Jesus? Is he pragmatic? Just trying to keep the peace? Or something else? 

We are introduced to a new office of the church in chapter 6, where seven men are chosen to be the servants, or deacons, of the church. These seven are responsible for taking care of the logistics of making sure everyone was fed so that the twelve could focus on preaching and prayer. If you had to choose between being in charge of feeding, preaching, or praying, where do you think you would land? (Or is there another area you’d prefer to lead?) Think of 1 Corinthians 12 and its discussion of the many different gifts that make up the body of believers. How do you see the early church working to put everyone’s gifts to the best use?