The book of Acts tells the history of the spread of the gospel and the beginning of the church. As we conclude this book, let's take some time to reflect on how we are beneficiaries of the events recorded in Acts. With the power of the Holy Spirit and God's divine arrangement, we are privileged to have a relationship with Christ, because of the blessings and sacrifices of many people.

This God-given mission is not over yet and we are part of that story. Many have not known Christ yet. How can we continue this mission and spread of the gospel, so that others may benefit, like we did?

1) When something bad happens to you in life, do you second guess yourself and think it's because you have done something displeasing to God? If yes, why? Do you carry the same views about others when bad things happen to them? Share examples you know of where bad things happen to faithful persons.

2) What does Paul's attitude towards the bad things that happen to him teach us about the mentality we should have, when reacting to bad things happening to us? Recount how Paul makes use of past bad events that happened to him to do powerful ministry. What are some bad things happening to us now that could be possible opportunities?

1) Share instances in your life on how unpopular people are treated by the masses. Were you in a situation where you could have done something? Even today, are there unpopular people in the groups you are involved in? Are the masses attitude towards that person justified and according to how Jesus would have wanted us to act?

2) It is easy to be kind and show undiscriminating love when times are good. Imagine we are not as fortunate as now and Singapore does not have enough resources like sufficient medical care, hospital beds and vaccines to go around. If we are caught in this situation where we need to fight for these resources, how would we behave? What groups of people in Singapore you feel deserve the resources first and which should get it last, and based on what sort of criteria? Under what circumstances would we be willing to give up some of these resources for others?

1) Why are there times when God is silent for long periods? How do you feel during these times, especially when it is something that you know God promised? 

2) If there are promises from God we know will come to pass, how do we then best wait upon the Lord? 

3) What are some truths you can be assured of (regarding the nature and love of God) even if you are not clear of God's direction and the wait continues? With these assurances, how can we help those who have doubts about our God when what they have been praying and waiting for takes forever to come (or may never come at all)? 

As a complement to the podcast, let's read this article about hurried lives, prompting questions regarding our schedules: 

https://unlockingthebible.org/2018/07/a-hurried-life-isnt-a-holy-life/

1) What are your longings that are tied to eternity? Reflecting on these longings, what are some things in your life on earth that does not seem that important anymore? For those things, how much time do you spend worrying about them?

2) Who do you perceive as enemies of Christ? What fears do you have from these enemies? Because of these fears, what actions or thoughts would you have towards these enemies? How would Christ himself view these enemies?

3) Recall your first love with Jesus. Was there a time where you felt much zeal for Christ? Do you still have that zeal? If not, why, and how can you rediscover this first love?

1) Do you doubt that the current situation you are placed in is the best place for you, as God intended it? If there are doubts, why? Based on what factors do you decide whether a place is good for you to be in? Are these factors aligned with what God considers to be important?

2) If where you are at is not by chance, what then is the reason for your appointment here? Even though we may possibly feel small or insignificant wherever we are, why are we special and precious to God?

3) Let's say this prayer today:

“Father, You have placed me here at this time. How do You want to use me? Help me identify the places I spend my time, and identify the potential relationships in those places. Then, help me think through the needs of these places so that You can reveal to me my purpose here, in order to do Your will.”

1) To many, Paul seemed to waste years of time stuck in captivity. However, how did Paul use that time? What might be the landscape of Christianity today if he did not have that "wasted" time in captivity?

2) Think of the times you thought you might have wasted (or even now) due to others or uncontrollable circumstances. Were there pockets of time in those situations where you have been, or could have been a blessing to others? How have you been, or how might you have been a blessing in those times?

3) Do you still have wounds of the past, due to unjust things that occurred, or the feelings of having time wasted? Surrender these to the Lord now in prayer and be encouraged that God has used you in those times.

1) Were there times where you were falsely accused, and was a victim of injustice? Did God turn those painful times into something good? If so, how did God do that? 

2) If you meet someone who is struggling with similar painful situations, being cornered by others, what learning points from your previous experiences could you share to comfort him/her? 

3) Are you still feeling bitterness from previous painful experiences where people have hurt or wronged you? If so, what are some reasons that make it difficult for you to let go? How do you rest in God in these situations? 

1) What do you think made such a "hard" person like Felix want to listen to Paul speak? What can we learn from Paul's approach, in conversations with "hard" persons?

2) Q1 seems to suggest it is more difficult reaching common ground with a "hard" person. However, what are some possible challenges when reaching out to a "softer" person who goes along with much of what you share?

3) What are the things of Earth that may have a hold on you now, that may hinder you from building eternal riches? What are some common excuses or deals we try to make with God, in order to allow us to chase those things? How can we break out of this hold? 

1) Share a time when you or others you know of, used flattery. Where did this flattery get you/them? Looking back now, how worth it was using flattery then?  

2) Paul says in Thessalonians, "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life." How do we do this, especially in situations where we stand up for righteousness' sake?

3) Find a point you cannot compromise, and that is where you make a stand. This point should be the cross, where you cannot compromise. Where are these points in various contemporary/controversial issues in our lives? How have you reacted so far, when this point was not reached yet in some debate or exchange of perspectives with another?  

1) Share stories you know of where God engineers the small details, which leads to His bigger purposes. Were there undesirable things that happen or people with less righteous intentions that God used in those stories? How did He use them?

2) How similar are we to Lysias? What are the factors that make us want to hide the whole truth or want to impress? How important are these factors five, ten or twenty years down the road?

3) Think of times where you gave an account, and you tried to hide certain things or tried to impress (other than an interview). What did you have to lose if you were totally honest? When you were not totally honest, what were some things you may have sacrificed?

1) What is an example of a Christian having a hardened heart? We go to church, read the Bible and listen to podcasts. Doing this over a long period, have the way we live our lives changed significantly? If no, why? How might that be due to a hardened heart?

2) God does the supernatural in natural ways. Share something that God did for you that looks very normal and natural, but you know the supernatural behind it. Why was it supernatural? What danger does it pose, if we fail to identify God's supernatural works, in these natural circumstances?

1) Paul called Ananias a whitewashed wall. What does that mean? Were there times when we ourselves were like whitewashed walls? What are some things we tend to hide and why are we ashamed of revealing them?

2) Identify instances in your life where you (or others you know of) may have spoken ill of your rulers. Why was it easy for you to do so in those times? What did your speech about your rulers lead to?

3) Share moments where God has greatly encouraged you. Why were you feeling down in those times? In what form did you receive this encouragement? With your experience, how would you advise a person who is dejected, yet expressed that God is nowhere to be seen?

1) Being a citizen has to do with a sense of belonging. Do you feel a sense of belonging as a citizen of our church? If yes or no, why? What is it about our church, or about the nature of us as church citizens, that would make our church citizenship attractive to those out there?

2) As God's children, we have access to the Father. What does it mean for you to have this easy access to our Heavenly Father? For some of us, we may feel that God is far away, hence not very accessible, or may not feel His presence. What may be the reasons, though it is said that God is with us always?

3) "It has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven". What are these "mysteries"? What are the ways of the kingdom that the world may not understand? Imagine being in heaven after our time on Earth, and mingling with heaven dwellers as fellow citizens. What kind of citizens would you like to see then? How does God prepare us on Earth in order to be that kind of citizen you envision? 

1) The disciples urged Paul "through the Spirit" not to set foot in Jerusalem. How did they interpret these warnings differently from Paul? Has there been a time where you had to leave people whom you loved, knowing you might not see them again? If so, how did that make you feel? With Paul having similar feelings, what made him so convicted to go still?

2) Why was another warning necessary, through Agabus, when Paul already knew what awaited him? Do you think what Agabus said serves as a direct warning to Paul, or to prepare those around him? What does this say about God's love for us and those around us?

3) In v14, the disciples resigned themselves to the will of God. At what point do we resign the things that hold us, and fully submit to the will of God? Describe a time when your wishes conflicted with God’s will. How did you handle it?

1) What is professed theology? What is lived theology? What are some gaps between your professed theology and lived theology? Share some examples.

2) The trappings of this life mean nothing to Paul. How do we view life and the things in life? What is our lived theology regarding this? How do we then work towards our professed theology when it comes to the trappings of life?

3) What does it mean to finish the race, and live well to the last day? Is it about toiling for successes the way we define it? Imagine if you were on your last legs of your life, how would you want to live, in a way that may be pleasing to God? What is stopping us from living that way now?

1) God displays His supernatural works in natural ways. Must miracles always look spectacular? What miracles might you have experienced or heard of that occurs in a natural, non-spectacular way, though the whole design of it may be spectacular?  

2) Why is it dangerous not to recognise the work of God because it seems so natural?

3) Natural or not, spectacular or not, there are long periods of time we just don't experience any miracles (or not at all). Why is that? 

1) What were some things that you desired so much, but God held it back for some time before giving it to you, or things you desire now that God has not given yet?

2) Why does God hold back the things you desire, even when you feel those desires align with His will? 

3) What might God be teaching you, or what might He be preparing you for, if He is holding back what you desire so badly?

1) Do not trifle with demons. The influence of evil spirits is more real than some of us would admit. Why is it important to recognise that evil forces are very real and that they influence us not only in a big sensational way, but also in the mundane matters of our lives? In what situations in our lives do we downplay/underestimate the possible influence of the devil and evil spirits, when they may be whispering in our ears? 

2) Jesus has authority over demons. This is why people use the name of Jesus to cast out demons. However, would it work if one merely quotes the name of Jesus? Why? What must we have in us then, if we want to deliver other people and set them free?

3) What are some small sins that we do that could give the devil a foothold? How do we fight against the forces of evil and live freely? 

1) Religious institutions welcome good teaching of the gospel until God does a work that disrupts our mental expectations of what the gospel is all about.

Were there times when God disrupted a mental expectation that you had of the gospel (or examples you know of elsewhere)? What were those expectations? What was the reaction then? What are some mental models we may have now in our church that God may disrupt?

2) When the Spirit comes, deep spiritual hunger follows.

Did you ever have a hunger for the Word and for God that makes you want to hear more, read more, reflect more and spend time with God more? If no, or you once had that but not anymore, why is that? How can we pray to ask for the Spirit to come and fill us with that hunger (you may refer to yesterday's podcast)?

3) God tailor-makes miracles.

Share the miracles you heard and know of, and also times when there was immense calling for a miracle but it did not happen. Attempt to explain why those miracles happened, and others did not? What does that say about God's ways? How can we prepare such that we can identify God's ways as reveals them based on our needs, desires and conditions of our heart?

God is longing to pour His Spirit into us, if we really want Him. If you are longing for His Spirit too, you may find a space to go to God in prayer, or ask someone to pray for you.

To receive, 

- believe in the promise of Jesus that you will receive the Spirit,

- desire the Holy Spirit (because you want cleansing, healing, and teaching to change the way you live), and

- pray and ask for the Holy Spirit.

1) We know that God uses the most unexpected people, in the most unexpected of ways. We may misunderstand that 'unexpected people' refer only to those who are handicapped in some way. What kind of work or life do you expect brilliant people to have? How can God then, use brilliant people in ways you may not expect?

2) If you have a part to play in building up brilliant young people (parent, teacher or mentor), how can you raise them with Godly perspectives? What are some things we can impart to give them a sense of God's gift to them, and how they could use these gifts for God?

1) Why did Paul preach to the gentiles that some Jewish customs were not necessary, creating the problem he had with the Jews (refer to 9 June podcast for more details)? Paul then shaved his head due a vow, and paid the expenses of purification rites he himself was involved in. Does that mean he was a hypocrite and did it just to pacify the Jews? What lessons could his actions be teaching the Jews, in terms of balancing honouring your original customs and making it easier for others to know Christ?

2) What situations can you think of that causes offence to others, or cause neglect in some areas of your life in the name of Christianity? List these situations in your roles in school, at work, and at home. Are those offences or neglect necessary to make a stand for our God? What kind of impression would non-believers have of our God when they see these things?

3) One must be prepared to pay the price for their obedience to God. How do we do this in the situations listed in Q2? If we make others pay for our obedience to God, rather than sacrifice our own resources, how pleasing would that be to God?

1) What were some constraints placed on you, or decisions made by a higher authority that displeased you? In those situations, did God lead you to new paths and how did He do so? What may God be teaching you through some of these situations?

2) Are there similar situations in other areas of your life (other than work) where you feel shackled? How could you submit to God in those areas and trust in His sovereignty? 

1) There are factions in the church of Corinth and several types of differences were mentioned (e.g. leadership, spiritual experiences, intellect). In our church today, what are some differences you can identify? How are these differences a good thing? How are they bad? 

2) There were many issues of uncharted waters in the church of Corinth, which they had to sort out. What are some contemporary issues today that may pose as uncharted waters for our church today? Discuss the controversies of some of these issues. Identify one issue. For that issue, what important principles can we take guidance from the Bible?

3) What happened in the church of Corinth when different people received the gifts of the Spirit? What is the difference between receiving the gifts of the Spirit and being filled with the Spirit? How does knowing this difference guide us in avoiding what happened in the church of Corinth?

The podcast raises an age-old question: Why did God create a world, and one that would go wrong eventually at that? This question is enough to stump us, so today, rather than mull over more questions, let's read this insightful take on God's creation instead:

https://ymi.today/2016/11/why-did-god-create-a-world/

1) What is your current approach to outreach, if you were to share your faith? We often think of how we should share our faith in the most effective way. However, have we thought of finding out more about the faith of others and their life convictions? They do not care how much we know, until they know how much we care. Why might it be important if we spend some time trying to understand the beliefs of others and their struggles before we share with them our own beliefs?

2) Have you ever done a prayer walk? Describe how those prayer walks were like. Now, if you were to do one in our church neighbourhood, what would your purpose of that prayer walk be? What are some things you would look out for?

1) Your attention may be on the hot topics mentioned in the podcast, but let's not forget that the topics are examples to teach how we go about searching the scriptures. Spend some time to play back the podcast and list down the steps of how you can search the scriptures regarding a controversial topic.

2) Now let's turn our attention to one of the hot topics: LGBTQ. Rather than get into a debate on whether homosexuality is sin, let's focus on compassion and love towards people in general. Having knowledge that a person is homosexual, would you shy away from that person? Why? Do you have sinful natures that are deserving of people shying away from you? What is the difference then, especially in God's eyes? 

3) It is very easy to target what we think is a sin when we know we will never commit it and when we are the majority. Is there a reason why there has to be such a large focus on LGBTQ when there are many more of our other sins being more prevalent, causing more broken relationships due to them, but not getting as much focus?  

1) When were the times you felt jealous of another? Where did that jealousy lead you to? Were you a victim of jealousy? What happened? How can we prevent jealousy from festering and growing?

2) Was there a time you wanted to stand up for righteousness' sake, but was against the majority, or against a higher authority? What was it you wanted to stand firm for? Did you make the stand eventually? If no, explain what were your fears then. If yes, describe what would be at stake or who would have suffered if you had not made that stand.

1) What are some examples of how deceptive the devil can be? Many times we underestimate, or dismiss the influence of Satan in our lives. What might be some ways that the devil can be at work in our lives?

2) Do you feel guilty or embarrassed when you don't do your quiet time often or when you don't give? How much of these feelings are due to pressure from others? What is the difference between well-meaning peers who advise you to do certain Christian practices, and those who are legalistic in telling you to do the same things? Have there been times where we have been legalistic towards others?

3) Imagine you are a boss. Do you like it if your subordinates spend time with you after work because of some obligation and company culture expected of them, or they give you things, because you have the means to affect their career paths? What kind of genuineness would you have liked? What attitude and under what motivation do you think our God would love from us, when we spend time with Him, and give to Him?

1) Paul and Silas were able to pray and sing hymns though they were in shackles. Why? How can we have the same fearlessness and heart of worship for God when we feel imprisoned by our circumstances? 

2) What are some events in your life where you could choose between showing compassion/mercy, or self preservation/benefits? Describe those situations. We know very clearly what we are taught to choose, but to do it may be difficult. What are some challenges that prevent you from making the 'right' choice'?

3) What does it mean to have grit? What did Paul and Silas do that showed they had grit? Describe a situation that made you want to escape, but you managed to persevere and stay. What is the result of your perseverance?

1) We see how amazing it is, the way God engineers things and moves people. However, when God calls us to be part of that, we need to do the necessary, even if we do not understand it. When were the times you felt or know God is prompting you to do something, and you heeded His call, though you did not understand it then? Share those times. How has following God's call worked out for you?

2) What about the times you may not have followed God's call? What happened then? Do you think God's plan failed due to that? If God's plan still worked (surely He will find another way), why does it matter whether we answer His call or not?

3) Recall a random act of kindness you benefitted from, and felt great warmth. What happened then? Through your daily routines, what are the groups of people God has placed in your path that could benefit from similar acts of kindness? You do not need to plan specifically what to do to who, and let it come naturally, but having more awareness and attention to these people may help. What kind of simple acts might these people in your path appreciate (may be a greeting, holding the lift door, giving way, etc)?

1) God is the master planner. Think of the times when you were headed towards directions totally off from your plans, only to reveal God's greater plan for you. Share some of these experiences. How does this assure us, during times when we may have many fear overs the plans we make?

2) How do you know whether some of your actions and decisions are due to the Holy Spirit's promptings? Which of these actions are not really in your nature to do? Share these instances.

3) How do you differentiate between a vision from God and say, for e.g., something else you see in a dream, or a scene that flashed in your head when you are showering? What can one do to verify the interpretations of such visions? Vision or not, how is God speaking to you? What is the Holy Spirit telling you regarding certain directions in your life or regarding the church? How can you pray for God to reveal this?

1) In a previous podcast, we heard of how James minimised Christian practices to only the necessary four. Today, we hear how Paul circumcised Timothy though he preached that it was not necessary. What similar goal did James and Paul have, in doing what they did? Paul explains how he became like those he tried to reach out to. How does that guide how we make Christ known to people?

2) We are bounded by many rules we set for ourselves and rightfully so. What are some rules tied to our faith that you feel some flexibility/discretion could be exercised? How do we exercise this discretion in a way that is faithful to our God? In making certain decisions, what do you think Jesus is most concerned about in those decisions?

1) Each of us is a work in progress. How have you changed over the years? What perspectives do you have now that are different from the past? Share one situation where you firmly held a view different from another but you could readily accept the other view now?

2) Disagreements are a common part of life. Are disagreements necessarily bad? In what scenarios can disagreements lead to something good or result in positive lessons? God knows that with our differences, disagreements are bound to happen. Since it may be inevitable, it need not have to be distasteful. How do we handle disagreements such that it does not become distasteful?

3) There must be a sense of respect for each other despite disagreements. Who are the people you have affection and deep respect for despite having major disagreements in the past? Why was that possible?

1) What are some obstacles that make it difficult for outsiders to turn to God? Which of these are related to church practices and how can they be minimised for these outsiders?

2) Think of our church service order, segments and behavioural norms expected. If you bring friends to our church, which segments/behavioural norms would you choose to be sensitive in making them not feel obligated to follow and how would you explain those segments? If a friend behaves very differently which may invite stares, how would you react? Think of and discuss different scenarios.

3) Necessity drives changes. What were some creative ideas that arose due to you being pushed to overcome certain changes or obstacles? Many of us view our current Covid situation as something bad in that we can't gather and that we may lose people. What are some ideas for reaching out to people during this situation, that we would not think of doing during our 'better' times? More importantly, what sort of heart must we have and for who, to be motivated to come out with new ways?

1) How would you handle a situation where false rumours about you has spread such that it is hard to contain? Would it be helpful to get defensive? Bearing in mind the injustice and how painful that experience can be, what could we do if we hear rumours being spread about other people?

2) Why is fame and fortune such an obstacle to ministry? How many promising people do you know of started out passionate to their craft, but whose potential was derailed when fame and power got to them (you can include famous people)? Share those examples. How can we guard our hearts from that, keep grounded and stay true to our mission?

3) Verse 22 says "we must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God". What are your expectations of ministry when you serve? Were there times you wanted to throw in the towel because it did not match your expectations? What are some examples of hardship we could face if we follow and serve God? Seeing how likely these tribulations are according to the Bible, what sort of perspective would help us entering into God's ministry?

1) We all studied history when we were younger. Most of us learnt about the history of Singapore and parts of Asia and Europe. Now look at Israel and imagine you were studying her history, not through the Bible and not as Christians knowing what God intended for the nation, but via textbooks and exams. What would your thoughts have been regarding the stability of Israel? How messed up would you have thought of Israel? Now, contrast that with the knowledge of God's hand in Israel's history. How different would those thoughts be? How would you describe God's ways after contrasting the different points of views?

2) We grew up to the stories of Israel's triumphs, as underdogs who overcame great odds by God's hand. We may then, as Christians, be inclined to support the Israelites in the Israel-Palestine fight and be clouded from the ugly realities. So let's acknowledge the ugly realities. What are the ugly realities that Israel has done? Now ask the same for Palestine. Is it so simple as one side being right and the other wrong? Who are the actual underdogs here? If you are struggling with needing to choose a side or take a stand, ask too, what about the Palestinian Christians?

3) While making sense of what God's purpose is for the Israel-Palestine fight, we also look to Jesus and think of how he would have handled this if he was there. What would Jesus have done? Recall Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, and how the people were hoping for him to lead them in a revolt against Rome. What did Jesus do instead? What did Jesus want to conquer?

4) How can we pray for the situation in the Israel-Palestine conflict?

1) How do you feel every time you hear a person say "This is what God is telling me"? Were you involved in situations where a decision or actions may be influenced by whether it is true what the person says? Describe those situations. How can we be discerning to such claims?

2) We live a life of duality at times and may not realise it. Think of the different images we portray in different situations (home, sch/work, church, in front of specific people). How different are these images portrayed from your actual self? Sometimes, it may be necessary that we wear many hats to do our jobs properly, but this is not about that. Why is it an issue if our behaviours are not consistent in different situations?

3) Sometimes, we fool ourselves. We portray an image for so long that we are confused about the actual condition of our hearts. We may even like a persona that we display, without realising that it may not be good. If we are confused and lost, how can we pray to God to be aware of the condition of our hearts? If there is a need to change that condition, how we go about it?

1) What are the things you prayed for and expected of God, but God did not deliver? In hindsight, why do you think God did not give what you expected of Him? On the other hand, what are the things God has given you, that was beyond your expectation or imagination? What does this tell us about God's purpose in our lives vs the purpose we hope for ourselves?

2) Death of loved ones is something we all struggle with. What are the things you pray for, when you have a loved one on the deathbed? We hear of miracle healings, but many times in reality, our loved ones are taken away too. If God does not answer your prayer of healing, what does that mean or say of our God? What do you say to friends whose prayers of healing were unanswered, and there may be bitterness towards God?

3) Imagine you're in the dark, feeling scared because you don't know what's in front of you. Would you rather have a spotlight (where it shines brightly into the distance the path ahead), or a dim torch light (where it shines only what is right in front of you and you have to take the step into the light before knowing the next step)? How does God operate in our lives (spotlight or torch light)? Why? What is God teaching us in this, in how we should face life ahead?

1) How do we usually handle conflicts? How do we react when someone challenges our opinion or disagrees with us? List the different reactions to conflicts (e.g. avoiding conflict, being defensive, arguing a point, standing firm, relenting easily, etc). Discuss how helpful or not helpful each of these reactions are. How does knowing God's sovereignty help us in managing conflicts?

2) How do you view the gift of tongues? What do people with the gift of tongues use it for? How do those speaking in tongues feel? How do they experience the outpouring of the Holy Spirit when they speak in tongues? We encourage you to find a person you know can speak in tongues to converse more about these questions.

3) Why are people like Barnabas key to any movement the church or the leadership tries to make? Often, people may be resistive to changes, different ways of doing things, or new ideas that they feel uncertain about. Hence, leaders face challenges in getting a movement started. How are the 'Barnabases' more important than the leaders during these times? What is the difference between a 'Barnabas' and someone who is not resistive to a movement (may even think that the movement is a good direction but is passive)?

Today is a little different. Rather than reflect on some questions, you may try doing one of the thought exercises below. We encourage you to try all of them if you can make time for it.

- Think of the non-Christians in your life, whom you feel are upright, full of loving kindness, and dare we say it, better than most Christians you may know. Think of the ones who did not receive Jesus Christ as their saviour, but have shown that they are more Christ-like than many Christians. You can make a list of these names. Now, reflect on what God would think of these people vs how God thinks of us Christians. Controversial as it may be, just indulge for awhile and entertain the thought of whether God will truly banish these people to hell, and whether our salvation is truly assured just because we are Christians. Reflect on how God judges. What does God value highly and how does that impact his judgement of us and the ones we think do not deserve salvation?

- Think of the minority groups you don't see in our church. It could be foreign workers, ex-convicts, people with certain diseases (non-contagious), LGBTQ, gangsters, other stigma-related groups. Reflect on your own comfort level in seeing some of these people. reflect on whether you would like to see such groups in our church and how you would react if they appear in our church. Reflect on what makes us "better" than them and whether we are any less sinful. Reflect on whether they are less deserving of God's love. Now, think of why we don't see any of them at all and what a church should be like, if not for these people.

- Let's make time to pray. Before that, let's make time to structure it into our schedules to commit to pray, reading the Bible to know God more, spend time with God and listen to God. Think of how many times you have read such a call to commit to pray and how many of those times, it did not materialise to anything. It may not be any different this time, not because you don't see the importance of prayer. You probably want to spend more time to pray and you won't argue about the necessity of it, but it may be a reality that somehow it is also not happening for you. If you are still reading up to this point, your desire to spend more time with God is not to be underestimated. Those who do not make it to this line either may not see the need for it or are already committed to a scheduled prayer life. Since you're still reading, we hope it may be the Holy Spirit prompting you. Don't take it lightly then and consider scheduling prayer time now. Say a quick prayer now for God to help you to converse with him more. Then allocate a time each week, or each day now, that you can commit to prayer and listening to God. Commit to protect it and do it regardless of any possible things that may distract or tempt you from it. Don't shortchange it and don't cut corners doing it.

1) Have you felt like Saul, where you were very self-assured, but faced something in life where you needed God's assurance? Share your experience. What was your transformation since then? Saul was transformed, and God made him do things he would have hated before his conversion. Why did God transform you? 

2) The Lord said of Saul, "I will show him how much he must suffer for my name." Which other bible characters, or people whom you know, suffered for God? What are some commonalities between them? What do we discover when we suffer for righteousness' sake and for God?

3) The Holy Spirit is our teacher. What should we do, in order for the Holy Spirit to speak to us, and bring to our memory things God had taught us? How can you make time to do those things?

4) Ananias was intimate with God. Many of us desire the same intimacy and yearns to hear more from God. Why are we not able to hear God sometimes or most of the time? What are some examples of being able to hear God? How can we listen better to God?

1) Are there things festering inside of us that may be unhealthy? What might these things be? Why is it dangerous to let it be, though it may not have led to any undesirable actions yet? How do we put a stop to the festering of these things?

2) Simon saw what the apostles did, and offered money to ask for that power. What do you think Simon's motivations were for wanting that power? Have we desired power with similar motivations, in the name of doing good? Why is it even harder to get these gifts from God if we adopt such attitudes or attempt to get the gifts by making it transactional (e.g. trying to strike a deal with God)?

3) Many times we may desire gifts from God, especially when we see the power of the Holy Spirit in others. How does God want these gifts to be used? Bearing that in mind, what kind of people will He then bless these gifts with? From the scripture, what kind of places and in what sort of circumstances do we see the power of the Holy Spirit most at play? Today, in our current circumstances, how can the Holy Spirit manifest in us?

Faith in something intangible/without knowing the result

1) Abraham din't get to see the things that God promised, yet he obeyed everything asked of him. Have you experienced a similar faith, where you invested your resources into something where the result may not be seen or felt? What gave you confidence in that investment? What does having such a faith in our God look like, in terms of our prayer, decisions and actions?

Faith despite uncertainties

2) Joseph faced a "see-saw" life. Have you tried putting faith in something/someone (or know of others), but had doubts and challenges believing in it due to many ups and downs (perhaps a business, a project idea, a programme, an investment, a person, etc)? What happened eventually? Was the faith (or lack of it) justified in the situation? How different or similar is that situation, compared to the situation that Joseph faced? What was the difference maker or similar factor that justified Joseph's faith?

Faith even if it leads to something "bad"

3) Moses led a faithful life (mostly), which involved his life's work leading to things that did not turn out well. Had you had faith going ahead with something, and being at peace, regardless of what the result would be like? Why were you able to be at peace and be faithful knowing full well a bad result might come?

1) Try this exercise: Make a list of things you want to achieve in your life that you think are important. In this list, what are the non-negotiables? Highlight them. What are the next tier of priorities after the non-negotiables? Highlight them in a different colour. Now ask, are these non-negotiables and priorities of yours aligned with God's priorities for you? If no, what could you replace or let go (if there's no time for everything)? If yes, how can you structure and apportion time for the list? How can your lifestyle be adjusted to allow for these priorities?

2) What is the worst accusation you or the greatest injustice you ever suffered? How did you feel and how did you react? What did you feel like doing to the ones who have caused you injustice? Gleaning lessons from how Stephen coped with the ridiculousness of his accusations, how could we have reacted differently? Why was Stephen able to remain serene despite it all? How can we pray to receive this serenity from the Holy Spirit whenever we get riled up?

1) What does it mean to be an "integrated person"? Think of these 4 places: The church/small group, your workplace/school, the public and at home. How are your behaviours different (in your actions and speech to different people) in these 4 places? Why are they different and how can we become more integrated as a person?

2) When we think of someone lacking in integrity, we easily turn to examples like cheating in exams, lying, not owning up to faults at work, etc. However, are there deeds we have contrived in our hearts, that may lack integrity? What are some common deeds we may do that we may not consciously associate with lack of integrity, though it actually is (e.g. piracy, portraying an image we are truly not, etc)?

3) Reflect on the times in our prime, and on the accolades and glories of our lives. Now reflect on a younger, innocent version of ourselves before these accolades. How are our perspectives of our own importance different in these two versions? When were the times we felt important and wield power in a proud way? How did we come to feel this way? Are the accolades due to our own effort and are the glories ours to claim? What actions would reflect someone who wields power with humility?

1) Was there a time when you felt like Peter before the crucifixion, where you could not stand up for the truth due to fear? What were the intimidating factors or barriers that prevented you from doing so? The Holy Spirit caused a change in Peter after the crucifixion, and he spoke the truth with boldness. How can we pray to get a change like Peter, so that we may stand up for truths with boldness?

2) What were the instances or stories you know of during the circuit breaker last year, where the power of the Holy Spirit could be seen manifesting in people, in how they look at others like family and share their possessions? Giving should not be out of compulsion, but out of compassion. What are some signs of not give cheerfully, from the heart? How can we view others compassionately, like in the examples of how covid-19 brings out the best in some people, and give from our hearts?

1) There is no human being on earth that has nothing to offer another person. When was the last time you met someone in need who you sympathise with, but felt helpless? We often think only money could help. Let's spend some time to think beyond our usual mental models and list some things we could offer to the needy (to accompany, to comfort, or to encourage), beyond money and healing power.

2) It is not by our power or piety that good works happen. We are merely channels of God's power. Why is it important to have this attitude when we do works? How does this affect our motivation of doing things? How does it affect the way we get contentment (vs seeking acknowledgement) and give thanks?

3) Jesus is the author of life. What are the different ways Jesus could heal? What is the ultimate healing that Jesus is going for? Bearing that in mind, how can we be used for God to help in a person's refreshment of the heart and soul?

Prayer for the day: God, use whatever I have and use me in any way you can, that I may be a blessing to someone else.

1) The outpouring of the Holy Spirit came as a mighty wind. This signified God breathing life into us, which brings thanksgiving and joy. What are some circumstances in our lives today, which often leads us to complain or wish for them to disappear? List them down. Do you see blessings within those circumstances? What are they? How can we find joy in our situations, like how the disciples did though they were facing many trials and tribulations?

2) People often view tongues as prayer language. However, let's view tongues as a language of ministry. Though many of us do not have the gift of speaking of tongues in the way we usually understand, but God does guide us in our speech when we ask for it. Were there people whom you desired to reach out to, but bailed out because you thought what you say would not work? Were there times you did try but did not work? How often did you involve God in those times, in terms of preparation? If there is an time when you relied upon the Holy Spirit and it worked, share the experience.

*If there are still people you desire to reach out to (perhaps a family member or friend), encourage you to pray to God to guide your tongue. Then take that first step to speak to the person instead of thinking it may not work, and let the Holy Spirit guide you to provide the words that may prompt something in the heart of the person.

3) In verse 40, Peter pleads, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." What are some corrupt or distorted values of the world we may hold onto? What are some examples of our lifestyles that show that we prioritise something that the world values, but our God does not place value in. How do we pray to receive the Holy Spirit that God has promised, in this area, so that it helps transform the way we live our lives, away from corruption?

1) God is in us now, in the form of the Holy Spirit. What are some experiences you had that show evidence of God living in you? Were there promptings that led you to behave in a way you wouldn't have if there was no Holy Spirit? Share them.

2) Evil is prevalent in the world, but God's love for the world is so deep, that Jesus did not want to wipe out the evil in the world and restore the kingdom yet, but use time to reach out to every individual, giving the opportunity for each one to receive salvation. Do we display the same grace to those whom we judge quickly, as God has given this grace? Have we wished for the evil in front of us to disappear, and miss the chance to extend God's love to whoever we deem is evil, through us? Picture those we may dislike or think is evil. How can we display God's love to them, to give them an opportunity for them to know Christ, something we were more lucky to have?

3) God's work is out there for us to do and it will be difficult. Resistance is expected. However, we were promised the power of the Holy Spirit, to do mighty works. Was there a time when God's power has enabled you to do something for God that you din't think was possible? What happened? If there was no such time, perhaps, can you identify someone, or someplace, or an area of ministry where you could start small in reaching out, and see where the Holy Spirit leads you?