Monday – Acts 7:1-29 Stephen’s Speech prt. 1: From Abraham to Slavery
1. Stephen does not directly answer the accusations against him, rather he tells the history of a rebellious people from the perspective of how God is greater than their sacred traditions of the land, Moses, and the temple. How does he start to develop these themes with Abraham?
2. Moving from the Promise Land to Egypt, in what ways does Stephen's recounting of Joseph and Moses’ story contribute to his overall message?
3. What qualities of Stephen do you admire? What will you do to build those same qualities in your life? 

Tuesday – Acts 7:30-53 Stephen’s Speech prt. 2: Rejecting God’s Prophets
1. In the second half of Stephen’s speech, he starts with Israels wilderness wanderings and moves to the present. How does he outline a history of rejection of God’s prophets and the Holy Spirit by the Jews?
2. Stephen concludes with a direct, sharp attack of the religious leaders. What does he accuse them of? How does his speech, up to this point, condemn the leaders?
3. Stephen’s sermon is bold and blunt. When is it appropriate to speak hard words and be more confrontational in presenting the truth? Who in your life might benefit from such tough love?

Wednesday – Acts 7:54-60 The Stoning of Stephen
1. “Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him.” Record what you see on the faces of these respected religious/political leaders as they listen to Stephen.
2. At the first threat of persecution, the believers pray for boldness to face the coming persecution, not relief from it (Act 4:23-31). In what ways do you see this prayer answered in Stephen’s life?
3. There is a depth of union with Christ that comes to us only through suffering (Rom 8:17; 2 Cor 1:5; Php 3:10; 1 Pet 4:13-14). Do you sense this truth in Stephen’s last moments of life? Have you ever experienced Christ sharing in your suffering, or yourself sharing in His? If yes, elaborate.

Thursday – Acts 8:1-4 Saul Persecutes the Church
1. The narrative of the early church in Jerusalem comes to a terrible climax with the introduction of a new person in the storyline. Describe Saul’s part in Stephen’s death and its aftermath.
2. When you read Luke’s description “Saul was ravaging the church” (v. 3), what images go through your mind when you read these words (ref. Act 22:4; 26:9-11; 1 Cor 15:9; Gal 1:13; 1 Tim 1:13)?
3. Saul’s persecution serves the progress of the gospel (cf. Act 1:8). To what degree, if any, does it amaze you that “those who were scattered went about preaching the word” (v. 4; cf. 11:19-21)? What does it take to keep preaching, teaching, and believing a message that is leading to persecution, even death?

Friday – Acts 8:5-8 Christ is Preached in Samaria
1. Luke now turns his focus to Philip (ref. Act 6:5), as he flees Jerusalem. With the historical tensions between Jews and the Samaritans in mind (cf. Mat 10:5-6; Luk 9:52-56; Jhn 4:9; 8:48), what is remarkable about his preaching to them and their response?
2. The signs Philip performs confirm his preaching (cf. Mrk 16:16-20; Heb 2:1-4). Do we need to see miracles today to confirm the validity of the Word? Why or why not?
3. How does Philip’s going to Samaria challenge you to step outside your comfort zones and share the Gospel with people who may be different from you or hostile to you?

Monday – Acts 5:17-26 The Apostles are Miraculously Freed
1. In the previous section, Luke illustrates how the apostle’s ministry is received by the people in Jerusalem and beyond. Why do you think the High Priest and Sadducees are jealous of the apostles?
2. The apostle’s divine deliverance is the first of three occurrences in Acts (cf. 12:6-11; 16:26-30). Looking forward, how does this angelic rescue contribute to the spread of the apostles' message and amplify the religious leaders' jealousy?
3. The angel tells the apostles, “Go… speak to the people all the words of this Life.” What does the phrase “this Life” signify in this context? What message do you envision the apostles delivering to the people?

Tuesday – Acts 5:27-32 The Apostles on Trial Again
1. Arraigned before the hostile Sanhedrin, the High Priest once again interrogates the apostles. What thoughts and emotions might be swirling within them as they face the leaders of Israel?
2. Summarize the key points of the exchange between Peter and the apostles with the High Priest. 
3. In what ways might Christians today face situations where they need to choose between obeying God and obeying human authorities? How can Peter's declaration in v. 29 guide your decision-making in such circumstances?

Wednesday – Acts 5:33-42 Gamaliel’s Advice
1. At the first trial, the Sanhedrin was “astonished” by Peter and John (4:13). Now they are consumed with rage and intent on killing the Twelve. What factors do you think account for this escalation in hostility?
2. Thankfully, wiser counsel prevails. Evaluate Gamaliel's advice. How does his influence in saving the apostles' lives exemplify the very truth he articulated?
3. While the Twelve are saved from death, they endure a beating and verbal threats. What do you make of their joyful response that “they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name”? Would you feel honored to be humiliated and physically harmed due to your faith in Christ? Explain.

Thursday – Acts 6:1-7 Seven Chosen to Serve
1. Despite hostility from the religious authorities, the church continues to grow but not without growing pains. Detail the conflict that emerges between the Hellenist (Greek) and Hebrew (Jewish) believers.
2. How do the Twelve respond to the latest issue facing the church? How does the Twelve's response demonstrate care for the community's needs while still focusing on God's primary calling for them?
3. The seven men chosen to serve share two things in common with deacons: the need for spiritual attributes and the nature of their work (ref. 6:3; 1 Timothy 3:8-13). Why is there such a strong emphasis on spiritual qualifications, even for those serving in seemingly mundane roles within the church?

Friday – Acts 6:8-15 Stephen Accused of Blasphemy
1. Hostilities now move from the apostles to others in the church. Detail the circumstances surrounding Stephen’s arrest. What do these accusations say about why the religious leaders are so upset?
2. As the false witness’s level their charges, the religious leaders notice Stephen’s face is “like the face of an angel.” What message is this intended to convey to those who have arrested him (Exd 34:29-35)?
3. Previously, the church appointed Stephen to manage the daily distribution of food. Look closely at his spiritual qualifications (6:3), how did they equip him to face the false accusation, arrest, and persecution?

Monday – Acts 4:13-22 The Name of Jesus Forbidden
1. After Peter’s speech, the Jewish leaders are left speechless. Identify any underlying motivations or fears that might be driving the Sanhedrin's order to Peter and John to stop speaking about Jesus?
2. Evaluate the apostles’ response in vv. 19-20. How does their reply to the Sanhedrin’s order and threats serve as an example for believers today who face opposition or persecution for their faith?
3. Peter and John resolutely refuse to tone down any part of the gospel message. Identify elements of the gospel that tend to offend people today. How do you navigate the temptation to soften God’s truths?

Tuesday – Acts 4:23-31 The Believers Pray for Boldness
1. From the opening line of the believer’s prayer, we see that their focus is on God’s sovereignty. List the various phrases they use to repeat this theme throughout their prayer.
2. In their prayer, the believers quote from Psalm 2, how does this Psalm provide them with a context for understanding the persecutions and framing their petitions?
3. The early church spends much time in communal prayer. How much emphasis do you put on praying with others in your personal life? In what ways can you imagine more communal prayer positively impacting your daily walk of faith?

Wednesday – Acts 4:32-37 They Had Everything in Common
1. What do you think it would have been like - as a person in need and as a person with possessions - to be a part of such a generous community as described in this passage?
2. One person stands out from the rest, Joseph, a Levite and a native of Cyprus whom the apostle’s nickname Barnabas. This suggests he possesses qualities beyond mere generosity. What other characteristics might have contributed to this moniker (which Luke uses throughout Acts)?
3. To emulate the extraordinary generosity displayed by the early church, what attitudes towards personal possessions and those in need should you cultivate?

Thursday – Acts 5:1-11 Ananias and Sapphira
1. For the first time since the defection of Judas, the community of believers in Jerusalem experience a serious internal problem. Detail Ananias and Sapphira’s transgression and delve into the possible motives behind their actions.
2. According to v. 11, “Great fear came upon the whole church and upon all who heard about these things.” How do you see this episode affecting the church? Outsiders? 
3. Read Matthew 6:1-4. What guidelines does Jesus provide for how to do your good deeds? What promises are made for those who violate Jesus’ words? Conversely, for those who keep them?

Friday – Acts 5:12-16 Many Signs and Wonders Done
1. Having focused on the inner life of the church, Luke now highlights the public ministry of the apostles. What is the tangible evidence of the power of the Holy Spirit in the events Luke records in this passage?
2. Explain the role the many miracles the apostles perform play in spreading the gospel (cf. Act 14:3)? Do you think miracles would be helpful today in spreading the gospel? Why or why not?
3. Luke notes that the early Christians are held in “high esteem” by the general populace. What difference does it make in church’s efforts today to be regarded with such respect? How does a church garner admiration from its community? In what ways can this admiration be lost?

Monday – Acts 2:42-47 The Fellowship of Believers
1. Luke concludes his Pentecost narrative with a portrait of the inner workings of the first Christian church. In your own words, summarize the culture and activities of the early church?
2. Imagine yourself as an early Christian in Jerusalem. Describe a typical day, what activities would fill your time, and what interactions might you have with fellow believers and others in the community?
3. Why do you think a devotion to these activities is critically important to the spiritual health of believers and a congregation? What risks do Christians and congregations face if anyone of these is neglected?

Tuesday – Acts 3:1-10 The Lame Beggar Healed
1. Shifting from a focus on the early church, Luke now presents a day in the life of Peter and John. Place yourself at the Beautiful Gate and describe what happens between Peter, John, and the lame man.
2. The beggar asks for money, but Peter and John address a deeper need. What is the relationship between the lame man’s physical healing and spiritual healing (ref. vv. 11-16; Luke 5:17-26)?
3. The formally lame man’s response to his healing is a picture of pure joy; he went “walking and leaping and praising God” (v. 8). What role does joy play in the life of a Christian? How can we cultivate and maintain that initial joy of salvation throughout our journey of faith?

Wednesday – Acts 3:11-26 Peter Speaks in Solomon’s Portico
1. In the shade of Solomon’s Portico, Peter once again preaches Jesus. What key points about Jesus does Peter emphasize in his impromptu sermon?
2. Peter concludes his sermon by emphasizing the importance of repentance. Identify the blessing that comes to those who repent.
3. Reflecting on Peter's sermon, identify one specific thought that resonated with you. Why does this message hold significance in your life? Write down the name of a friend or family member who doesn't know Jesus and share with them what you've learned.

Thursday – Acts 4:1-4 Peter and John Arrested
1. The apostles heal a lame man and simply preach in the temple. Specifically, what actions or messages from the apostles upset the religious leaders, and how did the leaders respond?
2. As you picture the authorities approaching the two apostles, how do imagine the encounter? Identify the emotions or thoughts going through their minds as they are led away and spend the night in a cell.
3. Despite witnessing Peter and John’s arrest by the religious authorities, the crowd still embraces faith in Jesus. Why does persecution fortify the faith of some but destroy the faith of others (cf. Luk 8:6, 13)?

Friday – Acts 4:5-12 Peter and John Address the Sanhedrin
1. First Jesus was on trial, not it’s the apostles. The authorities demand to know, “By what power or by what name did you [heal the lame man]?” What do you think is the Sanhedrin’s motivation for their question?
2. How does Peter's Holy Spirit-inspired response (cf. Luk 12:11-12; 24:12-15), which boldly proclaims Jesus as the source of the miracle, challenge the authority and beliefs of the Sanhedrin?
3. Peter brings his speech to a dramatic conclusion with his declaration, “There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (v. 12). How does this truth shape your faith and your approach to declaring the gospel to others?

Monday – Acts 1:15-26 Matthias Chosen to Replace Judas
1. As the group of about 120 disciples gather, Peter stands and announces that the apostle Judas must be replaced. Outline his justification for this action, qualifications for, and responsibilities of an apostle.
2. Judas is not replaced because he died, rather because he “turned aside to go to his own place.” Why do you think this is an important distinction to make?
3. The process of choosing Matthias by seeking the scriptures, praying, and casting lots provides great insight into Biblical decision-making when faced with a tough choice. How can you apply this process today in that decision you’re wrestling with?

Tuesday – Acts 2:1-13 The Coming of the Holy Spirit
1. Use five adjectives to describe the events surrounding the coming of the Holy Spirit.
2. Considering the apostles’ Jesus-given mission to spread the gospel to the whole world (1:8), what is significant that the Holy Spirit inspired tongues are not gibberish but understandable languages?
3. The coming of the Holy Spirit amazes and astonishes some people but causes others to mock. Why do the words/works of the Holy Spirit bring life to some and judgment to others?

Wednesday – Acts 2:14-21 Peter’s Sermon at Pentecost Prt. 1
1. Peter begins preaching around 9:00 in the morning in response to the claim that he and the eleven are filled with wine. From where in the Old Testament does Peter begin his message?
2. How does Peter connect the outpouring of the Spirit to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy? 
3. Peter discusses “The Great and Magnificent Day of the Lord,” and we recognize that a day of judgement is coming. Who can you love enough today to warn about the judgement that is coming?

Thursday – Acts 2:22-36 Peter’s Sermon at Pentecost Prt. 2
1. As he continues his message, Peter moves to make a direct application to the audience. How would you describe the tone with which the apostle characterizes the resurrection?
2. For the second time in this sermon, Peter quotes a Psalm of David, this time Psalm 110: the most quoted Old Testament passage in the New Testament. How does Peter use David's prophecy to support the claim of Jesus' resurrection?
3. Peter testifies to Jesus as both Lord and Christ. What distinguishes these titles, and how does understanding Jesus as both Lord and Christ influence your decisions this week?

Friday – Acts 2:37-41 Peter’s Sermon at Pentecost Prt. 3
1. In response to Peter's sermon, the Jews are deeply affected. What emotions and thoughts do you believe Luke is conveying when he says they were "cut to the heart"? Why do you think Peter's
message resonated so powerfully with his audience?
2. The people cry out to the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Write out Peter’s response in v. 38. Drawing from passages such as Rom 6:3-4; Col 2:11-15; 1 Pet 3:21 explain why baptism is the right response of a believing heart.
3. Peter has come a long way since the night he denied knowing Jesus. What experiences do you think would be necessary for you to undergo a similar change and find the courage to proclaim your faith in Jesus with others?