"Pandemic" - Acts 1:12-14, 24-26
- Series: "Pandemic" - The Gospel Unleashed
- by: Chris Mayfield 05/31/09
Devoted to Prayer
The disciples have now received the Great Commission and have seen Jesus ascend into the clouds. Immediately they obey Jesus’ command not to depart Jerusalem and wait for the promise of the Holy Spirit. While waiting they devote themselves to prayer and to replacing Judas’ place among the apostles.
Acts 1:12-14, 24-26
Engage the Text
1. Notice that prayer and waiting are often paired together in the Bible (the disciples are ordered to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit v. 4, while they wait they devote themselves to pray v. 14. See also Mark 14:32-42; Psalm 40:1-3; 62:1-8). Share your thoughts.
2. Why did Judas need to be replaced among the apostles? What qualified Justus and Matthias to be apostles? (Read verses 21-26). What did the Lord know about Justus and Matthias that the apostles didn’t?
3. What does it mean to “cast lots”? Why don’t we cast lots today?
From Thought to Action
1. When do you usually pray? At meals and before bed? Or is it something you practice and use throughout the day? Do you use prayer only when you need something from God or do you use it to strengthen your relationship with and faith in God?
2. How do you discern the Lord’s will for your life? Is it by a modern day casting of lots (if not literally then figuratively)? How should we pursue knowing what the Lord would have us do and where He is leading us?
3. Have you ever experienced a time when there was a stirring in your heart, like God was about to change you or lead you to follow Him/be obedient to His call? That can be unsettling for some people, especially if you don’t like change or discomfort. How did you feel when this happened? How did you respond?
4. Read Psalm 27. How do we grow in trust and hope in the Lord? Should we be actively pursuing our own vindication?
5. Indeed the Lord knows the hearts of all men (v. 24). Is there something you are trying to hide from God? Do you understand how foolish this is? Acknowledge that God knows even the deep dark things of your soul and confess your sins unto Him, seeking forgiveness and cleansing. Hide them no more; bring them into the light of the truth and receive mercy from the Lord.
