Summer Bible Study Series: The Book of Acts
Theme: Empowered for Purpose – The Church on Mission
Duration: 12 Weeks | Wednesdays, June 11 – August 27, 2025
WEEK 1 – June 11, 2025
Title: The Promise of the Holy Spirit
Text: Acts 1:1–14
Context & Background:
Luke, the author of Acts, continues from his Gospel account, addressing Theophilus. Jesus, post-resurrection, instructs the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit. The ascension sets the stage for a new era—the Spirit-led Church. Historically, this was a period of Roman occupation, and Jewish messianic expectations were political, but Jesus redirected their focus to spiritual power and global mission.
Discussion Questions:
- How does knowing Acts is a continuation of Luke’s Gospel affect your understanding of its purpose?
- Why is it significant that Jesus tells the disciples to “wait” for the Spirit? What does waiting look like in your life?
- In what ways do we, like the disciples, sometimes misplace our expectations for how God should move?
- What does Jesus' command to be witnesses "to the ends of the earth" mean for your personal mission today?
- How does the ascension shape your view of Jesus’ authority and ongoing presence?
- What does unity in prayer among the early believers teach us about spiritual preparation?
- Are there areas in your life where you’re rushing ahead instead of waiting on God’s empowerment?
Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help us to wait on Your timing and not our own. Prepare our hearts for the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. May we live as faithful witnesses, starting right where we are. Amen.
WEEK 2 – June 18, 2025
Title: The Holy Spirit Comes
Text: Acts 2:1–41
Context & Background:
Pentecost, a Jewish harvest festival, drew Jews from across the Roman world. On this day, God poured out His Spirit in fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy. The languages spoken showed the global intent of the Gospel. Peter’s sermon marked a dramatic change in the once-fearful disciple, now empowered to preach boldly.
Discussion Questions:
- What does the timing of the Spirit’s arrival during Pentecost signify about God’s plan?
- How does the Spirit’s coming demonstrate God’s desire to communicate with all nations?
- Peter went from denying Jesus to boldly preaching. How has the Spirit transformed your life or challenged your fears?
- What barriers (language, culture, fear) exist in your life that hinder you from sharing the Gospel?
- What does repentance and baptism symbolize for you personally?
- Why is the message of salvation urgent in our generation?
- What steps can you take to be more aware of the Spirit’s voice and boldness?
Closing Prayer:
Holy Spirit, fall fresh on us. Ignite our hearts with Your fire and boldness. Help us be messengers of Your truth with compassion and power. Amen.
WEEK 3 – June 25, 2025
Title: Life in the Early Church
Text: Acts 2:42–47
Context & Background:
After Pentecost, the new believers devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, prayer, and communal living. This snapshot of the early church reflects a countercultural community of radical generosity and spiritual unity during a time of social division and Roman oppression.
Discussion Questions:
- What aspects of early church life stand out to you most, and why?
- How can your church or small group reflect the devotion seen in the early believers?
- What does true fellowship look like in a society often marked by individualism?
- In what ways are you called to live more generously with your time, resources, or hospitality?
- What spiritual disciplines (prayer, teaching, breaking bread) do you need to prioritize?
- How can you be intentional about awe and reverence in your daily walk with God?
- What does it mean for God to “add daily” to His Church, and how can you participate in that?
Closing Prayer:
Lord, help us to live like the early believers—with open hearts, open hands, and a deep devotion to You. Teach us to build community and unity through Your Spirit. Amen.
WEEK 4 – July 2, 2025
Title: Healing and Bold Witness
Text: Acts 3:1–26
Context & Background:
Peter and John heal a lame man at the temple gate, demonstrating the power of Jesus’ name. The miracle draws a crowd, and Peter seizes the opportunity to point people to Christ. This was a radical moment—miraculous healing paired with bold preaching amid Jewish religious skepticism.
Discussion Questions:
- What does this miracle teach us about God’s compassion and power?
- How do you balance acts of compassion with Gospel proclamation?
- How can you be more attentive to the needs of those around you?
- What are “silver and gold” distractions that keep you from noticing divine opportunities?
- How would your life change if you truly believed Jesus' name still holds healing power?
- Why do we sometimes hesitate to give God credit for the miracles in our lives?
- What area of your life needs healing—not just physically, but spiritually or emotionally?
Closing Prayer:
Jesus, may we walk in boldness and faith. Let Your healing power flow through us, and help us to always point others to You in word and deed. Amen.
WEEK 5 – July 9, 2025
Title: Obedience Over Opposition
Text: Acts 4:1–31
Context & Background:
Peter and John are arrested for preaching about Jesus. Despite threats, they respond with boldness, asking for more courage—not safety. The early church prays for power, not protection, revealing a deep trust in God’s sovereignty.
Discussion Questions:
- How do you typically respond to opposition or rejection when sharing your faith?
- What does it look like to ask for boldness in the face of fear?
- How can prayer be your first response in difficult situations?
- What would change if your prayers focused more on God's mission than your comfort?
- How does the courage of the apostles challenge your faith?
- Are there any “threats” today (cultural, relational, internal) that silence your witness?
- What is one area where God is asking you to speak or act with boldness?
Closing Prayer:
Father, when we face fear or resistance, remind us to turn to You. Give us courage to speak Your truth in love, no matter the cost. Amen.
WEEK 6 – July 16, 2025
Title: Integrity and Reverence in the Church
Text: Acts 5:1–16
Context & Background:
Ananias and Sapphira lie about a donation to the church and face divine judgment. In the early church, honesty and integrity were paramount. God’s swift response was not only about money but about purity in the Spirit-led community. This passage follows the communal generosity from Acts 4, contrasting the deception with genuine faithfulness.
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think God judged Ananias and Sapphira so harshly?
- What does this story reveal about God’s desire for holiness in His Church?
- Are there areas in your life where you're tempted to appear more spiritual than you are?
- How does fear of the Lord help or hinder your relationship with Him?
- What role does integrity play in spiritual leadership?
- How can you cultivate honesty and accountability in your walk with God?
- How might reverence for God be lacking in modern churches, and how can that change?
Closing Prayer:
Lord, create in us clean hearts. May we live with integrity and honesty before You and others. Teach us to revere Your holiness with humility and truth. Amen.
WEEK 7 – July 23, 2025
Title: Faithfulness Under Fire
Text: Acts 6:1–15
Context & Background:
As the Church grows, the apostles delegate responsibility. Seven men, including Stephen, are chosen to serve. Stephen’s life and words challenge the religious elite. His boldness and wisdom stir opposition. Historically, this reflects the beginning of structured leadership in the early Church amid rising hostility.
Discussion Questions:
- Why is spiritual maturity essential in leadership, even in practical service?
- How can you use your gifts to serve within your church body?
- What does Stephen’s example teach us about combining service and truth?
- How do you respond when facing unfair criticism or misrepresentation?
- How can you develop a character that reflects “grace and power” like Stephen?
- Who are the marginalized or neglected in your church or community today?
- What’s one area in your life where you need courage to speak truth with grace?
Closing Prayer:
Jesus, make us faithful in service and fearless in witness. Strengthen us to stand firm in truth and show grace, even under pressure. Amen.
WEEK 8 – July 30, 2025
Title: The First Martyr: Standing for Truth
Text: Acts 7:1–60
Context & Background:
Stephen delivers a powerful summary of Israel’s history, connecting it to the rejection of Jesus. His bold witness enrages the Sanhedrin, leading to his death. This is the first Christian martyrdom. Stephen's vision of Christ standing reflects heavenly affirmation, even in suffering.
Discussion Questions:
- How does Stephen’s speech reflect both his knowledge of Scripture and his heart for truth?
- What does his martyrdom teach us about the cost of discipleship?
- Have you ever faced hostility because of your faith? How did you respond?
- How does Stephen’s prayer for his killers mirror Jesus’ words on the cross?
- What injustices today might require Christians to take a stand, even at great personal risk?
- Where is God calling you to speak up, even if it's uncomfortable?
- What does it mean to “see Jesus standing” with you in hard times?
Closing Prayer:
Lord, help us count the cost and remain faithful. Give us the strength to stand for You with truth and love, even when it’s hard. Amen.
WEEK 9 – August 6, 2025
Title: The Gospel Spreads in Suffering
Text: Acts 8:1–25
Context & Background:
Persecution causes believers to scatter, but rather than silence them, it spreads the Gospel. Philip preaches in Samaria—a significant cultural boundary. The Spirit works through signs and wonders, drawing many to Christ. Even a sorcerer named Simon is confronted with the truth.
Discussion Questions:
- How has God used hardship in your life to open new doors?
- What can we learn from Philip’s obedience in going where others might avoid?
- Why is the inclusion of Samaritans significant in God’s plan?
- What does Simon’s story teach us about false motives in following Jesus?
- In what ways have you seen God’s power break through dark or difficult places?
- How can you be more intentional about sharing your faith in everyday life?
- Is there a “Samaritan” in your life—someone you avoid—who needs to hear the Gospel?
Closing Prayer:
Father, use every season—especially the hard ones—to spread Your truth through us. Break every wall in our hearts that keeps us from loving and reaching others. Amen.
WEEK 10 – August 13, 2025
Title: An Unexpected Conversion
Text: Acts 9:1–31
Context & Background:
Saul, a fierce persecutor of Christians, encounters Jesus on the road to Damascus and is transformed. Ananias obeys a difficult call to pray for him. Saul’s story reminds us that no one is beyond God’s reach and that the greatest enemies can become His greatest instruments.
Discussion Questions:
- How does Saul’s transformation challenge your assumptions about who can be saved?
- What does Jesus’ question, “Why are you persecuting me?” teach us about His unity with the Church?
- Who is your “Saul”—someone you’ve struggled to believe can change?
- What fears or biases might God be calling you to confront?
- How can you be like Ananias—willing to extend grace and obedience, even when afraid?
- How has your past been transformed by Christ for His glory?
- What are signs of true transformation in your spiritual life?
Closing Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for Your grace that transforms the worst into witnesses. Use our lives for Your glory and help us to see others with Your eyes. Amen.
WEEK 11 – August 20, 2025
Title: The Gospel to the Gentiles
Text: Acts 10:1–48
Context & Background:
Cornelius, a Roman centurion, receives a vision, and Peter receives his own challenging vision about clean and unclean. Their encounter breaks down deep Jewish-Gentile barriers, showing the Gospel is for all. The Spirit falls on Gentiles, echoing Pentecost.
Discussion Questions:
- What does this story teach us about God’s heart for people outside our comfort zone?
- What biases or traditions in your life might be hindering God’s work?
- How does Peter’s vision challenge your understanding of who belongs in the Kingdom?
- Are there voices or groups you ignore because they seem “different”?
- What does it look like to be truly inclusive without compromising truth?
- How can you prepare yourself to be used by God in unexpected places or relationships?
- How would your church look if it truly embraced this Acts 10 model?
Closing Prayer:
God, break our hearts for what breaks Yours. Remove every barrier in us that keeps Your love from flowing freely to others. Amen.
WEEK 12 – August 27, 2025
Title: The Church on Mission
Text: Acts 11:19–30
Context & Background:
Persecution continues pushing believers outward. The Gospel reaches Antioch, and a multiethnic church is formed. Barnabas and Saul teach there. This moment marks the Church’s shift toward a global mission. Antioch becomes a mission hub, and believers are first called “Christians.”
Discussion Questions:
- What does the Antioch church teach us about diversity in the body of Christ?
- How is mission born out of hardship in this passage?
- What does it mean to be a “Christian” in both identity and practice?
- How can your church become more mission-minded, like Antioch?
- What lessons have you learned this summer from the early Church?
- What specific calling or prompting has the Holy Spirit placed on your heart?
- How will you commit to ongoing study, service, or outreach beyond this study?
Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for this journey through Acts. May our hearts remain on fire for Your mission. Use us as lights, leaders, and laborers in Your Kingdom—starting today. Amen.
