Transformation Is Possible

In one paragraph

This message worked through Acts 9:19b-43, following Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem and then Peter in Lydda and Joppa. Pastor Bob traced how the same God who transformed Saul was still at work through Peter, and how the church grew not by programs but by the proclamation of Jesus as Messiah, accompanied by the Holy Spirit. The service closed with the Lord's Supper, which Pastor Bob connected...

Read together

1. Acts 9:19b-43 the main passage preached through, covering Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem, and Peter healing Aeneas and raising Tabitha
2. Acts 5 summary statement about believers united in heart and mind, sharing possessions, introducing Barnabas
3. Luke 7 the centurion whose servant was sick, cited as parallel to the believers earnestly begging Peter to come
4. Ephesians 2:8-10 quoted as benediction, on salvation by grace through faith and being created for good works prepared in advance

Talk about it

1. Barnabas vouched for Saul when the Jerusalem believers were afraid to accept him. Has there been a time when someone took a risk to vouch for you, or when you took that risk for someone else? What did that cost them or you?
2. Pastor Nathan pointed out that when Saul was persecuting Christians, Jesus said 'why are you persecuting me?' What does it mean to you personally that Jesus identifies that closely with His people?
3. Saul's preaching became so compelling that his opponents could not refute his arguments. What do you think changes in a person's witness when the Holy Spirit is the one empowering it rather than just their own knowledge or persuasion?
4. Pastor Nathan said that when you speak a word for Christ, the reaction will be acceptance, rejection, or sometimes extreme hatred, and that this is simply how the church moves forward. How does that reality sit with you, and how does it shape the way you share your faith?
5. The story of Tabitha showed a community of believers who were gathered around her when she died, mourning together and knowing her work well enough to show Peter the coats she had made. What would it look like for this group to be that kind of community for the people around us?