Worlds Apart
An Insider to Reach an Outsider | Week 3
June 16, 2024 | By Karl Romeus
Have you ever considered what happens when ordinary people choose to love and obey God? This week, Karl Romeus takes a look into what happens when ordinary people take on extraordinary roles by choosing to obey God's plan for their lives. Derek Redmond’s story from the 1992 Olympics gives us a glimpse into unexpected heroism. But what if we extended this love and compassion beyond our immediate family to strangers and even enemies? The transformation of Saul to Paul in Acts Chapter 9 is a powerful example of how an ordinary man, Ananias, played a crucial role in God’s plan. Paul’s journey from a persecutor to an apostle shows that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. By embracing obedience, courage, and compassion, we, too, can become vision carriers, helping others experience God’s grace. Discover how you can be part of this incredible journey and impact those around you. Who is your Paul? Your obedience could change their life forever.
SETLIST
"I Thank God" by Aaron Moses, Chuck Butler, Dante Bowe, Jesse Cline, and Maryanne J. George
"Made For More" by Blake Wiggins, Jessie Early, Jonathan Smith, and Josh Baldwin
"I Speak Jesus" by Abby Benton, Carlene Prince, Dustin Smith, Jesse Reeves, Kristen Dutton, and Raina Pratt
"Run To The Father" by Cody Carnes, Matt Maher, and Ran Jackson
GROUP QUESTIONS
An Insider to reach Outsiders
Karl Romeus
June 16th, 2024
// Bible References: Acts 8:3; Acts 9:1-9, 10-18; 1 Cor 9:19-23; 1 Tim 1:13,16”
// Community Question: What is the best (or funniest) Father’s Day gift you have received or seen given?
// Discussion Questions
- Karl emphasized that Jesus does not require spiritual giants but rather ordinary individuals who see the world as He does. Why is it important for God to use ordinary people like Ananias to make a difference? How does this understanding motivate you to reach out to others?
- Read Acts 9:1-9. This passage describes Paul's encounter with Jesus, which ultimately led to his conversion. How did Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus transform his life? Can you think of a personal encounter with God that has transformed your life or perspective?
- Karl highlighted Ananias' obedience, courage, and compassion when reaching out to Paul. How can we apply the obedience, courage, and compassion of Ananias in our daily lives? Can you think of a specific situation in your life where you can demonstrate these attributes to another person?
- The sermon challenged individuals to consider who their 'Paul’s’ are and exhibit obedience, courage, and compassion to them. Who are the 'Paul’s' in your life and how can you play a role in their journey toward faith? What specific actions can you take to reach out to those around you?
- Karl stressed the importance of love in action, particularly towards outsiders and even enemies. Why is it significant for Christians to reach out to people who seem far from Jesus? What challenges have you faced when reaching out to difficult people and what lessons have you learned?
// Challenge: Like Ananias, who in our lives is God asking us specifically to reach out to this week? If no one comes to mind, can we commit to praying and asking God to reveal who needs to hear about Him?
