Locations & Times

Have you ever felt like you’re on the outside? What if that's exactly where Jesus wants you? This week, Ben Foote takes a deep dive into Acts 8 and talks about how early Christians found common ground with those vastly different from them. Despite deep cultural divides, they connected with others through a shared hunger for healing. Learn how we can bridge our modern divides by understanding our own brokenness and extending grace to those who feel far from it. Let's explore what it truly means to be Jesus-followers in a divided world and how to make disciples in our current times.

SETLIST 

Finding Common Ground

Ben Foote
June 9, 2024

// Bible References: Acts 1:8, 8:1,4-12,18-22, 30-31,34-35; Isaiah 53:5,7,12. Rom 3:22-24; 1 Tim 1:15; Mark 2:17; Psalm 51:17; Matt 28:19-20

// Community Question: Share the most awkward misunderstanding you have seen or had.

// Discussion Questions

1. Read Act 8:4-8,30-31,34-35. In Acts 8, what significant events take place that demonstrate the power of finding common ground when sharing the gospel of Jesus? How can you apply the lessons learned from these stories to your own interactions with others when discussing your faith?
2. Re-read Acts: 8:4-8. Ben used the example of Philip with the Samaritans to demonstrate that people are hungry for healing. Why is understanding this concept important in sharing the message of Jesus? Can you think of a time when you were desperate for healing in a part of your life? How could reflecting on that time help you find common ground with someone different than you?
3. Ben used the story of Simon to remind us that reaching the outsider requires a heart that is aligned with God's intentions. How can we avoid having a heart like Simon the sorcerer, who was focused on personal power and status? What are some practical ways to keep our hearts right before God and focused on serving others rather than ourselves?
4. Ben emphasized that acknowledging our own brokenness allows us to understand the need for healing in others. What does recognizing our own brokenness look like? How will sharing your brokenness with others help build connection and find common ground?
5. Ben encouraged the congregation to go and make disciples, share the common ground of brokenness and healing, and keep their hearts right before God. What are some practical ways to reach out to others, especially outsiders, and build bridges in a divided world? What are some specific groups or individuals in your community that you feel called to reach out to and find common ground with?

// Challenge: Take a moment to reflect on what Jesus has healed or saved you from. For next week, be prepared to share that story with the group and demonstrate how you would use it to connect with an outsider.