The Church’s Mission and Identity

1. Comparing Summary Statements in Acts

• Read Acts 5:12-16. How is this summary of the church distinct from the summaries in Acts 2:42-47 and 4:32-35?
• How do these three summaries together give a fuller picture of what the church is called to be?



2. Jesus and the Church’s Ministry

• Read Mark 6:54-56. How is Jesus’ ministry in this passage similar to what the church is doing in Acts 5:12-16?
• Why is this similarity significant?
• How does recognizing the connection between Jesus’ actions and the church’s work here prepare us to expect opposition?

Opposition to the Gospel
3. The Sanhedrin’s Objections

• Read Acts 5:17-42. What specifically upsets the Sanhedrin?
• What do they want the apostles to stop doing?
• How does this conflict relate to the church’s mission?

4. Opposition to the Name of Jesus

• Why is it important that the opposition arises because of Jesus, rather than the church being intentionally provocative?
• Why does the name of Jesus provoke opposition?
• How does this passage call us to respond in the face of opposition?

Encouragement for the Church’s Mission
5. Facing Fear and Persevering

• What fears do you have about bearing witness to Jesus?
• How does this passage challenge and encourage you?
• Why should we remain steadfast and not stop sharing the gospel?
• How does the prayer in Acts 4:24-31 provide strength and a starting point for facing opposition?