Text Study for Sunday, June 15, 2025

Series Theme: Holy Trinity Sunday

Reading: Acts 2:37-43

CONNECTING QUESTIONS

What was a memorable speech or sermon you experienced? Why?

PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION

Everlasting God, the whole universe sings a new song of praise: the rivers clap their hands, the hills ring out for joy. As you have raised us to new life in Christ, give us voices ready to cry out for justice and proclaim resurrection joy wherever your Spirit leads us. In Jesus’ name we boldly pray. Amen.

CONTEXT

Christ is Risen! Alleluia! As Christians we are “Called Together and Sent Out!” This sermon series explores ways the earliest believers were both brought together throughout diverse settings and sent out into the world to share the good news. We will learn from stories that bridge differences and find common ground in faith. How can Easter learn from these stories to both build community and continue to always look beyond to love and serve?

From Dr Sarah Henrich at EntertheBible.org:

Because it provides a perspective on the work of the apostles and Paul that we get nowhere else, the Book of Acts of the Apostles is invaluable as a witness to the development of followers of “the Way” of God disclosed in Jesus. Driving the message of Acts is the conviction that God’s Holy Spirit, now inextricably bound to the risen Jesus, empowers and legitimates the activities of believers at many critical points. The opening of salvation (being in covenant relationship with the God of Israel) to all people is the beating heart of this book. Around this central theological idea Acts also emphasizes that believers are called to hospitality, friendship, and boldness in proclamation and interpretation of Scripture.

LOOK AT THE BOOK

How is it with your spirit this week?
Acts 2:37 occurs immediately after the Pentecost moment and giving of the Holy Spirit to the early Christian community. Notice, a single disciple has the ability to share the story of the good news about Jesus!
In the hymn, “Holy God, We Praise Your Name,” the hymnwriter says: Holy Father, Holy Son, Holy Spirit: three we name thee, though in essence only one; undivided God we claim thee, and adoring bend the knee while we own the mystery.” What does it mean to you “to own the mystery” of Christian faith?
To whom is Peter speaking to just earlier in chapter two?
In verse 15:2, who is arguing? What do we know about them? Google for more information!
In your own handwriting, write out verse Acts 2:32. How is this good news?
What does “cut to the heart” mean in Acts 2:37? Have you had this experience before?
What is the question the crowd is asking Peter and the disciples in verse 37? What is one piece of advice you would share with someone who is considering following Jesus?
What are Peter’s two key pieces of advice?
What does it mean to repent?
Why is baptism important to Christians?
Verse 39 paints a much bigger picture of God’s kingdom? How?
Who is a young person you wish felt more welcomed into the Christian church? Why?
What would you like to talk about that we have not yet?

TAKING IT HOME

At worship this week, invite someone to share coffee with you.

God of the promise, you call your people together into your one mission in Christ’s name. Make us brave, grant us peace, challenge our expectations, and empower us to truly follow your Spirit’s lead. You are our one God who calls us together as one people, and we thank you in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Grow Guide | June 15, 2025