Read John 7:37‐39; Acts 2:1‐13 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
John 7:37‐39
On the last day of the festival, the great day, while Jesus was standing there, he cried out, “Let anyonewho is thirsty come to me, 38and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, ‘Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.’” 39Now he said this about the Spirit, which believers in him were to receive; for as yet there was no Spirit, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
Acts 2:1‐13
When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. 4All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability. 5Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. 6And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. 7Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? 9Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11Cretans and Arabs—in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.” 12All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” 13But others sneered and said, “They are filled with new wine.”
Reflect
In light of the last 50 days and these Pentecost texts, Answer these questions as you are able for yourself, your congregation, your circuit, your district and our Annual Conference:
Who are you (we)?
What do you (we) have?
In my (our) context, what matters to God?
Respond
Identify next steps given your reflections and using the simple framework below.
Pray that God would multiply our fire, faith and fruitfulness so that the faith communities in the California‐Nevada Annual Conference might become a movement of God’s mission in the world.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Read Acts 12:20‐25 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they came to him in a body; and after winning over Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for a reconciliation, because their country depended on the king’s country for food. 21On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat on the platform, and delivered a public address to them. 22The people kept shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a mortal!” 23And immediately, because he had not given the glory to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. 24But the word of God continued to advance and gain adherents. 25Then after completing their mission Barnabas and Saul returned to Jerusalem and brought with them John, whose other name was Mark.
Reflect
Ironically, the fate of King Herod and the word of God move in opposite directions. How do you understand power?
In verse 24 we have another reference to growth. Why does growth seem so important?
Is there one who you would consider to be your mission companion (a Paul to your Barnabas or a Barnabus to your Paul, etc)? If not, describe your ideal mission companion…the one who would complement your strengths.
Respond
If you have a ministry companion, call them today and determine what you will do together to advance the mission of God today.
If you do not have a ministry companion, ask God to reveal whom God has in mind.
Pray for your District Superintendent and the churches and faith communities in your district so that they might start and spread more Holy Spirit fires.
Day 48: Friday, June 10 Acts 13:1‐3
Begin with the prayer for guidance and discernment you wrote on Sunday.
Read Acts 13:1‐3 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the ruler, and Saul. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
Reflect
What is the work to which you have been called?
What is the benefit of adding fasting to praying?
Barnabas and Saul are sent off. Do you and your congregation think of yourselves as been sent into the world?
Respond
Set a reminder alarm to go off each hour. When the alarm rings, remind yourself that you have been sent by Christ into the particular situation you find yourself in.
Pray for the members of Annual Conference that they will experience and be responsive to a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and a wildfire spread of God’s reign.
Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they came to him in a body; and after winning over Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for a reconciliation, because their country depended on the king’s country for food. 21On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat on the platform, and delivered a public address to them. 22The people kept shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a mortal!” 23And immediately, because he had not given the glory to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. 24But the word of God continued to advance and gain adherents. 25Then after completing their mission Barnabas and Saul returned to Jerusalem and brought with them John, whose other name was Mark.
Reflect
Ironically, the fate of King Herod and the word of God move in opposite directions. How do you understand power?
In verse 24 we have another reference to growth. Why does growth seem so important?
Is there one who you would consider to be your mission companion (a Paul to your Barnabas or a Barnabus to your Paul, etc)? If not, describe your ideal mission companion…the one who would complement your strengths.
Respond
If you have a ministry companion, call them today and determine what you will do together to advance the mission of God today.
If you do not have a ministry companion, ask God to reveal whom God has in mind.
Pray for your District Superintendent and the churches and faith communities in your district so that they might start and spread more Holy Spirit fires.
Day 48: Friday, June 10 Acts 13:1‐3
Begin with the prayer for guidance and discernment you wrote on Sunday.
Read Acts 13:1‐3 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the ruler, and Saul. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
Reflect
What is the work to which you have been called?
What is the benefit of adding fasting to praying?
Barnabas and Saul are sent off. Do you and your congregation think of yourselves as been sent into the world?
Respond
Set a reminder alarm to go off each hour. When the alarm rings, remind yourself that you have been sent by Christ into the particular situation you find yourself in.
Pray for the members of Annual Conference that they will experience and be responsive to a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and a wildfire spread of God’s reign.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Acts 12:1‐19
Read Acts 12:1‐19 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
5While Peter was kept in prison, the church prayed fervently to God for him. 6The very night before Herod was going to bring him out, Peter, bound with two chains, was sleeping between two soldiers, while guards in front of the door were keeping watch over the prison. 7Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He tapped Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his wrists. 8The angel said to him, “Fasten your belt and put on your sandals.” He did so. Then he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” 9Peter went out and followed him; he did not realize that what was happening with the angel’s help was real; he thought he was seeing a vision.
10After they had passed the first and the second guard, they came before the iron gate leading into the city. It opened for them of its own accord, and they went outside and walked along a lane, when suddenly the angel left him. 11Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hands of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.” 12As soon as he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many had gathered and were praying. 13When he knocked at the outer gate, a maid named Rhoda came to answer. 14On recognizing Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the gate, she ran in and announced that Peter was standing at the gate. 15They said to her, “You are out of your mind!” But she insisted that it was so. They said, “It is his angel.” 16Meanwhile Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the gate, they saw him and were amazed. 17He motioned to them with his hand to be silent, and described for them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he added, “Tell this to James and to the believers.” Then he left and went to another place. 18When morning came, there was no small commotion among the soldiers over what had become of Peter. 19When Herod had searched for him and could not find him, he examined the guards and ordered them to be put to death. Then Peter went down from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there.
Reflect
Do you too easily give in to worldly forces, assuming that the mission of Christ through our church is limited because of the times in which live? While we experience these forces often passively, the early church experienced them actively. Does this cause you to reassess our potential as a movement of Christ’s mission?
Notice the role of prayer in this story. What is the state of prayer in your life and church?
This movement in scripture is unstoppable. What has stopped it in our context?
Respond
Gather with a few others and pray fervently to God for our deliverance from stagnation.
5While Peter was kept in prison, the church prayed fervently to God for him. 6The very night before Herod was going to bring him out, Peter, bound with two chains, was sleeping between two soldiers, while guards in front of the door were keeping watch over the prison. 7Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He tapped Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his wrists. 8The angel said to him, “Fasten your belt and put on your sandals.” He did so. Then he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” 9Peter went out and followed him; he did not realize that what was happening with the angel’s help was real; he thought he was seeing a vision.
10After they had passed the first and the second guard, they came before the iron gate leading into the city. It opened for them of its own accord, and they went outside and walked along a lane, when suddenly the angel left him. 11Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hands of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.” 12As soon as he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many had gathered and were praying. 13When he knocked at the outer gate, a maid named Rhoda came to answer. 14On recognizing Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the gate, she ran in and announced that Peter was standing at the gate. 15They said to her, “You are out of your mind!” But she insisted that it was so. They said, “It is his angel.” 16Meanwhile Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the gate, they saw him and were amazed. 17He motioned to them with his hand to be silent, and described for them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he added, “Tell this to James and to the believers.” Then he left and went to another place. 18When morning came, there was no small commotion among the soldiers over what had become of Peter. 19When Herod had searched for him and could not find him, he examined the guards and ordered them to be put to death. Then Peter went down from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there.
Reflect
Do you too easily give in to worldly forces, assuming that the mission of Christ through our church is limited because of the times in which live? While we experience these forces often passively, the early church experienced them actively. Does this cause you to reassess our potential as a movement of Christ’s mission?
Notice the role of prayer in this story. What is the state of prayer in your life and church?
This movement in scripture is unstoppable. What has stopped it in our context?
Respond
Gather with a few others and pray fervently to God for our deliverance from stagnation.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Read Acts 11:19‐30 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. 20But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. 21The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. 22News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; 24for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord. 25Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called “Christians.”
27At that time prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28One of them named Agabus stood up and predicted by the Spirit that there would be a severe famine over all the world; and this took place during the reign of Claudius. 29The disciples determined that according to their ability, each would send relief to the believers living in Judea; 30this they did, sending it to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
Reflect
What made the church in Antioch so vital?
What was their connection to the church in Jerusalem?
Identify the various roles each person in this text played. (e.g., Barnabus, Agabus, disciples, Saul)
Looking at your circuit or district, are these wide variety of roles being played?
Respond
Consider how you might help meet a need of another faith community (other than your own) in your circuit. Share that with your pastor or circuit leader.
Pray for the vitality of all the churches and faith communities in your circuit so that fires might be started and rekindled that further the mission of God in the world.
Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews. 20But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. 21The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. 22News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; 24for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord. 25Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called “Christians.”
27At that time prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28One of them named Agabus stood up and predicted by the Spirit that there would be a severe famine over all the world; and this took place during the reign of Claudius. 29The disciples determined that according to their ability, each would send relief to the believers living in Judea; 30this they did, sending it to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.
Reflect
What made the church in Antioch so vital?
What was their connection to the church in Jerusalem?
Identify the various roles each person in this text played. (e.g., Barnabus, Agabus, disciples, Saul)
Looking at your circuit or district, are these wide variety of roles being played?
Respond
Consider how you might help meet a need of another faith community (other than your own) in your circuit. Share that with your pastor or circuit leader.
Pray for the vitality of all the churches and faith communities in your circuit so that fires might be started and rekindled that further the mission of God in the world.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Acts 11:1‐18
Read Acts 11:1‐18 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. 2So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him, 3saying, “Why did you go to uncircumcised men and eat with them?” 4Then Peter began to explain it to them, step by step, saying, 5“I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. There was something like a large sheet coming down from heaven, being lowered by its four corners; and it came close to me. 6As I looked at it closely I saw four‐footed animals, beasts of prey, reptiles, and birds of the air. 7I also heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat.’ 8But I replied, ‘By no means, Lord; for nothing profane or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9But a second time the voice answered from heaven, ‘What God has made
clean, you must not call profane.’ 10This happened three times; then everything was pulled up again to heaven. 11At that very moment three men, sent to me from Caesarea, arrived at the house where we were. 12The Spirit told me to go with them and not to make a distinction between them and us. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. 13He told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon, who is called Peter; 14he will give you a message by which you and your entire household will be saved.’ 15And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them just as it had upon us at the beginning. 16And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17If then God gave them the same gift that he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could hinder God?” 18When they heard this, they were silenced. And they praised God, saying, “Then God has given even to the Gentiles the repentance that leads to life.”
Reflect
Consider how extraordinary the inclusion of the Gentiles in the church was. How did it happen?
Are there parallels in your context?
How might you be a more effectively witness to the new things the Holy Spirit might be doing in your midst?
Throughout this study we have been reading about the gospel spreading like wildfire. Yet all this happened without a strategic plan. It often happened unexpectedly, even when there was intense opposition from without and tension from within. How do you explain this? What can you apply from this reflection to your current context?
Respond
Identify a place or a people you God might be calling you to start a fire.
Pray for our Annual Conference Session that will begin in NINE days. That all who gather there will be filled with the Holy Spirit, “catch fire” and contribute to the movement of God’s mission in the world.
Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. 2So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him, 3saying, “Why did you go to uncircumcised men and eat with them?” 4Then Peter began to explain it to them, step by step, saying, 5“I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. There was something like a large sheet coming down from heaven, being lowered by its four corners; and it came close to me. 6As I looked at it closely I saw four‐footed animals, beasts of prey, reptiles, and birds of the air. 7I also heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat.’ 8But I replied, ‘By no means, Lord; for nothing profane or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ 9But a second time the voice answered from heaven, ‘What God has made
clean, you must not call profane.’ 10This happened three times; then everything was pulled up again to heaven. 11At that very moment three men, sent to me from Caesarea, arrived at the house where we were. 12The Spirit told me to go with them and not to make a distinction between them and us. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. 13He told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon, who is called Peter; 14he will give you a message by which you and your entire household will be saved.’ 15And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them just as it had upon us at the beginning. 16And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17If then God gave them the same gift that he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could hinder God?” 18When they heard this, they were silenced. And they praised God, saying, “Then God has given even to the Gentiles the repentance that leads to life.”
Reflect
Consider how extraordinary the inclusion of the Gentiles in the church was. How did it happen?
Are there parallels in your context?
How might you be a more effectively witness to the new things the Holy Spirit might be doing in your midst?
Throughout this study we have been reading about the gospel spreading like wildfire. Yet all this happened without a strategic plan. It often happened unexpectedly, even when there was intense opposition from without and tension from within. How do you explain this? What can you apply from this reflection to your current context?
Respond
Identify a place or a people you God might be calling you to start a fire.
Pray for our Annual Conference Session that will begin in NINE days. That all who gather there will be filled with the Holy Spirit, “catch fire” and contribute to the movement of God’s mission in the world.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
John 17:1‐11
Week 7: Start More Fires
Jesus prays for the unity of those who have received him. It is this unity that gives credibility to the movement that is our message and mission (John). As the fire of the movement spreads (even unexpectedly), the church has to adapt its theology and practice to incorporate the new work of the Holy Spirit. Thus, Peter must explain to the Church in Jerusalem how it was that the gospel was given to the Gentiles. Pressure from without continues while from within missionaries are commissioned (Acts). The way is not easy, but we are reassured of God’s support, strength and grace (1 Peter).
Though we can’t think alike,
may we not love alike?
May we not be of one heart,
though we are not of one opinion?
‘Is thine heart right,
as my heart is with thy heart?’…
‘if it be, give me thine hand.’
John Wesley
Day 43: Sunday, June 5 John 17:1‐11
Pray for guidance and discernment. If you wish, write that prayer here and use it for the next six days.
Read John 17:1‐11 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
After Jesus had spoken these words, he looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, 2since you have given him authority over all people, to give
eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. 5So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed. 6”I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; 8for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours. 10All mine are yours, and yours are mine; and I have been glorified in them. 11And now I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one.
Reflect
What is the “hour” to which Jesus refers? How will He be glorified in this? How will this enable you to know the only true God?
Why is the unity of Jesus’ followers so important? What is the source of that unity? What are its characteristics?
What is the relationship between unity and evangelism?
Respond
Pray for the unity of the church and our credibility in the world so that we might start more Holy Spirit fires without extinguishing each other’s fire.
Jesus prays for the unity of those who have received him. It is this unity that gives credibility to the movement that is our message and mission (John). As the fire of the movement spreads (even unexpectedly), the church has to adapt its theology and practice to incorporate the new work of the Holy Spirit. Thus, Peter must explain to the Church in Jerusalem how it was that the gospel was given to the Gentiles. Pressure from without continues while from within missionaries are commissioned (Acts). The way is not easy, but we are reassured of God’s support, strength and grace (1 Peter).
Though we can’t think alike,
may we not love alike?
May we not be of one heart,
though we are not of one opinion?
‘Is thine heart right,
as my heart is with thy heart?’…
‘if it be, give me thine hand.’
John Wesley
Day 43: Sunday, June 5 John 17:1‐11
Pray for guidance and discernment. If you wish, write that prayer here and use it for the next six days.
Read John 17:1‐11 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
After Jesus had spoken these words, he looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, 2since you have given him authority over all people, to give
eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. 5So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed. 6”I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; 8for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours. 10All mine are yours, and yours are mine; and I have been glorified in them. 11And now I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one.
Reflect
What is the “hour” to which Jesus refers? How will He be glorified in this? How will this enable you to know the only true God?
Why is the unity of Jesus’ followers so important? What is the source of that unity? What are its characteristics?
What is the relationship between unity and evangelism?
Respond
Pray for the unity of the church and our credibility in the world so that we might start more Holy Spirit fires without extinguishing each other’s fire.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Acts 10:34‐48
Read Acts 10:34‐48 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. 37That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; 40but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, 41not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. 43All the prophets testify about him that
everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
44While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. 45The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, 46for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, 47“Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.
Reflect
In your heart do you know and believe that God shows no partiality?
What needs to change in your life and church to make the gospel more accessible to those who would assume that Christ (or your faith community) was not for them?
How has the Holy Spirit surprised you recently?
Respond
Think of how welcoming your faith community is from the point of view of someone who has no church background. Implement one idea to make it more accessible to them.
Pray that your faith community and all faith communities of the California‐Nevada conference will not only welcome the “Cornelius’” of the world but go to where they live in order to do so.
Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. 37That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; 40but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, 41not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. 43All the prophets testify about him that
everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
44While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. 45The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, 46for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, 47“Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.
Reflect
In your heart do you know and believe that God shows no partiality?
What needs to change in your life and church to make the gospel more accessible to those who would assume that Christ (or your faith community) was not for them?
How has the Holy Spirit surprised you recently?
Respond
Think of how welcoming your faith community is from the point of view of someone who has no church background. Implement one idea to make it more accessible to them.
Pray that your faith community and all faith communities of the California‐Nevada conference will not only welcome the “Cornelius’” of the world but go to where they live in order to do so.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
For June 1 & 2
Read Acts 9:32‐42 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
Now as Peter went here and there among all the believers, he came down also to the saints living in Lydda. 33There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden for eight years, for he was paralyzed. 34Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed!” And immediately he got up. 35And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord. 36Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity. 37At that time she became ill and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in a room upstairs. 38Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, who heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, “Please come to us without delay.” 39So Peter got up and went with them; and when he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs. All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40Peter put all of them outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. He turned to the body and said, “Tabitha, get up.” Then she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up. 41He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he showed her to be alive. 42This became known throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.
Reflect
This is yet another story of healing as a means to spreading the gospel. What healing – or other sign & wonder ‐‐ is happening in your community of faith that, if people knew about it, would draw more to Christ?
Peter’s reputation was as a healer. Tabitha’s reputation was as one who was devoted to good works and acts of charity. What kind of reputation is God creating in you?
Respond
Spend time with two or three other people from your community of faith and make a plan for getting the word out about what God is up to in your ministry setting.
Pray for a rhythm in your daily life that allows for Godly interruptions. For God’s continued transformation of lives and communities in ways that allows the word of God’s hope, love, and grace to spread wildly.
Read Acts 10:1‐33 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
In Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian Cohort, as it was called. 2He was a devout man who feared God with all his household; he gave alms generously to the people and prayed constantly to God. 3One afternoon at about three o”clock he had a vision in which he clearly saw an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius.” 4He stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” He answered, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5Now send men to Joppa for a certain Simon who is called Peter; 6he is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the seaside.” 7When the angel who spoke to him had left, he called two of his slaves and a devout soldier from the ranks of those who served him, 8and after telling them everything, he sent them to Joppa.
9About noon the next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10He became hungry and wanted something to eat; and while it was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11He saw the heaven opened and something like a large sheet coming down, being lowered to the ground by its four corners. 12In it were all kinds of four‐footed creatures and reptiles and birds of the air. 13Then he heard a voice saying, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat.” 14But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is profane or unclean.” 15The voice said to him again, a second time, “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” 16This happened three times, and the thing was suddenly taken up to heaven. 17Now while Peter was greatly puzzled about what to make of the vision that he had seen, suddenly the men sent by Cornelius appeared. They were asking for Simon’s house and were standing by the gate. 18They called out to ask whether Simon, who was called Peter, was staying there.
19While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Look, three men are searching for you. 20Now get up, go down, and go with them without hesitation; for I have sent them.” 21So Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for; what is the reason for your coming?” 22They answered, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God‐fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” 23So Peter invited them in and gave them lodging. The next day he got up and went with them, and some of the believers from Joppa accompanied him. 24The following day they came to Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25On Peter’s arrival Cornelius met him, and falling at his feet, worshiped him. 26But Peter made him get up, saying, “Stand up; I am only a mortal.” 27And as he talked with him, he went in and found that many had assembled; 28and he said to them, “You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean. 29So when I was sent for, I came without objection. Now may I ask why you sent for me?” 30Cornelius replied, “Four days ago at this very hour, at three o”clock, I was praying in my house when suddenly a man in dazzling clothes stood before me. 31He said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon, who is called Peter; he is staying in the home of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ 33Therefore I sent for you immediately, and you have been kind enough to come. So now all of us are here in the presence of God to listen to all that the Lord has commanded you to say.”
Reflect
Once again we see the gospel crossing another boundary. What obstacles had to be overcome before this boundary was crossed? How did this happen?
What is the significant of this story to the movement of Christ mission in the world?
What parallels can you draw between this story and our situation and opportunity today?
Respond
Act upon a prompting of the Holy Spirit to include someone in your life or faith community that you never saw a way to include before.
Pray that radical hospitality would be a part of your lifestyle and the character of your faith community so the light of Christ might spread more wildly.
Now as Peter went here and there among all the believers, he came down also to the saints living in Lydda. 33There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden for eight years, for he was paralyzed. 34Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed!” And immediately he got up. 35And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord. 36Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity. 37At that time she became ill and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in a room upstairs. 38Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, who heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, “Please come to us without delay.” 39So Peter got up and went with them; and when he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs. All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40Peter put all of them outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. He turned to the body and said, “Tabitha, get up.” Then she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up. 41He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he showed her to be alive. 42This became known throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.
Reflect
This is yet another story of healing as a means to spreading the gospel. What healing – or other sign & wonder ‐‐ is happening in your community of faith that, if people knew about it, would draw more to Christ?
Peter’s reputation was as a healer. Tabitha’s reputation was as one who was devoted to good works and acts of charity. What kind of reputation is God creating in you?
Respond
Spend time with two or three other people from your community of faith and make a plan for getting the word out about what God is up to in your ministry setting.
Pray for a rhythm in your daily life that allows for Godly interruptions. For God’s continued transformation of lives and communities in ways that allows the word of God’s hope, love, and grace to spread wildly.
Read Acts 10:1‐33 slowly and prayerfully. What words or phrases stand out for you?
In Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian Cohort, as it was called. 2He was a devout man who feared God with all his household; he gave alms generously to the people and prayed constantly to God. 3One afternoon at about three o”clock he had a vision in which he clearly saw an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius.” 4He stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” He answered, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. 5Now send men to Joppa for a certain Simon who is called Peter; 6he is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the seaside.” 7When the angel who spoke to him had left, he called two of his slaves and a devout soldier from the ranks of those who served him, 8and after telling them everything, he sent them to Joppa.
9About noon the next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10He became hungry and wanted something to eat; and while it was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11He saw the heaven opened and something like a large sheet coming down, being lowered to the ground by its four corners. 12In it were all kinds of four‐footed creatures and reptiles and birds of the air. 13Then he heard a voice saying, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat.” 14But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is profane or unclean.” 15The voice said to him again, a second time, “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” 16This happened three times, and the thing was suddenly taken up to heaven. 17Now while Peter was greatly puzzled about what to make of the vision that he had seen, suddenly the men sent by Cornelius appeared. They were asking for Simon’s house and were standing by the gate. 18They called out to ask whether Simon, who was called Peter, was staying there.
19While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Look, three men are searching for you. 20Now get up, go down, and go with them without hesitation; for I have sent them.” 21So Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for; what is the reason for your coming?” 22They answered, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God‐fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” 23So Peter invited them in and gave them lodging. The next day he got up and went with them, and some of the believers from Joppa accompanied him. 24The following day they came to Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25On Peter’s arrival Cornelius met him, and falling at his feet, worshiped him. 26But Peter made him get up, saying, “Stand up; I am only a mortal.” 27And as he talked with him, he went in and found that many had assembled; 28and he said to them, “You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean. 29So when I was sent for, I came without objection. Now may I ask why you sent for me?” 30Cornelius replied, “Four days ago at this very hour, at three o”clock, I was praying in my house when suddenly a man in dazzling clothes stood before me. 31He said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon, who is called Peter; he is staying in the home of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ 33Therefore I sent for you immediately, and you have been kind enough to come. So now all of us are here in the presence of God to listen to all that the Lord has commanded you to say.”
Reflect
Once again we see the gospel crossing another boundary. What obstacles had to be overcome before this boundary was crossed? How did this happen?
What is the significant of this story to the movement of Christ mission in the world?
What parallels can you draw between this story and our situation and opportunity today?
Respond
Act upon a prompting of the Holy Spirit to include someone in your life or faith community that you never saw a way to include before.
Pray that radical hospitality would be a part of your lifestyle and the character of your faith community so the light of Christ might spread more wildly.
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