Using This Study Guide

The Basic Study

Reading Acts: This study guide consists of 14 lessons arranged chronologically according to the Book of Acts. Though the Book of Acts cannot be thoroughly covered in this study, you will be reading through the complete book. Each lesson begins by asking you to read the whole Bible passage for the lesson in one sitting to get the “big picture.” If you cannot do the entire lesson one week, please read the Bible passage. As you read each Bible passage, you will be asked to read it:

·         freshly — as for the first time (try using different translations)

·         thoughtfully — as a love letter

·         patiently — give yourself enough time rather than rushing through it

·         selectively — looking for important information

·         prayerfully — the Holy Spirit has promised to help us understand it

·         telescopically — in light of the whole

·         personally — applying it to your life today

Process of Bible Study: Each lesson includes core questions covering the passage narrative. These core questions will take you through the process of inductive Bible study—observation, interpretation, and application. The process is more easily understood in the context of answering these questions:

·         What does the passage say? (Observation: what’s actually there) Questions that begin with Discovering the Facts are observation questions.

·         What does it mean? (Interpretation: the author’s intended meaning) Many of the questions are interpretation questions.

·         How does this apply to me today? (Application: making it personal) Share Your Life questions are the application questions in this study. These lead you to introspection and application of a specific truth to your life.

Study Enhancements

Deeper Discoveries (optional): Embedded within the sections are optional questions for research of subjects we don’t have time to cover adequately in the lessons or contain information that significantly enhance the basic study. If you are meeting with a small group, your leader may give you the opportunity to share your “discoveries.”

Study Aids: To aid in proper interpretation and application of the study, six additional study aids are located where appropriate in the lesson:

·         Historical Insights

·         Scriptural Insights

·         From the Greek (definitions of Greek words)

·         Focus on the Meaning

·         Think About It (thoughtful reflection)

Get Fired Up And Ready For Adventure!

As fiery lava and ash erupt from a volcano and flow out to build new land, the Holy Spirit’s fire erupts through the lives of believers to build Christ’s church. Volcanoes form over “hot spots” in the earth’s crust where a crack allows molten lava to flow to the surface. The Holy Spirit’s work in our lives becomes our own “hot spots.” So, at the end of each lesson, you will be asked to review the lesson for evidences of the guidance and empowering of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. With this information, what will you ask God to do in your life to get you fired up and ready for adventure with Him?

“The times are urgent, God is on the move, now is the moment to ask God to ignite His fire in your soul!” (Jim Cymbala, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, front flap)