A Call to Modern Awakening
SUMMARY:
Acts 19 reflects on the powerful move of God in the city of Ephesus. It highlights the unusual means through which God brought revival to a city steeped in darkness, idolatry, and demonic influence. Through the apostle Paul, God performed miracles, leading to widespread fear of the Lord, confession of sins, and the honoring of Jesus' name. This weeks sermon emphasizes the need for a similar move of God in our society today, which is increasingly distant from God's truth. It calls for repentance, a return to honoring God's name, and the prevailing power of His Word.
PRAY:
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to reflect on Your Word and the message we have heard, we ask for open hearts and receptive spirits. May we be attuned to Your voice and the lessons You desire to impart upon us. Help us to understand the significance of revival in Ephesus and inspire us to seek a similar awakening in our own lives and communities. Guide our discussion, Lord, and let it be fruitful in drawing us closer to You. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.
Question:
If you could visit any city mentioned in the Bible, which one would it be and why?
Key Verses
- Acts 19:17 (NIV): "When this became known to the Jews and Greeks living in Ephesus, they were all seized with fear, and the name of the Lord Jesus was held in high honor."
- Ephesians 6:12 (NIV): "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
- Romans 12:2 (NLT): “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
Questions
1. What stood out to you the most from the sermon on the revival in Ephesus?
2. How can we see the need for revival in our own society today?
3. What does a "solemn fear of the Lord" look like in a modern context?
4. How can we, as individuals and as a church, foster an environment where the name of Jesus is honored?
5. What are some practical ways we can spread the Word of God with power in our community?
6. How can we guard against the perversion and dilution of God's Word in our culture?
8. What steps can we take this week to seek personal revival and a closer walk with God?
Life Application
This week, let us each commit to one action that honors the name of Jesus and spreads His love. Whether it's through sharing our faith, serving others, or standing for truth, let's be intentional about being light in a world that desperately needs the hope of Christ.