Summary

In Acts 12:20-25 we learn how the mighty and “powerful” rulers of this world are in fact not the ones who hold the ultimate power; our Creator in heaven does. Todd reminds us that God is all-powerful, His word is true, and both can be tested to stand throughout history from the creation of the world. We need not fear the Herods of our lifetime, but we must rightly serve and praise our three in one: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Discussion Questions

1. Todd told us of a mythical story, believed to be true in Hinduism, explaining why they see the rat as a holy creature. We define it as mythical because it is a story created by man long ago that cannot be proven in history. If you can’t test what people write or the stories they tell, it becomes nonsensical. On the contrary, the Bible isn’t just a made-up story. You can test it; it is historical. Do you truly believe the word of God is reliable? Have you encountered skeptics in your life that struggle to believe this truth? In what ways are you equipped to share with them the reasons we know our Bible is God’s word? If you would like help in this area, consider taking one of our Core Classes at Watermark to become more equipped.
2. 1 Timothy 4:7 says to “have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness.” We mustn’t merely scoff at Hinduism and Greek mythology for their silly myths. We must know and live in the Truth, training ourselves for godliness, or else we could fall prey to believing in faulty ways. Don’t just treat the Bible like some lucky rabbit’s foot to “get by” in life. Read it, be a student of it, live it out. How are you doing at spending time daily in God’s word? Are you checking the box or is your time transforming your life as a follower of Christ? What has God been teaching you this week in His word?
3. Read 1 Timothy 4:15-16. We must know God’s word if we are going to be useful. This starts with our own daily discipline (see question 2), but it extends out to all those we encounter throughout our day. When we immerse ourselves in the good things God commands us to (1 Timothy 4:12-13), we have an opportunity to build others up as well. Do you see the fruit of knowing your Word and being able to counsel others biblically? If not, what might need to change? How can your community group grow in doing this with one another?
4. Through a long line of Herods, there have been many sins passed down from generation to generation. The Herod Agrippa here in Acts 12:20-25 has not chosen not to give God the glory for his success, thus revealing the condition of his heart. This had incredible consequences on his life. Is there anything in your life now being carried over from your family of origin? What sin(s) have taken hold of your heart and life? Talk to your community group about how this affects your relationship with others and more importantly your relationship with Jesus.
5. It can be easy to believe that the kings (read: presidents, dignitaries, political leaders) in our day and age have more power and control than we’d like for them to have. This may be true from a practical, worldly perspective, but eternally and ultimately God holds all power and control. Praise Him for that! Quit fearing the rulers over you and seek the God Herod failed to humble himself under; the One who has been revealed in all of history. Do you fear the current state of our world? While understandable, has your fear led you to lose trust in the One who holds ultimate power and authority? How can you, along with your family and community group, practically play out trusting God every day amidst living in a broken world with broken leaders?