Living for Gospel Impact | Acts 14

Summary

Many followers of Jesus want to make a difference for the gospel but can feel discouraged when they don't see immediate results. In Acts 14, Paul and Barnabas remind us that God is always working, even when we can't see it. Their ministry was marked by supernatural grit, gospel-given security, and clarity of calling. As we abide in Jesus and depend on the Spirit, God can use us to faithfully help others know Jesus and become more like him.

Key Takeaways

Three Characteristics of Living for Gospel Impact:

• Supernatural grit: Paul and Barnabas faced resistance, opposition, and even persecution, yet they continued preaching the gospel (Acts 14:1-7). They didn't back down because they understood the spiritual battle around them (2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 6:12) and relied on the Spirit's power rather than their own strength.
• Gospel-given security: After healing a man in Lystra, Paul and Barnabas refused the praise of the crowds and redirected attention to God (Acts 14:8-18). The gospel frees us from needing approval, recognition, or validation because everything we lack is fully supplied in Jesus.
• Clarity of calling: Even after being stoned and left for dead, Paul returned to the work God had given him (Acts 14:19-23). He knew his calling was to help people know Jesus and become more like him. This same calling belongs to every follower of Jesus, regardless of vocation or stage of life.

Discussion Questions

• How do you typically respond when you experience resistance, rejection, or discouragement in your efforts to follow Jesus or share your faith?
• 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 describes unbelievers as people who are spiritually blinded and in need of rescue. How does that perspective change the way you view difficult people in your life?
• In what ways are you tempted to find your identity in performance, recognition, success, or what others think of you?
• Who has God placed in your life right now that he may be inviting you to keep pursuing, even if you haven't seen much progress?
• What is one specific step of obedience you can take this week to stay in the fight, rest in the gospel, or live more intentionally on mission?

Quotes and References

• “Our greatest fear should not be of failure, but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.” - D.L. Moody