02 May 2021 – Acts 1:12-26
 | Andy Bruins preaching from Acts on Sunday 2nd May 2021. |
In the first half of chapter 1, before His ascension, Jesus prepares His disciples for their global mission. In the second half we see the disciples preparing themselves.
We find the disciples meeting constantly together in an upper room, waiting for the promised gift of the Holy Spirit so that they can start the task of being Jesus’ witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth.
Their preparation involves prayer, meditating on God’s Word and appointing a replacement for Judas.
Q Read v12-14. Jesus’ followers are gathered together in Jerusalem, behind locked doors. Who is in this group of disciples? Are there any surprises?
Q What is this band of brothers and sisters doing?
Q Why was prayer so important to these first disciples? What advice would you give to someone who finds it hard to motivate themselves to pray?
Q Read v15-22. Why does Peter come to the conclusion that they need to find a replacement for Judas?
Q What are the criteria they use for choosing an Apostle? Why are they necessary? (For further thought: How does the Apostle Paul meet these criteria?)
Q What are the principles that these disciples us for making important decisions, and how are they still helpful for us today?
