Discussion Guide | Sept. 14, 2025

September 15th, 2025

Introduction

"How God Guides Our Steps" - Sermon Summary

In this sermon, Pastor Bill discusses the power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, focusing on Acts 3:1-10 where Peter and John heal a lame beggar at the temple gate. He emphasizes that God is still in control despite world events, and that Christians are called to be the revival, bringing God's life wherever they go. Using the story of the first miracle after Pentecost, he illustrates how God breaks through our ordinary routines to accomplish extraordinary things when we submit to His agenda rather than our own.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather today to discuss Your Word and the power of Your Holy Spirit, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us. Break through our routines just as You did with Peter and John. Help us to be sensitive to Your leading and to recognize the opportunities You place before us each day. May this discussion draw us closer to You and to one another as we seek to be Your hands and feet in this world. In Jesus' name, amen.

Ice Breaker

When was the last time God interrupted your normal routine in an unexpected but meaningful way?

Main Study

Key Verses

Acts 3:6
Acts 3:8
Proverbs 16:9
Psalms 37:23
Colossians 1:27

Questions

Pastor Bill mentioned that 'defining moments begin with what seems like an ordinary day.' How might this perspective change how you approach your daily routines?
Peter and John were on their way to prayer when they encountered the lame man. How does your prayer life prepare you for unexpected ministry opportunities?
The sermon mentioned that the lame man had likely been passed by Jesus many times. Why do you think Jesus waited for Peter and John to heal him instead?
How does the concept of being 'story catchers' - truly listening to others' stories - impact how we minister to people around us?
Pastor Bill talked about our 'hurt trails' - past wounds that affect us. How can acknowledging these hurts lead to greater ministry effectiveness?
Peter said, 'Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you.' What spiritual resources do you have that you can offer to others?
How does the Reticular Activating System (RAS) concept apply to our spiritual lives? What are we filtering out that God might want us to notice?
The sermon emphasized that 'God moves in an atmosphere of expectation.' What are you currently expecting God to do in your life or community?

Life Application

This week, commit to being more aware of the people God places in your path. Each morning, pray specifically that God would help you see others through His eyes and give you the courage to act when the Holy Spirit prompts you. Choose one day to intentionally break your normal routine in some way that creates space for God to work unexpectedly. Then, at the end of each day, reflect on where you saw God moving and how you responded to His promptings. Be ready to share with the group next week how God broke through your routine and used you to touch someone else's life.

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Closing

Key Takeaways

True revival happens when believers bring the life of God everywhere they go, making it all about the kingdom of God and Jesus.
God often breaks through our spiritual routines to accomplish His purposes when we submit our agenda to His.
Every person has a story and a 'hurt trail' - being sensitive to others' stories allows us to be part of God's healing work in their lives.
We cannot give what we do not possess - our authority to minister comes from our relationship with God through prayer.
God moves in an atmosphere of expectation - when we expect Him to work, we position ourselves to be used by Him.

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the reminder that You are still moving powerfully today through ordinary people like us. We ask for the courage to break out of our comfortable routines and to be sensitive to Your Spirit's leading. Help us to see people as You see them, to listen to their stories, and to offer what we have received from You - Your healing, hope, and love. Heal our own hurt trails so that we can minister more effectively to others. We pray for a revival that begins in our own hearts and spreads to our families, workplaces, and communities. May we be carriers of Your presence wherever we go this week. In Your mighty name we pray, amen.

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