Discussion Guide | May 3rd, 2026
Gaining Supernatural Focus | Dr. Bill Shuler Discussion Guide
Summary
Pastor Bill's sermon focuses on the first miracle performed by Jesus' followers after Pentecost, found in Acts 3:1-10. Pastor emphasizes how God breaks into our ordinary routines to accomplish extraordinary things. Peter and John, on their way to prayer at 3 PM, encounter a man crippled from birth at the temple gate called Beautiful. Instead of giving money, Peter declares 'Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.' The man is instantly healed and begins walking, jumping, and praising God. The sermon highlights the importance of being spiritually sensitive, allowing God to interrupt our plans, and understanding that we have authority through Christ to minister to others. The pastor emphasizes that this miracle served as the first evidence to religious leaders that Jesus' presence and ministry continued through His followers.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together today, we ask You to open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us through Your Word. Help us to be sensitive to Your Holy Spirit and ready to allow You to break into our routines and plans. Give us spiritual eyes to see people the way You see them, and hearts that are willing to be used by You. We submit our agendas to You and ask that You would direct our steps according to Your perfect will. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is one routine or habit in your daily life that you would find difficult to change or be interrupted?
Main Study
Key Verses
- Acts 3:1-10
- Proverbs 16:9
- Psalm 37:23
- 1 Peter 3:15
- Colossians 1:27
Questions
- How can we become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading in our daily routines?
- What does it mean to 'allow God to break through our spiritual routines' and why is this important?
- Peter said 'what I have, I give you.' What do we have as believers that we can give to other?
- Why do you think Jesus passed by this crippled man many times but the healing happened through Peter and John?
- How can we develop spiritual discernment to see people through God's eyes rather than just passing by?
- What role does prayer and devotion play in preparing us to walk in spiritual authority?
- The man was placed beneath a beautiful gate while suffering - how do you see this contrast in the world today?
- How can we be ready to 'give an answer for the reason for our hope' in everyday situations?
- What does it mean to 'wait on God' with active expectation rather than passive waiting? How can we apply this in our daily lives?
- The pastor mentioned that Jesus said 'it is for your good that I am going away.' Why do you think Jesus' departure was necessary for the Holy Spirit to come?
- How does the unity of the 120 believers in the upper room relate to the effectiveness of the Holy Spirit's work? What threatens unity in the church today?
- The sermon describes the Holy Spirit as wind, fire, and living water. Which of these images resonates most with you and why?
- Pastor Lisa shared stories of people speaking in languages they didn't know. How do these modern examples encourage or challenge your faith?
- What's the difference between seeking the gifts of the Spirit versus seeking the giver of the gifts? Why is this distinction important?
- The pastor mentioned that experiencing God seems to be diminishing in our generation. Do you agree? What factors might contribute to this?
- Looking at the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, which fruit do you most need the Holy Spirit's help to develop in your life right now?
Life Application
This week, pray each morning asking God to set your agenda for the day. Be willing to step aside from your plans when you sense the Holy Spirit leading you to encourage someone, pray for someone, or meet a need. Practice seeing people through God's eyes and be ready to give what you have - whether that's encouragement, prayer, practical help, or sharing the hope you have in Christ.
Closing
Key Takeaways
- God often breaks into our ordinary, routine days to accomplish extraordinary things
- We must be willing to allow God to interrupt our plans and routines, even our spiritual ones
- Spiritual sensitivity and discernment help us see people and situations through God's eyes
- We have authority and resources through Christ that we should not leave untapped
- God's timing is perfect, even when we don't understand why certain things happen when they do
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding us that You want to work through us just as You worked through Peter and John. Help us to be people who walk in spiritual authority and sensitivity to Your Holy Spirit. Give us courage to step out of our comfort zones and routines when You call us to minister to others. May we never forget that Christ in us is the hope of glory, and that what we have in You is more valuable than silver or gold. Use us to bring healing, hope, and Your love to those around us. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.
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