Week #30 — A SECOND PENTECOST
On Friday, the Orion crew capsule from the Artemis II spacecraft returned to Earth. It was so exciting to witness the live conclusion of this successful 10-day mission, which took the astronauts farther into space than any humans had ever been. One NASA scientist said that the proper angle of atmospheric entry had a window of only 2.5 degrees. The capsule reentered the atmosphere over the coast of India at a speed of 25,000 mph (not a typo), and in just 13 minutes, they splashed down off the coast of San Diego (the other side of the globe) at a soft 17 mph. Incredible.
As I witnessed this amazing accomplishment, I began to think about the God who is sovereign over it all. If humans, made in his image, could accomplish this, it boggles the mind to think of what is possible for our Lord. He created everything, sustains everything, and works it all together for his glorious purposes.
In Acts 10:34-48, we see Gentiles come to faith—people long considered far beyond the reach of God’s saving hand. This passage calls us to remember that no one is too far gone for the salvation of our God. The way he brings dead and lost people to eternal life in Jesus Christ makes the vastness of space around the moon seem like a walk around the block.
Read the passage together in your group, and then work through the discussion questions.
In Christ,
Pastor Ken
Week #30 — Questions
- Peter realizes that “God shows no partiality” (v34), meaning he does not discriminate. Where might you still show preference—subtly or openly—toward certain kinds of people? What would it look like to reflect God’s impartial heart in your relationships?
- Peter declares that Jesus is “Lord of all” (v36)—not just of believers. How does recognizing Christ’s authority over everyone shape your view of people who currently reject or ignore him?
- The Spirit falls on Gentiles, who the people of God considered outsiders (v44-45). Who in your life feels unlikely or “too far gone” to come to faith—and how does this passage challenge that assumption?
- Peter speaks in a way that connects with his Gentile audience, emphasizing what they need to hear about Jesus. How can you grow in sharing the gospel in ways that are both faithful to Scripture and attentive to the specific person in front of you?
- The Holy Spirit comes while Peter is still speaking (v44). How does this remind you that God is already at work in people before and beyond your efforts—and how should that shape your confidence in evangelism?
- Peter asks, “Can anyone withhold water?” (v47). What unnecessary barriers (cultural, personal, or expectations) might we place in front of people who are responding to Christ today? Are there some barriers, perhaps for membership or leadership, that we should have?
- These new believers are baptized immediately (v48). Are there areas of obedience in your life where you’ve delayed responding to God? What would it look like to act promptly in faith?
- The Jewish believers are amazed that Gentiles receive the Spirit. How can you cultivate a heart that celebrates God saving unexpected people rather than hesitating or being skeptical?