CPC Discussions: “Christians in the Age of Outrage” Acts 19:21-41 Rev. Ryan Laughlin

Monday, August 10, 2020

“Christians in the Age of Outrage” Acts 19:21-41 Rev. Ryan Laughlin

Sermon Discussion Questions

1) After reading over the text, why was Demetrius the silversmith upset? Sometimes at the root of our anger is a fear of loss. What was Demetrius fearing he would lose? Can you see some parallels in the Ephesus culture and the current culture we are living in?

2) What was Paul’s response after his 2 friends were dragged away by the crowd?

3) Sermon quote: “It is the responsibility of every Christian to speak the truth in love.” Are there times in our lives when this is difficult? Have you experienced someone speaking truth to you in love that ended up being really helpful?

4) In ancient Ephesus, many Ephesians saw the goddess Artemis (Diana in Greek) as their protector. What (idols) or whom do we put our trust in at times?

5) How does the gospel and the work of Christ help us when we are approaching our sinful anger, idols or our fears of loss, etc? Give some examples. There are times when righteous anger is appropriate. How do we live in hope and “rise above” the age of outrage?

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Seven Tips For Staying On Track

1. Read through the Bible together with other people.

2. There will be some passages that you may not find interesting and / or difficult to read. Remember 2 Timothy 3:16-17 as you read these passages: "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be equipped for every good work." Ask yourself why God spoke this particular passage, and how it is profitable to you.

3. Do the whole reading for each day, but look for a "best thought" for each day - something you can ponder the rest of the day, a verse to memorize, something memorable.

4. As you come the Word each morning, ask God to open your eyes to the wonders found in his word.

5. Let your prayers for others flow out of what you read. Pray and read Scripture. After you read a passage, pray that passage for yourself and for others.

6. Some readings will be long and some short. Take advantage of shorter passages by reading them carefully, reflecting, asking questions, praying for answers, engage.

7. Look for ways you can practically live out what you're reading. James 1:22, "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves."

*The above is taken from Stephen Witmer, http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/tgc/2010/12/29/two-year-bible-reading-plan/