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| RESPOND: (10–12 minutes) Say, “We are all beggars. We all are completely dependent on God. We can’t heal ourselves. We might not be physically lame, but we are crippled by sin, by fear, by addictions and many other things. And there’s nothing we can do about our sorry state. But we can accept God’s grace and healing in our lives. Even if we don’t know how to ask for it in the right way, God is there, wanting to heal us.” Give each student a gift box that has a lid and one sheet of paper. Instruct them to write what they really need from God on the piece of paper. Then they are to place the paper in the gift, close the lid and place it at your worship center. Close with a song and prayer together. INSIGHTS FROM THE SCRIPTURE: The first chapters of Acts nearly burst off the pages with action and excitement. Our story from Acts 3 needs to be read and understood in the context of the earlier chapters. Luke is painting a detailed picture of the church at its infancy, so each story is best understood in the midst of its literary context. Acts 1 functions as a “bookend” to the end of Acts. Jesus and disciples begin in Jerusalem. The book ends with Paul in Rome, at this far outpost, spreading the word. Chapter 1 explains this geographical movement. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) Luke’s narratives follow this pattern without exception. Another pattern to watch in Acts is the action, reflection, and persecution movement. Many times the apostles or other believers act. Then Peter or someone else explains the meaning of the action. Many times, but not always, persecution follows. Our story is the action. When a crowd gathers in wonder at the miracle, Peter takes the opportunity to reflect and preach the good news. Then Peter and John are brought before the authorities. Continued... |
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