In today's message, Trent discusses Acts 15, where the early church faced a pivotal moment regarding the inclusion of Gentiles in the faith. Paul and Barnabas confront those who claim that circumcision and adherence to the Law are necessary for salvation, leading to a significant debate among the apostles. Peter emphasizes that salvation comes through the grace of Jesus for all, not through religious rituals, while James reinforces the idea that the church should not complicate access to God for anyone. Ultimately, everyone is encouraged to foster an environment of belonging, reflecting Christ's love for all people, and to approach others with grace and acceptance as they share the gospel.

1. Have you ever walked into a new place — a gym, restaurant, church, party, etc. — and felt completely out of place? What made you feel that way? What helped you stay (or caused you to leave)?
   
   
2. What was the major tension in Acts 15, and why was it such a big deal for the early church? What about for us today?
   
   
3. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” How might this truth shape the way we welcome and walk with other in our community?
   
   
4. Read Acts 15:7-11 again. What stands out to you in Peter’s defense of grace? How does this challenge or encourage your understanding of salvation?
   
   
5. What would it look like this week to lead with belonging in one relationship or setting — at work, in your family, or in your neighborhood? 

In today's sermon, Tom shares insights from Acts chapters 13 and 14, emphasizing the significant transition in the early church as the focus shifts from Jerusalem to Antioch, where followers of Jesus were first called Christians. He highlights the mission of the church to be "SENT" into the world, showcasing the first missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas that set the groundwork for the global spread of the Gospel. Tom illustrates the transformative power of the Gospel through the diverse backgrounds of church leaders like Barnabas, Saul, and Manaen, who overcame their pasts to work together for Christ's mission. Ultimately, he encourages listeners that no one is too far gone for God's grace, and the church should embody unity in diversity, reflecting the love of Jesus to the world.

1. We learned Paul & Barnabas weren’t exactly a match made for each other... Talk about a time when you made an unexpected friend out of an unlikely duo. (Example: Work colleague, Old Roommate, etc.)

2. The diversity in Acts 13 is stunning. What do you think helped this community move from suspicion to unity? What might be preventing the modern church from doing the same?

3. Who in your life needs to hear that they are not beyond God's grace? What’s holding you back from having that conversation?

4. The early church was marked by a posture of being "sent." In what ways are you currently living a sent life? Where might God be calling you to go—or to grow?

1. Assume you’ve been sent on a two-year journey around the ancient world – no phones, no internet, no Chick-Fil-A. Who do you take with you, and what’s the one non-essential item you sneak into your travel bag?

2. Turn to Acts 13, was there a moment or interaction that especially caught your attention? What stood out to you and why?

3. What’s ONE way you could take a “missionary mindset” into your daily life in EACH of the following areas:

• Your Home
• Your Neighborhood
• Your Place of Work/School

4. Paul and Barnabas ended their journey by returning to the people and encouraging them to stay strong in their faith. Who in your life needs that kind of encouragement right now – how can you offer it this week?

ICEBREAKER:

Give us a quick snapshot – How many people were in your home growing up and describe your household “vibe” in 3 words

FAMILY OF ORIGIN REFLECTION:

• What’s one value your family instilled in you that you’re grateful for?
• What’s one thing you’ve chosen to do differently from how you were raised?
• Who in your family taught you the most about love? What did they do that stuck with you?

SCRIPTURE EXPLORATION:

Read Romans 8:15-17 and discuss the following,

• What does it mean to you that God didn’t just save you, but adopted you?
• Why do you think Paul added the phrase ‘Abba, Father’ here?
• Has there ever been a time when  have you struggled to live as someone fully secure in God’s family?

FINAL THOUGHTS & PRAYERS:

Finish this sentence... “One thing I hope to pass on --whether to my kids, friends, or community-- is _______”

Close your time by praying for the families represented in your group and thanking God for your spiritual family, too!

Today, we emphasized the importance of serving our community and church family with ‘Say Yes’ Sunday as a call to action for to engage in ministry. We highlighted the core value that "Rescued People Serve People," referencing Jesus' teaching that true greatness in God’s Kingdom is achieved through serving others, not through seeking power or position. We discussed how Jesus, even in His final days, demonstrated that serving is the path to greatness, urging listeners to consider where they can contribute.

1. Did anyone say, ‘YES!’ to serving somewhere this morning? If so, where and what lead you to say yes? 


2a. Read Matthew 20:25-28. Compare and contrast greatness from Jesus’ point of view compared to our cultural views. 

2b. According to Jesus’ views on greatness in the Kingdom of God, who is great among you? 


3. Why do you think Jesus emphasized serving during His last week? 


4. Many observe how serving has lead to their own spiritual growth. Can you think of a time where serving has positively affected your faith? 

If anyone in your group would like to hear more about potential serving opportunities, please go to northfieldchurch.net/cc to let us know and someone from Staff will reach out to you ASAP! 

Today, we continue the chapter-by-chapter study of Acts, focusing on the early church's persecution and the role of suffering in a believer's life. We emphasized that despite the seeming triumph of evil, like King Herod's actions against James and Peter, suffering is a part of the Christian journey that should be expected. Drawing from scriptures, Pastor highlights the concept of hope amid grief, reminding the congregation that God uses all experiences—both good and bad—to guide believers toward eternal life with Him. Ultimately, he reassures that nothing can separate us from God's love, and through faith in Jesus, we are promised a glorious future beyond our current suffering.

1.  Who or What is a small thing that’s brought you unexpected comfort lately

2. What does it mean to have a 'hope' in the context of suffering, as described in the sermon? How can focusing on this hope impact the way you respond to challenges and disappointments in your life?

3. What can we learn from the examples of David and Paul about trusting in God during tough times, especially when life seems unfair? (Use Psalm 23 & Romans 8 as your reference)

4. Can you think of a current situation where you might need to apply David's or Paul's perspective? How can this group help you in this scenario?

Today, we discussed the persecution faced by early Christians, particularly focusing on the contrasting fates of Peter and James in Acts 12. We emphasized that following Jesus does not guarantee an easy life, highlighting that suffering and injustice are part of the Christian journey. The sermon outlines the importance of expecting trials and remaining anchored in hope, believing that God is always at work for our good, even amidst pain. Ultimately, we are reminded that nothing can separate us from the love of God, reinforcing the steadfastness of faith in difficult times. 

1.  Why do you think the early church faced so much persecution, as seen with James' execution and Peter's imprisonment? Have you ever experienced a time when your beliefs or actions led to difficulties or challenges in your life? How did you respond?

2. How do you respond to the expectation of suffering as a follower of Jesus hit you? How can that perspective change your view on life's challenges?

3. What’s the difference between suffering for Christ and suffering from the consequences of poor choices? Why does that distinction matter?

4. Everyone take a moment to read Romans 8:28 from a few different translations. Talk about a time when something difficult in your life led to a positive outcome?

In today's message, we delved into Acts 12, highlighting the early church's struggles and the persecution faced by its leaders. Tom provides a backdrop on the rapid growth of the church following the resurrection of Jesus and recounts key moments in its history, including miraculous healings and the spread of the gospel to Gentiles. The chapter marks a shift, as the Jewish authorities begin to persecute believers, exemplified by King Herod's execution of James, one of the original disciples, which sets the tone as Peter finds himself in a similar predicament. Tom elaborates on the character of King Herod, tracing his lineage back to Herod the Great, and contextualizing the political motivations behind Herod's actions. This leads into a consideration of the challenging questions surrounding faith and suffering, particularly why some like James suffer persecution while others, like Peter, may escape it. Tom sets the stage for a deeper exploration of these themes in the coming discussions, prompting listeners to reflect on the complexities of faith during challenging times and the nature of divine intervention. 

1. What part of James and Peter’s journey stood out to you most—and why?

2. How does seeing James and Peter’s flaws and personalities help you relate to them as real

people instead of just Bible characters?

3. How do you find peace with unanswered questions about suffering? What has “faithfulness in suffering” looked like in your life?

4. When life feels confusing or painful—like when prayers go unanswered or outcomes don’t seem fair—what helps you hold onto God in those moments? Are there specific truths, practices, or people that keep your faith steady?

5. How might this group help you prepare to stay grounded when the next hard season comes?