GETTING TO KNOW YOU:

How do you usually react when you perceive a teammate, friend, or partner backs out of something unexpectedly?

What helps you maintain your focus on God’s calling when circumstances get discouraging or plans change?

INTO THE BIBLE:

Q1 - Paul starts his sermon by reviewing Israel’s history, highlighting how God chose them, led them, and provided for them. Why is remembering our own spiritual history and God's past faithfulness so important when we face uncertain futures?

Q2 - The initial response to Paul's sermon is highly positive, but by the next week, the religious leaders become jealous of the crowds. How can we guard our hearts against jealousy or competition when we see others succeeding in life or ministry? How can we anchor our identity in Christ so that we aren't shaken by either human praise or human rejection?

Q3 - Paul concludes his sermon in verse 41 by quoting Habakkuk 1:5. In its original Old Testament context, Habakkuk was warning Israel that God was about to raise up the ruthless Babylonians to destroy Jerusalem. Why do you think Paul is using this specific text to warn first-century Jews who reject Jesus?

Q4 - In verse 47, Paul and Barnabas justify turning to the Gentiles by quoting Isaiah 49:6. Read Isaiah 49:1–6. Who is the original "Servant" in Isaiah's prophecy, and what does it mean for Paul, Barnabas, and the church to step into and carry out that same mission?

Q5 - In verse 51, they shake the dust off their feet. Read Luke 9:5 and Luke 10:10–11. Why did Jesus command this specific action? What does this physical gesture symbolically declare about a community's spiritual standing before God?

APPLICATION:

Think about a recent area of your life where you experienced a painful "closed door," a sharp rejection, or an unmet expectation (this could be a broken relationship, a failed career path, a ministry effort that fell flat, or a dream that didn't materialize)...

Are you still spiritually carrying the "dust" of that past disappointment—allowing bitterness, second-guessing, or resentment to weigh you down and stall your spiritual momentum?

What practical, faith-filled step do you need to take this week to fully entrust that situation to God, "shake off the dust," and reclaim the joy and forward-moving power of the Holy Spirit for the next assignment He has for you?