Bible Study on Acts 1:4-14 - Understanding God's Plan and Waiting for the Holy Spirit

Introduction

• Presenter: Brian, pastor at Pax Christian Church
• Focus: Bible study on Acts 1:4-14
• Theme: Understanding God's plan and the importance of waiting for the Holy Spirit

Key Verses and Themes

Acts 1:4-5

• Jesus commands disciples not to leave Jerusalem
• Wait for the Father's promised gift: the Holy Spirit
• Connection to previous teaching on the baptism of John with water vs. the upcoming baptism with the Holy Spirit

Acts 1:6-8

• Disciples ask about restoring the kingdom to Israel
• Jesus emphasizes unknown timing of God’s plans
• Assurance of receiving power from the Holy Spirit
• Purpose of waiting: to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth

Acts 1:9-11

• Ascension of Jesus
• Disciples are reminded by two angels not to remain inactive
• Jesus will return in the same way as he ascended

Lessons and Applications

Importance of Waiting

• Jesus instructs disciples to wait before acting
• Waiting is a common theme in prayer and divine instruction
• Personal stories of waiting in ministry and recognizing God’s timing

Role of Prayer

• Disciples respond by returning to Jerusalem and praying
• Prayer as preparation for understanding God’s direction
• Importance of communal prayer: Disciples, women, Mary, and Jesus’ brothers join in constant prayer

Preparing for God's Call

• Pausing and praying helps prepare for God's instructions
• Examples from personal experience in church planting
• God’s unexpected provisions when following His call

Encouragement and Reflection

Discussion Points

• How do individuals best hear from God in prayer?
• Different methods: solitude, musical worship, contemplation, or direct prayer

Call to Action

• Encourage listeners to pause, pray, and prepare
• Seek God’s guidance in all actions instead of rushing ahead
• Open invitation to share prayer engagement strategies in comments

Conclusion

• Listening to God’s spirit is crucial for effective ministry
• Continuous prayer aids in understanding God’s plan
• Encouragement to act in accordance with Jesus' teachings and be "rad for Jesus"