The Freeing God

Saturday, October 31, 2015
Acts 12:12-18 KJV 

12 And when he had considered [the thing], he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. 13 And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. 14 And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. 15 And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. 16 But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened [the door], and saw him, they were astonished. 17 But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place. 18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) After the Apostle Peter had been awakened in prison and escorted out by an angel, what did he do and what were the other disciples doing, at that time? (v.12)
2) Who did Peter encounter after he knocked at the door of the gate and how did that person respond? (v.13-14)
3) How did the other disciples respond to the young girl's report? (v.15)
4) What did Peter continue doing and what did the disciples find after opening the door? (v.16) 
5) What was Peter's response to the other disciples and and what how did the soldiers respond the following morning? (v.17-18)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Have you ever been miraculously delivered from a seemingly impossible situation? If so, briefly describe what happened?

LIFE LESSONS
7) Nothing can abort the plan of God for the lives of those who follow the Lord Jesus Christ.

God Saves Paul

October 30, 2015
Acts 27:14-25 KJV 

14 But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. 15 And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let [her] drive. 16 And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat: 17 Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven. 18 And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next [day] they lightened the ship; 19 And the third [day] we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. 20 And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on [us], all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. 21 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. 22 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of [any man's] life among you, but of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, 24 Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. 25 Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What happened to the ship that carried the Apostle Paul to Rome and what did those aboard the vessel do to make their journey smoother? (v.14-20)
2) Of what did the Apostle Paul remind those aboard the ship? (v.21)
3) What happened to the apostle, during the voyage, that gave him hope and caused him to encourage the other men on the ship? (v.22-25)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) How do you encourage yourself during difficulties and trials that would otherwise discourage, or even frighten you?

LIFE LESSONS
5) During seasons of tumult, the greatest source of encouragement that believers have are the promises of God.

The Faithful God

October 29, 2015
Daniel 6:25-28 KJV 

25 Then king Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you. 26 I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he [is] the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion [shall be even] unto the end. 27 He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions. 28 So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did King Darius do after finding Daniel alive in the lion's den and what became of Daniel? (v.25-28)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
2) Has the Lord ever done anything miraculous in your life that caused others to surrender their lives to Christ? If so, what did He do?

LIFE LESSONS
3) The greatest miracle of God is salvation through belief in the Lord Jesus Christ!

God Saves Daniel

Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Daniel 6:19-24 KJV 

19 Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions. 20 And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: [and] the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? 21 Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever. 22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt. 23 Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God. 24 And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they cast [them] into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the bottom of the den.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) The king had issued an edict that no one in his kingdom could pray to anyone except him. However, Daniel continued to make petition to the Lord three times a day and was placed in the lion's den. The king mourned and fasted over Daniel through the night. What did the king ask when he went to the lion's den the next morning? (v.19-20)
2) What was Daniel's response to the king? (v.21-22)
3) What did the king command concerning Daniel and what was found after Daniel was taken from the lion's den? (v.23)
4) What command did the king issue for those who had accused Daniel? (v.24a)
5) What became of the men and their families? (v.24b)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Are you prepared to forsake your relationships, reputation, and/or life for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ? If not, why not?

LIFE LESSONS
7) This world is not home to those who follow Christ.
8) Our allegience to Christ may cost us our reputations and even our lives.

The Shepherd Who Restores

Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Psalm 80:1-3, 7, 17-19 KJV 

1 [[To the chief Musician upon Shoshannimeduth, A Psalm of Asaph.]] Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest [between] the cherubims, shine forth. 2 Before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh stir up thy strength, and come [and] save us. 3 Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved. ... 7 Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved. ... 17 Let thy hand be upon the man of thy right hand, upon the son of man [whom] thou madest strong for thyself. 18 So will not we go back from thee: quicken us, and we will call upon thy name. 19 Turn us again, O LORD God of hosts, cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) How does the psalmist refer to our Lord at the beginning of this psalm? (v.1)
2) What does the psalmist entreat the Lord to do for His people and His servant? Why? (v.2-3,7,17-19)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
3) What must the Lord do to cause you to turn to Him and away from sin?
4) What must a nation do to cause the Lord to turn to Him and away from our transgressions?

LIFE LESSONS
5) The Lord will often allow tribulation and calamity to cause His people to repent and be restored to Himself.

The Rock That Saves

October 26, 2015
Psalm 18:1-9 KJV 

1 [[To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David, the servant of the LORD, who spake unto the LORD the words of this song in the day [that] the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul: And he said,]] I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. 2 The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower. 3 I will call upon the LORD, [who is worthy] to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. 4 The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. 5 The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me. 6 In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, [even] into his ears. 7 Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth. 8 There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were kindled by it. 9 He bowed the heavens also, and came down: and darkness [was] under his feet.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) Under what circumstances did David (the psalmist) write this psalm? (v.1a-1b)
2) What had the Lord become to psalmist and what did David commit to the Lord, as a result? (v.1c-3)
3) What sorrows compassed the psalmist? (v.4-5)
4) What did David do in his distress and how did the Lord respond? (v.6)
5) How was the Lord's wrath made evident within Himself, on the earth, and in heaven, in response to David's distress?

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) What has the Lord done for you when you were distressed?

LIFE LESSONS
7) The Lord will always move the heavens and the earth to deliver those, who are intimate with Him, from their distress. 

Trusting the Spirit

Sunday, October 25, 2015
Act 11:1-18 KJV 

1 And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. 2 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, 3 Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them. 4 But Peter rehearsed [the matter] from the beginning, and expounded [it] by order unto them, saying, 5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: 6 Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 7 And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat. 8 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. 9 But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, [that] call not thou common. 10 And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven. 11 And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me. 12 And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house: 13 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; 14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved. 15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. 16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as [he did] unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? 18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. 

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did the apostles and disciples hear about the Gentiles in Judea? (v.1) 
2) What happened to the Apostle Peter when he went to Jerusalem? (v.2-3)
3) How did Peter respond? (v.4-17)
4) How did the Jewish disciples respond to what the Apostle Peter told them? (v.18)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) Have you ever refused to share Christ with anyone because of their ethnicity or economic station in life? If so, why?
6) Has you ever been challenged about the people that you shared Christ with? If so, why?

LIFE LESSONS
7) Our Lord died for everyone and expects His followers to share Him with whoever He sends our way.
8) We share Christ through our testimony and are witnesses to the love of Christ through the giving of our time, talent and/or treasure.

Called Christians

Saturday, October 24, 2015
Acts 11:19-26

19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. 20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. 22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. 23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. 25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) Where were the disciples of Christ scattered to during the persecution that arose following Stephen's stoning and what did they do? (v.19)
2) Where did the gentile believers go and and what did they do? (v.20)
3) What was the result of their ministry wherever they went? Why? (v.21)
4) Who heard about what was happening among the scattered disciples and how did they respond? (v.22)
5) What did Barnabus witness and how did he respond? Why? (v.23-25)
6) What happened in Antioch? (v.26)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
7) Have you ever been witness to, or heard of, a revival in your local church, or another church in a different city? If so, what caused the revival?

LIFE LESSONS
8) Trials, tribulations and/or persecutions often precede the greatest revivals in this nation and/or around this world.

Good Examples to Follow

Friday, October 23, 2015
Philippians 3:17-21 KJV 

17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. 18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, [that they are] the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end [is] destruction, whose God [is their] belly, and [whose] glory [is] in their shame, who mind earthly things.) 20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: 21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) How does the Apostle Paul encourage followers of Christ to live righteously in this world? (v.17)
2) Who are the "enemies of the cross" and what will be their end? (v.18-19)
3) What are disciples of Christ to set their affections on? Why? (v.20-21)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) What has captured your attention (allegience) more, temporal (earthly) things or eternal things.

LIFE LESSONS
5) We will not be glorified with Christ unless our lives are wholly surrendered to Him, to the glory of our Heavenly Father.

Stranger's Become Heavens Citizens

Thursday, October 22, 2015
Ephesians 2:11-22 KJV 

11 Wherefore remember, that ye [being] in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition [between us]; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, [even] the law of commandments [contained] in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, [so] making peace; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: 17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner [stone]; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) Of what does the Apostle Paul remind Gentile believers? (v.11-13)
2) What has our Lord Jesus done for Jewish and Gentile believers? (v.14-17)
3) What has been granted every believer in the Lord Jesus (Jew and Gentile)? Why? (v.18-22) 

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) Why were you a stranger to God and to His people, prior to your salvation?

LIFE LESSONS
5) Though we were once enemies of God, we have now been reconciled to Him and are citizens of heaven through belief in Christ's sacrifice on the cross for our sins.

A Gentle Defense

Wednesday, October 21, 2015
1 Peter 3:13-18 KJV 

13 And who [is] he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? 14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy [are ye]: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 16 Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. 17 For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. 18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What question does the Apostle Peter ask his readers in this passage of Scripture? (v.13)
2) How should those who suffer for "righteousness sake" feel? Why? (v.14a)
3) Whom should those who suffer for well doing fear and what should they do instead? Why? (v.14b-18)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) Have you ever suffered for well doing? If so, briefly describe what happened.

LIFE LESSONS
5) "All who live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution!"

Water for Everyone

Tuesday, October 20, 2015
John 4:3-14 KJV 

3 He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee. 4 And he must needs go through Samaria. 5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with [his] journey, sat thus on the well: [and] it was about the sixth hour. 7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. 8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.) 9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. 10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. 11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle? 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) Where did Jesus go after leaving Judea and what did He do when He grew weary? (v.3-6)
2) Who did Jesus meet at the well and what did He ask that person? Why? (v.7-8)
3) How did the woman respond to Jesus? (v.9)
4) What was Jesus' response to her? (v.10)
5) What did the woman ask Jesus about the living water and about Himself? (v.11-12)
6) How did Jesus respond to her questions? (v.13-14)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
7) How do you quench your "thirst" for righteousness? 

LIFE LESSONS
8) The Lord has placed a longing in every human being to be good and to do good deeds.
9) Our desire to live righteously can only be filled in a relationship with Father God, through His Son (Jesus Christ) and the Holy Spirit.

10) Our thirst to be "righteous" is continually filled as we "drink" the "living water" of God's word, which is Spirit and Life.

A Light to the Nations

Monday, October 19, 2015
Isaiah 49:5-7 KJV 

5 And now, saith the LORD that formed me from the womb [to be] his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, Though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my God shall be my strength. 6 And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth. 7 Thus saith the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, [and] his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the LORD that is faithful, [and] the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What does the Lord's Servant say about Himself? (v.5)
2) What does the Lord say to His Servant? (v.6)
3) What does the Lord say about Himself and about the hearts of His people toward Him? (v.7)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) What have you done to demonstrate your loyalty and commitment to the Lord?

LIFE LESSONS
5) The Lord has chosen those, whose hearts are fully committed to Him and to His lordship, to shine as lights to the darkened hearts of the rebellious.

Peter Takes Another Risk

October 17, 2015
Acts 10:24-38 KJV 

24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends. 25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped [him]. 26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. 27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. 28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore came I [unto you] without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me? 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of [one] Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 34 Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which [God] sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, [I say], ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) How did Cornelius react before and after the Apostle Peter arrived in Caesarea? (v.24-25)
2) How did Peter respond to Cornelius' greeting and who else did he find assembled in Cornelius' house? (v.26-27)
3) What did Peter say to those assembled in Cornelius' house and what did he ask them? (v.28-29)
4) What was Cornelius' response to Peter? (v.30-33)
5) What did Peter tell those assembled about God and the Lord Jesus Christ (v.34-38)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Who first witnessed to you about Jesus Christ?
7) What did they say that convinced you of your need for Him in your life?
8) Have you ever refused to share Christ with an unbeliever? If so, why?

LIFE LESSONS
8) The Holy Spirit emboldens and inspires believers to share the Gospel in ways that will convince them that Jesus is real, convict their hearts of sin, and compel them to give their lives to Christ.

God For All

Saturday, October 17, 2015
Acts 10:39-48 KJV 

39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God [to be] the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) After preaching to Cornelius and his household about Jesus, what did the Apostle Peter tell them that he and his fellow disciples were witnesses to? (v.39-41)
2) What did Jesus command His disciples to witness to and why? (v.42-43)
3) What happened as Peter was witnessing to Cornelius and his family? (v.44)
4) How did the Jewish believers respond? Why? (v.45-46)
5) What was the Apostle Peter's question and command to those who witnessed what happened next? (v.47-48)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) How do you know that you have received the Holy Spirit?

LIFE LESSONS
7) The Holy Spirit is given to everyone who believes on the Lord Jesus Christ and earnestly desires or seeks the Holy Spirit's infilling.
8) The infilling of the Holy Spirit is not only manifested through speaking in unknown tongues, but through an immediate change in one's behavior and/or character.
9) The Holy Spirit is given to empower the believer to witness for the Lord Jesus Christ and to live a Spirit-led life.
10) Baptism is an external sign of an internal reality.

Peter Follows Through

Friday, October 16, 2015
Acts 10:17-23 KJV 

17 Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made enquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, 18 And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. 19 While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. 20 Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them. 21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what [is] the cause wherefore ye are come? 22 And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. 23 Then called he them in, and lodged [them]. And on the morrow Peter went away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What was Peter doing while the men Cornelius sent to him were waiting his house? What did they want from the Apostle? (v.17-18)
2) Who alerted Peter that Cornelius' men were outside his house and what was he told to do? (v.19-20)
3) What did Peter do next and how did he respond to the visitors? (v.21)
4) What did the men tell Peter? (v.22)
5) What did Peter do for the men that night and on the following morning? (v.23)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Has the Holy Spirit ever asked you to do something that made no sense to you? If so, how did you respond.

LIFE LESSONS
7) The only correct response to the leading of the Holy Spirit is obedience, whether we understand what He is doing, or not.

Peter is Stretched

Thursday, October 15, 2015
Acts 10:1-16 KJV 

1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian [band], 2 [A] devout [man], and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for [one] Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. 7 And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; 8 And when he had declared all [these] things unto them, he sent them to Joppa. 9 On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour: 10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, 11 And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: 12 Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. 14 But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. 15 And the voice [spake] unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, [that] call not thou common. 16 This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What does the Scripture tell you about Cornelius? (v.1-3)
2) What did Cornelius see in a vision, what was said to him, and how did Cornelius respond? (v.4-8)
3) What did the Apostle Peter see and hear in a vision and what was his response to what he heard? (v.9-16)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) Has the Lord ever asked you to do anything that you were opposed to doing? If so, briefly describe what happened.

LIFE LESSONS
5) The Lord will, at times, ask His people to do things that grow our faith in Him.

Lord of the Sabbath

Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Matthew 12:1-8 KJV

1 At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. 2 But when the Pharisees saw [it], they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day. 3 But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him; 4 How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? 5 Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? 6 But I say unto you, That in this place is [one] greater than the temple. 7 But if ye had known what [this] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. 8 For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did Jesus and His disciples do on the Sabbath day? (v.1)
2) How did the religious leaders respond to what they did? (v.2)
3) What was Jesus' response to the Pharisees? (v.3-8)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
4) What does the statement, "I will have mercy and not sacrifice" mean to you?
5) How do you demonstrate your beliefs in the mercy of God your own life?
6) Are you "resting" in Jesus, or are you performing your way into eternal life?

LIFE LESSONS
7) The Lord expects His people to worship Him by extending His mercy, rather than His judgment, to others.
8) Jesus is our Sabbath because He is the One whom we may "rest" in from the trials and difficulties of this life. 
9) Performance oriented religion always leads to spiritual exhaustion, fatigue and burn-out.
10) To "rest" is to cease from one's own striving to allow the Lord to be God in our lives.

Peter Takes a Risk

Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Matthew 14:22-33 KJV 

22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. 24 But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. 25 And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. 27 But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. 28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. 29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. 31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth [his] hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? 32 And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. 33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) After feeding the five thousand, what did Jesus constrain his disciples to do? (v.22)
2) What did Jesus do after the multitudes departed? (v.23)
3) What was happening to the ship that the disciples had boarded? (v.24)
4) How and when did Jesus go to them and how did they respond when they saw Him? (v.25-26)
5) What did Jesus say to them to calm them? (v.27)
6) What did Peter say to the Lord? (v.28)
7) How did the Lord respond and what did Peter do? (v.29)
8) Why did Peter begin to sink and what did the Lord do in response? (v.30-31)
9) When did the wind cease and what did the disciples do and say to the Lord, in response? (v.32-33)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
10) What do you do when everything seems to be going wrong in your life?
11) What risks are you willing to take, to draw closer to our Lord, in faith?

LIFE LESSONS
12) Our first response during troubling times should always be to pray to the only One who has the power to assail our fears and to right whatever is troubling us.
13) The Lord allows storms in our lives to test our faith in Him.
14) The Lord expects us to hold fast to our faith in Him, no matter how dire our circumstances may appear to be.
15) When we keep our focus on the Lord, we will not be overwhelmed by the trials and troubles of this life.

God's Love Prevails

Monday, October 12, 2015
Romans 8:31-39 KJV 

31 What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? [It is] God that justifieth. 34 Who [is] he that condemneth? [It is] Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What questions does the Apostle Paul ask the readers in this passage of Scripture? What  (v.31-35)
2) What does Paul conclude about the trial that we suffer in this life? (v.36-38)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
3) What, if anything, can seperate you from the love of God?

LIFE LESSONS
4) There is no trial, hardship, or suffering that is able to separate from God's love. Not even death!

Saul Earns Credibility

Sunday, October 11, 2015
Acts 9:19b-31 KJV 

19b Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. 20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. 21 But all that heard [him] were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? 22 But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ. 23 And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: 24 But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. 25 Then the disciples took him by night, and let [him] down by the wall in a basket. 26 And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him, and brought [him] to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem. 29 And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him. 30 [Which] when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus. 31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did Saul do after his sight was restored? (v.19b-20)
2) What did everyone in say about Saul's actions? (v. 21)
3) What else happened to Saul after his conversion? (v.22-24)
4) What did the Jewish disciples do for Saul? (v.25)
5) How did the Jewish disciples, in Jerusalem, respond to Saul (v.26)
6) What did Barnabus do for Saul? (v.27)
7) What did Saul do after that (v.28-29)
8) What did the Jewish believers do to Saul next? What was the result? (v.30-31)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
9) Have you ever heard of an individual(s) who was not well received by a local body of believers? If so, what if anything was done to help that individual(s) to be accepted within the body of Christ? 

LIFE LESSONS
10) The Lord God receives all, who truly believe in Him, into His body, whether the local church does, or not.

God's Unconventional Way

Saturday, October 10, 2015
Acts 9:10-19a KJV 

10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I [am here], Lord. 11 And the Lord [said] unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for [one] called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting [his] hand on him, that he might receive his sight. 13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. 15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. 17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, [even] Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. 19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) After Saul's Damascus Road encounter with Jesus, whom did the Lord call to minister to Saul and what did He tell him to do? (v.10-12)
2) How did the man respond to the Lord? (v.13-14)
3) How did the Lord answer the man? (v.15-16)
4) What did the Lord's servant do next? (v.17)
5) What happened to Saul? (v.18-19a)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
6) Do you know of anyone who was not well received in your church, or another church, because of their former lifestyle or reputation?
7) What, if anything, did you do to welcome the new convert into the household of faith?

LIFE LESSONS
8) The Lord is able to convert the vilest offender and to use them for His glory.

God's Surprising Way

Friday, October 9, 2015
Acts 9:1-9 KJV

1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, 2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. 3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: [it is] hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord [said] unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. 7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. 8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought [him] into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) After Stephen was martyred, what did Saul do? (v.1-2)
2) What happened to Saul as he journeyed near Damascus? (v.3-6)
3) What did the men who journeyed with Saul think of all that had happened to him? (v.7)
4) What took place in Saul's life for the three days following his encounter with the Lord? (v.8-9)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) What were you doing before you were saved? Please describe your "Damascus" road experience.
6) How has the Lord changed your life since you have surrendered your life to Him?

LIFE LESSONS
7) The Lord has different ways of causing His chosen to surrender to His will and to His ways. 

God's Awesome Way

Thursday, October 8, 2015
Luke 11:30-37 KJV 

30 For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation. 31 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon [is] here. 32 The men of Nineve shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas [is] here. 33 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth [it] in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light. 34 The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when [thine eye] is evil, thy body also [is] full of darkness. 35 Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness. 36 If thy whole body therefore [be] full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light. 37 And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.

OBSERVATION QUESTIONS
1) What did our Lord say to the multitude concerning signs? (v.30)
2) Who did our Lord say would "rise up in judgment against this generation and condemn them"? Why? (v.31-32)
3) What did our Lord have to say about "light"? (v.33-36)
4) Who did Jesus dine with after He talked with the multitude? (v.37)

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
5) How do you allow the "light" to shine through you?
6) Who has come to the Lord as a result of your ministry to unbelievers?

LIFE LESSONS
7) The Lord has commissioned His followers to be bearers of His light through our ministry to those He died to save.