Seeds of Persecution Acts 4 Pt2

November 3rd, 2025
This sermon focuses on Acts 4:5-12, examining the interrogation of Peter and John after they healed a crippled man. The pastor emphasizes that when Christians face questioning about their faith, it's a God-given opportunity to share the gospel rather than argue. The religious leaders, government officials, and temple police all gathered to intimidate the apostles, but Peter and John stood firm, boldly declaring that the healing was done through Jesus Christ - the same Jesus these leaders had crucified but whom God raised from the dead. The sermon highlights Jesus as both the cornerstone and capstone, the foundation and completion of our faith. The pastor warns that people must either fall broken upon this cornerstone (Jesus) in humility and repentance, or they will be crushed to powder by it in judgment.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with open hearts and minds, ready to receive what You have for us in this time together. We ask that You would speak to each person here according to their need. Help us to be honest about where we are in our walk with You, and give us courage to stand firm in our faith when we face questions or opposition. Holy Spirit, guide our discussion and help us to encourage one another as we grow in our understanding of Your Word. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

Share about a time when you felt intimidated in a group setting - maybe at work, school, or in a social situation. How did you handle it?

Key Verses

  • Acts 4:8-12
  • Psalm 118:22
  • Luke 20:17-18
  • Isaiah 28:16
  • Ephesians 2:19-20

Questions

  • Why do you think the religious leaders felt threatened by the healing of the crippled man and the apostles' ministry?
  • Peter went from denying Jesus to boldly proclaiming Him before the same type of authorities. What made the difference?
  • The pastor mentioned that when people interrogate us about our faith, it's a 'God moment.' How can we prepare ourselves to respond well in these situations?
  • What does it mean that Jesus is both the cornerstone and the capstone of our faith? How does this impact how we view our salvation?
  • The sermon emphasized not arguing with people but sharing the gospel instead. Why is this approach more effective?
  • How do you think jealousy, power, and control issues affect churches and ministries today? Have you witnessed this?
  • What does it mean to 'fall broken upon the cornerstone' versus being 'crushed to powder' by it?
  • Peter's simple testimony was: 'Jesus was crucified, raised from the dead, and I received Him as my Lord and Savior.' How would you share your testimony in a similar, simple way?

Life Application

This week, practice sharing your testimony in 60 seconds or less, focusing on three simple elements: your life before Christ, how you came to faith in Jesus, and how He has changed your life. Look for opportunities to share this with someone - whether a family member, coworker, or friend who asks about your faith.

Key Takeaways

  • When people question our faith, it's an opportunity to share the gospel, not win an argument
  • Jesus Christ is the cornerstone - the foundation of our faith and the only way to salvation
  • We must be willing to stand firm in our faith even when facing intimidation or opposition
  • A simple testimony focusing on Jesus' death, resurrection, and personal salvation is powerful and effective
  • People must either fall broken upon Christ in humility or face being crushed by Him in judgment

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for being our cornerstone - our sure foundation and our hope. Help us to stand boldly for You as Peter and John did, even when we face opposition or intimidation. Give us wisdom to share our faith with gentleness and respect, always pointing people to You rather than trying to win arguments. For those in our group who may still be wrestling with surrendering their lives to You, we pray they would fall broken upon You in humility rather than resist Your call. Strengthen our faith and help us to live as testimonies of Your grace and power. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.