Discussion Questions
What Now? - Part Six
1. What stood out to you in Pastor James’ message this week?
2. Can you recall the first time you prayed to God? What do you remember about it?
3. Read Acts 12:1-16. Jesus’ followers were mourning the loss of James. Now Peter and some of the others are in prison. Describe how you think the followers must have been feeling at this time.
4. Verse 6 tells us that Peter was sleeping in prison the night before Herod was about to kill him. What does this say about Peter’s faith in God?
PRAYING INVITES GOD TO OPEN DOORS
5. Read John 14:13. Prayer is not about informing God but involving God. It is inviting God to do the impossible. Why do you think we often try to handle things on our own before turning to God in prayer? Who receives the glory when God answers our prayers?
6. Read Matthew 7:7-8 These verses emphasize the importance of persistence in coming to God and maintaining a relationship with Him as His children. How persistent are children when they want something from you? How do you think God feels when you are persistent with Him?
DON’T STOP PRAYING UNTIL GOD MOVES
7. Do you have the patience to continue confidently asking God, believing that He will act if you ask? Do you approach God in prayer, expecting Him to change you or the circumstances around you as you seek Him?
8. Why do you think it’s part of our nature to stop knocking before we see God answer our prayers?
BE READY TO OPEN THE DOOR
9. Read Revelation 3:20. This passage suggests that God is ready to provide answers to things we have not yet seen, but it requires faith on our part to move forward and open the door. How does our responsibility align with what God is doing in this situation?
10. Can you share a personal experience when you witnessed God opening a door of opportunity in your life?
11. Read Acts 12:15. The believers found it easier to believe that Peter's angel was at the door rather than believing it was actually Peter. How common is it for believers to pray for something but miss God's answer because they were expecting a different outcome?