Acts 3.1-11

S.O.A.P.
Acts 3.1-11
Observations: A) Peter and John were doing what they knew to do. B) They were not anti-Jewish or simply Christian; they were just followers of Christ. C) Some people, like the beggar don’t want to change or have given up that it will never be any better than begging. D) “Look at us”; how is it meant? “Do we look like we can help you?” or “Look at us, because we’re going to help you.” My grandmother used to say, “Look at me!” because she couldn’t explain it without motions and eye contact. E) The lame man was just asking everybody like a pastor at the door on a Sunday morning, “God bless you, God bless you, God bless you…” F) People are so quick to think that money will fix their issue. G) Spirit filled leaders like Peter and John are able to look beyond and see the real need. Pet and John knew from Jesus it wasn’t worth worrying about food; they remember the 5,000, the sparrow falling to the ground, and the fishing stories! They knew the future of the lame man was not in gold or silver by in meeting the Master! I) All the people were curious about the healing. Curious does not mean converted.

Application: Once you allow the Holy Spirit to fill you life it’s overwhelming how the confusion and emptiness leaves you. In Acts 1 & 2 it was Christ followers who were scared and empty and hopeless but they immediately (following the Holy Spirit) started to serve those that were scared and empty. Because they could relate to felling lame and begging and they knew what the Spirit could do. What do I have to offer? I know this about God… when you are obedient financially, He changes things. I know that God will give you strength to go through relationship disasters. I know God will give you strength as a parent if you turn to Him. I know God will open doors for serving opportunities and mission if you’re willing to walk through the doors. I know God will provide at your deepest need when you are listening. What do you know about God?

Prayer: Father God, I identify with three people in this story. I identify with the beggar because there are so many times I think I know exactly what my need is when all along you want to meet a deeper need that would solve what I am thinking. I identify with Peter and John, having confidence at the power of your Spirit working in someone’s life. I identify with the crowd that stood in amazement at the healing but had so many questions. All of these attitudes come and go; Needing, Confidence and Amazement. I think that’s okay with you. So today I say this: I need more of you in my life. I have confidence that you will meet my deepest need and I stand amazed at your work, your love and your devotion in my life. In Jesus name, Amen