Sometimes Christians argue over the role of the Holy Spirit, particularly in elements of Christian worship such as speaking in tongues. Interestingly, this “debate” was going on immediately after the Holy Spirit was poured out on the first Christians. Some onlookers even accused them of being drunk!
While we cannot examine the various views of spiritual gifts here, it is worth reflecting generally on our attitude toward those with whom we disagree, including our brothers and sisters in Christ. Because none of us are perfect or infallible, we may disagree about certain interpretations of Scripture. However, we should all agree that when the gift of the Holy Spirit is poured out on people, we should rejoice at God’s work in the world.
Instead of scoffing at others, like those in the crowd in this passage, we can rejoice any time when someone is rejoicing in God for His work in his or her life. We are all prone toward skepticism and doubt at times, but unlike the scoffers, we should stand ready to rejoice when the Holy Spirit works in us and in the world.
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Adults
Every week for Volume 4: From Captivity to the Wilderness, Ken Braddy, Lifeway’s director of Sunday School, will offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Adults.
Podcast (adultsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Students
Every week, student ministry leaders offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Students. Listen in as he shares:
- The main point of the session
- Any challenges and opportunities for additional discussion that may arise during this session
- Encouragements for leaders
Podcast (studentsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
A Final Reminder
Don’t forget, you can find tools to help you prepare and lead the discussion in the Additional Resources for this volume. We hope these are a blessing to you as you walk through this session together.
*This week’s leader devotional is written by Brandon D. Smith. It is adapted from the daily devotions for Unit 28, Session 1 from The Gospel Project for Adults’ Daily Discipleship Guide.
