SERMON RECAP
In this message, Pastor Justin Kendrick challenged the church to examine whether our faith is genuine and growing. Using Acts 4–5, he showed that authentic Christianity is not just outward appearance or religious activity, but an inner transformation by the Holy Spirit that progressively changes us into the image of Jesus. The early church faced pressure, threats, and uncertainty, yet instead of shrinking back, they prayed for boldness. They trusted that God was sovereign, even when the world around them was shaking.
The sermon invited us to ask whether the resurrection of Jesus has truly “shaken” us. If Christ has conquered sin, fear, and even death itself, then followers of Jesus can become unshakable in a shaky world. Genuine faith begins to show itself through enduring service, dynamic relationship with God and others, and supernatural generosity. The invitation is not toward guilt or performance, but toward honest surrender: “Lord, take out the fakes that have hidden inside me that I might become in all ways devoted to you.”
SCRIPTURE
Acts 4:23–5:2; 3, 2 Corinthians 13:5, Psalm 2, Hebrews 12:26–28. James 5:11, Job, 1 Chronicles 12:38
HOW TO USE THIS DISCUSSION GUIDE
As you lead the discussion, note there is a specific framework. We believe that spiritual growth works best through a specific “working model of change” that includes five key areas: Head, Heart, Hands, Share, and Check-In. Please be intentional in guiding the group through each section.
HEAD: These questions help us examine what the scripture shows.
HEART: These questions help us wrestle with what we believe and how God may be shaping our hearts.
HANDS: This is where we practice obedience together in community and apply what God is speaking.
SHARE: MISSION: These questions encourage each person to live on mission during the week by sharing what they learned, praying for others, or looking for opportunities to share the gospel.
NEXT WEEK CHECK-IN: At the beginning of the next group gathering, take a few minutes for members to share how they practiced the HANDS step and how they lived out the SHARE: MISSION step during the week. This builds accountability and encourages continued spiritual growth.
Leader Reminder
The goal of this discussion is not just conversation but transformation. Encourage participation, honesty, and practical obedience.
ICE BREAKER
- What is something in life that looked strong on the outside but turned out to be weaker than expected?
- When life feels uncertain or unstable, what is usually your first response?
- What is one habit or rhythm that helps you feel grounded when life gets stressful?
HEAD
What does the scripture show?
- What did the believers ask for in prayer, and what did they not ask for? What did their use of scripture reveal about their understanding of God’s Word?
- What does this passage reveal about their trust in God? What do we learn about the believer’s relationship with one another?
- Paul provides a case study in the contrast between Barnabas and Ananias. What does this teach us about genuine faith?
HEART
What do we believe?
- Why do you think testing, hardship, or inconvenience often reveal what is really going on in our hearts?
- What does it mean to you personally that Jesus does not always remove the shaking around us, but can make us unshakable in the middle of it?
- Where do you sense God inviting you to deeper honesty about your faith right now—your motives, your trust, or your surrender?
HANDS
Practice Together in Community
- What is one area where God may be calling you to “serve through” instead of “serve till” this season?
- Is there a step you can take this week toward deeper connection in the body of Christ—showing up, being known, joining, caring, or opening your life more honestly?
- How can the truth that Jesus has conquered death and secured you in God help you live with greater generosity this week?
- What do you need from the group right now—prayer, encouragement, wisdom, or accountability?
SHARE: MISSION
Intercede
- Who is one person you will pray for every day this week? (Say their name out loud in the group.)
- What is one specific request you will bring to God on their behalf?
Share
- Who will you share this takeaway with this week?
- Ask God for one opportunity this week to pray for someone in real time.
Action Step
- Complete this sentence: “This week, I will live out this sermon by __________.”
NEXT WEEK CHECK-IN
Encourage the group to return next week ready to share:
- How they practiced the HANDS step
- How they lived out the SHARE: MISSION step
PRAYER
- Pray that God would reveal any shaky ground in us and deepen our confidence in Christ.
- Pray for the Holy Spirit to make us unshakable in a world that feels uncertain and unstable.
- Pray that the victory of Jesus over sin and death would free us to live with boldness, honesty, and supernatural generosity.