Faith Promise - What's Next - Day 07
Reading
Acts 3:1 - 4:4
Highlight
In the Book of Acts there are several sermons given by Peter and Paul (primarily) that have a consistent pattern. Scholars call this the kerygma, which is the Greek word for “proclamation.” It is definitely important for us to see this pattern because it was what the Apostles deemed the foundational things to communicate when trying to help people see their need for Jesus and how to respond.
C.H. Dodd, a New Testament scholar, highlights six key aspects of the kerygma, which can be seen in both Acts 2 and Acts 3. They are:
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
Acts 3:1 - 4:4
Highlight
In the Book of Acts there are several sermons given by Peter and Paul (primarily) that have a consistent pattern. Scholars call this the kerygma, which is the Greek word for “proclamation.” It is definitely important for us to see this pattern because it was what the Apostles deemed the foundational things to communicate when trying to help people see their need for Jesus and how to respond.
C.H. Dodd, a New Testament scholar, highlights six key aspects of the kerygma, which can be seen in both Acts 2 and Acts 3. They are:
- The Age of Fulfillment has come, referring to the prophecies of the Messiah.
- This has taken place through the birth, life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth.
- By virtue of the resurrection Jesus has been exalted at the right hand of God as Messianic King of the new Israel - The Church.
- The Holy Spirit in the church is the sign of Christ's present power and glory.
- The full promises of God will reach their fulfillment in the return of Christ.
- An appeal is made for repentance with the offer of forgiveness, the Holy Spirit, and salvation.
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
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