The Ascension
Luke 24:50-53, Acts 1:6-11
1. Jesus blesses the disciples as He ascends (Luke 24:50-53), lifting His hands over them in love right before returning to the Father. What does this moment reveal about Christ’s heart toward His followers? How might recognizing His ongoing blessing and intercession change the way we relate to Him in our daily lives?
2. The disciples ask about restoring the kingdom, but Jesus redirects them to the power of the Holy Spirit so they can be His witnesses “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:6-8). Where in your life do you sometimes focus on “when” or “why” questions instead of the mission Jesus has clearly given us? How can we help each other stay focused on being empowered witnesses right where we are?
3. The sermon describes “witness” (martus) as a call to sacrificial, even costly, testimony for Christ—starting in our own “Jerusalem” and reaching outward. Share a time when you sensed the Holy Spirit’s power helping you share the gospel or live it out boldly. What practical steps can our group take this week to rely more on the Spirit as we fulfill this calling?
4. Instead of standing and staring into the sky, the angels call the disciples (and us) to active waiting for Jesus’ return through worship, obedience to God’s Word, joy, community, and making disciples. Which of these areas feels most alive or most challenging for you right now? What is one specific, practical way our group (or you personally) can live out “active waiting” in the coming week?
Luke 24:50-53, Acts 1:6-11
1. Jesus blesses the disciples as He ascends (Luke 24:50-53), lifting His hands over them in love right before returning to the Father. What does this moment reveal about Christ’s heart toward His followers? How might recognizing His ongoing blessing and intercession change the way we relate to Him in our daily lives?
2. The disciples ask about restoring the kingdom, but Jesus redirects them to the power of the Holy Spirit so they can be His witnesses “to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:6-8). Where in your life do you sometimes focus on “when” or “why” questions instead of the mission Jesus has clearly given us? How can we help each other stay focused on being empowered witnesses right where we are?
3. The sermon describes “witness” (martus) as a call to sacrificial, even costly, testimony for Christ—starting in our own “Jerusalem” and reaching outward. Share a time when you sensed the Holy Spirit’s power helping you share the gospel or live it out boldly. What practical steps can our group take this week to rely more on the Spirit as we fulfill this calling?
4. Instead of standing and staring into the sky, the angels call the disciples (and us) to active waiting for Jesus’ return through worship, obedience to God’s Word, joy, community, and making disciples. Which of these areas feels most alive or most challenging for you right now? What is one specific, practical way our group (or you personally) can live out “active waiting” in the coming week?