Having been sent out by the Holy Spirit, the missionaries Barnabas and Saul, with John as their helper, enjoyed smooth sailing and success in the early phase of their journey. However, in Paphos the missionaries encountered resistance in the person of Elymas. One must not mistake ease and large audiences as evidences of God’s favor, just as hardship and resistance are not reliable indicators of His displeasure.
Resistance often accompanies the gospel proclamation, as seen when Sergius Paulus desired to hear the word of God. Many believers can recall opposition when witnessing to a coworker, family member, or acquaintance. We always should expect individuals to oppose both verbally and actively the gospel being shared. Therefore, the Great Commission task requires the faithful and regular sharing of the gospel. Let us not be surprised when the opposition shows up at the most inopportune time and in the most disruptive manner, and let us never fail to fulfill the mission the Spirit has for us.
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 Rodney Harrison. It is adapted from the daily devotions for Unit 32, Session 2 from The Gospel Project for Adults’ Daily Discipleship Guide.