Key Takeaways

• The early church bore witness to Jesus through both word and deed

• Christians should be aware of those "outside the temple" and include them in their prayer and outreach

• Miracles point to Jesus' power and legitimacy, not to the apostles themselves

• Jesus' love compels believers to see, be moved by, and offer life to those in need

• God's love empowers us to serve others

Study Questions

5-Day Devotional

This Week’s Liturgy & Playlist

CALL TO WORSHIP

Leader: Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!

People: For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.

Psalm 95:6-7

Confession of Faith

From The Heidelberg Catechism

Q. What is your only comfort in life and death?

A. That I am not my own, but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death, to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from all the power of the devil. He also preserves me in such a way that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head; indeed, all things must work together for my salvation. Therefore, by his Holy Spirit he also assures me of eternal life and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for him.

Confession of Sin

God who is rich beyond all splendor, we confess that we often look to earthly treasures for security, ignoring the riches of your grace. Like the crowd at the temple, we are quick to marvel at miracles but slow to recognize your power and presence. We have neglected those in need, walking past opportunities to reflect your mercy. Forgive us, and open our hearts to see and share the healing power found in your name alone. Amen.

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.

Isaiah 53:5

Looking Ahead

Next week’s scripture: Acts 3:11-26