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Scripture: Paul Became a Missionary (Acts 13–14)

Dear families,

The beginnings of Paul’s journey as a missionary in Acts 13–14 showcased the power and providence of God, even amid harsh persecution. From being sent out and set apart by the Holy Spirit to being wrongly celebrated as gods and experiencing mistreatment and stonings, Paul remained fixed on the hope he found in Jesus. No matter the circumstances he faced, he kept proclaiming Jesus’ name and paving the way for the gospel to be known around the world.
What patterns do we see in Paul’s life that propelled the gospel farther? What role do hardships play in our spiritual lives as we, too, seek to live on mission for Christ and His good news of salvation?

As we read of Paul's journeys, we find that he continually sought to abide in Christ through the spiritual disciplines of fasting, prayer, and sharing the gospel. We also see that he did not back down from difficult situations; not even false prophets and sorcerers could derail him from proclaiming God’s truth! Despite the grueling hassles of life on the road and not having a place to call home, Paul chose obedience to God's calling above any earthly comfort as he trusted the glories of heaven far outweighed any momentary affliction.

While many insulted Paul, opposed him, and rejected the words of life he spoke, he shook the dust off his feet and pressed on, filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. This same Spirit that filled Paul and sustained him on his missionary journeys also lives in us who trust in Christ. Paul's dependence on the Spirit and his obedience to the gospel mission provide a model for us to follow as we seek to live on mission.

Encourage your kids to recognize Paul's perseverance and how the love of Jesus compelled him to share the gospel no matter the difficulties he faced. Ask the Lord to assist you as you live out this conviction through teaching it to the next generation of Christ followers.

Check out The Gospel Project At Home for resources designed to help you lead a family worship experience as well as suggestions for morning and evening prayer times and family activities.

FAMILY TALKING POINTS

CHRIST CONNECTION
This is the big idea of how this week’s Bible story points to Jesus.

  • Babies & Toddlers: We tell others about Jesus so they can hear and believe.
  • Younger Preschool: Paul shared the good news about Jesus with anyone who would listen. Many people believed in Jesus, and the church grew. God wants us to tell others about Jesus so they can be saved from their sins.
  • Older Preschool: Paul shared the good news about Jesus with anyone who would listen. Many people believed in Jesus, and the church grew. The Holy Spirit wants us to tell others about Jesus so they can be saved from their sins.
  • Kids: God had a plan for Paul to share the gospel with Gentiles, no matter what troubles he faced. Many believed in Jesus. The church grew and the gospel spread so that people all over the world could be saved from their sins by trusting in Jesus.

BIG PICTURE QUESTION & ANSWER
This is an important biblical truth that your child will encounter each week of this unit.

  • Younger Preschool: Who can be saved? Anyone who trusts in Jesus is saved.
  • Older Preschool: Who can be saved? Anyone who trusts in Jesus is forgiven of their sins.
  • Kids: Who can be saved? Anyone who trusts in Jesus can be forgiven of their sins and be right with God.

KEY PASSAGE
This is a Bible verse that relates to what your child will encounter each week of this unit.

  • Babies & Toddlers: God sent Jesus to save people. John 3:17
  • Younger Preschool: God sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to save people. John 3:17
  • Older Preschool: “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17 
  • Kids: “God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17
** Next week: Jesus Can Forgive Anyone (2 Corinthians 5)