I Could Stand in God’s Way?

I Could Stand in God’s Way?

By Caleb Crittendon

May 10, 2026

*NOTICE: The emphasis of our discussion is to see how the Written Word (Bible) and the Spoken Word (Preaching) work together to build up the believer, so when you see WORD in the questions, know it refers to the Scripture and the Sermon.

Recap: Look back for evidence of God’s word reshaping your heart and life.

1. Does anyone have a testimony to share with the group of how you applied last week’s “Respond” section?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

2. Read Acts 11:1-18 and discuss your initial observations.

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

3. How does Peter’s response to criticism demonstrate the principle of entrusting ourselves to God as our just judge (1 Peter 2:21-23), and what would this look like in a specific conflict you are currently facing?

4. In what ways might we be unconsciously standing in God’s way by holding onto traditions, preferences, or comfort zones that limit the reach of the gospel?

5. What made Peter’s testimony (vv. 5-16) so compelling to the critics who changed their tune and glorified God after hearing his story?

6. How does the image of Christ standing in the way of God’s wrath change your understanding of what happened on the cross and your response to His sacrifice?

7. How does this passage strengthen your confidence that salvation is ultimately God’s work and not man’s achievement?

Respond: Choose one or two of the following applications of Sunday’s message to put in practice this week.

1. Response Under Criticism: When criticism comes this week, pause before reacting and ask God to help you respond with humility, gentleness, and trust instead of defensiveness.
2. Surrender Your Resistance: Identify one area where you have been resisting God’s leadership, and intentionally surrender it to Him each day through prayer and obedience.
3. Gospel Prayer Partnership: Reach out to one or two believers and commit to regularly praying together about a ministry opportunity, gospel burden, or mission God has placed on your heart.
4. Intentional Gospel Witness: Identify one person in your life who needs Christ, pray for them daily this week, and look for an opportunity to share the hope of the gospel with them.