GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: What if the greatest threat to the church isn’t pressure from the outside, but something quieter on the inside? Acts 4–5 shows a breathtaking picture of unity, generosity, and bold faith—and then tells a shocking story that forces us to slow down and pay attention. Why does God respond so strongly, and what does that mean for us today? This talk invites you to wrestle honestly with fear, hypocrisy, and the kind of honesty that leads to real life.
Main Points:
A Spirit-filled church is unified, generous, and bold. (Acts 4:32–37)
A Spirit-filled church is not sin-free, and hypocrisy is especially destructive. (Acts 5:1–10)
Fear is a healthy response to danger, and it can lead us to honesty and life before God. (Acts 5:5, 10–11)
On-Ramps:
Live openly and humbly before God.
Practice deep, honest fellowship with other believers.
Extend grace and generosity to those who need it.
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
In Acts 4:32–35, what evidence do we see that the Holy Spirit was actively shaping the church’s life together? What seems most striking—or hardest to imagine—about that kind of unity and generosity today?
Peter makes it clear that Ananias and Sapphira were not required to give everything. Why do you think hypocrisy and deception are treated so seriously in this story?
This passage suggests that threats from inside the church can be more destructive than opposition from outside. Where do you see that tension playing out in the church or Christian witness in our society today?
The story produces “great fear” in the church—but it leads to growth, honesty, and repentance. How is this kind of fear different from unhealthy fear, and how might it actually protect spiritual life and community?
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life?
PRAYER
How can we pray for you as a group?
Next week: Acts 5:12–42
