HCBC Sunday School - “Friends” Class
Obedient (Acts 8:26-31,35,38-39)

1) First Thoughts
a. Just as firefighters, often labeled heroes, must be ready to leave the comfort of the station house at a moment’s notice, so too the Lord Jesus expects us to remain ready to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
2) Understand the Context
a. Persecution against Christians in Jerusalem forced many believers to flee the city. Wherever they scattered far and wide they took the gospel message with them. Philip (one of the seven) went into Samaria and preached and did powerful works, then followed the Lord’s direction to go to a road heading toward Gaza.
3) Explore the Text
a. Compelled to Seek (8:26-29)
i. “Arise, and go” – emphasizes (1) God’s perfect timing and guidance; (2) the urgency of evangelism; and (3) God’s expectation of our obedience.
ii. “divine appointments” – our need to trust and obey the Lord.
iii. God may prompt us to go to unexpected places, e.g., jails, TH.
b. Prepare to Share (8:30-31,35)
i. Philip initiated the encounter by watching and listening.
ii. Philip asked a respectful, yet probing, question. A good question can break down barriers and open the flow of communication about the gospel.
iii. The Holy Spirit was actively engaged in this encounter. Philip (you) simply trust and obey the Lord. “…and how shall they hear without a preacher?” ~ Rom. 10:14
c. Focused on Salvation (8:38-39)
i. Baptism (full immersion in water) signifies the believer’s identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism doesn’t save anyone; Jesus alone saves.
ii. “rejoicing” – Joy is a characteristic associated with faith in Jesus; it is a sign of new life.
4) Memory Verse: Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. ~ Acts 8:4