To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:
Download the “Battle Lines” worksheet here.
Divide the class into three groups, giving each group a worksheet and one of the battle lines to research. They will look at how Paul and Barnabas persevered through opposition. Then they will consider how we face similar opposition today.
Some suggested responses follow:
- Only God does great things! Our gods do great things! When God performed a miracle, the pagan audience credited gods in which they already believed. Paul and Barnabas continued to teach and explain the difference between the one true God and pagan gods. Today, people may credit human effort, human government, or human technology with working miracles. We must continue to teach that God’s power continues, even when human effort fails.
- We will continue to preach the truth! We can shut you up! When Paul and Barnabas were successful in preaching, those opposing them resorted to raw power to silence them. While we do not know the details, we know that Paul and Barnabas survived after other Christians gathered around them. The world may try to silence us today, but they cannot if we surround ourselves with other believers.
- Our followers will continue to believe! They will stop believing after you leave! Paul and Barnabas knew that those who believed their message would face the same opposition they faced. Therefore, they appointed leaders to constantly remind the new believers of the message of Christ. In a hostile world, new believers need to be reminded of the truth. Faithful church leaders can continue to strengthen them.
To encourage personal application:
On the board, write these three headings:
Speak out Gather around Lift up
Close the session by helping the class list ministries of the church that help others:
Speak out—clearly articulating the truth of the gospel
Gather around—shielding and protecting fellow believers
Lift up—supporting new believers to grow in faith
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