Sent

Session 1

Acts 13:1-12

Believers are set apart for God’s purposes.

ENGAGE

Introduce:

describe their occupation (paid or unpaid)
explain how they decided to pursue that occupation.
Suggest that sometimes plans change over the years.
explain how their current occupations differ from what they thought they would be doing when they were younger.

Ask:

• What influences your choice of occupation?

Explain:

Read the opening paragraph on page 13.

What’s the difference between being sent and being called?
The call comes from the Holy Spirit.
He uses cooperating churches in sending-providing confirmation of the call and provision for service.
Even if no agency is available, missionaries depend on churches to send them and support them.
While Barnabas and Saul were sent by the church in Antioch, Jesus calls every believer to make disciples wherever they go. (PSG, p. 10)

Point out:

missionaries and church staff are not the only ones called to follow God and to make disciples.

Discuss:

• For what purpose in life can you say you are “set apart”?
• How do you understand God’s purpose for your life? (p. 13)

Transition:

Today’s study will show how God sets believers apart for His purposes.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

Introduce:

Remind the group of who wrote Acts and for what audience.
explain where today’s Scripture passage fits in the story of Acts.

explain why Saul and Barnabas were in Antioch.