THIS SUNDAY SCHOOL OVERVIEW FEATURES HIGHLIGHTS OF THE LESSON EACH WEEK. BIBLICAL TRANSLATIONS WILL VARY, BUT THE MAIN RESOURCE WILL BE THE TOWNSEND PRESS SUNDAY SCHOOL COMMENTARY, 97th EDITION. THIS FEATURE IS DESIGNED TO BE OF HELP TO THOSE WHO CANNOT ATTEND THEIR LOCAL CHURCH AND/OR SUNDAY SCHOOL.
Lesson Title: FAITH TO PERSEVERE
Adult/Young Adult Topic: PERSEVERING THROUGH OPPOSITION
Printed Text: ACTS 14:8-11, 19-23
Key Verse: ACTS 14:21-22 (NIV)
They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.
Source: Townsend Press Sunday School Commentary – 97th Edition, 2017-2018
UNIFYING LESSON PRINCIPLE:
Sometimes the good things we do are blocked by the unexpected obstruction, but we pick up and go on anyway. What gives us the strength to keep going? Even though he was stoned and persecuted, Paul’s faith in his message impelled him to continue to proclaim the Good News of God.
CONCLUDING REFLECTION:
Even when we are sincerely accomplishing good things for the glory of God, our best intentions can sometimes be misunderstood, as was Paul’s in this lesson. When that occurs, look to God for strength to continue the tasks with which you are gifted to accomplish. There will be times when you would do good, but evil is present to distract you and impede your progress. When those times occur, be still and know that God is God and is still on the throne of life. Let persecution improved your faith rather than drown you in doubt. Your faith will give you the power to persevere in the presence of any obstacle.
PRAYER:
Lord, help us to persevere through persecution in order to elevate the cause of your kingdom and to communicate the powerful Good News of Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Sunday School Review “Strength To Keep Going” was originally published on 955thelou.com
