Real Characters: "Beyond the Box"

September 30, 2007 - Rev. Rurel Ausley and Rev. Kevin Kelly

1. Read Acts 10. What are your initial impressions of this story which involves Cornelius and Peter? Here, we see the initial stages of the church reaching out to those who were not Jewish – Gentiles. Why is this move so important? How did that decision affect us today?

2. Who was Cornelius? Where did he live and what was his role in society? Describe his religious life. How do the details of Cornelius’ life make this such a powerful story?

3. What did the angel say to Cornelius? The angel praised the religious activities in Cornelius' life, but God had more for him. If Cornelius was effective in prayer and giving, what else could he be lacking? What does this tell us about being "religious" (positives and negatives)? What more do we need?

4. Why do you think Peter was sent for? Why not Philip, who may have been closer to this location, or someone else? What did God reveal to Peter during his vision? Read Leviticus 11:4-7. What does Leviticus reveal that may have contributed to Peter's objections? The words "clean" and "unclean" are used in Peter's vision? What do they mean and why are they significant to what is being revealed? What was God trying to get Peter to understand?

5. Like Peter, we all have principles and beliefs that affect our choices and decisions when it comes to our responding to other people. What principles and beliefs do you hold that limit your ability to reach out to people "different" from you? How is God challenging you in this area to get you to move "beyond the box" of your current thinking and acting?

6. Read Acts 10:34-35. What was Peter communicating with these statements? Do you believe that God does not show favoritism? Why is this important? How then should we respond to other people who may be different than us?

7. How did Peter overcome his prejudices toward gentiles, specifically a Roman soldier? Are you willing to repent of principles and beliefs that you have formed that are affecting your ability to get "beyond the box" and love all people? Why or why not? What actions will you take to build upon your repentance and have it bear fruit in your life?

8. How does our church go "beyond the box" of simply thinking about ourselves and ministering to those who are very similar to us? What ministries currently stretch us beyond the walls of our church and take us into the community to engage people where they are? Where are some areas that we might improve on to be more effective at reaching "all" people in the future? How might you be a part of this?