The Lord Stood By Him
The Lord Stood By Him
By Justin Huffman
November 8, 2026
*NOTICE: The emphasis of our discussion is to see how the Written Word (Bible) and the Spoken Word (Preaching) work together to build up the believer, so when you see WORD in the questions, know it refers to the Scripture and the Sermon.
Recap: Look back for evidence of God’s word reshaping your heart and life.
- Does anyone have a testimony to share how you applied last week’s “Respond” section
Engage: Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.
2. Read Acts 23:1-11 together as a group and discuss your initial observations.
Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.
3. The sermon emphasized that Paul could stand before his accusers with a clear conscience. What does it mean to live Coram Deo (before the face of God)? How does understanding that we always live before God shape our daily decisions? Are there areas of your life where you need to pursue greater integrity and obedience?
4. The sermon distinguished between graciousness and compromising the truth. How can Christians speak boldly and even offer warnings or rebukes while still responding with the grace of Christ?
5. Was Paul's response to Ananias in verses 3–5 justified? What does his subsequent recognition of Ananias teach us about responding to authority?
6. Why was the resurrection such a central issue in Paul's defense? What does the early church's emphasis on the resurrection teach us about the message we must proclaim today?
7. Why is Jesus' encouragement to Paul to "take courage" so significant? What does it teach us about the discouragement and weakness that even faithful Christians experience?
8. What currently threatens to distract you from the mission Christ has given you? How does the promise of His presence encourage you to stay on mission?
Respond: Choose one or two application steps from Sunday’s message and make a plan of action.
-Live before God: Identify one area where you need to pursue greater integrity and maintain a clear conscience before the Lord.
-Exalt Christ in your responses: When someone wrongs or frustrates you this week, respond in a way that honors God's Word rather than simply defending yourself.
-Remember your need for grace: Be intentional about remembering that the gospel is not just for others; you need Jesus every day.
-Speak the facts about Jesus: Look for one opportunity this week to verbally share the good news of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection with someone.
-Stay on mission: Identify one distraction or discouragement that is keeping you from faithfully pursuing Christ's mission, and take a step toward renewed faithfulness.