Acts 2 · Lifegroup Discussion Guide + Transcript
Stand‑Alone Message
Summary
Acts 2 shows how God moves: the Spirit comes, the Word is preached, and Jesus is exalted—so people are cut to the heart and respond with repentance, faith, baptism, and mission.
Lifegroup Discussion Guide
Icebreaker
- Share a moment when you clearly sensed God’s presence. What helped you know it was Him?
Scripture
Read: Acts 2:1–41
Big Idea
Word and Spirit are friends, not rivals. When they work together, Jesus is lifted up and people respond.
Key Points
- The Spirit comes (2:1–13): Power for mission (wind, fire, understood languages).
- The Word is preached (2:14–21): Peter explains the moment through Scripture (Joel 2).
- The Son is exalted (2:22–36): Jesus attested, crucified, raised—made both Lord and Christ.
- The people respond (2:37–41): Cut to the heart → repent, be baptized, receive forgiveness and the Spirit.
Discussion Questions
- Where do you naturally lean—“Word person” or “Spirit person”? What strengths/risks come with that?
- How does Acts 2 correct a “Spirit vs. Word” mindset?
- Peter anchors the moment in Joel 2. What practices help you become a “Bible person” who can explain what God is doing?
- “Cut to the heart” (2:37): when have you felt that? What did repentance look like?
- What would a faithful response this week be—repentance, baptism, bold witness, restored relationships?
Practice This Week
- Pray: “Holy Spirit, empower me to exalt Jesus today.”
- Anchor: Memorize Acts 2:36 and share it with someone.
- Invite: Text one person an encouragement or Scripture each day.
Sermon Transcript
Word + Spirit: Jesus Exalted — Acts 2
Guest Speaker: Pastor Cliff McCray (Radiant City Church)
Acts is the church’s family history: the Spirit of God comes to live in the people of God so they can do the work of God to the ends of the earth. In Acts 2 we see the Word of God and the Spirit of God working together to exalt the Son of God—Jesus.
1) The Spirit of God Comes (Acts 2:1–13)
On the day of Pentecost the believers were together. Suddenly a sound like a mighty rushing wind filled the house. Tongues as of fire rested on each of them, and they began to speak in other known languages as the Spirit enabled. People from many nations heard the mighty works of God in their own tongues. God’s power arrived for God’s mission.
2) The Word of God Is Preached (Acts 2:14–21)
Some were amazed; others mocked. Peter stood up and explained from Scripture what was happening. He quoted Joel 2 from memory: in the last days God pours out His Spirit on all flesh. Peter met a spiritual moment with a biblical explanation. We need to be people of the Bible—reading, studying, memorizing—so when life cuts us, we “bleed” Scripture.
3) The Son of God Is Exalted (Acts 2:22–36)
Peter proclaimed Jesus of Nazareth: attested by God with miracles; crucified according to God’s plan; raised from the dead. David foresaw the resurrection; Jesus now reigns. The conclusion: “God has made him both Lord and Christ.” Everything is ultimately about Jesus—His glory, His gospel, His kingdom.
4) The People of God Respond (Acts 2:37–41)
The crowd was cut to the heart. Peter called for repentance and baptism in Jesus’ name for the forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Spirit. Three thousand responded. That same call extends to us: repent, believe, be baptized, and live as Spirit‑empowered witnesses.
Application
- Word + Spirit: Don’t pick sides—seek both.
- Exalt Jesus: Let your life and lips be about Him.
- Respond: Repent and be baptized; keep in step with the Spirit.
“Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Acts 2:21)
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