Devoted to Worship
OPENING THOUGHT
Try to define worship without using any of its expressions (e.g., singing, praying, listening to God’s Word, the Lord’s Supper, giving). What is the essence of praising God?
THE READING (Acts 20:1-12)
On Paul’s third missionary journey, he and his traveling companions delayed their travels while in Troas so that they could worship with the saints on the first day of the week.
EXPLORE
Discuss these questions to get a better understanding of the text.
How would you describe Paul’s itinerary in verses 1-5? Was it relaxed? Did it take its time? Or was Paul in a hurry?
How long did Paul and the others pause in Troas? What were they waiting for?
The purpose for the gathering, according to verse 7, was “to break bread” (the Lord’s Supper). What does this say about the importance and frequency of this memorial feast?
Why did Paul preach until midnight?
APPLY
Discuss these questions to envision what it would be like to practically live out this passage.
The key verse for this series of discussions is Acts 2:42, which reveals that the early Christians were devoted to four things. Which two of these are expressions of worship?
What challenges our devotion to worship?
What is the purpose of the Lord’s Supper? When should it be taken? (cf. 1 Cor. 11:20-34; 16:1-2).
Do you think the early Christians’ worship (with the exception of the Lord’s Supper) was limited to the assembly on the first day of the week? How often should Christians glorify God?
How can we encourage others to be devoted to worshiping God?
