Read Acts 9:32-43

1. Dorcas was “devoted to good works and acts of charity” (9:36). Since we are justified by faith and not works, how do we balance such devotion? Indeed, what does “works” mean in Paul’s justification discussions?

2. Why do some Christians suffer and die, while others are healed of their sickness?

3. How did the miracle of raising Tabitha further the kingdom of God? (9:42) Why might Peter have remained in Joppa afterwards? What does this tell us about evangelism?

Read Acts 10:1-8

4. Discuss some of the issues that might arise from being a Christian in the armed forces.

5. How did Cornelius respond to the angel? (10:4) Think of other angel-human encounters in the Bible; how was this similar or different? Why do people respond the way they do?

6. Why is it that many “God-fearing” devout people do not have a relationship with Christ, even within the church?

Read Acts 10:9-23

7. Why did Peter protest against the command to eat? (10:14) Why do you think the incident happened three times?

8. How do you think Peter felt when he was told to kill and eat unclean food?

9. How did Peter’s hospitality to the messengers show that he was beginning to put into practice what he had learned in the vision?

10. How do you think you would respond if you were convinced God was asking you to do something unconventional in the eyes of your society and even church congregation?