INTRODUCTION

PETER TELLS THE SANHEDRIN ABOUT JESUS

Bible Point - Trusting God gives us courage!

Key Verse - “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Big Picture - Trust God for courage as you face tough situations in your life.

Peter Tells the Sanhedrin About Jesus

Acts 4:5–14

You’ve probably heard lots of stories about bravery—people doing big, bold things. But have you ever wondered how you can be brave? This week, we’re learning that real courage comes from trusting in God’s love, for you and for everyone. God wants to help you be brave in everyday moments and even in big ones, especially when it comes to sharing love and kindness with others. You don’t have to be fearless to be courageous! You just have to trust that you’re not alone.

PLANTING THE SEED

Imagine being surprised by someone who shows a sudden interest, albeit with some skepticism, in your faith. Then, when you begin to explain yourself, you get this surge of confidence, and you begin to say things you never thought you could. This was the experience of Peter and John. The Sanhedrin questioned them, trying to find something they could prosecute them for. Peter told them, in common words, that Jesus is the source of salvation. What impressed the Sanhedrin? Was it eloquence? Nope. Did Peter and John seem like guys you’d want to buddy up with? Probably not. Acts 4:13 tells us that it was the confidence of these two men that astonished the Sanhedrin.

- Why does God give us courage?

- How can we be courageous and do our best not to offend others?

FAMILY FUN

As a family, share about the times in life when you’ve been most scared. How did you respond? How did your faith affect your level of fear? Discuss how trusting God gives us courage.

READY, SET, GROW!

Choose a commitment to trust God for courage as you serve Him and reach out this week:

SHOW bravery by showing love to someone you don’t get along with. Offer to return their tray after lunch, or sit down with that person for five minutes to get to know them better. Remember to trust God for courage.

FORGIVE someone who hurt you. You don’t have to expect anything in return, but just reach out in grace and love. Remember to trust God for courage.

REMEMBER to trust God for the courage to face something unique to your life. Maybe you need to stand up for someone hurting where you haven’t before, or you might need to share God’s love in another special way.