The Story: Paul’s Mission (Ch 29)
Acts 13: 1-6a, 13-16
Pastor Rob Wilson
May 4, 2025

This week we approach the end of our 31 week journey in The Story by reading chapter 29. As you read and reflect on this chapter, the surprising apostle of God's choosing, Saul, will come into focus. Our guiding question today is: "What is in a Name?". Saul would become Paul and as we explore the moment he 'lived into' his new name, we'll be invited to ask the question of God's re-naming of you and I. What is in a name? As it turns out, quite a bit. And God not only gives us a new name but also gives us opportunities to live into that new name. The following questions may be helpful in your spiritual journaling, a heartfelt discussion with a spiritual friend, or in a dinner table conversation:

1. What are some of the names, labels, or messages you were given in your life that have not served you well?

2. Who gave you these names, labels, or messages? A parent, a family member, 'the world', or yourself?
 
3. God gives us a new name which signifies His purpose in your life and names your true dignity as His child. Most of the time, this new name (your authentic name) clashes with names we have been living by. How does your new name come in conflict with those false names?

4. Is God putting an opportunity in your life right now to live into your 'new' name, your 'true' name?

Pastor Rob

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