RLC Home Group Handout | November 8th, 2026
Jesus Stories; “Fear Not, Keep Going” | Acts 18:1–23
Recap
In Acts 18, we see Jesus meet Paul’s fear and discouragement with the assurance of his presence, promises, and purpose. Like Paul, we can feel overwhelmed by sharing the gospel with people who seem comfortable without Jesus. Yet comfort and success cannot provide the forgiveness and lasting meaning we find in him. We discover that courage grows from knowing who is with us, even when we still feel afraid. Jesus understands our weakness and offers himself as our help. His promise to protect Paul in Corinth was specific to that setting, but his promises to us assure us that he will sustain us through suffering and never abandon us. Through faithful friends and a growing church, we also see God working beyond what Paul could see or accomplish himself. As we keep following Jesus, we are called to examine our own hearts and allow the gospel to confront our dependence on possessions, pleasure, and approval.
References
Acts 18:9–11 — Jesus meets Paul’s fear with his presence and a call to keep speaking.
Hebrews 4:15 — Jesus understands our weakness and sympathizes with us.
Hebrews 13:5–6 — Our courage rests in God’s promise never to abandon us.
Romans 8:35–39 — Nothing, including suffering, can separate us from God’s love in Christ.
Jeremiah 4:3 — God calls us to examine our own hearts and break up the hardened ground.
“Don’t be afraid, I am present, have made promises, & will accomplish my purpose.”
Discussion Questions
Head
Is there anything that stood out or spoke to you in this week’s sermon?
How does Paul’s description of arriving in Corinth “in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling” challenge our assumptions about spiritual maturity?
Why is it important to distinguish Jesus’ promise of protection for Paul in Corinth from his promises to all believers?
Heart
Where are you feeling afraid or discouraged? How does knowing Jesus is with you shape the way you face that situation?
What do you tend to rely on for security: God’s presence, financial stability, your abilities, or other people?
Where might comfort, possessions, pleasure, or approval be making you less aware of your need for Jesus?
Who have you grown discouraged about coming to faith? How might God be working beyond what you can see?
Hands
What step of faith or obedience have you postponed because of fear? What would taking that step with Jesus’ help look like this week?
When a fearful thought returns, how could you acknowledge the concern honestly and respond with what Scripture tells you about God?
What act of generosity or change in your habits could help loosen comfort or materialism’s grip on your heart?