WEEK 1
Life After Death The Deception and Death of Ananias and Sapphira Acts 5:1–11
Lesson Objectives By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
· Trace the events that led to the death of Ananias and Sapphira.
· Explain whether they think the couple should have died.
· Comment on the significance of their death in Christian belief.
Background to the Story
· Early Christians lived in unity and shared possessions.
· Many sold land and gave the money to support the community.
· Honesty and faithfulness were expected.
What Happened?
· Ananias and Sapphira sold land.
· They secretly kept part of the money.
· They lied to Peter and the church.
· Peter revealed their deception.
· Both fell down and died.
Should They Have Died?
· Some believe the punishment was too severe.
· Others believe it showed God's holiness and justice.
· The sin was lying to God, not just people.
· Encourages personal reflection and discussion.
Why Is This Story Important?
· Shows that God judges actions.
· Teaches honesty and integrity.
· Reminds Christians that life after death is real.
· Encouraged fear and respect for God in the church.
Key Lessons for Christians Today
· God values truth and sincerity.
· Actions in this life have eternal consequences.
· Christians should live faithfully, preparing for life after death.
Classwork
1. What action did Ananias and Sapphira take that led to their punishment?
a. They refused to join the early church
b. They lied about the money from the sale of their land
c. They disobeyed Peter’s instructions
d. They refused to help the poor
2. Who confronted Ananias about his deceit?
A. John B. James C. Peter D. Paul
3. According to the Bible account, what happened immediately after Ananias lied?
A. He ran away B. He confessed his sin C. He fell down and died
D. He was forgiven
4. How long after Ananias’ death did Sapphira arrive and face Peter?
A. Immediately B. About three hours later C. The next day
D. One week later
5. What lesson does the story of Ananias and Sapphira teach Christians today?
A. Wealth is evil B. Giving to the church is compulsory
C. God values honesty and sincerity D. Church leaders must be feared
Classwork 2 Fill in the Blank Spaces
1. Ananias and Sapphira sold a piece of __________ and kept back part of the money.
2. The couple lied not only to Peter but also to the __________.
3. Ananias fell down and died immediately after being __________ by Peter.
4. Sapphira did not know that her __________ had already died.
5. The death of Ananias and Sapphira taught the early church the importance of __________ and truthfulness.
WEEK 2
Here is the full text from the Year 9 WK 2 PowerPoint document:
Life After Death in Islam Islamic Beliefs about Life After Death Grade 9 Religious Education
Lesson Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Discuss Muslim beliefs about life after death.
- Explain how Muslims mourn the dead.
- Show how these practices are relevant today.
Life After Death in Islam
- Muslims believe life continues after death.
- Death is a passage to the next life (Akhirah).
- Everyone will be judged by Allah.
- Belief in life after death is a core Islamic belief.
Judgment Day (Yawm ad-Din)
- All people will be resurrected.
- Good and bad deeds will be weighed.
- Those who please Allah enter Jannah (Paradise).
- Those who reject Allah may face Jahannam (Hell).
Muslim Practices at Death
- The body is washed (Ghusl) and wrapped in a white cloth (Kafan).
- Funeral prayers (Salat al-Janazah) are performed.
- Burial happens as soon as possible.
- Cremation is forbidden in Islam.
Mourning the Dead in Islam
- Mourning is allowed but should be moderate.
- Excessive crying and wailing are discouraged.
- Family members pray for the deceased.
- Widows observe a mourning period (Iddah).
Why These Beliefs Matter Today
- Belief in the afterlife guides moral behavior.
- Funeral practices show respect for the dead.
- Mourning practices promote patience and faith.
- These beliefs still guide Muslims worldwide today.
Classwork: Fill in the Blank Questions
- Muslims believe that after death, every person will be judged by Allah on the Day of ____________.
- The life after death in Islam is known as the ____________.
- Muslims believe that good and bad deeds are recorded by two __________.
- The washing and preparation of a dead Muslim’s body is called __________.
- Belief in life after death encourages Muslims to live a life of __________ and responsibility.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. According to Islamic belief, what happens immediately after a person dies?
A. They are reborn into another life
B. They enter Paradise immediately
C. Their soul waits in the grave for the Day of Judgement
D. They stop existing completely
2. Which angel is believed to blow the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgement?
A. Jibril
B. Mika’il
C. Israfil
D. Izra’il
3. What is the Islamic term for the Day of Judgement?
A. Hijrah
B. Akhirah
C. Qiyamah
D. Salah
4. How do Muslims usually show respect when someone dies?
A. By celebrating their life with music
B. By cremating the body
C. By washing and burying the body quickly
D. By displaying the body publicly
5. Why is belief in life after death important for Muslims today?
A. It encourages wealth and success
B. It guides moral behaviour and accountability
C. It removes the need for prayer
D. It allows people to ignore worldly duties
WEEK 3
Life after Death – The Trial and Martyrdom of Stephen Grade 9 Religious Education Cambridge IGCSE
Lesson Objectives
· Evaluate the trial of Stephen before the Sanhedrin
· Discuss the significance of Stephen’s pronouncements
· Explain the importance of Stephen’s death for early Christianity
Background to Stephen
· One of the first deacons in the early Church
· Known for faith, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit
· Performed signs and wonders
The Sanhedrin
· Jewish religious council
· Responsible for interpreting Jewish law
· Tried Stephen for blasphemy
The Trial of Stephen (Acts 6)
· Accused of speaking against the Law and the Temple
· False witnesses were presented
· Stephen remained calm and faithful
Stephen’s Defence (Acts 7)
· Retold Israel’s history
· Accused leaders of rejecting God’s messengers
· Emphasised obedience to God
Stephen’s Vision
· Saw Jesus standing at God’s right hand
· Confirmed belief in life after death
· Angered the Sanhedrin
The Martyrdom of Stephen
· Dragged out of the city and stoned
· Prayed for forgiveness for his killers
· Committed his spirit to God
Significance of Stephen’s Death
· First Christian martyr
· Strengthened early Christian faith
· Encouraged courage and forgiveness
Life after Death in Christianity
· Belief in resurrection
· Eternal life with God
· Stephen as a model of faith
Lessons for Today
· Standing for truth
· Faith under persecution
· Power of forgiveness
Assessment Questions
1. Who presided over Stephen's trial?
A. Pontius pilate B. The Sanhedrin C. King Herod
D. The roman governor
2. What was Stephen accused of before the Sanhedrin?
A. Blasphemy against Moses and god B. Stealing from the temple
C. Tax evasion D. Disobedience to the roman authorities
3. How did Stephen respond to his accusers during the trial?
A. He remained silent
B. He recounted the history of Israel and accused them of resisting the holy spirit
C. He pleaded for mercy D. He denied all charges
4. What is the significance of Stephen's last words: “lord, do not hold this sin against them”?
A. It shows his fear of death
B. It demonstrates his forgiveness and faith in god
C. It indicates that he denied god D. It implies he was unsure of god’s plan
5. Why is Stephen considered important for early Christianity?
A. He became a roman official
B. He was the first Christian martyr, inspiring others to follow Christ
C. He wrote the gospel of Stephen
D. He established the first church in Jerusalem
Fill in the Blank Questions
1. Stephen was brought before the _______ for trial because he preached about Jesus.
2. During his trial, Stephen accused the Jewish leaders of resisting the _______ Spirit.
3. Stephen’s speech before the Sanhedrin recounted the history of _______ and God’s dealings with His people.
4. Stephen’s prayer before his death asking God to forgive his killers shows his _______ and devotion.
5. The death of Stephen marked him as the first Christian _______ and encouraged the spread of Christianity.
WEEK 4
Life After Death Buddhist and Sikh Beliefs Grade 9 Religious Education
Lesson Objectives By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
· Evaluate Buddhist beliefs about the afterlife.
· Evaluate Sikh beliefs about the afterlife.
· Compare and contrast how Buddhists and Sikhs mourn the dead.
Buddhist Beliefs
· Buddhists believe in rebirth (reincarnation).
· Actions (karma) affect future lives.
· There is no permanent soul (anatta).
· The goal is Nirvana – freedom from suffering and rebirth.
Sikh Beliefs
· Sikhs believe in reincarnation.
· Karma affects the soul’s journey.
· Liberation (Mukhti) comes through God’s grace.
· The soul eventually reunites with God.
Mourning in Buddhism
· Cremation is common.
· Monks chant prayers and scriptures.
· Families meditate and reflect.
· Focus on impermanence and peace.
Mourning in Sikhism
· Cremation is practiced.
· Prayers from the Guru Granth Sahib are read.
· Excessive mourning is discouraged.
· Focus on acceptance of God’s will.
Comparison and Key Ideas
· Both believe in reincarnation and karma.
· Buddhists seek Nirvana; Sikhs seek union with God.
· Both discourage extreme mourning.
· Practices promote peace, acceptance, and reflection.
Classwork
1. According to Buddhist beliefs, what happens after death?
A. The soul rests in heaven permanently
B. The soul is reborn in a cycle of samsara
C. The body becomes a spirit that haunts the living
D. Everyone goes directly to Nirvana
2. What is the ultimate goal of life for a Buddhist in relation to the afterlife?
A. To be reborn as a king or queen
B. Achieving Nirvana and escaping the cycle of rebirth
C. Being remembered by family and friends
D. Accumulating wealth for the next life
3. Sikhs believe that after death, the soul:
A. Immediately goes to heaven or hell
B. Reincarnates until it merges with God
C. Ceases to exist entirely
D. Becomes a guardian spirit for the family
4. Which of the following is a key difference in mourning practices between Buddhists and Sikhs?
A. Buddhists cremate the dead, while Sikhs never cremate
B. Sikhs focus on prayer and reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, while Buddhists may chant or meditate
C. Buddhists always fast for 40 days, Sikhs fast for 10
D. Sikhs hold public feasts, Buddhists do not mourn publicly
5. Why do both Buddhists and Sikhs encourage remembering the dead in a particular way? A. To gain material wealth from their spirits
B. To support the living in understanding life and death
C. To prevent ghosts from appearing
D. To guarantee the soul’s place in heaven
Classwork 2 Fill in the Blank Questions
1. In Buddhism, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth is called __________.
2. The ultimate liberation from the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism is called __________.
3. Sikhs believe that the soul continues to reincarnate until it achieves __________ with God.
4. One common Sikh practice during mourning is the continuous reading of the __________.
5. Buddhists often perform __________ or meditation as a way to honor the deceased.
WEEK 5
Topic: Life After Death – The Martyrdom of James and the Death of Herod (Acts 12)
Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
· Explain the lessons the early church learned from the martyrdom of James.
· Evaluate the contrasting personalities of James, son of Zebedee, and King Herod Agrippa I.
· Trace the circumstances leading to the death of Herod and explain the divine reason for his end.
Student Notes
1. The Martyrdom of James, Son of Zebedee
James was one of the "Sons of Thunder" and part of Jesus' inner circle (along with Peter and John). In Acts 12, King Herod Agrippa I began to persecute the church to please the Jewish leaders. He had James executed with the sword.
· Personality of James: He was a man of radical commitment. His death fulfilled Jesus’ prophecy that James would "drink the cup" of suffering (Matthew 20:23). He chose loyalty to Christ over his own life.
· Lessons for the Church: * Reality of Persecution: The church realized that faith in Christ could lead to physical death.
o Value of Martyrdom: Death is not a defeat but a transition to life after death for the faithful.
o Unity in Trial: It prompted the church to pray more fervently (as seen in the subsequent arrest of Peter).
2. The Personality of Herod Agrippa I
Herod was a "people-pleaser" and a prideful ruler. His primary motivation for killing James was political gain—he saw that it pleased the Jews, so he proceeded to arrest Peter as well. He sought glory for himself rather than acknowledging God.
3. The Death of Herod (Acts 12:20–23)
The circumstances of Herod’s death occurred in Caesarea:
· The Conflict: Herod was in a dispute with the people of Tyre and Sidon. They sought peace because they depended on his land for food.
· The Event: Herod dressed in royal robes and gave a public oration. The people shouted, "This is the voice of a god, not of a man!"
· The Divine Judgment: Herod accepted this praise and did not give glory to God. Immediately, an angel of the Lord struck him down. He was eaten by worms and died.
· Why God killed him: God judged him for his extreme pride (arrogance) and for his attempt to take the glory that belongs to God alone. It served as a reminder that earthly power is temporary compared to God's eternal kingdom.
Classwork: Multiple Choice Questions (7)
1. Who was the first of the twelve apostles to be martyred?
A. Peter
B. Stephen
C. James
D. Andrew
2. What was Herod Agrippa I's main motivation for executing James?
A. James had stolen from the temple
B. It pleased the Jewish leaders
C. James was planning a revolt
D. Herod wanted to convert to Christianity
3. James, son of Zebedee, was often referred to as one of the:
A. Sons of Thunder
B. Prophets of Old
C. Deacons of the Church
D. Tax collectors
4. In which city did the death of Herod take place?
A. Jerusalem
B. Damascus
C. Caesarea
D. Antioch
5. What did the people cry out when Herod gave his speech?
A. "Long live the King!"
B. "This is the voice of a god!"
C. "Repent and be saved!"
D. "Justice for James!"
6. According to Acts 12, what was the biological cause of Herod's death?
A. He was beheaded
B. He was stoned
C. He was eaten by worms
D. He drowned in the sea
7. What lesson did Herod’s death teach about life and power?
A. Kings are immortal
B. Pride leads to destruction and God is the ultimate judge
C. Persecuting Christians leads to wealth
D. God does not care about politics
Classwork: Fill in the Blank Spaces (5)
1. King Herod killed James with the __________.
2. James was the brother of __________, who was also an apostle.
3. The angel of the Lord struck Herod because he did not give __________ to God.
4. The people of __________ and Sidon came to Herod to ask for peace.
5. The death of James showed the early church that following Jesus could lead to __________.
WEEK 6
Topic: Life After Death – Hindu Beliefs and Practices
Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
· Evaluate Hindu beliefs regarding the afterlife, including Samsara, Karma, and Moksha.
· Discuss how Hindus mourn and perform funeral rites for the dead.
Student Notes
1. Hindu Beliefs About the Afterlife
In Hinduism, death is not the end but a transition for the soul (Atman). The belief system is centered on the following concepts:
· Samsara: This is the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (reincarnation). The soul is believed to inhabit many bodies over time.
· Karma: The law of cause and effect. A person's actions in their current life determine the nature of their next life. Good actions lead to a better rebirth, while bad actions lead to suffering or rebirth into lower life forms.
· Moksha: The ultimate goal for every Hindu. It is the liberation from the cycle of Samsara. When a soul achieves Moksha, it stops being reborn and merges with the Supreme Reality, Brahman.
2. Mourning and Funeral Rites (Antyesti)
Hindus view funeral rites as the "last sacrifice." These practices are designed to help the soul transition smoothly to the next stage:
· Preparation: The body is washed, dressed in fresh clothes, and often adorned with flowers and sandalwood paste.
· Cremation: Unlike many other religions, Hindus prefer cremation. They believe fire purifies the soul and helps the Atman detach from the physical body. This usually takes place on a funeral pyre near a river.
· The Ganges River: It is highly auspicious to scatter the ashes (asthi) in a sacred river, especially the Ganges, to help the soul attain liberation.
· Mourning Period: Families usually observe a 10 to 13-day mourning period. During this time, they eat simple food and perform daily prayers. On the final day, a ceremony called Sapindikarana is performed to help the deceased join their ancestors.
Classwork: Multiple Choice Questions (7)
1. What is the Hindu term for the eternal soul?
A. Karma
B. Atman
C. Samsara
D. Moksha
2. Which concept describes the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth?
A. Brahman
B. Antyesti
C. Samsara
D. Nirvana
3. The ultimate goal of a Hindu is to reach __________, which is liberation from rebirth.
A. Jannah
B. Moksha
C. Dharma
D. Yoga
4. Why do Hindus prefer cremation over burial?
A. Because it is faster
B. To release the soul from the physical body through purification by fire
C. To save land for farming
D. It is a requirement for becoming a priest
5. Which river is considered the most sacred for scattering funeral ashes?
A. Nile
B. Jordan
C. Ganges
D. Indus
6. According to the law of Karma, a person's next life is determined by:
A. Their wealth
B. Their family name
C. Their actions and deeds
D. Their age at death
7. How long does the traditional Hindu mourning period typically last?
A. 3 days
B. 10 to 13 days
C. 40 days
D. One year
Classwork: Fill in the Blank Spaces (5)
1. The Hindu term for funeral rites is __________.
2. Achieving __________ means the soul has finally merged with the Supreme Reality, Brahman.
3. Hindus believe that __________ is the law of cause and effect that follows the soul into the next life.
4. The "last sacrifice" where the body is burned on a funeral pyre is called __________.
5. During the mourning period, family members often perform __________ to help the deceased's soul reach the land of the ancestors.
WEEK 7
Topic: Life After Death – Jewish and Christian Beliefs
Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
· Compare and contrast Jewish and Christian beliefs regarding the afterlife.
· Evaluate the importance and significance of Jewish and Christian funeral practices.
Student Notes
1. Comparing Beliefs about the Afterlife
While both religions share roots in the Hebrew Bible, their specific views on what happens after death have distinct focuses:
· Christian Beliefs:
o Resurrection: Central to faith is the belief that Jesus rose from the dead, proving life after death.
o Judgment: Christians believe that after death, individuals face God's judgment based on their faith and actions.
o Heaven and Hell: Believers generally look forward to eternal life in Heaven (presence of God) while those who reject God face Hell (separation from God).
o Focus: Strong emphasis on individual salvation and the state of the soul in the next world.
· Jewish Beliefs:
o Olam Ha-Ba: This term means "The World to Come." It can refer to a messianic age on earth or a spiritual afterlife.
o Sheol: Early biblical references describe a place of stillness where all the dead go, regardless of their deeds.
o Gehinnom: A place of spiritual purification for the soul, rather than eternal punishment.
o Focus: Judaism places a heavier emphasis on Olam Ha-Zeh (this world) and living a righteous life now, rather than speculating deeply on the details of the afterlife.
2. Funeral Practices and Their Importance
Funeral rites are designed to honor the deceased and provide comfort (and a path for mourning) for the living.
· Christian Practices:
o Service: Usually held in a church or chapel; involves hymns, prayers, and a "eulogy" (tribute to the deceased).
o Burial vs. Cremation: Both are generally accepted today, though some traditions prefer burial to symbolize the "sleeping" body awaiting resurrection.
o Significance: Focuses on the "hope of the resurrection" and committing the soul to God’s care.
· Jewish Practices:
o Kevurah (Burial): Judaism mandates burial in the earth as soon as possible (usually within 24 hours). Cremation is traditionally forbidden.
o Chevra Kadisha: A "Holy Society" that ritually washes the body (Taharah) and wraps it in a simple white linen shroud (Tachrichim) to show equality in death.
o Shiva: A seven-day period of intense mourning where the family stays home, sits on low stools, and receives visitors.
o Significance: Focuses on Kavod Ha-Met (honoring the dead) and Nichum Aveilim (comforting the mourners).
Classwork: Multiple Choice Questions (7)
1. What is the Hebrew term for "The World to Come"?
A. Sheol
B. Olam Ha-Ba
C. Olam Ha-Zeh
D. Gehinnom
2. In Christianity, the belief in life after death is primarily based on:
A. The laws of Moses
B. The rituals of the Temple
C. The resurrection of Jesus
D. The creation of the world
3. Which practice is traditionally forbidden in Judaism but widely accepted in many Christian denominations?
A. Prayer for the dead
B. Ritual washing
C. Burial in a cemetery
D. Cremation
4. What is the purpose of the 'Tachrichim' (white shroud) in Jewish funerals?
A. To show the wealth of the deceased
B. To represent the armor of God
C. To demonstrate that everyone is equal in death
D. To protect the body from decay
5. The seven-day period of intense mourning in Judaism is called:
A. Iddah
B. Shiva
C. Taharah
D. Kevurah
6. Which of the following best describes 'Sheol' in early Jewish thought?
A. A fiery place of punishment
B. A garden of paradise
C. A place of darkness or silence where all dead go
D. A temporary waiting room for reincarnation
7. For Christians, a funeral service is often seen as a way to:
A. Ensure the person is reborn
B. Celebrate the "hope of the resurrection"
C. Pay a debt to the church
D. Cleanse the sins of the living family
Classwork: Fill in the Blank Spaces (5)
1. The Jewish principle of honoring the dead is known as __________ Ha-Met.
2. In Christianity, the place of eternal separation from God is called __________.
3. The Jewish society responsible for preparing the body for burial is the __________ Kadisha.
4. Unlike the Christian focus on the next world, Judaism emphasizes __________ Ha-Zeh, meaning "this world."
5. A Christian speech given at a funeral to praise the deceased is called a __________.
WEEK 8
Topic: The Growth and Persecution of the Early Church – The Appointment of the Seven Deacons
Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
· Explain the reasons for the appointment of the seven deacons and the process by which they were chosen.
· Discuss evidence from the Acts of the Apostles showing that deacons performed spiritual and ministerial duties beyond administrative tasks.
Student Notes
1. The Appointment of the Seven (Acts 6:1–7)
As the early Church in Jerusalem grew, a conflict arose between the Hellenistic Jews (Greek-speaking) and the Hebraic Jews (Aramaic-speaking).
· The Problem: The Hellenists complained that their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.
· The Solution: The Twelve Apostles realized they could not neglect preaching the Word of God to "wait on tables." They instructed the believers to choose seven men to handle this administrative task.
· The Criteria: The men had to be of good reputation, "full of the Spirit and wisdom."
· The Ceremony: The seven men were presented to the Apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them, commissioning them for service.
2. Evidence of Expanded Responsibilities
While the deacons were originally appointed for "food distribution," the Acts of the Apostles provides clear evidence that they functioned as powerful ministers and evangelists:
· Evangelism and Miracles: Stephen, the first deacon listed, is described as being "full of God’s grace and power" and performing great wonders and signs among the people (Acts 6:8).
· Defense of the Faith: Stephen’s long speech before the Sanhedrin (Acts 7) shows that deacons were expected to be well-versed in scripture and capable of defending Christian doctrine.
· Missionary Journeys: Philip (another of the seven) traveled to Samaria to preach the Gospel. He performed exorcisms, healed the paralyzed, and famously baptized the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26–40).
· Significance: This suggests that the office of the deacon was not merely secular or administrative, but a spiritual calling that contributed directly to the rapid growth of the Church.
Classwork: Multiple Choice Questions (7)
1. What was the primary reason for appointing the seven deacons?
A. To lead the army against Rome
B. To settle a dispute regarding the daily distribution of food
C. To write the Gospels
D. To replace Judas Iscariot
2. Which group complained that their widows were being neglected?
A. The Romans
B. The Pharisees
C. The Hellenistic Jews
D. The Samaritans
3. What were the criteria for choosing the deacons?
A. Wealthy and influential
B. Strong and young
C. Of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom
D. Expert in Roman Law
4. Which deacon is known as the first Christian martyr and performed great wonders?
A. Philip
B. Procorus
C. Stephen
D. Nicolas
5. What did the Apostles do to commission the deacons?
A. They gave them gold coins
B. They prayed and laid their hands on them
C. They sent them to university
D. They crowned them as kings
6. The deacon Philip is best known for preaching in which region?
A. Samaria
B. Egypt
C. Babylon
D. Athens
7. What does the ministry of Stephen and Philip suggest about the role of a deacon?
A. It was only about cleaning the temple
B. It involved spiritual duties like preaching and healing
C. It was a role only for the Apostles
D. it was a political office
Classwork: Fill in the Blank Spaces (5)
1. The Apostles stated they should not give up preaching the Word of God to __________ on tables.
2. The number of deacons chosen to handle the food distribution was __________.
3. Stephen was accused of __________ against Moses and God before the Sanhedrin.
4. Philip explained the scriptures to and baptized an __________ eunuch on the road to Gaza.
5. The appointment of deacons was necessary because of the __________ (increase in size) of the early Church.
WEEK 9
Topic: The Growth and Persecution of the Early Church – Philip in Samaria
Learning Objectives: By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
· Evaluate the importance of the deacons in relation to the apostles.
· Discuss the significance of the repentance and conversion of the Samaritans.
Student Notes
1. The Role of Deacons vs. Apostles
Following the death of Stephen (the first martyr), great persecution broke out in Jerusalem, scattering the believers. This led to a shift in leadership dynamics:
· The Apostles: Remained in Jerusalem. Their primary role was the "ministry of the word" and prayer.
· The Deacons: Originally appointed to handle the daily distribution of food (Acts 6), deacons like Philip became powerful evangelists.
· Relation: The deacons served as the "outreach arm" of the church. While apostles provided the foundational teaching and authority (laying on of hands), deacons were instrumental in the physical expansion of the Gospel into new territories.
2. Philip Preaches in Samaria (Acts 8:4–25)
Philip traveled to a city in Samaria to preach the Gospel. This was a revolutionary move because of the long-standing religious and ethnic hostility between Jews and Samaritans.
· Signs and Wonders: Philip performed miracles, drove out evil spirits, and healed the paralyzed. This resulted in "great joy in that city."
· The Repentance of Samaritans: The Samaritans, who had previously been enthralled by the magic of Simon the Sorcerer, believed Philip’s message about the Kingdom of God and were baptized.
· Significance of their Repentance:
o Breaking Barriers: It proved the Gospel was for all people, not just Jews.
o Fulfillment of Scripture: It fulfilled Jesus' command to be witnesses in "Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria."
o Validation: The Apostles Peter and John came from Jerusalem to lay hands on them so they would receive the Holy Spirit, confirming that Samaritans were full members of the Church.
Classwork: Multiple Choice Questions (7)
1. Why did Philip go to Samaria to preach?
o A. He was appointed King of Samaria
o B. Persecution in Jerusalem scattered the believers
o C. He was looking for Simon the Sorcerer
o D. The Apostles told him to leave Jerusalem forever
2. Before Philip arrived, the Samaritans were impressed by the magic of:
o A. Stephen
o B. Ananias
o C. Simon
o D. Saul
3. What was the primary original reason deacons were appointed in Acts 6?
o A. To lead the army
o B. To oversee the distribution of food to widows
o C. To write the New Testament
o D. To baptize the Samaritans
4. How did the Samaritans respond to Philip’s message?
o A. They arrested him
o B. They ignored him and continued practicing magic
o C. They believed and were baptized
o D. They asked him to leave their city
5. Which two Apostles traveled to Samaria to confirm the work Philip had started?
o A. Paul and Silas
o B. Peter and John
o C. Matthew and Luke
o D. James and Andrew
6. The conversion of the Samaritans was significant because it showed:
o A. That Jews were superior to Samaritans
o B. That the Gospel was breaking down ethnic and religious barriers
o C. That magic was more powerful than miracles
o D. That the Apostles were no longer needed
7. What did Peter and John do to the Samaritan believers so they would receive the Holy Spirit?
o A. They offered them money
o B. They performed animal sacrifices
o C. They laid their hands on them
o D. They gave them new clothes
Classwork: Fill in the Blank Spaces (5)
1. Philip is often referred to as "Philip the __________" because of his work in Samaria.
2. The Samaritans were traditionally enemies of the __________ people.
3. Simon the Sorcerer tried to __________ the power of the Holy Spirit with money.
4. The deacons allowed the __________ to focus specifically on prayer and the ministry of the Word.
5. Philip’s preaching in Samaria caused "great __________" in that city.