Spirit Led Obedience – What Prevents You

Acts 8:26 — From Revival to the Desert

“Rise and go toward the south… This is a desert place.”

• Why do you think God would send Philip away from a fruitful ministry?
• Can you think of a time when God called you out of comfort into something unknown?
• What does this teach us about obedience?

Acts 8:27–29 — An Unexpected Encounter

“…an Ethiopian, a eunuch… seated in his chariot, reading the prophet Isaiah.”

• Who does Philip find in the desert—and why is this surprising?
• What stands out about the eunuch’s position, background, and setting?
• What does this suggest about who God sees and sends us to?

Acts 8:30–31 — A Hunger for Truth

“Do you understand what you are reading?” // “How can I, unless someone guides me?”

• What does the eunuch’s response reveal about his heart?
• Why is it important that someone sits with him rather than preaches at him?
• Who in your life might be reading, wondering, or seeking—and just needs someone to guide them?

Acts 8:32–34 — Reading Isaiah 53

“In his humiliation justice was denied him… For his life is taken away…”

• What kind of person is described in this Scripture?
• Why do you think the eunuch is drawn to this passage?
• Have you ever read Scripture and felt like it was describing your story?

Acts 8:35–38 — A Story That Includes Him

“Then Philip… told him the good news about Jesus.”

• What happens when the eunuch hears the gospel explained?
• What does his immediate response to water and baptism tell us?
• What do you think he means when he says, “What prevents me?” 

Acts 8:39 — A New Story Begins

“He went on his way rejoicing.”

• Why is the eunuch now rejoicing?
• How does this passage challenge the idea of who belongs in God’s family?

Isaiah 56:3–5 — The Fulfillment

“To the eunuchs… I will give an everlasting name that shall not be cut off.”

• What kind of hope is given to those who feel cut off or overlooked?
• What does this reveal about God’s heart for the excluded, the hurting, the forgotten?

Final Reflection:

• Who are the people around you who may feel like a “dry tree”?
• Are you willing to be like Philip—sent to the unlikely places, ready to guide others to Jesus?
• What’s stopping you from stepping into the assignment God has given you?