3-Day Bible Reading Plan: Rap sheets are more winsome than résumés
“Big Idea: Rap sheets are more winsome than résumés. When we share our stories, we should not steal the spotlight from the true hero, Jesus. Our goal should not be to impress people with our profound understanding of spiritual wisdom. We should aim at empathy and not admiration. Let’s see how Paul connected with a very hostile crowd by sharing his rap sheet and not his résumé. At first, it will look like a résumé, but we will see that Paul is actually sharing his sins and not his successes.” - Pastor Paul, 3/3/24
Day 1: Finding Your "Rap Sheet"
Scripture: Acts 22:1-5, Galatians 1:13-16
Reflection Prompts:
Head: How does Paul connect with his audience in Acts 22:1-3? What does this teach us about the importance of finding common ground when sharing our faith?
Heart: In Galatians 1:13-16, Paul describes his past actions as "persecuting the church of God and trying to destroy it." Why is Paul not ashamed to share his past sins? How does this challenge your own perspective on sharing your past?
Hand: Reflect on your own life before coming to faith in Jesus. Can you identify any past struggles or experiences that could serve as entry points for connecting with others and sharing your faith journey?
Cross References:
Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God"
Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no one should boast"
Day 2: Transitioning into Your Story
Scripture: Acts 22:3, 1 Timothy 1:12-15
Reflection Prompts:
Head: How does Paul transition from identifying with his audience to revealing his past sins in Acts 22:3?
Heart: In 1 Timothy 1:12-15, Paul describes himself using negative terms like "blasphemer," "persecutor," and "insolent opponent." How does acknowledging his past help him connect with others in this passage?
Hand: Think of a situation where a friend or family member confided in you about a struggle they are facing. How could you use this opportunity to transition into sharing your own relevant story in a sensitive and helpful way?
Cross References:
1 John 1:8: "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us"
Romans 3:11-12: "No one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one."
2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
Day 3: Embracing Your Story
Scripture: Philippians 3:4-9
Reflection Prompts:
Head: In Philippians 3:4-9, Paul reflects on his life before and after coming to faith in Christ. What changes does he highlight?
Heart: How can meditating on the changes you experienced after coming to faith help you share your story with greater confidence and clarity?
Hand: Take time to journal or pray about your own faith journey. Identify specific moments, experiences, or verses that have been significant in your walk with Christ. Consider how these elements could be woven into your personal story to inspire and encourage others.
Cross References:
2 Corinthians 5:21: "For our sake he made him who knew no sin to be sin, that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (ESV)
Romans 8:28-29: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers" (ESV)
Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through him who strengthens me" (ESV)