20230304 Baptism Act 2:38 (ESV) 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. be baptized. This Greek word lit. means "be dipped or immersed" in water. G907 (Strong) βαπτίζω baptizō bap-tid'-zo From a derivative of G911; to make whelmed (that is, fully wet); used only (in the New Testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordinance of Christian baptism: - baptist, baptize, wash. Thayer Definition: 1) to dip repeatedly, to immerse, to submerge (of vessels sunk) 2) to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to wash, to make clean with water, to wash one’s self, bathe 3) to overwhelm Part of Speech: verb Peter was obeying Christ's command from Mat 28:19 Mat 28:19-20 (ESV) 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Peter was urging the people who repented and turned to the Lord Christ for salvation to identify, through the waters of baptism, with His death, burial, and resurrection. Rom 6:3-4 (ESV) 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. for the remission of sins. This might better be translated "because of the remission of sins." Baptism does not produce forgiveness and cleansing from sin. The reality of forgiveness precedes the rite of baptism (Act 2:41). Genuine repentance brings from God the forgiveness (remission) of sins (Eph 1:7) and, because of that, the new believer is to be baptized. Baptism, however, is to be the ever-present act of obedience, so that it became synonymous with salvation. Thus, to say one was baptized for forgiveness was the same as saying one was saved. 1Pe 3:18-22 (ESV) 18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, 20 because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. 21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the answer of a good conscience toward God. The word for answer has the idea of a pledge, agreeing to certain conditions of a covenant (the new covenant) with God. What saves a person plagued by sin and a guilty conscience is not some external rite, but the agreement with God to get in the ark of safety, the Lord Jesus, by faith in His death and resurrection (cf. Rom 10:9-10; Heb 9:14; Heb 10:22).
20221101 Act 13:26-31 Humility Cures Blinding Pride Blinding pride What is the solution to blinding pride? Jas 4:10 (ESV) 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. - Read Act 13:26-31 - Act 13:26 (ESV) “Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation. Gen 12:3 (ESV) 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” - Act 13:27 (ESV) For those who live in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not recognize him nor understand the utterances of the prophets, which are read every Sabbath, fulfilled them by condemning him. Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord 1Co 1:18-31 (ESV) 18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. - Act 13:28 (ESV) And though they found in him no guilt worthy of death, they asked Pilate to have him executed. Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord Self-centered perspective skews or twists our perception. God created the world to make sense. Sin/self clouds our perception of the logic of God‘s world. Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord Original sin: PRIDE Isa 14:14 (ESV) 14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’ 1. Inordinate self-esteem; an unreasonable conceit of one's own superiority in talents, beauty, wealth, accomplishments, rank or elevation in office, which manifests itself in lofty airs, distance, reserve, and often in contempt of others. Pride blinds us to the truth! Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord - Act 13:29 (ESV) And when they had carried out all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree and laid him in a tomb. Act 13:30 (ESV) But God raised him from the dead, regardless of man’s twisted perspective, reality is, God is accomplishing HIS purposes! Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord - Act 13:31 (ESV) and for many days he appeared to those who had come up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are now his witnesses to the people. = Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord 1Co 1:18-25 (ESV) 18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord - 19 For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart.” Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord - 20 Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord - 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord 22 For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, 23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, 24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord Pride blinds is to the truth. Don’t allow pride to control your perspective. Humble yourself before the Lord and HE will lift you up! Blinding pride Humble yourselves before the Lord
20221031 Act 13:21-25 Time is God’s tool One of the gifts of the spirit is patience God wants us to trust him and patiently wait HIS time. - Read Act 13:21-25 - Act 13:21 (ESV) Then they asked for a king, and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years. Act 13:22 (ESV) And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, ‘I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after my heart, who will do all my will.’ Act 13:23 (ESV) Of this man's offspring God has brought to Israel a Savior, Jesus, as he promised. 2Pe 3:8-9 (ESV) 8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. Time is God’s tool - Act 13:24 (ESV) Before his coming, John had proclaimed a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. Act 13:25 (ESV) And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he. No, but behold, after me one is coming, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.’ Act 13:26 (ESV) “Brothers, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you who fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation. = Isa 40:29-31 (ESV) 29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. 30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; 31 but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Time is God’s tool In your life there may be delays and challenges that seem to go on for a long period of time. Gal 6:7-10 (ESV) 7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. 9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. 10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. Time is God’s tool Manage your expectations – God uses time to attain His ends, His purposes. Time is God’s tool Don’t be impatient. Heb 5:11-14 (ESV) 11 About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, 13 for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. 14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Time is God’s tool God uses times to transform us. Rom 12:1-2 (ESV) 1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Time is God’s tool
20221027 Act 13:16-20 Testify to Goodness of God We can impact eternity when we testify to the goodness of God - Read Act 13:16-20 - Act 13:16 (ESV) So Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand said: “Men of Israel and you who fear God, listen. Paul was talking to people who recognized God Testify to Goodness of God Act 13:17 (ESV) The God of this people Israel chose our fathers and made the people great during their stay in the land of Egypt, and with uplifted arm he led them out of it. Paul is speaking of God’s gracious and powerful acting for the Israelites Testify to Goodness of God Act 13:18 (ESV) And for about forty years he put up with them in the wilderness. Paul testifies to God’s patience Testify to Goodness of God Act 13:19 (ESV) And after destroying seven nations in the land of Canaan, he gave them their land as an inheritance. Paul testifies to the Sovereignty of God Testify to Goodness of God Act 13:20 (ESV) All this took about 450 years. And after that he gave them judges until Samuel the prophet. Paul testifies to the grace and providence of God Testify to Goodness of God = Paul summarizes for his listeners how God selected the Israelites, and increased them in Egypt then led them out. He phrases it that God “put up with them” ( v 18) God was doing the “doing“… “… He gave them… “, He destroyed. God was proactively working to position the Israelites where he wanted them. God is laying the ground from work for the Israelites and Paul is laying the groundwork for his hearers to understand how astonishing the gospel is. Testify to Goodness of God The gospel is not a fix to a problem that God did not see coming. God set this whole process in motion for the express purpose of glorifying His name. Testify to Goodness of God History is part of God’s story. God set us within the bounds of time and we should use that for His glory by looking backward and seeing and reviewing what He has done and share it with others. Our testimony is the most powerful thing we can bring when sharing the gospel. How has God impacted your life’s? Rev 12:10-11 (ESV) 10 And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. 11 And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. What are they testifying of? 2Co 12:9 (ESV) 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Jas 4:10 (ESV) 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. Testify to the greatness and the mercy and the grace of God! Glorify and honor Him! Exo 33:18 (ESV) 18 Moses said, “Please show me your glory.” Exo 34:6 (ESV) 6 The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, Can you share how God has worked in your life to show you His character? Mercy Grace Patience Love Faithfulness
Encouragement Heb 10:24-25 (ESV) 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Act 13:13-15 (ESV) 13 Now Paul and his companions set sail from Paphos and came to Perga in Pamphylia. And John left them and returned to Jerusalem, 14 but they went on from Perga and came to Antioch in Pisidia. And on the Sabbath day they went into the synagogue and sat down. 15 After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent a message to them, saying, “Brothers, if you have any word of encouragement for the people, say it.” = Heb 10:24-25 (ESV) 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Emptied with purpose Out with the old – in with the new! Emptied to be filled Purge yourself of the things in this world and strive to be filled with the spirit! Emptied with purpose Php 2:5-7 (ESV) 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Emptied with purpose 2Ti 2:21 (ESV) 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. - Read Act 13:1-12 Emptied with purpose - Act 13:1 (ESV) Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a lifelong friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. Act 13:2 (ESV) While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Emptied with purpose - Act 13:3 (ESV) Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. Emptied with purpose - Act 13:4 (ESV) So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. Emptied with purpose - Act 13:5 (ESV) When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John to assist them. Emptied with purpose - Act 13:6 (ESV) When they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they came upon a certain magician, a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus. Act 13:7 (ESV) He was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of intelligence, who summoned Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God. This man is pursuing God! - Act 13:8 (ESV) But Elymas the magician (for that is the meaning of his name) opposed them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith. Opposition is the norm - Act 13:9 (ESV) But Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him Emptied with purpose - Act 13:10 (ESV) and said, “You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy, will you not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord? Also they need to clear a quart of this obstacle to truth Emptied with purpose He was emptying the court of Sergius Paulus of filth and lies so that there would be room for the truth Emptied with purpose - Act 13:11 (ESV) And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and unable to see the sun for a time.” Immediately mist and darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking people to lead him by the hand. Paul, guided by the Spirit, gave a limited consequence - grace in action Emptied with purpose In grace, Paul is living room for transformation even in Elymas’s heart. Emptied with purpose - Act 13:12 (ESV) Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord. Paul saw the need Emptied with purpose = Fasting and prayer are key elements in the preparation of being filled with the spirit and being an effective ambassador for Christ to the world. Php 2:5-7 (ESV) 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Emptied to be filled Out with the old – in with the new! 2Ti 2:21 (ESV) 21 Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work. Purge yourself of the things in this world and strive to be filled with the spirit!
Faith’s Focus A contrast in faith focus Heb 11:6 (ESV) 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. This isn’t a blind faith This isn’t a faith in your faith This is a specific, focused faith. This is a faith IN GOD! Faith’s Focus Luk 17:6 (ESV) 6 And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. Small faith in an infinite, all-powerful God versus huge faith in self or man or anything else Faith’s Focus Man crawling across the ice Must get across or freeze to death Team of horses roars down and crosses Both get across but one is accomplishing far more because of full commitment, proven faith Tested the ice vs just trying it out vs not crossing at all - (Setting) Act 12:12 (ESV) When he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying. Read Act 12:13-25 - Act 12:13 (ESV) And when he knocked at the door of the gateway, a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer. Act 12:14 (ESV) Recognizing Peter's voice, in her joy she did not open the gate but ran in and reported that Peter was standing at the gate. Faith’s Focus Act 12:15 (ESV) They said to her, “You are out of your mind.” But she kept insisting that it was so, and they kept saying, “It is his angel!” Act 12:16 (ESV) But Peter continued knocking, and when they opened, they saw him and were amazed. Faith’s Focus Act 12:17 (ESV) But motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Tell these things to James and to the brothers.” Then he departed and went to another place. Act 12:18 (ESV) Now when day came, there was no little disturbance among the soldiers over what had become of Peter. Act 12:19 (ESV) And after Herod searched for him and did not find him, he examined the sentries and ordered that they should be put to death. Then he went down from Judea to Caesarea and spent time there. Act 12:20 (ESV) Now Herod was angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they came to him with one accord, and having persuaded Blastus, the king's chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their country depended on the king's country for food. Act 12:21 (ESV) On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. Act 12:22 (ESV) And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” Faith’s Focus Act 12:23 (ESV) Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last. Faith’s Focus Act 12:24 (ESV) But the word of God increased and multiplied. Act 12:25 (ESV) And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem when they had completed their service, bringing with them John, whose other name was Mark. = Weak faith isn’t failing Failure comes with faith in the wrong solution Faith’s Focus Facing toward God or facing away from God Which way are you facing? Where are you aiming? Aiming for or away from God? It’s not the strength of your faith, it is the strength of what you have faith in! Faith’s Focus Dan 4:28-37 (ESV)
Know enough to trust and obey How much knowledge is enough to obey - Read Act 12:6-12 God takes Peter to a place where he is helpless - not in control. When God provides a means to get out, Peter does not even accept that it is reality - he thinks it’s a dream. When he finally accepts it as reality he heads for the body - the church What is the underlying principle? Even when God’s hand is operating right in front of our eyes, our human prejudice can blind us to the truth. Know God well enough to trust and obey God is the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe - He has every resource available to Him. Even if I don’t understand how or what God is doing, I need to be obedient to what He directs me to do. Know enough to trust and obey How do I “know“? His Spirit His Word His Body Obedience does not require all knowledge Obedience requires FAITH! Know enough to trust and obey - Act 12:6 (ESV) Now when Herod was about to bring him out, on that very night, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison. God‘s timing is always perfect and he is coordinating ALL things for his purpose. - Act 12:7 (ESV) And behold, an angel of the Lord stood next to him, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands. God provides the inputs we need. He sent an angel to provide directions to a confused Peter He provided light in the dark cell God gives us enough to obey - Act 12:8 (ESV) And the angel said to him, “Dress yourself and put on your sandals.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” Even though he didn’t comprehend what was going on, Peter obeyed the angels input Know (be wise) enough to obey - Act 12:9 (ESV) And he went out and followed him. He did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. Even when you don’t understand what is happening, keep obeying! Know enough to trust and obey - Act 12:10 (ESV) When they had passed the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate leading into the city. It opened for them of its own accord, and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel left him. God provides input at the level that we need Know enough to trust and obey - Act 12:11 (ESV) When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.” When you realize the God has revealed His hand, has been working in your life, acknowledge Him! We are called to glorify God Know enough to glorify God - Act 12:12 (ESV) When he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying. = Pro 3:5-6 (ESV) 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Know enough to trust and obey Pro 28:26 (ESV) 26 Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered. Pro 9:10 (ESV) 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight. Know enough to trust and obey Jer 9:23-24 (ESV) 23 Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, 24 but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD.” Know enough to trust and obey
Where are you drawing the line? Life: tragedy or comedy? Depends on where you draw the line for the end… What is “fair“? What is “right“? What is “sad“? What is “tragic“? A reminder that how we look at things and how God look at things are completely different. Where are you drawing the line? - Read Act 12:1-5 Is this a tragedy? Where are you drawing the line? Jesus had foretold this… Luk 21:10-19 (ESV) - Act 12:1 (ESV) About that time Herod the king laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. From a human perspective this is NOT good… But… Where are you drawing the line? Act 12:2 (ESV) He killed James the brother of John with the sword, James was taken out by Herod with little commentary by the author of Acts. Is basically a footnote to the rest of the story. Is this a tragedy? This is really his exit to heaven! Where are you drawing the line? Act 12:3 (ESV) and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. This was during the days of Unleavened Bread. Is this a tragedy or is this just part of the adventure God is taking us on? Where are you drawing the line? Act 12:4 (ESV) And when he had seized him, he put him in prison, delivering him over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people. “Bad guys” have the upper hand… Should we be sad? What should our course of action be? Act 4:29 (ESV) 29 And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, Where are you drawing the line? Act 12:5 (ESV) So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church. = What is your focus when things don’t look good from a worldly standpoint? Where are you drawing the line? Death is not the end but a transition. Whether it is tragic or not depends on where the transition is to! What is “fair“? What is “right“? What is “sad“? What is “tragic“? We live in a tent Php 1:21-23 (ESV) 1Co 15:53-58 (ESV) 2Co 5:1-6 (ESV)
Work for Unity God’s purpose of giving His Spirit is to unite us - sinful created beings - with Him - the perfect Creator God. In this He shows boundless grace and He is calling us to show that same grace in pursuing unity here in our imperfect world Joh 17:20-23 (ESV) 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. We must… Work for Unity - Read Act 11:25-30 Work for Unity - Act 11:25 (ESV) So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, Work for Unity Act 11:26 (ESV) and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. Work for Unity Act 11:27 (ESV) Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. Work for Unity Act 11:28 (ESV) And one of them named Agabus stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world (this took place in the days of Claudius). Act 11:29 (ESV) So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. Work for Unity Act 11:30 (ESV) And they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul. = Work for Unity Eph 4:1-16 (ESV) 1 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Work for Unity 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Work for Unity 7 But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. 8 Therefore it says, “When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.” 9 (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? 10 He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) 11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, Work for Unity 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, Work for Unity 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Work for Unity
Encouraging Faith Faith is a decision - we can encourage those who have made it Are you encouraging faith? Are you being encouraged in your faith? Xx Heb 10:24-25 (ESV) 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Encouraging Faith - Read Act 11:19-24 - Act 11:19 (ESV) Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. Jewish believers… Encouraging Faith – Act 11:20 (ESV) But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. These are those who had lived outside the district Jewish culture. Encouraging Faith – Act 11:21 (ESV) And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. God blessed this outreach. Encouraging Faith - Act 11:22 (ESV) The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. Barnabas’s qualifications included his encouraging heart and his common background of being from Cyprus Act 4:36 (ESV) 36 Thus Joseph, who was also called by the apostles Barnabas (which means son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Encouraging Faith – Act 11:23 (ESV) When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, Barnabas observed the heart change of these in Antioch and acknowledged that it was ONLY by gods grace but this could happen. Men’s hearts don’t change unless God is involved! His character came out as he encouraged them… Encouraging Faith The focus of his encouragement was to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose. What does it look like? Encouraging Faith Act 13:43 (ESV) 43 And after the meeting of the synagogue broke up, many Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who, as they spoke with them, urged them to continue in the grace of God. Encouraging Faith Act 14:22 (ESV) 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. Encouraging Faith Joh 8:31-32 (ESV) 31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Encouraging Faith Joh 15:4 (ESV) 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. Encouraging Faith Heb 10:19-26 (ESV) 19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. 26 For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, – Act 11:24 (ESV) for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. How was Barnabas’ faith beneficial in this process? = Encouraging Faith
The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter (The basic, central, or critical point or feature) The connecting point to The Eternal God God is infinite - I will not attempt to describe or define Him but share the following perspective… One aspect of God as trinity: God the Father loves us - God the Father is the eternal source of all things - the Creator - and He is Spirit. Joh 4:24 (ESV) The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God Christ came in the flesh to reveal God to us Col 1:15-20 (ESV) The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God The Holy Spirit unites us with God The Spirit is our eternal connection. Rom 8:16-17 (ESV) The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God Joh 16:13-14 (ESV) The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God Rom 8:26-27 (ESV) The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God Spirit - confirms that we are God’s children - Speaks God’s Truth directly to our hearts - Intercedes directly with God for us Col 1:27 (ESV) The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God - Read Act 11:1-18 The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God - Act 11:1 (ESV) Now the apostles and the brothers who were throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. Act 11:2 (ESV) So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcision party criticized him, saying, Act 11:3 (ESV) “You went to uncircumcised men and ate with them.” Act 11:4 (ESV) But Peter began and explained it to them in order: Act 11:5 (ESV) “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, something like a great sheet descending, being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to me. Act 11:6 (ESV) Looking at it closely, I observed animals and beasts of prey and reptiles and birds of the air. Act 11:7 (ESV) And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ Act 11:8 (ESV) But I said, ‘By no means, Lord; for nothing common or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ Act 11:9 (ESV) But the voice answered a second time from heaven, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.’ God has made US clean thru Christ’s blood Eph 1:7 (ESV) - Act 11:10 (ESV) This happened three times, and all was drawn up again into heaven. Act 11:11 (ESV) And behold, at that very moment three men arrived at the house in which we were, sent to me from Caesarea. Act 11:12 (ESV) And the Spirit told me to go with them, making no distinction. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man's house. Act 11:13 (ESV) And he told us how he had seen the angel stand in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon who is called Peter; Act 11:14 (ESV) he will declare to you a message by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ Act 11:15 (ESV) As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning. Affirming SIGN - Act 11:16 (ESV) And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ Confirming sign - Act 11:17 (ESV) If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God's way?” Eph 1:13-14 (ESV) The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God - Act 11:18 (ESV) When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.” What is the repentance that leads to life? What is life? The Holy Spirit is the crux of the matter The connecting point to The Eternal God
“A sign“ versus “THE sign“ It is not about the “signs”, it is a about the eternal reality indicated by the signs. Examples of salvation with and without outward signs… Act 2:1 (ESV) 1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? God‘s Spirit is being deposited in men! Act 2:41 (ESV) 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? Men are indicating their commitment to change, to be transformed to a new life style. Act 4:4 (ESV) 4 But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand. Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? A commitment to a different course in life. Act 8:12 (ESV) 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? Outward sign of an inward change of heart motivation – starting on the course of transformation by renewing their minds. Act 8:14-17 (ESV) 14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? SAMARITANS can be included in God‘s kingdom! Act 9:18 (ESV) 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? Outward sign of his N-word commitment to a new life! Look for the indications but don’t worship them. Baptism equals obedience Fruit of the spirit indicate transformation from the old to the new Outward signs are just that… Signs. They can be different but they serve the purpose of pointing to something God wants known. Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? - Read Act 10:44-48 - Act 10:44 (ESV) While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. What is God indicating with this? HE is indicating these are ones to be included in the Body. - Act 10:45 (ESV) And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? - Act 10:46 (ESV) For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, Signs are NOT the destination! What is the eternal reality God is highlighting? - Act 10:47 (ESV) “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” - Act 10:48 (ESV) And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days. =
What is the Gospel Read Act 10:34-43 Act 10:34 (ESV) So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, Act 10:35 (ESV) but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. Act 10:36 (ESV) As for the word that he sent to Israel, preaching good news of peace through Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), Act 10:37 (ESV) you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed: Act 10:38 (ESV) how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. Act 10:39 (ESV) And we are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree, Act 10:40 (ESV) but God raised him on the third day and made him to appear, Act 10:41 (ESV) not to all the people but to us who had been chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. Act 10:42 (ESV) And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. Act 10:43 (ESV) To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
Created Equal under God God created us with inherent value! Our value is not in our position… Our value is not in our worth… Our value is not in our identity… Rom 3:21-24 (ESV) 21 But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— 22 the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, Created Equal under God What differentiates us is our response to God. - Read Act 10:24-33 Created Equal under God - Act 10:24 (ESV) And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. Cornelius saw value in Peter… But he was about to learn that… Created Equal under God – Act 10:25 (ESV) When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. Cornelius made the common mistake of elevating the messenger Created Equal under God – Act 10:26 (ESV) But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” Peter got straight to the point - we are all just men! Created Equal under God - Act 10:27 (ESV) And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. Act 10:28 (ESV) And he said to them, “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a Jew to associate with or to visit anyone of another nation, but God has shown me that I should not call any person common or unclean. What was God’s purpose in directing the Jews in this way originally? Created Equal under God - Act 10:29 (ESV) So when I was sent for, I came without objection. I ask then why you sent for me.” Act 10:30 (ESV) And Cornelius said, “Four days ago, about this hour, I was praying in my house at the ninth hour, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing Act 10:31 (ESV) and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. Act 10:32 (ESV) Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ Act 10:33 (ESV) So I sent for you at once, and you have been kind enough to come. Now therefore we are all here in the presence of God to hear all that you have been commanded by the Lord.” = Created Equal under God Gal 3:28 (ESV) 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Created Equal under God Gal 5:6 (ESV) 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love. Created Equal under God Rom 1:16 (ESV) 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Created Equal under God Rom 2:9-11 (ESV) 9 There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek, 10 but glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek. 11 For God shows no partiality. Created Equal under God
Comfortable or Hungry? Walking in faith means being ready, willing, and able to move in any direction at any time to do whatever the Lord desires. “When I say jump, I want you to ask how high ON THE WAY UP!” 2Ti 4:2 (ESV) 2 preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. God doesn’t want us comfortable, He wants us ready! Relaxed or Ready? Joh 4:32-34 (ESV) 32 But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” 33 So the disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought him something to eat?” 34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work. Comfortable or Hungry? Relaxed or Ready? - Read Act 10:17-23 - Act 10:17 (ESV) Now while Peter was inwardly perplexed as to what the vision that he had seen might mean, behold, the men who were sent by Cornelius, having made inquiry for Simon's house, stood at the gate God‘s timing and God’s input are perfect. God repeated the message He gave to Peter three times. This was enough to pique Peter’s interest but not enough to have him understand the message. It shook Peter up and got him out of his comfort zone – he was pondering… God got him out of his arm chair and ready to consider something new and different. Relaxed or Ready? - Act 10:18 (ESV) and called out to ask whether Simon who was called Peter was lodging there. Act 10:19 (ESV) And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. Once God got Peter out of his comfort zone and wondering, then God could redirect him… Relaxed or Ready? - Act 10:20 (ESV) Rise and go down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” Act 10:21 (ESV) And Peter went down to the men and said, “I am the one you are looking for. What is the reason for your coming?” Note that God has not given Peter all the information… He’s still wondering where he’s going. BUT he IS GOING! Relaxed or Ready? – Act 10:22 (ESV) And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” God needed Peter to break out of his life long course of associating only with Jews. So God shook him up, got him out of his comfort zone, which opened the door for Peter to change direction. Relaxed or Ready? – Act 10:23 (ESV) So he invited them in to be his guests. The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. Peter didn’t dillydally… He got about doing that which god had open the door for him to do. Relaxed or Ready? = What are you hungry for? Are you satisfied and not for showing anything . Or are you hungry to know God and to do His will? Our human nature is to seek comfort and stability. We want to set a course and stay on it the rest of our lives. This mindset implies that we can have enough wisdom, insight, and foresight to set a perfect course one time and continue on. That in and of itself is obviously false. But in the bigger picture, we need to be willing and able to follow GOD‘s course, which we cannot/do not have the capacity to comprehend. What is your objective in life? What is your aim? To be comfortable? To be at ease? Or to be ready?! Relaxed or Ready? 2Ti 2:4 (ESV) 2Ti 3:10 (ESV) Relaxed or Ready? Php 3:12-15 (ESV) Relaxed or Ready?
Prayer - Bridge to Eternal Things Prayer is our bridge to God What are we sending and receiving across that bridge? Prayer, at the most basic level, is communicating with God. God has given us a direct connection to Him through His spirit deposited in us. Rom 8:26-27 (ESV) 26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. 27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Stay in touch with God so that you are able to maintain course through all the waves and wind that will impact you throughout the day, throughout the week - throughout your LIFE! Practice Prayer - Read Act 10:9-16 Peter was pursuing God in prayer… God honored that pursuit. Practice Prayer Act 1:14 (ESV) 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. Act 6:4 (ESV) 4 But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Cornelius Act 10:2 (ESV) 2 a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. Rom 12:12 (ESV) 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Php 4:6 (ESV) 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 1Th 5:16-17 (ESV) 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, - Act 10:9 (ESV) The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. Peter was pursuing God-he was walking in the fear of the Lord. Jews set aside two primary times to pray and added a third - Act 10:10 (ESV) And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance God can direct our physical, emotional, mental, AND spiritual state - Act 10:11 (ESV) and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. Heavens opening is a clear indication that this is coming from the holiest place - Act 10:12 (ESV) In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. God is consistent about being inclusive God is also consistent about requiring us to engage our brains - few things are black and white. Ecc 3:11 (ESV) 11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. Rom 1:19-20 (ESV) 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. Pro 25:2 (ESV) 2 It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out. - Act 10:13 (ESV) And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” Act 10:14 (ESV) But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” Peter is known for his impetuous nature. Mat 16:22 (ESV) 22 And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” - Act 10:15 (ESV) And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” - Act 10:16 (ESV) This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to = Eph 6:13-18 (ESV)
Honor God and he will honor you. Walk in the fear of the Lord… In today’s passage we see a man who God honors to be the first gentile to formally receive the gospel. Honor God and he will honor you. - Read Act 10:1-8 Honor God and he will honor you. - Eli was priest of Israel for many years - he knew God’s standards. - Eli‘s sons were living in direct opposition to God - Eli had to decide whom he would honor. He could not Honor both his sons in moral lifestyle and the holy God - By default, Eli chose to honor his sons, for he did not insist that their behavior conform to God’s standards. 1Sa 2:27-31 (ESV) 27 And there came a man of God to Eli and said to him, “Thus says the LORD, ‘Did I indeed reveal myself to the house of your father when they were in Egypt subject to the house of Pharaoh? 28 Did I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to go up to my altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? I gave to the house of your father all my offerings by fire from the people of Israel. 29 Why then do you scorn my sacrifices and my offerings that I commanded for my dwelling, and honor your sons above me by fattening yourselves on the choicest parts of every offering of my people Israel?’ 30 Therefore the LORD, the God of Israel, declares: ‘I promised that your house and the house of your father should go in and out before me forever,’ but now the LORD declares: ‘Far be it from me, for those who honor me I will honor, and those who despise me shall be lightly esteemed. 31 Behold, the days are coming when I will cut off your strength and the strength of your father's house, so that there will not be an old man in your house. Honor God and he will honor you. - Eli would’ve argued that he was doing the best he could - God thought otherwise… 1Sa 3:11-14 (ESV) 11 Then the LORD said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle. 12 On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. 13 And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them. 14 Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli's house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever.” Honor God and he will honor you. 1Sa 4:17-18 (ESV) 17 He who brought the news answered and said, “Israel has fled before the Philistines, and there has also been a great defeat among the people. Your two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God has been captured.” 18 As soon as he mentioned the ark of God, Eli fell over backward from his seat by the side of the gate, and his neck was broken and he died, for the man was old and heavy. He had judged Israel forty years. - Act 10:1 (ESV) At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of what was known as the Italian Cohort, Act 10:2 (ESV) a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God. devout - pious, dutiful, reverent feared God - reverence, venerate, to treat with deference or reverential obedience Honor God and he will honor you. Act 10:3 (ESV) About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God come in and say to him, “Cornelius.” Act 10:4 (ESV) And he stared at him in terror and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. Honor God and he will honor you. - Act 10:5 (ESV) And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. Act 10:6 (ESV) He is lodging with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” Act 10:7 (ESV) When the angel who spoke to him had departed, he called two of his servants and a devout soldier from among those who attended him, Act 10:8 (ESV) and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.
Serve in faith Service is our calling! Answer your calling - serve in faith Faith motivates us to do good works even when it doesn’t make sense to the world Serve in faith When you do good things for others, God has built into you an affirmation – you feel good even though it may cost you. Dopamine and serotonin Do Good to Feel Good We were literally created to do good works! Answer your calling - serve in faith - Read Act 9:36-43 Mat 5:16 (ESV) 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Answer your calling - serve in faith Eph 2:10 (ESV) 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Answer your calling - serve in faith Tit 2:7 (ESV) 7 Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, Answer your calling - serve in faith Tit 2:14 (ESV) 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works. Answer your calling - serve in faith Tit 3:8 (ESV) 8 The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. Answer your calling - serve in faith Heb 10:24 (ESV) 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, Answer your calling - serve in faith 1Pe 2:12 (ESV) 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. - Act 9:36 (ESV) Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. A follower of Christ and her actions showed where her heart was. Jas 2:14 (ESV) 14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? … Jas 2:19 (ESV) 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! … Jas 2:26 (ESV) 26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. Answer your calling - serve in faith - Act 9:37 (ESV) In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Act 9:38 (ESV) Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” Act 9:39 (ESV) So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. Dorcas was doing! Answer your calling - serve in faith - Act 9:40 (ESV) But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. Peter was speaking to a dead body in faith that God had called him to raise that body back to life! Call Peter KNEW God well enough to know what he was going to do. Faith is not presumption – we don’t take action and expect God to fill in the gap. Faith is knowing the heart of God and trusting that He will act in accordance with who He is. Because He is faithful to His character, not because we have obligated him to Answer your calling - serve in faith - Act 9:41 (ESV) And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. Act 9:42 (ESV) And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Act 9:43 (ESV) And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner. = Do what you were created to do! Answer your calling - serve in faith