Companions in Ministry (Acts 18:18-28)
Introduction Paul’s ministry hardships were many: Blinded at conversion Escaped two murder plots Jewish and Gentile persecution Escaped mistreatment and stoning Stoned and left for dead Separation from Barnabas Beaten and imprisoned in Philippi Run out of Thessalonica and Berea In Corinth, Paul faced more Jewish opposition (v.12). Finally, protected by Gallio’s statement, Paul peacefully remains in Corinth “many days longer” (Acts 18:18). Problem: We want comfort. We don’t want to exert too much energy, nor do we want to…
Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:1-17)
Reasoning and Persuading (1-5) Rejection and Perseverance (6-11) Law and Gospel (12-17)
Jerusalem the Capital of Athens (Acts 17:16-34)
Introduction Tertullian, “What indeed has Athens to do with Jerusalem?”1 What is the proper relationship between the Church and the culture? Jerusalem versus Athens: “I have nothing to learn from culture, but listen to me.” Athens versus Jerusalem: “I will adjust my faith according to cultural recommendations.” Jerusalem segregated from Athens: “My faith is a private matter, separate from my view of everything else.” Jerusalem integrated with Athens: “I pick and choose aspects from my faith and the culture to determine my actions.” Jerusalem…
An Upside Down World (Acts 17:1-15)
Introduction Violence of Anti-Trump protestors nothing new. When you can’t persuade people with reason, using force is faster and easier. Candidates reaction to blame opponent nothing new. Trump blames Clinton for sending professional agitators. Clinton blames Trump for instigating the violence. We will see very similar tactics in our text this morning. 2MJ > Call to Macedonia > Philippi: Conversions of Lydia and Jailer > Asked to leave (16:39). Read Acts 17:1-15 Mob violence is nothing new. How should we respond? Luke highlights…
Ministry in Philippi (Acts 16:11-40)
Introduction 2MJ began in conflict and continued in confusion. Paul blocked by the Spirit. Macedonia was not on Paul’s initial itinerary. Read Acts 16:11-40 No mass conversion, just a few important individuals embrace Christ by faith, which implies “regeneration”. Redemption Accomplished and Applied, John Murray, “The believing and loving response which the calling requires is a moral and spiritual impossibility on the part of one who is dead in trespasses and sins.” God must begin that work! God’s initiating grace dramatically…
Multiplication Through Division (Acts 15:36-16:10)
Introduction I’m beginning to embrace the fact that math isn’t my strong suit. Our passage opens with Paul and Barnabas splitting up and concludes with 3x the number of missionaries on the field. On the heels of one of the most unifying events in church history comes a conflict that divides one of the greatest partnerships in church history! Read Acts 15:36-16:10 Unlikely avenues of growth. Confusion, chaos, perseverance. Faithful disciples persevere through confusing and chaotic circumstances by trusting in…
The Jerusalem Council (Acts 15:1-35)
The Jerusalem Council is a model for handling disputes of theological nature. Both sides voiced concerns. The Church stood firm on the gospel of grace, but revealed a cultural sensitivity that was necessary to maintain fellowship.
Mission Complete (Acts 14)
God is continually nudging the church forward through its bold proclamation of the gospel, courageous perseverance, and adoption His grand mission.
Preaching For Redemption (Acts 13:13-52)
Freedom from sin is found through faith in Christ. The Promise of a Redeemer (13-25) The Presence of a Redeemer (26-37) The Proposal of a Redeemer (38-52)
Mission Cyprus (Acts 12:25-13:12)
The earnest participation in the mission of God requires diligent preparation. Preparation for the Mission (12:25-13:2a) Pattern of the Mission (13:2b-5) Opposition to the Mission (13:6-12)