We met online again with worship, prayer, and sermon. Pastor continued the Viral series.
He reminded us that the Church is the body of Christ with a specific purpose. The church is a movement to go forward to break down the gates of hell. He asked: Is the church separate from the world while living in it or is the church becoming too much a part of the world? What was the tone set by the early church?
We look at the history in the book of Acts. The church grew even when under persecution. The church was/is not just an idea nor just a philosophy. It was and is a personal experience. The disciples went out sharing and birthing new disciples. When the church met resistance, the church grew. The last days began when Jesus died. Now, in the very last days, we must boldly share the gospel. We must remember why we are here.
Acts 4:1-12 describes how Peter and John were arrested for telling the story of the healing of the paralyzed man. Peter proclaimed that the man was healed by the powerful name of Jesus. The evidence of the healed man was in front of them. How could it be denied?
After being released Peter and John prepared to go out again. They didn’t pray for safety or an easy road. They prayed for boldness to continue to speak out and share the message of Jesus. Acts 4:29-31.
Stephen proclaimed the message of God before and while being stoned. He spoke boldly with the strength of his beliefs. Acts 7. Those who witnessed the stoning were scattered and “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Acts 8:4. The message spread even after hardship and tragedy.
We must share the good news. We need to be challenged by the early church.
The Point: In these days, like the early church, we must share the gospel with boldness.
The Gospel is a message of life and death.
How can people face the end without the hope of Jesus?
People can't wait. They must know the message. The Church must go out. The mission is still the same: take the message of the good news (salvation) to all people.
This song gives a message of hope even in difficult times.
Verses for Today:Acts 4:29-31 (NIV)
29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”
31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
Lord, I am always thankful that I know that You are in control. I praise the God of the Universe, Christ who gave me salvation and the Holy Spirit who is available to guide me each day.
Thanks for the encouragement today. I needed it.
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