Thursday, May 15, 2008
ADVERSITY
HOW TO HANDLE ADVERSITY
Acts 4
INTRO: In this passage we see one of the early situations of persecution of the church. While the account is about how the church handled it, there are some principles we might draw to guide in any adversity corporate or individual.
BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT (vs. 8)
Be completely controlled by the Holy Spirit.
No long prayer time involved here.
It is a lifestyle commitment.
BE AGGRESSIVE IN SEIZING OPPORTUNITIES (9-12)
They asked the question. Peter jumped at the chance.
In personal problems, we will find opportunities to serve.
BE OBEDIENT TO GOD AT ALL COSTS (19-20)
Peter and John were commanded not to preach/teach Jesus.
They put it back to the leaders. We must obey God.
In facing problems, do you obey God by trusting Him?
Or do you disobey Him by doubting His ability?
BE COMMITTED TO FELLOWSHIP (23)
Peter and John went to the church.
Do we go to the church to help in adversity?
Too often we want to stay away in our grief.
BE THANKFUL (24-26)
The church went to prayer and started with Thanksgiving.
They praised God for what He had done.
Then they brought up their problem.
BE DESIROUS OF GREATER BOLDNESS (29-31)
They asked for boldness.
It is interesting that they did not ask for destruction of foes.
Do we ask for deliverance or strength?
---- One outline of this passage includes: "Go Back, Go up, and Go forward."
What are you facing today? Where do you turn for help?
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Outline adapted from commentary by John MacArthur, Jr.
Preached, May 11, 2008
Greenville Southern Baptist Church
Dialog welcome.
