Wednesday, May 21, 2008
LIVE TO WIN!
PATTERN FOR EVANGELISM
Acts 5:12-42
INTRO: The early church saw its purpose as evangelism. Some say that everything else the church does could be done better in heaven, but we must stay here to evangelize. We can see a pattern here for us today.
PURITY (12-14)
God dealt with Ananias & Sapphira (1-11)
This brought fear and a paradox:
1) No one dared join them.
2) They were held in high regard by outsiders.
3) More and more believed and joined the church.
The church must recognize and deal with sin.
Individuals must seek to live a pure life.
POWER (15-16)
Miracles & wonders. Miracles for those beyond
Some say this was just for first church.
But we can see the power of God at work today.
PERSECUTION (17-28)
When God works, the enemy does not like it.
We need not be surprised!
Apostles arrested, jailed, and set free by angels.
PERSISTENCE (29-32)
Obey God rather than man!
Be faithful in face of persecution.
Be faithful to God and his Word.
PRODUCTIVITY (33-42)
Conviction of unbelievers.
Gamaliel an unexpected ally.
Joy in persecution.
Continued teaching.
QUESTION: Are we as faithful to live for God as the early church? Are we experiencing the power of God which comes from being obedient to Him?
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Outline adapted from commentary by John MacArthur, Jr.
Preached May 18, 2008
Greenville Southern Baptist Church
Pastor Fred D. Kerr
dialog welcome
