Acts 13 | Back to the Basics: Ministry, Calling, and the Gospel

--

Slides:

Theme:

Return to the foundation of our faith by embracing God’s calling, committing to faithful ministry, and boldly proclaiming the Gospel in every part of our lives.

Worship While You Wait

Philippians 3:4–6

[4] though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more: [5] circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; [6] as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless. 

Philippians 3:7-8

[7] But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. [8] Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ (ESV)

The longer Paul walked with God, the more "little" he became as Jesus was made increasing greater in his life.

They ministered to the congregation.

They ministered to one another.

They ministered to the Lord!

They fasted on purpose for a purpose. 

Isaiah 58:6–12

[6] “Is not this the fast that I choose:

to loose the bonds of wickedness,

to undo the straps of the yoke,

to let the oppressed go free,

and to break every yoke?

[7] Is it not to share your bread with the hungry

and bring the homeless poor into your house;

when you see the naked, to cover him,

and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?

[8] Then shall your light break forth like the dawn,

and your healing shall spring up speedily;

your righteousness shall go before you;

the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.

[9] Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer;

you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.’

If you take away the yoke from your midst,

the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness,

[10] if you pour yourself out for the hungry

and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,

then shall your light rise in the darkness

and your gloom be as the noonday.

[11] And the LORD will guide you continually

and satisfy your desire in scorched places

and make your bones strong;

and you shall be like a watered garden,

like a spring of water,

whose waters do not fail.

[12] And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt;

you shall raise up the foundations of many generations;

you shall be called the repairer of the breach,

the restorer of streets to dwell in. (ESV)

God has a call on your life.

Live it out boldly and faithfully.

Success is measured by obedience - not response. 

Romans 10:17

[17] So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. (ESV)

God's story for you - and others is still unfolding. 

Philippians 1:6

[6] And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (ESV)

Was John Wrong?

Who was Called?

Was he wrong for going or leaving?

God's will always prevails, but he gives freedom in it. 

Paul reminds us that God's character is faithfulness.

Salvation is available through Christ alone.