- Enabled by God, vv1b-3
A. Belief
B. Opposition
C. Perseverance
God enabling you – ‘didomi’
How?
Discussion……
Prayer – “Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” (Acts 4:29 NIV11)
Suppression of ego: “for the Lord”, v3
Focussed on preaching a person, not a religion: “for the Lord”
Preaching a positive message – “his grace”, not negative one
Results of perseverance….
The results of god’s enablement, vv4-6
A. People make a choice
B. Opposition
C. Moving on
Discussion
Cynics – pigs simply devour – ““Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” (Matthew 7:6 NIV
When other opportunities present themselves – “Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.”” (Mark 1:38 NIV11)
Summary
Expect people to choose
Expect the negative people to oppose you
Move on when to stay would prevent the gospel being spread
Conclusion, v7
Unstoppable zeal
Neither poisoning nor plots were enough to deter them
Starts with “as usual”
Ends with “continued to preach”
Fully convinced of their message
Fully convinced of God with them
God:
- Confirmed the message of His grace
- Empowered his messengers
- Affirmed his bold ambassadors
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.
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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)
God bless, Malcolm
PS: You might also be interested in my book: “An elephant’s swimming pool”, a devotional look at the Gospel of John
