Weekly Sermons

Disturbances about the Way             Acts 19:21-41

Paul recognized that he had what they needed, even if they didn’t know it ________________________! He knew that the same gospel that had saved him out of his religion-based lostness could save them out of their idolatry-based lostness.

Paul’s Travel Plans                                                                 V. 21-22

Romans 15:15-29.

The Gospel is bad for businesses built on idolatry and ____________                                                                                           V. 23-29

Demetrius and his co-workers made shrines and household idols of Artemis. Artemis is Greek and means the Great Mother. Her name in Latin is _____________________.

When the gospel makes its impact, those who make their living by helping people sin often become the church’s biggest ____________.

Don’t be surprised when __________________________ occurs                                                                                                   V. 29-34

In fact, all those who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.     -2 Timothy 3:12               John 15:18-19

Alexander the coppersmith did great harm to me. The Lord will repay him according to his works. Watch out for him yourself, because he strongly opposed our words.             -2 Timothy 4:14-15

Christians ________________________ the rule of law      V. 35-41

Luke knew that more than just Christians would read the Book of Acts. Roman authorities would as well. And Luke wanted those authorities to know that Christians appreciated the Pax Romana, the

Romans 13:1-7                        1 Timothy 2:1-4

 

The city official makes 3 points:

1.         Ephesus’ reputation was secure

2.         The Christians were innocent of any direct crime

3.         They needed to resort to regular courts.

 

Our challenge: exist together with our neighbors in the public square WITH compassion, WITHOUT _____________________!

 

Ten Considerations for Christians living in the public square:

Don’t be surprised by opposition to your faith (John 16:33; 2 Timothy 3:12)

Understand: It’s not “us versus them,” but “us for them” (Ephesians 6:10-20)

Do be humble: you’re a sinner saved by God’s grace (Eph. 2:1-10; 1 Tim. 1:15)

Do deal with your own sin and idolatry (Matthew 7:1-5)

Do truly love people, and have compassion for them (Matt. 5:43-48; Matt. 9:36)

Do lovingly serve your fellow man (Mark 10:45; John 13:14)

Do be known for good deeds (2 Peter 3:13-17)

Do courageously share the gospel (Acts 4:18-20; Jude 22-23)

Share your testimony with gentleness and respect (2 Peter 3:15-16)

Honor everything you can without compromising your faith convictions (Rom. 13:1-7; 1 Tim. 2:1-4)