Dr. Jason Ormiston shares from Acts 19 how the gospel created new beginnings in the city of Ephesus. He encourages the students to know and share in God’s Work. He shares that God desires them to know His Word, engage in what they have been called to, understand the role of the Holy Spirit, and to understand the unity of the church.

Scripture Text

Acts 19:1-7

Main Points or Ideas

Understand Scripture

• Paul found disciples in Ephesus who were following "the way" but didn't fully understand it
• These twelve disciples of John the Baptist had incomplete knowledge, similar to Apollos in Acts 18
• "The way" refers to the path of salvation through Jesus Christ, referenced throughout the Old Testament (Isaiah 35:8-9) and fulfilled in Jesus who said "I am the way, the truth, and the life"
• Understanding Scripture accurately is essential to recognizing where God is at work

Engage in Your Calling

• Paul went to Ephesus because he understood his calling as an apostle to the Gentiles
• His missionary journeys were directly impacted by his understanding of Scripture and God's promises in Isaiah
• Paul moved in concentric circles (like Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost) as he reached different regions
• On his third journey, Paul focused on strengthening and encouraging disciples, understanding the importance of discipleship
• God has a group of people for us to find in every location—He is never not at work

Understand the Role of the Holy Spirit

• The twelve disciples had not even heard of the Holy Spirit, showing that people can be sincere but incomplete in their understanding
• The Holy Spirit is co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father and God the Son
• He is the comforter, counselor, advocate, teacher, and witness
• He convicts of sin, indwells believers, produces fruit, guides, and intercedes
• Believers are baptized in the Holy Spirit at the point of conversion
• We grieve the Holy Spirit when we: (1) use Him to excuse our sinfulness, (2) pit Him against Scripture, or (3) suggest He is jealous of our focus on Christ
• The Spirit always points us to Jesus and works through Scripture to direct our steps
• The laying on of hands and speaking in tongues were apostolic signs for that unique time in history
• Tongues refers to speaking in languages unknown to the speaker but understood by recipients (Acts 2)

Embrace the Unity of the Church

• The twelve disciples represent the completion of God's work to all people groups
• Acts 2:4 - Jews; Acts 8:14-17 - Samaritans; Acts 10 - Gentiles; Acts 19 - Old Testament saints who needed to understand Jesus better
• There is no place where the gospel cannot be understood and accepted

Conclusion

God is the God of new beginnings who calls believers to rejoice in new chapters of life, yield to the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, and take advantage of opportunities to boldly proclaim truth. When facing two good options, choose the harder path where you will see God work most intimately and powerfully.