Acts 11:19-30

A “faith promise” offering is simply faith in God to provide an amount of money followed by a promise to give it.  A “faith promise” offering is a commitment to give what we will trust God to provide.

-It was an offering over and above local church support.

-Rather than being a cash offering, it was a faith offering, promising in faith to contribute a certain amount over a one-year period.

-It was given in faith.  (The reward in ability to give during the year was seen as being directly proportional to the commitment made in faith.)

The grace of new opportunity: 

The grace of discipline: 

The grace of the unusual:

John 19:30; Luke 23:43-47

I. It is finished!

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…
Romans 1:16

II. The Temple curtain is torn.

III. Jesus’ dying prayer.

In you, O Lord, I seek refuge;
Do not let me ever be put to shame;
In your righteousness deliver me.
Incline your ear to me;
rescue me speedily.
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a strong fortress to save me.
Psalm 31:1-2

You are indeed my rock and my fortress;
For your name’s sake lead me and guide me,
Take me out of the net that is hidden for me,
for you are my refuge.
Into your hands I commit my spirit.
Psalm 31:3-5

The primary purpose of Jesus’ words about his return are to encourage believers in the face of adversity and to invite his hearers to always be ready for the end.