Wake Before the Day

The evil one uses sin to form accusations against God's people. The good news is Jesus is our defender and vindicator. 

In Acts 24 Paul is on his way to Rome and continues to have high-stakes conversations regarding Jesus and salvation. In this chapter Paul has a conversation with a leader named Felix. Felix makes a subtle but relevant statement, "I'll listen to you when it's convenient for me". How often do I follow God only because it's convenient?

Let's talk about the significance of "place" and God's redemption. 20 years later, Paul stood where Stephen once stood.

In Acts 22 Paul shares the Gospel by sharing his story. We've all heard "the power of story" and for the christian our story becomes especially powerful when we acknowledge our inability and God's ability.

There is power in story and let's unpack the importance of loving the existing church while welcoming the newcomer.

Devotion: strong love and loyalty; the use of time, money and energy for a specific purpose.

The word "devotion" isn't used much in this chapter but this is what we see. Paul continues to lay in all on the line, speaking truth to "opponents", spending time in jail, traveling to far off cities, why? Because he's a devoted follower of Jesus. How devoted are we as followers of Jesus? What would it look like for us to be more devoted?

There is no "second baptism" of the Spirit. The Spirit lives within the believer and can come upon the believer for empowerment!

We all need friends and a spiritual support system. Paul did. We do. Acts 18 reveals the inner workings of the church!

Acts 17 encourages and challenges us in many ways. Who can be part of the church? Anyone and everyone who confesses Jesus as Lord! Examine the scriptures yourselves - please don't be spoon fed whatever is floating around online. What does it mean to be God fearing? Let's break it down!

Acts 16 reminds us: the Gospel is for the churched and unchurched, baptism is a gift and that prayer + praise = perspective!