Making Disciples
Do Not Be Afraid
Sunday November 4th, 2018 - Pastor Wungreiso Valui
Acts 18
Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, "Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city." (Acts 18:9-10)
INTRODUCTION
Paul, before he received the vision and message from the Lord Jesus Christ, saw that there were signs of a gathering storm. He knew what hatred and persecution could do. At this point in his faith journey, Paul was at risk of falling into despair and doubt. All of us have such moods and moments. When we are at risk of falling into despair and doubt, hold on to the unchanging truth. Do not not rely on your moods and moments. Jesus reminded Paul to go and make disciples. (Matthew 28:18-20)
THE MAIN POINT: JESUS SAID, "FOR I AM WITH YOU."
When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ. But when they opposed him and blasphemed, he shook his garments and said to them, "Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From now on I will go to the Gentiles." (vs 5-6)
DO NOT BE AFRAID
We will face the spirit of dejection. When you face fears, hold on to the unchanging truth. Do not rely on moods and moments. Rely on the Word of God.
Jesus told Paul not to be afraid.
And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. (v11)
BUT SPEAK
One of the greatest things we can do with others is to discuss and describe Jesus, so He is a meaningful presence and relatable person in our daily lives.
Paul obeyed Christ and taught the word of God for over two years in Corinth.
When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ "for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ." (Acts 18:5 & 28)
DO NOT KEEP SILENT
The untold gospel can be costly. Silence can cost lives. There are many who are dying of spiritual starvation, while many of us feast on the goodness of the gospel.
Paul and Apollos were compelled by the love of God to speak.
They could not keep the gospel silent.
FOR I AM WITH YOU
In a great crisis of your life, hear the promise given by Christ. He is with you always.
Jesus had given this promise to all believers (Matthew 28:20)
and here Jesus renews it to Paul.