Never-Ending

Acts 28:18-22 “When they had examined me, wanted to let me go, because there was no cause for putting me to death. But when the Jews spoke against it, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar, not that I had anything of which to accuse my nation. For this reason therefore I have called for you, to see you and speak with you, because for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.” Then they said to him, “We neither received letters from Judea concerning you, nor have any of the brethren who came reported or spoken any evil of you. But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.”

We have reached the end of our churches Sunday Sermon series through the Book of Acts. Pastor Kyle wanted to give us a few insights from the final verses of this great book. (1) A crisis in one community is no big deal in another community. You may have heard the old saying: “When in Roman, do as the Romans do”, meaning that what is important to some in one place is not important to others in another place and we have to adjust to our audience and their unique cares and concerns.

Acts 28:22-24 “But we desire to hear from you what you think; for concerning this sect, we know that it is spoken against everywhere.” So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.

(2) Some will believe in Jesus, some will reject Jesus. Who in your life today is listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit? Ultimately, it’s not up to us, as it is the Holy Spirit that prepares the listeners heart in advance to His voice and be transformed.

Acts 28:28-31 “Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!

(3) Paul’s and Luke’s purpose in Acts is fulfilled, but our part goes on because God’s purposes are never-ending. We need to keep a soft heart towards the voice of the Holy Spirit and let those who reject the gospel move on. In getting the gospel message out to our community, we must realize that our never-ending ministry is mainly focused locally within our sphere of influence. Each community reaching their community, neighborhood by neighborhood for Christ. Blessings.

In Christ, Brian