would even stone these prophets.
|
|
- Osborne Doyle
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 George A. Mason Fifth Sunday of Easter Wilshire Baptist Church 14 May 2017 Mother s Day/ Stephen Ministry Commissioning Dallas, Texas The Pattern of Life Acts 7:55-60 About 25 years ago, Alvin Burns and I roomed together and roamed together around the Holy Land with about 10 others from the Interfaith Commission of Dallas. A group of Jews and Christians had been meeting regularly for a couple of years, and we decided to go to the next level by traveling to that place where our faiths emerged and diverged. We traded times of leading Bible study and reflection, a rabbi and a minister alternating along the way. We were in Jerusalem on the Fifth Sunday of Easter, sitting that morning in the beautiful Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. We had just worshiped there and had gathered for a time of study and prayer. It was my turn. I chose this passage of Stephen s stoning as my text. Good thing I was among friends, don t you know?! It s not a great choice of text when a Christian minister in the presence of rabbis and other Jewish friends decides to talk about this nasty little moment when some Jews stoned to death the gentle believer in Jesus named Stephen. What could go wrong with that, right? But here s the thing about interfaith relationships: if you don t take on the hard parts that expose the pain of your history with each other, you will never grow close in true friendship; you will always stay on a superficial level of acquaintance. And don t worry turnabout is fair play: we soon visited the Holocaust Museum, Yad Vashem, and had to deal with German Christians genocide of Jews in World War II. So intrepid George forged ahead, praying all the way. The first thing to note that should disarm our animus over a story like this is that while Jews did in fact stone this Jesus follower to death, it was Jews stoning a Jew. Specifically, it was Hebraic Jews stoning a Hellenic Jew, not Jews stoning a Gentile Christian. This was a Jewish family squabble, not a Jewish persecution of Christians. The same was true of the death of Jesus. When the Bible says that Jews killed Jesus, it was some Jews conspiring with the Romans to put to death another Jew with whom they disagreed. There is no cause for Christians to blame Jews for killing our Christ, as if Jesus were a Gentile like us.
2 But the main insight I sought to share with our group that day was the link between Stephen and Jesus, a link that reflected the link between King David and Jesus. There is a pattern to note that shaped Jesus life and death, and then Stephen s life and death. It s a pattern I want to suggest to you today as being the true pattern of life for all of us. Before we get to that, it would help to look closer at who Stephen was and why he was being stoned. Stephen was one of the first seven deacons who were elected to care for the church in Jerusalem. A problem had arisen in the distribution of food to widows in the church. It seems that the widows who had kept faith with Jewish customs and then became Jesus followers were getting preference over those Jewish widows who were now Jesus followers but had become more assimilated into Greek culture. The apostles saw this situation as an injustice, and they appointed Stephen and six others to set things straight and care for all equally. The early church, just as the church in every age, had to work through its prejudices against those whose lives didn t seem to line up with traditional values. They learned what we all continue to learn that the only thing that really matters for full participation in the life of the church is our common faith in Jesus Christ. The apostles wanted to spend their time preaching and teaching, not just tending to the life of the community. But Stephen got out of his lane. He started speaking out in public about Jesus, witnessing as if he were an apostle. If they d had Baptists back then, I figure he d have been one. We Baptists have a way of bucking roles when the Spirit moves. We think that if you are a follower of Jesus, you are a witness, no matter your title. Someone once wrote a book about Baptists with the perfect title: Not a Silent People. Yep, that s us. Stephen started telling his Jewish brothers that the whole history of their people showed how some people had been moved by the Spirit to embrace a new vision of what God was up to in the world, and others in the family of faith had seen that as a betrayal of tradition. They would put their hands over their ears and refuse to listen. And sometimes they 2
3 would even stone these prophets. Now, no one likes to be told they are on the wrong side of history when they are just trying to be faithful. So here is Stephen, standing before this group that s getting madder by the minute. Suddenly he turns his attention away from the people in what shall we call it an upward strategy move? He is given a glimpse into heaven and sees Jesus standing at the right hand of God. This is a way of saying that Jesus is supporting his witness and advocating for him before God. And then he tells the people what he sees. The people can t stand his audacity. They see it as blasphemy, identifying Jesus with God and claiming that God is on Jesus side and Jesus is on Stephen s side against them. What they do next is worse. They take him outside the city gates. That is, they do what the law says to do. They don t rush him like a lynch mob right then and there; they methodically keep the law and take him outside the city to stone him. They make him a scapegoat. They justify their violence against Stephen by invoking the law of God. This is still a pernicious problem in the Christian community. We may not stone people to death any longer to protect our community s beliefs and keep it pure, but we have a way of dismissing those who disagree with us and wanting to put them out. Conservatives and progressives both have a way of doing this. We don t want to listen to a narrative that contradicts our understanding of things. We put our hands over our ears and would sacrifice others rather than consider what new thing God might be doing among us. Then we justify our actions by saying that we are just protecting our house of faith. A friend from Athens, Texas, listens to us every week and sometimes writes to me about the sermons. A few weeks ago, he commented on my point about our willingness to use violence to defend ourselves in Jesus name. He was at work a few days after a local couple shot and killed some intruders who had broken into their house to rob them. One of his work colleagues, a committed churchgoing Christian, laughed and cheered, saying, Good. That s a good thing. My friend challenged him, saying that while people who are doing evil sometimes have to be stopped by violence, that s nothing to celebrate. Those who live by the sword will die by it. Those two thieves have no chance now to repent 3
4 and be redeemed. How can we call that good? The man just declared that people need to be able to defend themselves and that two bad guys got what they deserved. Maybe so, but do you see what this does to us? It s about the evildoers, yes, but it s also about our being willing to take life into our own hands instead of following a pattern of life given to us by Jesus that Stephen also followed, right to his own death. What is this pattern? When Jesus died, he looked up to God and said, Into your hands I commend my spirit. He was quoting Psalm 31, a psalm of David. Instead of striking back against his persecutor, Saul, David appealed to God and prayed those very words. Jesus looked out at his persecutors and said, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. When Stephen is being stoned, he quotes Jesus quoting David. Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. He appeals to Jesus at the right hand of God, and then, like Jesus, he forgives his killers. Stephen understood that the true pattern of life is seen in our baptism and is repeated throughout our life and culminates when we take our last breath. It s simply this: we die and we are raised, we die and we are raised, we die and we are raised. So when we find ourselves in the midst of suffering and even facing our death, we should be looking to God to see how God is going to bring us through it this time. We don t take matters into our own hands; we commend our spirit into God s hands. We don t try to do the same to our stone-throwers that they are doing to us. We will teach the world a new way of living only when we live this new way ourselves. There is an old story about a rabbi who, while in Persia, found a great ruby. This was not just any ruby. It belonged in the emperor s crown. An official crier was sent throughout the kingdom with this message: Whoever returns the emperor s jewel within thirty days will be rewarded. But then he added an ominous warning: If it be found on him after thirty days, his head will be cut off. On the thirty-first day one day after the deadline the rabbi brought 4
5 the ruby to the palace. The emperor asked, Did you not hear the proclamation that the ruby must be returned within thirty days or the possessor of it will be beheaded? The humble rabbi responded, Yes, your majesty, I did, on the first day. The emperor asked, Then, why did you not return the ruby within the thirty days? The rabbi calmly replied: I did not return it until now so that you could not say I returned it because I feared you. I returned it because I believe in God. The emperor was so impressed by the rabbi s witness to his faith that he exclaimed, Blessed be the God of these Jews. 1 Wouldn t it be something if we lived in such an unafraid way that we were able to refer all things to God? What would our witness to Jesus be like then? Who might be changed? We know one man who was changed by Stephen s witness, although not right away. It was a young man named Saul. After watching the cloaks of those who stoned Stephen to death, he soon became an ardent persecutor of the church, ready to stone others. But he must have been haunted by the way Stephen died. When God stopped him in his tracks on the Damascus Road and asked him, Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?, this Saul would have remembered another Saul King Saul who, when he pursued David, heard him cry out, Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? That would have taken him back to Stephen and to Jesus and to David and the pattern of life they perfected. And he was changed for good, becoming, like them, unafraid of human beings, referring all things to God and forgiving his enemies. You Stephen ministers being commissioned today know you are named for this man, Stephen, the first martyr of the church. You may not think that what you are doing is dangerous work, but when you spiritually befriend those in the midst of suffering, you are leading them to embrace a new perspective that is a pattern of life with God as old as the first day of creation: we die and we are raised. We die and we are raised. We die and, praise God, we are raised. 1 Cited by King Duncan, 5
Forgiveness Amid Persecution
May 18, 2014 Fifth Sunday of Easter Acts 7:55 60 Ps. 31:1 5, 15 16 1 Pet. 2:2 10 John 14:1 14 Forgiveness Amid Goal for the Session In Stephen s witness and death, adults will be challenged to articulate
More informationA Living Church And A Risen Christ Since Easter we ve been talking about the importance and significance of Christ s resurrection and I want to share
A Living Church And A Risen Christ Since Easter we ve been talking about the importance and significance of Christ s resurrection and I want to share one more sermon on the subject. I feel often the attitude
More informationJesus is in the final week of his life. He s had three years of popularity. He s taught with a wisdom that amazed the crowds.
George A. Mason Christ the King Sunday Wilshire Baptist Church 25 November 2018 Dallas, Texas Not From Here John 18:33-37 This is the last Sunday of the worship year. Next week we begin again with the
More informationSaul - The Story of a Conversion
Acts 9:1-20 Saul - The Story of a Conversion 1. Saul (Paul) opposed Christians and anything to do with Jesus Christ a. Saul was a zealous Jew who opposed all that threatened his beliefs (1) b. He did all
More informationSermon Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY. Conversion
Sermon 7-1-18 Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Conversion This morning we ll look at the subject of conversion by examining the accounts of St. Paul s conversion. Here s what
More informationSermon: From Enemy to Evangelist Dr. Frank Allen First Presbyterian Church of Kissimmee 4/14/13
1 Sermon: From Enemy to Evangelist Dr. Frank Allen First Presbyterian Church of Kissimmee 4/14/13 Acts 9:1 Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to
More informationThere s another way we use the word mood. We have moods in grammar. There s the indicative, the imperative and the subjunctive moods.
George A. Mason Fourth Sunday of Epiphany Wilshire Baptist Church 29 January 2017 Fourth in a series, Light Work Dallas, Texas A Light Mood Micah 6:1-8; Matthew 5:1-12 The title of this sermon is A Light
More informationWe invite you to pray the following prayer, or use your own words, as you begin your reading and reflections each week: Come Holy Spirit,
Read Acts for Easter Let us spend this Easter season celebrating with and learning from the first disciples. Journey with us in community as we read about, explore, and share in the mission of the early
More informationSeries: Newspaper and the Bible Part I: Modern-day Martyrs C. Gray Norsworthy Johns Creek Presbyterian Church April 12, 2015
Series: Newspaper and the Bible Part I: Modern-day Martyrs C. Gray Norsworthy Johns Creek Presbyterian Church April 12, 2015 When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed
More informationSermon 6 May 2018 The Swiss Church in London. Reading Galatians 1:11-24
Sermon 6 May 2018 The Swiss Church in London Reading Galatians 1:11-24 I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. I did not receive it from any man, nor
More informationThe outward (physical) Account of Saul s Conversion Acts 8:1-4
3. The Chief of Sinners Acts 8:1-4; Acts 9:1-9 & 1 Timothy 1:12-17 The outward (physical) Account of Saul s Conversion Acts 8:1-4 And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great
More informationThen they cast him (Stephen) out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul.
From Saul to Paul Then they cast him (Stephen) out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. (Acts 7:58) Saul approved of his execution.
More informationFrom sinner to saint
1 If you ve got a Bible, go to Acts 9. From sinner to saint I am sure you will have heard of the term, Tall poppy? What is a tall poppy? A tall poppy is a person who rises above his or her peers, Unfortunately
More informationKnowing Him. Lessons from Paul s Life and Ministry. Lesson 1. Acts 8:1 4; 9:1 31. Saul Persecutes the Church
Knowing Christ For my determined purpose is that I may know Him that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders
More informationReceive. Reflect. Remember. Sunday, April 9
Sunday, April 9 Matthew 28:18 20 Then Jesus came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name
More informationLESSON 1 ASCENSION OF JESUS; A NEW APOSTLE CHOSEN
Review New Testament 7 LESSON 13 POINTS TO EMPHASIZE: 1. Review N.T. 7 Bible Fact Flash Cards (provided under N.T. 7 Bible Facts on curriculum Web site) 2. Use learning center/activities to help review.
More information1 Mac Brunson, "The Purpose of the Passion," Preaching Today Audio, No. 282
08-23-2009 The Wonderful Grace of Jesus Acts 9:1 22 Kevin Saxton, Brewster Baptist Church A man who lived in England came over to the United States to go to a resort for several months. He wanted to bring
More information1. Reread Galatians 1:1-10 from last week s study and recall what Paul was concerned about according to verses 6 and 7.
Galatians 1:11 2:21 September 17, 2015 1. Reread Galatians 1:1-10 from last week s study and recall what Paul was concerned about according to verses 6 and 7. Has there been someone in your life you believed
More informationWAMT: New Testament Survey. The Jesus Movement and the Early Church
WAMT: New Testament Survey The Jesus Movement and the Early Church Where We re Starting From Death and Resurrection of Jesus Whatever skepticism a person might have about the dead coming back to life,
More informationUnstoppable: The Story of the Church in Acts How Jesus Changes People Acts 9:1-22
Unstoppable: The Story of the Church in Acts How Jesus Changes People Acts 9:1-22 Dr. Stephen Rummage, Senior Pastor Bell Shoals Baptist Church April 29, 2018 Acts 9:1 (ESV) But Saul, still breathing threats
More informationActs 1:8. Acts 1:8. Acts 1:8. Acts 1:8. Acts 1. Acts 1. Acts 1. Acts 1
Acts 1:8 Acts 1:8 Acts 1:8 Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
More informationThe Conversion of Paul By Jon Touchstone
The Conversion of Paul By Jon Touchstone Other than the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and the outpouring of holy spirit on Pentecost, the conversion of Paul was undoubtedly the most significant event in
More informationPersecution Then and Now
Persecution Then and Now The Question So he, trembling and astonished, said, Lord, what do You want me to do? Then the Lord said to him, Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.
More informationEssential Question. What points of peace exist between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam?
Essential Question What points of peace exist between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam? Monotheistic Religions Category Judaism Christianity Islam Point for Peace? # of gods ONE! ONE! Followers Jews Christians
More informationThe Life of Paul Paul Prior to His Conversion
The Life of Paul Paul Prior to His Conversion Introduction: I have always loved biographies. There is great value in reading biographies. There is even greater value in reading autobiographies. The Biblical
More informationThe Power of Forgiveness: Stephen s Eight Life Changing Words 1. Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church
The Power of Forgiveness: Stephen s Eight Life Changing Words 1 Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church Date: 2016-04-24 FORGIVENESS: Today we are talking about someone in scripture called Stephen
More informationBut Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look," he said, "I
But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right
More informationThe Fellowship of Forgiven Sinners
George A. Mason 2 nd Sunday of Easter Wilshire Baptist Church 8 April 2018 First in a series, The Beloved Community Dallas, Texas The Fellowship of Forgiven Sinners 1 John 1:1-2:2 Fifty years ago this
More informationLiving Risen Acts 9:1-19
Living Risen Acts 9:1-19 Acts 9:1-19 But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so
More information90 Day Challenge II: The Acts of the Holy Spirit By the Spirit We Are Grace-full Acts 9
June 14, 2015 Pastor Mark Toone Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church 90 Day Challenge II: The Acts of the Holy Spirit By the Spirit We Are Grace-full Acts 9 Cyndi is one of those who persons who, five minutes
More informationInspired to Follow: Art and the Bible Story Session 16: The Resurrection
Luke 24: 25-35 Session 16: The Resurrection 21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. 22 Moreover, some
More informationThe Holy Spirit Acts In Sudden and Surprising Ways Acts 9:1-20
Engaging the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit Acts in Surprising Ways Page 1 of 8 The Holy Spirit Acts In Sudden and Surprising Ways Acts 9:1-20 INTRODUCTION TO THE SERIES Father, Son and Holy Spirit. That
More informationPaul s Mission The Story Chapter 29
Paul s Mission The Story Chapter 29 We continue this morning to talk about the role and function of the Church. Last week we found out that the Church is Phase 3 of God s plan to bring lost people. Phase
More informationHow to Swim with the Sharks without Being Eaten Alive
How to Swim with the Sharks without Being Eaten Alive Acts 21:27 23:11 Emmanuel Baptist Church February 26, 2017 1. Evaluate: See the situation for what it is. Acts 21:27 36 (ESV) - When the seven days
More informationBARNABAS: ONGOING ENCOURAGEMENT
4 BARNABAS: ONGOING ENCOURAGEMENT What are some interesting nicknames you ve encountered over the years? QUESTION #1 #BSFLsecondnature BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 91 THE POINT Christ-centered living chooses
More information1 Corinthians 15:1-11. Late for Easter. In the days and weeks following Easter, it seems we talk a lot about Doubting Thomas.
1 Corinthians 15:1-11 Late for Easter In the days and weeks following Easter, it seems we talk a lot about Doubting Thomas. This is because, according to the Gospel of John, Jesus appeared to the disciples
More information(Acts 9:10) In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, Ananias! Yes, Lord, he answered.
Acts 9:10-20 New International Version August 20, 2017 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, August 20, 2017, is from Acts 9:10-20. Questions for Discussion
More informationSession 1 Judas the Betrayer
Session 1 Judas the Betrayer Mark 14:43-52 To Begin Spend some time sharing something good or new from your past week. When was the last time you were nervous or fearful the night before a big event or
More informationThe U-turn in Saul s Journey
The U-turn in Saul s Journey READ Acts 9:1-31 [Acts 9:1-31] We ve got lots of annoying dogs in our neighbourhood does that sound familiar??! But there are 2 that are particularly nasty do you know what
More informationGalatians Lesson 2 John 1: Ephesians 2:4-10 Titus 2:11-14 Philippians 3:4-6 Acts 7:54-8:3 7:54
Galatians Lesson 2 John 1:16-17 14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. 16 For of His fullness we
More informationThe Power of Forgiveness. Luke 23: Preached by Dr. Robert F. Browning, Pastor. First Baptist Church. Frankfort, Kentucky.
The Power of Forgiveness Luke 23:26-34 Preached by Dr. Robert F. Browning, Pastor First Baptist Church Frankfort, Kentucky February 4, 2018 Communion Devotion Father, forgive them, for they do not know
More informationWHY IS GRACE SO AMAZING? FEARLESS CONVERSATION. ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM 13-week study LEADER GUIDE
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CURRICULUM 13-week study FEARLESS CONVERSATION WHY IS GRACE SO AMAZING? DISCUSSIONS FROM ACTS, ROMANS, 1-2 CORINTHIANS, GALATIANS, EPHESIANS, AND 1 THESSALONIANS CONTENTS Lesson 1:
More informationGod calls David 1 Samuel 16:1-20:42
God calls David 1 Samuel 16:1-20:42 2 After God rejected Saul, Samuel went back to his house and cried. He was so disappointed Saul was not the one. Finally God said, How long will you cry over Saul? I
More informationRenewed by Christ in Word, water, bread & wine we serve the community and the world.
Third Sunday of Easter April 14, 2013 + 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. First Lutheran Church + St. Peter, Minnesota Pastor Alan Bray Pastor Don Holmstrom Chad Winterfeldt, Director of Music Renewed by Christ
More informationThe Seven Last Words. a hymn cycle for Good Friday. by Micheal Hickerson
The Seven Last Words a hymn cycle for Good Friday by Micheal Hickerson The First Word Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. Tune: BABYLON S STREAMS (88.88) The soldiers crucify my King;
More informationSermon Series 1 Peter. Part 7 A Reason For The Hope
Rev. William J. Shields St. Mark Lutheran Church, Lindenhurst, Illinois Palm Sunday April 13, 2014 Second Lesson 1 Peter 3:13-22 1 Sermon Series 1 Peter Part 7 A Reason For The Hope 13 Now who is there
More informationAs Our Own Savior! How Can We Be Saved? It Is God s Free Gift... When We Trust in
Appendix C: Crafts and Take Home Sheets, Unit 11, Bible Truth 2 CAN YOU GUESS BIBLE TRUTH 2: How Can We Be Saved? It Is God s Free Gift... When We Trust in As Our Own Savior! 231 HINT: What s the name
More informationWeek one: Stop! Turn around SSSSSPaul! Heading in the wrong direction
Paul Week #1 Paul Anchor your faith then reach out and touch someone! Week one: Stop! Turn around SSSSSPaul! Heading in the wrong direction Hallway Song: I Can See Clearly Now Summary Saul witnesses and
More informationGETTING READY 1. Opener/Closer What You Need: Host Worship Leaders 20 pieces of cardstock
GETTING READY 1. Opener/Closer What You Need: Host Worship Leaders 20 pieces of cardstock Music and Sound Effects (SFX): Upbeat music to use as kids enter and exit the room Upbeat music to play during
More informationPraying for Others: Even Our Enemies? Acts 7:55-60
Praying for Others: Even Our Enemies? Acts 7:55-60 Rev. Michael D. Halley May 18, 2014 Suffolk Christian Church Suffolk, Virginia Fifth Sunday of Easter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
More informationCORE VALUES. Discussion Guide
CORE VALUES Discussion Guide CORE VALUES INTRODUCTION We talk a lot about discipleship at Grace, but it s because we take Christ s commission to make disciples seriously. Making disciples is more than
More informationRevelation Last Days Living
Revelation Last Days Living Getting Ready for Him! - Part 1 Revelation 2:1-11 Message #5 of 25 S731 Sermon given on March 19, 2017 Sunday Morning Service Pastor Rick Lancaster Getting Ready for Him! -
More information29, :1-22 GOD S GRACE IN CHRIST MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE!
In the Name of Jesus 4th Sunday a3er Epiphany January 29, 2017 Text: Acts 9:1-22 GOD S GRACE IN CHRIST MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE! Scripture Readings: MaRhew 17:22 18:4, 1 Corinthians 15:3-11 Hymns: 37,
More informationSaul December 10, 2017
Saul December 10, 2017 Series, Welcome Home Pastor Travis Edgerton 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Acts 7-9 Merry Christmas! I. Intro A. It s the year 1750; a young man, Captain Newton, newly appointed boss of a slave
More informationThe Conversion of Saul
The Conversion of Saul By Mark Mayberry 7/15/2012 Introduction The initial account of Saul s conversion is recorded in Acts Chapter 9. Later, in making his defense before the Jews (Acts 22) and before
More informationthat threatens our hearts and frees us to live fearlessly.
George A. Mason Fifth Sunday of Easter Wilshire Baptist Church 29 April 2018 Fourth in a series, The Beloved Community Dallas, Texas A Fearless Heart 1 John 4:7-21 Perfect love casts out fear, First John
More informationEighteenth Sunday after Pentecost September 23, 2018 Jeremiah 11:18-20 The One Judging Righteously
Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost September 23, 2018 Jeremiah 11:18-20 The One Judging Righteously Our text is the cry of Jeremiah, surrounded by those who plot to take his life. But it s worse than that.
More informationLESSON 79. Principle: God changes the direction of our lives. Bible Character(s): Saul Scripture Reference: Acts 9:1-19
LESSON 79 3 rd and 4 th Grade Principle: God changes the direction of our lives. Bible Character(s): Saul Scripture Reference: Acts 9:1-19 PERSONAL PREPARATION: Before this weekend, read through Acts 9.
More informationNext Steps DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Week 1 1 The Bible is stunningly silent regarding the physical appearance of Jesus. Isaiah simply says, He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire
More information10Now there was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision,
Acts 9:1-20 9Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found
More informationFamily Devotional. Year Year 1 Quarter 1. God s Word for ALL Generations
3 Year Year 1 Quarter 1 Family Devotional Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness endures to all generations; You established the earth, and it abides. Psalm 119:89 90 God s
More informationI tell you that story not just because I know you want to know, but because of something
George A. Mason Second Sunday in Lent Wilshire Baptist Church 25 February 2018 Dallas, Texas What Must Means Mark 8:31-38 I might as well get this out of the way right away, since so many of you are asking.
More informationLeast Known, Most Interesting: Ananias Acts 9 July 24, 2016
Least Known, Most Interesting: Ananias Acts 9 July 24, 2016 Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the
More informationThe Rev. Duane A. Jesse, Senior Pastor Zion Lutheran Church, Youngstown, Ohio
Weekend of Sunday, June 3, 2018 2 nd Sunday after Pentecost/Lectionary 9/Proper 4/Year B Primary Text: 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 Sermon Title: Clay Jars and Little Lights Theme When we carry out God s ministry
More informationValley Bible Church - Bible Survey
Bible Survey Lesson 62: The Book of Mark INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF MARK Introduction: Matthew wrote his Gospel with the purpose of convincing his primarily Jewish audience that Jesus was their long awaited
More informationTHE GOSPEL OF CHRIST
THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST SPREADING THE SOUL-SAVING MESSAGE OF JESUS ACTS LESSON 3 The Gospel in Samaria (Acts 9-12) Introduction by narrator accompanied by a cappella singing: THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST. Spreading
More informationThe Gospel of John. The Pain of Betrayal John 13:21-38
The Gospel of John The Pain of Betrayal John 13:21-38 ONE TRUTH I CONSTANTLY RUN ACROSS in my practice is how frequently people are betrayed by the ones who are supposed to be the most trustworthy. The
More informationGeorge A. Mason 8 th Sunday after Pentecost Wilshire Baptist Church 15 July 2018 Dallas, Texas Meant to Be Ephesians 1:3-14
George A. Mason 8 th Sunday after Pentecost Wilshire Baptist Church 15 July 2018 Dallas, Texas Meant to Be Ephesians 1:3-14 The world held its collective breath this week as we all followed the harrowing
More information90 Day Challenge II: The Acts of the Holy Spirit By the Spirit We Are Unflappable Acts 7
May 31, 2015 Pastor Mark Toone Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church 90 Day Challenge II: The Acts of the Holy Spirit By the Spirit We Are Unflappable Acts 7 I ve been preaching here for nearly 28 years. I think
More informationThe Backstory Matters Acts 9:1-20 April 10, 2016
The Backstory Matters Acts 9:1-20 April 10, 2016 I. You ever start watching a TV program that you normally watch and it starts out and you find you have no clue what is going on and none of it makes any
More informationSons and Daughters of Encouragement
Sons and Daughters of Encouragement Rev. Dr. Michael Piazza Sunday, July 8, 2018 (Saint Barnabas Day) Acts 11:19-26/Matthew 9:35-38 You may think I made up St. Barnabas Day, but the official day is July
More information05/21/17 We All Have a Story Acts 9:1-22 Pastor David Pranga Good morning, my name is David Pranga. I am one of the pastors here at Brewster Baptist
05/21/17 We All Have a Story Acts 9:1-22 Pastor David Pranga Good morning, my name is David Pranga. I am one of the pastors here at Brewster Baptist Church. Pastor Doug and Jill are gone this weekend.
More informationSaul/Paul, the Conversion Acts 9
Saul/Paul, the Conversion Acts 9 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, October 21, 2018 SAUL/PAUL, THE CONVERSION Acts 9 [VIDEO 1 ] What a story of one man coming to faith in Jesus Christ.
More informationThe Reverend Joanna Adams Morningside Presbyterian Church Atlanta, Georgia May 29, 2005
Christians and Jews Genesis 17:1-8, Romans 11, selected verses I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin.
More informationBlinded to See: Saul becomes Paul Acts 13:1-13; 9:1-22 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church Saul is such an important character in the New
4.2.06 Blinded to See: Saul becomes Paul Acts 13:1-13; 9:1-22 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church Saul is such an important character in the New Testament and in church history that we naturally wish
More informationThe Story Unit 7 - Chapter 29 Sermon 2 - "Paul's Mission" April, 19, 2015
The Story Unit 7 - Chapter 29 Sermon 2 - "Paul's Mission" April, 19, 2015 His name was Stephen. He was one of the people in the early church that we talked about last week. Some of the Jewish leaders didn't
More informationExplore the Bible Lesson Preview June 15, 2008 "Stephen: Boldness" Background: Acts 6:1-8:3 Lesson: Acts 6:8-15; 7:51-60
Explore the Bible Lesson Preview June 15, 2008 "Stephen: Boldness" Background: Acts 6:1-8:3 Lesson: Acts 6:8-15; 7:51-60 Motivation: Sharing Jesus was the priority of the early church. It took precedence
More informationSermons in Acts: No Partiality
Sermons in Acts: No Partiality After Stephen was martyred by the Jewish Council, a persecution rose against the church in Jerusalem:! A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church
More informationWatch Night. New Year s Eve Worship. Calvary Lutheran Church and School December 31, :00 p.m.
Watch Night New Year s Eve Worship Calvary Lutheran Church and School December 31, 2018 + 7:00 p.m. 9807 Church Road Dallas, Texas 75238 214-348-5567 Watch Night Christian Vigil on New Year s Eve Watch
More informationSTEPHEN DEMONSTRATED HIS TRUST IN THE TRUTH OF GOD S WORD
READY YOUR HEART STEPHEN DEMONSTRATED HIS TRUST IN THE TRUTH OF GOD S WORD Acts 7:44-51 Our ancestors had the tabernacle of the testimony in the wilderness, just as He who spoke to Moses commanded him
More informationSUNDAY, JANUARY 21, 2018 Unit 30, Session 1: Paul s Conversion and Baptism. Dear Parents,
SUNDAY, JANUARY 21, 2018 Unit 30, Session 1: Paul s Conversion and Baptism Saul was no stranger to religion. He grew up in a religious household. He was a devout Jew who was born in Tarsus (Phil. 3:5)
More informationActs 9:10-20 King James Version August 20, 2017
Acts 9:10-20 King James Version August 20, 2017 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, August 20, 2017, is from Acts 9:10-20. Questions for Discussion and Thinking
More informationI. Jesus Warned Us! of what we can expect. Let s consider what he said. He said, firstly, A. The World Will Not Love Us!
When the Bible speaks of end times, when is it referring to? Are we in those end times now? If we are, how long can we expect them to last? How will the end times end? If we re not there yet, when will
More informationPSALMS FOR EVERY SEASON OF THE SOUL
PSALMS FOR EVERY SEASON OF THE SOUL THANKSGIVING AND PRAISE: PSALM 9 NOVEMBER 23, 2014 BRENTWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH PSALM 9 NOVEMBER 23, 2014 TEACHING PLAN PREPARATION > Spend the week reading through and
More informationThe Gospel of Mark. The Gospel of Mark. An Introduction to the Four Gospels. Who is Jesus? What s important? Gospel of Mark
An Introduction to the Four Gospels The Gospel of Mark Lay Ministry Institute - Upper Susquehanna Synod 11 March 2017 Mark Vitalis Hoffman Gospel of Mark According to the Gospel of Mark: 1. No birth story
More informationSunday, April 10, 2016 Third Sunday of Easter Worship at 8:30 AM GATHERING
Sunday, April 10, 2016 Third Sunday of Easter Worship at 8:30 AM GATHERING Prelude Thanksgiving for Baptism Welcome to worship at Vinje Lutheran Church. We want you to know that you are very welcome here.
More informationPAUL'S TESTIMONY TO HIS FELLOW JEWS
PAUL'S TESTIMONY TO HIS FELLOW JEWS Acts 21:40-22:29 Key Verses: 22:14-15 Then he said: The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his
More informationOrdinary Time INTRODUCTION
Ordinary Time INTRODUCTION O rdinary Time is the time of the year in which Christ walks among us, calling us, teaching us, transforming us. Advent, Lent, and the Christmas and Easter seasons are special
More informationSermon for Ash Wednesday Year C 2016 Remember That You Are Dust
Sermon for Ash Wednesday Year C 2016 Remember That You Are Dust During the morning commute today, a few of my colleagues distributed ashes to those who were rushing off to their workdays. Many people lining
More informationLesson 8 April 24 Acts of the Apostles in the Early Church Selfless
Lesson 8 April 24 Acts of the Apostles in the Early Church Selfless 1 Early Church to Antioch 1. Mar 6 Entrusted 1:1-26 wait for gift 2. Mar 13 Empowered 2:1-15 Pentecost 3. Mar 20 Unified 2:41-47 Fellowship,
More informationBarnabas: Ongoing Encouragement
4 Barnabas: Ongoing Encouragement What are some interesting nicknames you ve encountered? QUESTION 1 #BSFLsecondnature BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 91 THE POINT Christ-centered living chooses encouragement,
More informationThe Division and Peace of Christ Message by DD Adams 13 th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST August 14, 2016
The Division and Peace of Christ Message by DD Adams 13 th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST August 14, 2016 T oday s gospel lesson is from the book of Luke, chapter 12, verses 49 through 56. I ll be reading from
More informationCALLED TO PREACH. WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW AND UNDERSTAND God s call to Ananias and Saul, Ananias questioning reaction, and God s firm response.
August 20, 2017 ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON CALLED TO PREACH MINISTRY INVOCATION O God: We give thanks to You for the manifold blessings to us. You did not have to bless us but You did. We shall remain
More informationReview Questions. Review Questions. New Testament 4 POINTS TO EMPHASIZE:
Review Questions Review Questions New Testament 4 POINTS TO EMPHASIZE: 1. Review N.T. 4 Bible Fact Cards (provided under N.T. 4 Bible Facts on curriculum Web site) N.T. Disciples & Peter 2. Use learning
More informationDo not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on.
If you love those who love you, what reward have you? Matthew 5:46 Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Seek first the kingdom
More informationOrdinary Time 1 C4. See 2. The Nativity of the Lord. No. 5. The Baptism of the Lord
Ordinary Time 1 C4. See 2. The Nativity of the Lord No. 5. The Baptism of the Lord SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, C4 Sisters and brothers, pray for the gifts of the Spirit and the benefits they bring
More informationThe Passion Story from the Gospel of Mark
The Passion Story from the Gospel of Mark Palm Sunday (Year B) Mark 14:26-15:39 ESV Divided into Narrator and Character Parts (Narrator, Jesus, Peter, Judas, Priest, Accuser, Maid, Pilate, Soldier, Crowd)
More informationThe Shameless Extravagance of God
George A. Mason Second Sunday after Epiphany Wilshire Baptist Church 20 January 2013 Dallas, Texas John 2:1-11 In my thirty-odd years of ministry, I have seen some embarrassing things happen at weddings
More informationDr. Goodluck Ofoegbu Prof. Oby Ofoegbu Banking Blessings Ministry San Antonio, Texas USA
Dr. Goodluck Ofoegbu Prof. Oby Ofoegbu Banking Blessings Ministry San Antonio, Texas USA What We Will Learn Paul arrested by mob in Jerusalem Managed crisis by showing respect For Jews and their custom
More informationTending the Flock John 21:1-19
Matthew Broyles Third Sunday of Easter Wilshire Baptist Church April 10, 2016 8:30 service Dallas, Texas Tending the Flock John 21:1-19 One of my and many other peoples favorite character to imitate is
More information