Scripture:

Acts 5

33     When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

34     Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;

35     And said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.

36     For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought. 37     After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him: he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed.

38     And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought:

39     But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

40     And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

41     And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

42     And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ. obeyed: or, believed

Main Idea:

The progress of the church was due to the fact that God is the originator and sustainer and defender of the church.

Purpose:

Introduction:

Outline:

I. God is the originator of the church.

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A. Logically, the church begain in the mind of God.

B. Historically, the church begain after the resurrection of Christ.

• He is the head of the church
• He is the life source of the church
• He is foundation of the church.

II. God is the sustainer of the church.

A. He sustains the church amid pollution (chap 5)

III. God is the defender of the church.

A. He defends the church during persecution. (chap5)

• 1st Wave of persecution (17-25)
• 2nd Wave of persecution (26-33)
• 3rd Wave of persecution (34-42)

Introduction

Sermon text with italics and bold and John 3:16 and v. 20.

Heading 2

Text with an outline.

• Level 1
• Level 2
• Level 2
• Level 3