God on Mission: The Lord Plants a Church Acts 16:22-40

Introduction:

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When God is on the move, He plants and builds His church.

I. God Plants a Church in the Context of Praise – vv. 22-30

· Praise God in the Best of Times – Psalm 34:1; I Thessalonians 5:16-18

· Praise God in the Worst of Times – v. 25; Why?

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a. Praise Reminds Me that God is in Control

· Psalm 56:3-4

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b. Praise Reminds Me That I Am Not Alone

· Hebrews 13:5

​ c. Praise Takes My Focus Off of Circumstances and On to God

· II Chronicles 20:12

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II. God Plants a Church House to House (Oikos Evangelism) – vv. 31-33

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Household / Oikos

“Some people see an apple; God sees an orchard”

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III. God Plants a Church in the Context of Opposition – vv. 34-39

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· When opposition arises…

a. Divine Wisdom is Needed – vv. 37-38

b. Divine Guidance is Needed – vv. 38-40

The Appeal Process

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IV. God Plants a Church by Gathering His People Together for Encouragement – v. 40; Hebrews 3:13, 10:23-25

· Gather Together for Encouragement to Strengthen Your Faith – Hebrews 10:23

· Gather Together for Encouragement to Activate Your Faith (Love and Good Deeds) – Hebrews 10:24

· Gather Together for Encouragement to Persevere in Your Faith – Hebrews 10:25

Conclusion:

· God is at Work planting and building His church

· Join me in praising the Lord at all times (Worship)

· Join me in loving family first (Household Evangelism)

· Join me in recognizing there will be opposition (Pray at All Times)

· Join me in the godly and constant practice of encouragement (Meet Together)