Empowered Witness: "When God Speaks: Will You Listen or Turn Away?"

"The clock is ticking, and the signs are all around us—God's return is closer than ever. Yet, like the people in Stephen's day, we have been given the truth, the Word of God, and still, we turn away. How much longer will we reject the One who is calling us before time runs out?"

"A History of Rejection: Will We Resist or Respond to God?"

Key Scripture: Acts 7:1-53 Main Point: Just as Israel rejected God’s messengers, His Word, and ultimately His Son, today’s society continues to resist God. However, God is still calling us to repentance, offering grace through Jesus Christ. The question for us is: will we resist, or will we respond?

1. Introduction: The Pattern of Rejection

Hook Phrase: “What if I told you that history repeats itself—not just in the world, but in the heart?”

Text: Acts 7:1-53 (Stephen’s sermon)

Opening Statement: Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, stands before the Sanhedrin and boldly recounts Israel’s history of rejecting God’s messengers. This rejection culminates in their betrayal and murder of the Righteous One, Jesus Christ. Stephen’s message echoes through the ages, showing us that the human heart tends to resist God’s authority and grace.

Now Stephen’s sermon is long, we see it in Acts 7:1-53, rather than read the whole sermon for the sake of time we will summarize it.

Introduction: God's Call to Abraham (Acts 7:2-8)

God's promise to Abraham: Stephen begins by recounting how God called Abraham out of Mesopotamia and promised him the land of Canaan, though Abraham had no inheritance at the time.The covenant of circumcision: Stephen highlights the covenant God made with Abraham, emphasizing the role of Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve patriarchs.

2. Joseph and Israel’s Deliverance (Acts 7:9-16)

Rejection of Joseph: The patriarchs, out of jealousy, sold Joseph into slavery in Egypt, but God was with him.

God’s provision through Joseph: Despite his brothers’ betrayal, God used Joseph to save his family and others during the famine.

3. Moses and Israel’s Rebellion (Acts 7:17-43)

Moses' Early Life: Stephen moves to the story of Moses, explaining how he was born under Egyptian oppression, miraculously saved, and raised in Pharaoh’s household.

Moses' rejection by Israel: At 40, Moses sought to deliver Israel, but they rejected him, and he fled to Midian.

God’s call to Moses: After 40 years, God appeared to Moses in the burning bush and sent him to deliver Israel.Israel’s continued rebellion: Despite signs and wonders in Egypt, the Red Sea, and the wilderness, Israel repeatedly rejected Moses and turned to idolatry (the golden calf).

4. Tabernacle and Temple (Acts 7:44-50)

The Tabernacle in the wilderness: Stephen speaks of the Tabernacle of Testimony that God instructed Moses to build in the wilderness, which symbolized God's presence.

Solomon’s Temple: Stephen acknowledges the eventual building of the Temple by Solomon but stresses that God does not dwell in houses made by human hands (quoting Isaiah 66:1-2).

5. Accusation: Israel’s Stubborn Rejection (Acts 7:51-53)

Stiff-necked and resisting the Holy Spirit: Stephen directly accuses the Sanhedrin of being stubborn and resisting the Holy Spirit, just like their ancestors who persecuted the prophets.

Murderers of the Righteous One: Stephen concludes by indicting them for betraying and murdering the Righteous One (Jesus), whom the prophets had foretold.

Hook Phrase: “The question we face today is the same question Stephen's audience faced: Will we continue the pattern of rejection, or will we break the cycle and respond to God?

”Transition: The truth is that the pattern of rejection continues in our modern world. Today, we will explore three ways in which society continues to reject God and reflect on how we can respond instead.

2. Rejection of God’s Messengers: Then and Now

Hook Phrase: “Have you ever been so close to the truth but refused to see it? That’s the story of Israel—and it could be our story too.

”Text: Acts 7:9-10, 35-39

Stephen’s Point: Stephen reminds the Sanhedrin that their ancestors rejected Joseph, sold him into slavery, and rejected Moses when he first sought to deliver them.

Application Today: In today’s world, many people reject God’s messengers. Whether it's the teachings of Scripture or the voices of pastors and Christian leaders who proclaim truth, people often resist hearing the Word of God when it challenges their lifestyles, beliefs, or desires.

Illustration: Consider how prophets, apostles, and faithful Christians throughout history have been persecuted for their stand on God’s truth. The same spirit of rejection continues today as biblical truths on issues like marriage, justice, and morality are ridiculed and opposed.

Hook Phrase: “The voice of God is often silenced by the noise of the world, but we need to ask ourselves: When God speaks, are we listening, or are we running?

”Question for Reflection: Are we listening to the voices God has placed in our lives to guide us, or are we rejecting them because the truth is uncomfortable?

3. The Idolatry of Modern Culture

Hook Phrase: “Idolatry didn’t die with the golden calf; it just wears a different mask today.”Text: Acts 7:39-41

Stephen’s Point: Despite the mighty works of God in delivering them from Egypt, the Israelites turned to a golden calf, seeking comfort in idols when God’s presence seemed distant.

Application Today: Today, our idols may not be statues, but we turn to materialism, technology, and self-satisfaction as replacements for God. In times of uncertainty or spiritual dryness, many seek fulfillment in things that cannot ultimately satisfy—money, success, entertainment, or even relationships.

Illustration: Consider how people devote their time, energy, and resources to pursuing worldly goals, leaving little room for God in their lives. This is no different from Israel turning to the golden calf.

Hook Phrase: “The question isn’t whether we have idols—it’s which ones we’ve let into our hearts. What’s your golden calf?”

Challenge: What idols have taken the place of God in your heart? Are we seeking fulfillment in temporary things, or are we trusting in the eternal God?

4. Resisting the Holy Spirit

Hook Phrase: “What happens when the Holy Spirit speaks to you? Do you embrace His voice or do you hit the mute button?

”Text: Acts 7:51-53

Stephen’s Point: He accuses the religious leaders of being stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart, always resisting the Holy Spirit. Despite God’s constant attempts to draw them closer, they refused to listen.

Application Today: Many in today’s society resist the Holy Spirit by ignoring His conviction. Whether it’s the call to repentance, the prompting to live more Christlike, or the urge to forgive and love, people often resist God’s voice, preferring their own ways.

Illustration: Think about how often we hear the Gospel or a message of conviction and harden our hearts rather than respond. Society tells us to live for ourselves, but the Spirit calls us to live for Christ.

Hook Phrase: “Don’t be the person who hears God calling but sends Him straight to voicemail. His call is one we cannot afford to ignore.”

Question for Reflection: Are we sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading in our lives, or have we become resistant, preferring our own path over God’s?

5. The Rejection of Jesus Christ: The Righteous One

Hook Phrase: “The world has always had a problem with Jesus—not because He was bad, but because He was too good.”Text: Acts 7:52-53

Stephen’s Point: Stephen concludes by pointing to the ultimate rejection—Jesus, the Righteous One, whom the Jewish leaders betrayed and murdered. This was the culmination of a long history of rejecting God’s chosen deliverers.

Application Today: The rejection of Jesus continues today. Many admire Jesus as a good teacher or moral leader but reject Him as Savior and Lord. People want the benefits of a "good" life without surrendering to His authority.

Illustration: Consider how our culture often celebrates certain teachings of Jesus—love, compassion—but rejects the harder teachings, such as the call to repentance, to take up our cross, or to live sacrificially for others.

Hook Phrase: “Will you make room for Jesus in your life, or will you push Him away because He asks for more than you want to give?”

Call to Action: Will you embrace Jesus as Lord and Savior, or will you, like the leaders of Stephen’s day, reject the Righteous One? This is the central question of life.

6. Conclusion: Responding to God's Call

Hook Phrase: “Every time we reject God, we miss out on life-changing grace. Are you ready to stop resisting and start responding?

”Text: Acts 7:54-60 (Stephen’s Martyrdom)

Closing Reflection: After Stephen’s powerful sermon, the people didn’t repent—they became enraged and stoned him. Yet, even as he was dying, Stephen reflected the heart of Christ, praying for the forgiveness of his murderers.

Challenge for Today: Don’t be like the Sanhedrin, hardening your heart in anger or resistance. Instead, let Stephen’s words and Christ’s love soften your heart to God’s call today. Will you repent of the ways you’ve rejected God, His Word, His Spirit, and His Son? Or will you continue to resist, following the path of pride and rejection?

Everyone is looking for signs like Jeff Foxworthy said: “here’s your sign”

1. Matthew 24:3-8 (ESV) – Signs of the End of the Age

Matthew 24:3–8 ESV

3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray. 6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.

2. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (ESV) – The Last Days Characterized by Sin

2 Timothy 3:1–5 ESV

1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.

3. Luke 21:25-28 (ESV) – Distress and Cosmic Signs

“And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

Let’s look at just seven examples of clear signs from God that the time of the Lord is near

1. Natural Disasters:

Increasing Frequency and Intensity of Storms:

Hurricanes, typhoons, and other storms have become more powerful and frequent, causing widespread devastation. These storms, combined with rising sea levels, lead to "roaring of the sea and the waves," a direct reference to Jesus’ words.Earthquakes and Volcanic Activity: There has been a significant rise in the number of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions globally. This includes earthquakes in places not typically prone to them, which can cause people to feel a sense of unease and fear, wondering if these are signs of something greater.

Example: In 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami was one of the deadliest natural disasters in history, killing over 230,000 people. Events like these provoke questions about cosmic distress and end times.

2. Global Political and Economic Instability:

Wars and Civil Unrest:

Ongoing wars, conflicts, and political tensions around the world—such as the war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and civil unrest in various countries—create an atmosphere of fear and confusion. Nations are in "distress" and often "perplexed" about how to achieve peace and security.Economic Collapse: Global economic crises, such as the 2008 financial collapse or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy, leave nations grappling with uncertainty and fear. This economic distress has led many to question the future of society and stability.

Example: The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has not only caused loss of life but has also impacted global economics, energy supplies, and increased geopolitical tensions worldwide.

3. Environmental Degradation and Climate Change:

Unprecedented Environmental Changes:

Droughts, heatwaves, wildfires, and the melting of polar ice caps are occurring at unprecedented rates. These environmental shifts are causing food shortages, mass migrations, and greater human suffering. People are increasingly fearful about the future and the sustainability of life on Earth.

Example: In recent years, the wildfires in places like California, Australia, and Greece have burned millions of acres, destroying homes, ecosystems, and lives. These devastating events cause people to reflect on the greater cosmic and natural signs that might be occurring.

4. Fear and Anxiety About the Future:

Global Pandemics:

The COVID-19 pandemic created widespread fear, confusion, and panic. Millions of people died, and nations were overwhelmed by a crisis unlike anything seen in modern history. The pandemic left many wondering about the fragility of life and if these events were signs of the times.

Example: The rapid global spread of COVID-19 and its variants caused fear and perplexity, with people wondering about its connection to the times Jesus spoke of—especially in terms of how quickly life as we know it can change.

5. Celestial Phenomena:

Blood Moons, Solar Eclipses, and Other Celestial Signs:

In recent years, there has been much attention given to celestial events like "blood moons," where the moon appears red during a lunar eclipse. These events, along with solar eclipses and other unusual astronomical phenomena, have often been interpreted by some as possible signs of the end times.

Example: The "Four Blood Moons" of 2014-2015, a rare series of lunar eclipses, stirred many discussions among Christian leaders and believers as possible fulfillment of end-time prophecy. People saw this as connected to cosmic signs indicating Jesus' return.

6. Rise of Fear and Anxiety in Global Populations:

Widespread Mental Health Crises:

The increase in anxiety, depression, and mental health issues globally has been exacerbated by fear of the future, environmental collapse, political instability, and economic uncertainty. This collective global anxiety could be seen as people "fainting with fear" at the state of the world.

Example: The mental health crisis during and after the COVID-19 pandemic saw sharp increases in anxiety and depression rates worldwide, as people grappled with the uncertainty of life.

More Scripture of our pending appointment with the Lord

4. 2 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV) – Scoffers in the Last Days

2 Peter 3:3–4 ESV

3 knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. 4 They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.”

5. 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6 (ESV) – The Day of the Lord Will Come Like a Thief

1 Thessalonians 5:2–6 ESV

2 For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief. 5 For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. 6 So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.

6. Romans 13:11-12 (ESV) – Wake Up! Salvation is Nearer Than When We First Believed

Romans 13:11–12 ESV

11 Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. 12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.

7. Revelation 22:12 (ESV) – Jesus is Coming Soon

Revelation 12:2 ESV

2 She was pregnant and was crying out in birth pains and the agony of giving birth.

“Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done.”

8. Matthew 24:42-44 (ESV) – Be Ready for the Lord’s Coming

Matthew 24:42–44 ESV

42 Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. 43 But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.

You want to hear God speak, you just did, in His Word now the question are you hitting the mute button or will you respond to Him?