A Vision to Die For

Living With Purpose

INCREASE BY WAY OF DECREASE

John 3:30 “He must increase, but I must decrease.””

There can be no increase if it has to be your way, your will and your word.

Acts 21:8-14, 8 On the next day we departed and came to Caesarea, and we entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him. 9 He had four unmarried daughters, who prophesied. 10 While we were staying for many days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11 And coming to us, he took Paul’s belt and bound his own feet and hands and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘This is how the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’ ” 12 When we heard this, we and the people there urged him not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” 14 And since he would not be persuaded, we ceased and said, “Let the will of the Lord be done.”

A Vision to Die For: Living with Purpose

Introduction

In Acts 21:8-14, we encounter a poignant moment in the life of the apostle Paul. As he visits the home of Philip the Evangelist in Caesarea, he receives a prophetic warning about the trials and tribulations that await him in Jerusalem. This passage offers valuable insights into the nature of Christian commitment, the role of prophecy, and the courage required to follow God's vision, even when it leads to suffering and death.

The Context

Acts 21:8-14 takes place during Paul's third missionary journey. After completing his mission in Ephesus, Paul travels to Macedonia and Greece, and then heads back to Jerusalem. Along the way, he stops in Caesarea to visit Philip the Evangelist, one of the seven deacons appointed in Acts 6:5. Philip's home becomes the setting for a significant prophetic encounter.

Summary: This theme explores the importance of having a vision or purpose in life that is so compelling and transformative that it drives us toward sacrifice and commitment for the sake of something greater than ourselves.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to clarify their vision in life—what are they truly living for? By equipping believers to discern their God-given purpose, they can endure hardships and make sacrifices that align with His will. It empowers them to seek out their calling and live fearlessly in faith.

Teaching: We can learn that having a vision from God requires courage, commitment, and clarity. It teaches that visions should not only benefit ourselves but also serve others and advance God's kingdom, leading to a life of making eternal impacts.

How this passage could point to Christ: The vision we pursue ultimately reflects God's plan for humanity, fulfilled in Christ. As believers, we find our purpose in Him, who sacrificed everything for our salvation, motivating us to live and die for His mission, aligning our lives with a broader eternal narrative.

Big Idea: A compelling vision from God can inspire us to live sacrificially, even unto death, for the kingdom, empowering us through faith and commitment.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider examining biblical figures like Paul and Esther, who embraced powerful visions that led them to great sacrifices. Using Logos, you could explore commentaries and scholarly articles that discuss the historical and cultural contexts of vision in scripture to better articulate how God calls His people to purpose, taking note of any conflicting interpretations that may arise.

1. Saul's Startling Shift

Acts 9:1-6

You could explore how Saul's encounter with the risen Christ completely transformed his vision for life. This pivotal moment redefined his mission to align with God's greater purpose. The challenge is for each believer to experience a similar radical reorientation as they seek God’s direction, realizing that their life has the potential to impact eternity when directed by His call.

2. Isaiah's Incredible Insight

Isaiah 6:1-8

Perhaps you could highlight Isaiah’s awe-inspiring vision of God, leading to his willing response, "Here am I, send me." This passage suggests that a clear vision of God's holiness and glory compels us to offer our lives in service. Encourage the congregation to seek a fresh vision of God that inspires heartfelt surrender and commitment to His purposes.

3. Jesus's Joyful Journey

Hebrews 12:1-2

Maybe discuss how fixing our eyes on Jesus provides the ultimate example of living a life with purpose and endurance. As Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before Him, believers are invited to pursue their God-given visions, knowing they too can endure hardships through Christ's empowering presence and example.

4. Esther's Essential Engagement

Esther 4:13-16

Consider discussing Esther’s courageous choice to risk her life for God’s people, driven by a profound understanding of her unique position and purpose. Encourage believers to recognize the opportunities God places before them, sometimes requiring great sacrifice, with the confidence that they have been placed "for such a time as this."

Who was we?

Who was Agabus?

What does is mean to be bound by the Jews?

What does is mean to be imprisoned?

What does it mean to die?