Focused Fishing

Acts 8

Intro:

Be Open to Fishing in Strange Places

Desert Ministry 

The person who think he or she is too big for small places are too little for big places. 

Lots of people worked in desert: Moses, Ezekiel, David, and Jesus 

Philip had to leave Samaria where he had much spiritual success. God is concerned about the one. Don’t miss focused fishing assignments because of the one. It could be the right one who can make a kingdom difference. The church is to be a “sender” model. The church started with an emphasis on sending capacity but now we are reverted to seating capacity. We expect people to come to us instead of understanding our assignment is to send out. Philip was sent. He was sent to Samaria and now the desert. His ministry was not be attractional so people would come. The church has revised the Great Commission to being the most attractional or seeker sensitive church via the best music ministry, hottest pastor, or most radical hospitality. Look at biblical examples. 

Andrew brought Peter as his one. Peter went on to do great things in the kingdom. 

Jesus stood up for the one called Saul. Saul made a difference for the kingdom. Planted many churches and wrote a significant portion of New Testament. 

• • Many believe that this Ethopian eunuch was used to take the Gospel back to Africa. 

Focused Fishing maximizes opportunities for people who are searching.

 This eunuch was searching for connection. He was an outsider. He had traveled to Jerusalem for worship and was in route back home. He went to the temple but had limited access. He wanted more rituals. He wanted a relationship. There are people who want a personal relationship and not just religious formalities. We must meet people where they are and help lead them to Jesus. Philip adapted and realize this person was searching and God wanted to use him to introduce this brother to Jesus. God had Philip in the right place at the right time. Philip ran to the chariot. Philip was excited to fish in this desert because he knew the value of souls. Soul winning should generate energy like boots on the ground. 

My mind is on ministry and ministry should be on your mind. God has put too much in you not to share it with someone. 

During a family game night, a younger sibling struggles to understand the rules of a board game. Instead of isolating them, the older sibling enthusiastically explains it, making the game more enjoyable for everyone. In the same way, we can make Jesus accessible to those who are searching for Him, breaking down barriers and fostering understanding so that they can join the joyful game of faith.