Fact Over Fiction

The Only True Religion

Bible Passage: Acts 14:8–18

Summary: In Acts 14:8-18, Paul and Barnabas encounter a crippled man in Lystra and, after healing him in the name of Jesus, the local people mistake them for gods. This passage illustrates the conflict between true worship of God and the idolatrous practices of the surrounding culture.

Application: This sermon can help Christians recognize the importance of directing their faith toward the one true God instead of being swayed by cultural idols. By understanding who God really is, believers can strengthen their faith and avoid being influenced by falsehoods in their lives.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that true religion is centered on faith in Christ and should not be confused with the idols and false beliefs prevalent in society. It emphasizes that genuine miracles and works of faith point back to God, not to human beings or fabricated deities.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of the Bible, this passage points to Christ as the ultimate healer and the one who fulfills the law and the prophets. The miraculous healing by Paul and Barnabas brings to light that all power comes from Christ, who is the fulfillment of God's promise and the true object of faith.

Big Idea: True religion glorifies God through faith in Christ, standing against the idols of culture and false beliefs.

Recommended Study: As you prepare your sermon using Logos, consider exploring the background of Lystra and the cultural context surrounding idolatry in the ancient world. Investigating parallels in apostolic teachings and historical commentaries on Acts 14 will provide deeper insights. Additionally, examining the Greek terms related to 'heal' and the concept of faith can enhance your understanding of the text's implications.

1. Power in Christ's Name

Acts 14:8–10

You could highlight the singular power of Christ's name, shown when Paul heals the crippled man by faith in Jesus, not by his own power. This event opens the door to discuss how miracles and genuine acts of faith point to the truth of Christ, encouraging believers to anchor their faith firmly in Him.

2. Misplaced Worship Alert

Acts 14:11–13

Maybe discuss how quickly the people of Lystra turned to idolatry by equating Paul and Barnabas to their gods. This reflects a human tendency to replace God's truth with cultural falsehoods, warning believers to be discerning and steadfast in their faith, remaining true to the revelation of God in Christ.

3. Redirect Glory to God

Acts 14:14–18

Perhaps address how Paul and Barnabas redirect glory to God, showing humility and clarity in their message about the living God who created all things. This section can inspire Christians to direct all praise to God in their lives and stand against the lure of self-glorification and false idols.