Ministry and Message

Acts 3:1-26

OBJECTIVE: God expects us to do Good unto all men. We must reach out to the world around us and win them.

INTRODCUTION

1. Who do you know that needs to know Jesus

How do you plan to Share the Gospel with Them?

Miracles, Message

2. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:10 ESV

3. Function-Permanent

Form-Ways of doing things that are changeable

4. Lessons in strategy for the church:

1. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is central and essential

2. We must be willing to meet the needs of others at our own expense

3. Golden Rule

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 ESV

5. What has happened before this time?

Acts 2:42-47 ESV 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

I. How do Miracles help us reach others for Jesus? 1-10

A. Tell the Story

B. Peter's Response to this man

1. Probably not a member of Christian community

--Needs would have been met already

--All Christians had all in common

2. Peter stared at him

3. Told the man to "Look at us"

4. Cruel joke--look at us

--I don't have any possessions to give you.

5. In the name of Jesus Christ

C. Two miracles

1. Feet and ankles strengthened

2. Able to leap and walk

D. All saw and reacted to the Miracle

E. Application

1. Sometimes, stomach needs filling before ears work

2. Medicine is necessary before ears work

3. Missionaries who do this

--Bangladesh—Medical Missions

--Jesus, feeding of 5000

--W/ Disciples on John 21

II. The Message 11-26

A. Sheer joy of the miracle 11-12

B. Focus was brought to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus gave the power to raise this man from the dead

2. Cure lay in the name of Jesus

C. Repent and return to Jesus Christ--v. 19

1. Prophets foretold of Jesus coming

a. Repent so your sins may be wiped away

2. You did not know the Scripture v. 17 Acted in ignorance

3. Times of refreshing—v. 19-20

--rest and refreshment

--God's people will have rest

a. Not a respite from present labors

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 ESV

b. Instead, return of Jesus Christ

37 “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not! 38 See, your house is left to you desolate. 39 For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’ ” Matthew 23:37-39 ESV

D. Application:

1. Help people in need

2. Present the Gospel to them

3. Let them know that Jesus Christ is the answer.