Acts and the Study of Prayer

One hundred and twenty ordinary people hardly constitute an imposing army; but in a few days, they would make an impact that is being felt even today. The same resources God gave them are still available to us.

I.                   A living Lord (1–3). Christ is the Head of the church (Eph. 1:22; 4:15) and supplies life to His body, giving dynamic and direction to His people. What He began to do and teach, the church continues as He guides and empowers through His Spirit.

a.        “The kingdom of God does not come with observation; nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:20–21). Other versions translate the word “within” as “among” or “in the midst.”

b.      Daniel 2:47,4:3,

c.        Psalmist 5: 1-2

d.       Jesus said we were to seek first the kingdom and then everything else that we need would be provided.

e.       I John 1:1 He’s the Living Lord

II.                The power of the Spirit (4–8). God’s power is available to God’s people

a.       (Eph. 5:18).

b.      Zechariah 4:6 says “ Not by power or might but by my spirit.

c.       The Apostle Paul Romans 15:16

III.             The promise of His return (9–11). He is the Lord of history, working out His purposes in this world. The church may lose some battles, but we will win the war!

a.       Hebrews 4:14-16

IV.             The power of prayer (12–14, 24–26).

a.       Throughout Acts, notice Luke’s emphasis on prayer. The first church was a praying church.

                                                          i.      Prayer is both the thermometer and the thermostat of the local church; for the “spiritual temperature” either goes up or down, depending on how God’s people pray. John Bunyan, author of Pilgrim’s Progress, said, “Prayer is a shield to the soul, a sacrifice to God, and a scourge to Satan.

b.      We need to pray that God would raise up intercessors Ezekiel 22:30

                                                          i.      Psalm  106:23

c.       Matthew 21:13  “ House of Prayer”

d.      James 5:16  “ Link ----- “Since Prayer has such power….

V.                The guidance of Scripture (15–23). His Word is still our lamp and light (Ps. 119:105), and we must obey what it says. God guides His people when they are willing to follow.

a.       Acts 6:4

                                                          i.      II Peter 1:21

                                                        ii.      Hebrews 1: