Following Christ into Uncharted Territory

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“Following Christ Into Uncharted Territory”

Acts 10: 1–48

Introduction:

For the disciple who truly desires to be a Christ follower, the pathway would lead into uncharted territory.

If we want to be a part of all that Christ wants to do in this world, we must surrender to the following three facts:

I- God has the right to alter our plans and reorder our steps (Acts 10:1–8).

A- He understands that someone’s needs supersedes our plans (Acts 10:1–4).

B- He has the right to alter our plans without our consent (Acts 10:5–8).

II- We must be available and open to his direction at all times (Acts 10:9–16).

A- Availability is the most important quality for a believer who desires to be usable by God.

1- Being available means that we strive to be in tune with the Holy Spirit and are listening for his voice.

a- Note Acts 10:9

Acts 10:9 NLT

9 The next day as Cornelius’s messengers were nearing the town, Peter went up on the flat roof to pray. It was about noon,

b- note Acts 3:1

Acts 3:1 NLT

1 Peter and John went to the Temple one afternoon to take part in the three o’clock prayer service.

B- if we are available, the Holy Spirit will direct us (Acts 10:13).

1- Some of those directions may make us uncomfortable.

2- In spite of our discomfort, we must respond positively to his direction (Acts 10:14).

C- When the Lord teaches us something, there are always specific applications. (Acts 10:15–22).

1- God does not leave us to doubt about the applications to his instructions.

2- We must remember that God is ordering the events to direct our paths.

III- We must be willing to follow Christ into uncharted territory (Acts 10:24–48).

A- Following Christ into uncharted territory may unlock unexpected ministry (Acts 10:24).

1- If God leads us into uncharted territory, he is already been working there, as well as in our hearts.

2- Illustration of preaching in homes in the Yucatán.

B- We must recognize the kingdom potential of all people with which we come in contact (Acts 10:25–32).

1- Many people have no clue what it means to be a Christian – it is up to us to help them find out.

2- God is always at work in our world and we must be ready to plug in where he is at work.

C- We must be careful to always present the clear gospel when given the opportunity (Acts 10:33–43).

1- Remember that Christ died for all people.

2- Remember to focus all attention on the work of Christ for salvation.

D- We must seek to develop all those whom God brings into the family (Acts 10:44–48).

1- We must seek to reach people wherever they are at – even if it is an uncharted territory for us.

2- Christ’s mission is our co-mission.

Conclusion: