Scripture References: Acts 2, 7, 8, 9, 13, 17, 19, 20; James 1:22; Luke 21:15; 2 Corinthians 2:15-17; 2 Corinthians 4:5-6; Genesis 1:3
Intro: Welcome. Continuing our series on Acts and the Mission of God, today's speaker focuses on a familiar yet crucial gift: Preaching. Why preach about preaching? Because understanding this gift helps us receive it better, stirs up those called to preach, and reminds us we all need preaching to align our lives with God's truth, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Key Points:
- Preaching in Acts: Preaching was the backbone of the early church's mission. Peter, Stephen, Philip, Paul, and others proclaimed God's Word, resulting in conversions, healings, opposition, and martyrdom.
- What is Preaching? "The stewarding and heralding of God's word in such a way that people encounter the living God."
- Three Components of Preaching:
- Stewarding (Obedient to the Word): Faithfully hearing, weighing, being changed by, and delivering God's Word without altering it. The power is in the Word, not the preacher's experience. Listener's Role: To steward the Word by doing what it says (James 1:22).
- Heralding (Surrendered to the Spirit): The vocal proclamation, empowered by the Holy Spirit. He gives both the message (wisdom) and the boldness/guts to speak (Luke 21:15). It requires using words to declare truth.
- Encountering (Devoted to the Mission): The ultimate goal is not just information, but an encounter with the living God. This encounter brings life to some and confirms death for others (2 Cor 2:15-17). The preacher proclaims; the Spirit changes hearts.
- Preaching as Workout & Weapon: It's not just a comforting feast; it's a spiritual workout aligning us with truth. It confronts darkness with light (Gen 1:3), proclaiming Jesus as Lord (2 Cor 4:5-6).
- We Are Heralds: Like ancient town criers or wartime ambassadors, preachers (and all believers) are heralds proclaiming the coming King Jesus, urging repentance and faith before His return. We invade darkness with His light.
- Don't Shrink Back: While some have a specific preaching gift, all believers are called to proclaim the truth God has revealed. Don't make excuses. Speak boldly when opportunities arise.
Conclusion: Preaching is a dynamic, Spirit-empowered gift vital for advancing God's mission. It faithfully stewards God's Word, boldly heralds it, and ultimately aims for life-changing encounters with the living God. Let us value this gift, receive it expectantly, and participate in heralding the truth of King Jesus.
Call to Action: Position yourself to truly receive the gift of preaching each week – listen actively, seeking to obey. Ask God for opportunities and boldness to herald the truth you've received in your own life, relationships, and community. Preach into dark situations: "The King is coming!"
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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