2025-01-19 SERMON _ TO SPEAK OR NOT TO SPEAK

To Speak or Not to Speak:

Finding Boldness in Sharing the Gospel

Have you ever felt hesitant to share your faith because you didn't feel bold enough? You're not alone. Many of us struggle with the fear of speaking up about our beliefs. But what if I told you that boldness isn't something you have to muster up on your own? In Acts 4:13-31, we find a powerful story of Peter and John, two ordinary men who became extraordinary witnesses for Christ. Their secret? They had been with Jesus. This blog will explore how spending time with Jesus can transform your life and give you the courage to share the gospel, even in the face of opposition.

Peter and John were not the most educated or trained by the world's standards, yet they amazed the Jewish leaders with their boldness. Why? Because they had spent time with Jesus. Just like a lamp needs to be plugged into a power source to shine, we need to be connected to Jesus to be bold in our faith. So, how much time are you spending with Jesus each day? Is your Bible reading vibrant? Is your prayer life active? If not, it might be time to refocus and plug into the true source of boldness.

But let's be real—boldness doesn't come without challenges. Peter and John faced arrest and threats from the Sanhedrin, the religious leaders of their time. You might face opposition too, whether it's from a coworker, a boss, or societal norms. The key is to share the gospel with wisdom and rest in God's sovereignty. Remember, it's not your job to change hearts; that's God's work. Your role is to be a faithful messenger, trusting that God desires everyone to come to faith.

So, what's the secret to maintaining this boldness? Prayer. In Acts 4:24-31, the disciples prayed for more boldness, and God answered by filling them with the Holy Spirit. Prayer is the foundation of evangelism. When you pray, start by acknowledging God as He has revealed Himself in Scripture. Use His names and attributes to guide your prayers. Incorporate Scripture into your prayers, and submit to God's sovereignty, trusting that His plan is bigger than any opposition you face. Finally, pray for the lost, asking God to reveal Himself to them and to give you the courage to share His word.

As you reflect on this message, consider how you can incorporate these practices into your life. Spend time with Jesus daily, face challenges with wisdom, and make prayer a priority. What steps will you take this week to be bold in sharing your faith? Remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on the incredible ways God wants to use you.

Let's pray: Lord, thank You for the example of Peter and John, who showed us that true boldness comes from being with You. Help us to spend time in Your presence, to face challenges with wisdom, and to pray fervently for the lost. Fill us with Your Spirit so that we can speak Your word boldly. Amen.

2025-01-12 Who's Your One?

Who's Your One? Discovering the Power of Personal Evangelism

You might be wondering how you can make a real difference in the lives of those around you. If you've ever felt the nudge to share your faith but didn't know where to start, you're not alone. Many of us struggle with the idea of evangelism, thinking it's reserved for pastors or missionaries. But what if I told you that you already know someone who needs Jesus? That's right—everyone knows someone who needs the hope and love that only Jesus can provide.

In our recent sermon, we explored the story of Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, who found his "one" and brought him to Jesus. Andrew's simple act of introducing his brother to Christ changed the course of history. This story reminds us that evangelism isn't about having all the answers; it's about pointing others to the One who does. So, who is your "one"? Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus, and how can you be the bridge that connects them to Him?

The Power of a Simple Invitation

The main point of our sermon was clear: everyone knows someone who needs Jesus, and you can be the one to introduce them. We saw how John the Baptist pointed his disciples to Jesus, how Andrew brought his brother Simon, and how Philip invited Nathanael to "come and see." These simple invitations had profound impacts, and they can in your life too.

You don't need to be a theologian to share your faith. Start with a simple invitation. Invite someone to church, share your testimony, or just have a conversation about what Jesus means to you. Remember, Jesus is already at work in their lives, preparing their hearts for the message you have to share.

Taking the Next Step

So, what can you do this week to make a difference? Start by identifying your "one"—that person in your life who needs Jesus. Commit to praying for them daily. Ask God to give you opportunities to share your faith and the courage to take them. You might be surprised at how God uses your willingness to step out in faith.

Our memory verse for the week is John 1:41-42: "He first found his own brother Simon and told him, 'We have found the Messiah' (which is translated 'the Christ'), and he brought Simon to Jesus." Let this verse remind you of the power of a simple invitation and the impact it can have.

Conclusion

The point is, Jesus wants to use you to reach others. What will you do this week to be a light in someone's life? If you don't take this step, you might miss out on the incredible joy of seeing someone come to faith. So, be bold, be intentional, and trust that God is already at work.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your mission. Help us to see the people in our lives who need you and give us the courage to share your love with them. May we be bold in our invitations and trust that you are already at work in their hearts. Amen.