Kevin Dibbley - November 10, 2024
"Praying Together for Courage" | Acts 4:23-31
This Sunday, we are going to look at the subject of praying for courage as we seek to share the hope of Jesus with others. In Acts 4, Peter and John are remarkably bold in speaking about Christ to the religious leaders who are threatening them. These are the very same religious leaders who had recently arranged and successfully carried out the crucifixion of Jesus. The boldness of the disciples was not natural. It was supernatural. The timid Galilean disciples had recently fled in fear. Now, they faced the threats of the religious leaders with amazing courage (Acts 4:13). So much so, that even their enemies were blown away. What we see after this, however, is that Peter and John immediately went back to the others and they joined together in prayer. No bravado. No “We showed them!” No post touchdown taunting in the end zone. Courage required the help of community, and specifically, the help of a community on its knees. Courage in evangelism is a gift from God. Let’s come together and learn how “Praying Together for Courage” (that’s our sermon title) is one of the core privileges that God has given us as His people with one another. Looking forward to worshiping King Jesus with you all. Remember, He reigns!
Scripture References: Acts 4:23-31
From Series: "No Other Name"
The book of Acts is a careful recording of the advancement of the kingdom of God into the Gentile world despite hostility and hardship. We constantly need to be encouraged and reminded that the mission of God happens through the unlikeliest of people (ie., Saul of Tarsus) in some of the most hostile environments. This happens precisely because our God reigns. Where are some of the hardest places that we least expect the gospel to advance? Who are you least hopeful would respond to the message of Christ? Waterbrooke Church’s mission statement is this: Waterbrooke seeks to be a gospel-centered multi-ethnic family that is captivated by Jesus, compelled to love others, and called to make disciples to the glory of God. What brings more glory to God than the salvation of the least likely people and peoples?
