Acts 1-3: Impressions

Last Sunday, I finished the third chapter in Acts. It is now time to pass the torch to Stan as he looks to pick up again in Matthew 5.

As I look back upon my studies, my sermons, and the wonderful dialog that has taken place in our midst as we have all focused upon the Word, there are a few thoughts that I wanted to share.

1. I have become convinced that we will never learn of the power of the Holy Spirit and the Lordship of Jesus as he is reigning from the right hand of God from studying systematic theologies and doctrinal statements with proof-texts. Our study in Acts shows a depth of sovereign power and the active nature of our Lord in his reign in this age. The Church must regain our focus upon the priority of the Gospel as it goes forth by the power of the Spirit by the will of the risen Lord. At Heritage, we must learn to long for this work and pray for this power.

2. A study in Acts shows condemns the self-centered focus of many influences in our churches today. Our best life now is not found in big houses, fancy cars, and sound financial investments. The Spirit did not bring these things when He came in power. The Spirit brings boldness to proclaim the Gospel, self-sacrificing love among the brethren, and redemption to those who will repent and return to the Lord.

3. My prayer is that we each will fall in love with the beauty displayed in these three chapters of Acts. May it consume us. May we see the Lordship of Christ in the Gospel and may we forsake all things that draw attention elsewhere. Let us not allow any other teaching take us away from the simple truth that the Church is to grow by proclaiming the Gospel in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.