Let's Make Jesus Great Again

Bradley

Book of Acts • Sermon • Submitted 5 years ago

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This morning we are picking back up in our study of the book of Acts.

If you’re new to MCF, it would be good for you to know that we practice a form of preaching called “Expository Preaching”. What that means is we believe the Bible is best taught by taking books of the Bible, and then studying them from beginning to end, chapter by chapter, verse by verse, in order to understand what it means in our lives today.

And currently we are doing that through the NT book of Acts.

However, through the month of December we took a break from Acts in order to focus on the Christmas season. But with Christmas behind us, we’re ready to jump back into our Acts Study.

With that said, last Fall we started a study of the book Acts. A book that highlights the beginning days of the church, and a book that teaches us the purpose and function of the church.

So, since it’s been awhile since we’ve been in Acts, and because we probably have some newcomers to the series, maybe a good place for us to start this morning would be with a little recap of where we’ve been in Acts so we are all on the same page for where we are going.

So, maybe a good place for us to start this morning would be by doing a little bit of a recap.

So, to do that, let me begin by reminding us that the book of Acts is the story of how the church started, and in a way is a template that highlights the mission and function of the church following the resurrection of Jesus and His ascension into heaven. A template that can be summed up in as Jesus gives the disciple this command:

Acts 1:8 ESV

8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

First, as we learned in ,

In this passage Jesus does two things:

First, He clarifies the mission of the church and second tells us how that mission will be accomplished.

The mission is Gospel expansion. A mission that begins in Jersualem, and then stretches to the outer regions of Judea and Samaria, and then finally to the rest of the world.

How is it accomplished? It’s accomplished through the power of the Holy Spirit. Which apparently was such an important component of gospel expansion that Jesus told them to not do anything until the Holy Spirit had come. Listen to what Jesus says to them:

Which apparently was such an important component of gospel expansion that Jesus told them to not do anything until the Holy Spirit had come. Listen to what Jesus says to them:

Acts 1:4–5 ESV

4 And while staying with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

So, the next question would be, “How are we to do that? How do we take the Gospel to the rest of the world?” Well, in a way, Jesus just told us. Jesus said we would do it through the power of the Holy Spirit. Which if we’re begin honest, sounds a little strange.

Acts 1:4

Jesus basically says, “Don’t do anything until the Holy Spirit comes. Don’t preach one sermon. Don’t post any scripture on Facebook. Don’t hand out an invite card to church. Don’t do anything until the Spirit has come.”

So, why is Jesus so adamant that they wait for the Holy Spirit? Well, according to Jesus, the Holy Spirit is the necessary promised Helper. Listen to how Jesus describes Him in the Gospel of John. In Jesus says:

John 14:26 ESV

26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.

Jesus says listen, there’s a day coming when I’m not going to be physically present. But don’t worry. When I’m gone, I’m going to send you a helper, and His name is the Holy Spirit. And The Holy Spirit will help you accomplish what I’ve asked you to do.

So, apparently, in order to accomplish the mission of Gospel expansion, the Holy Spirit is a necessary component. So, Jesus says, “Wait for Him to come”.

And just as Jesus promised, in the Holy Spirit did show up in a supernatural and phenomenal way. Listen to how Luke describes His coming:

First, as we learned in ,

Acts 2:1–4 ESV

1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Acts 2:

Luke says as the disciples waited for the Holy Spirit, they didn’t have to wait long. Because on the Jewish Holiday called Pentecost, God empowered the first disciples with His Spirit. An empowerment that enabled them to communicate the gospel in languages they’d never learned. Listen to how Luke describes it:

Acts 2:5–11 ESV

5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, 11 both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.”

Acts 2:

Luke says through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, all the barriers that would have kept people from hearing the gospel were torn down, including language. And as result, thousands of people came to faith in Jesus. Luke writes:

Acts 2:41 ESV

41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.

Acts 2:

Luke says 3000 people came to faith in Jesus in Jesus that day.

So, a good question at this point would be, “How does this mission and supernatural phenomena apply to us?”

I’m glad you asked. Because what we’ve learned so far is, it applies to us in the exact same way.

First, it applies in the sense that the mission of the church hasn’t changed. In other words, just like the early church was called to reach the entire world with the gospel of Jesus Christ, we have been called as well.

And as we’ve learned, we still have a lot of work to do, because despite all our technological advancement, there are currently 2 billion people on planet earth that have never heard the gospel message. And believe it or not, some of those people live in our community.

Second, it applies in the sense that just like the disciples needed the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we need that empowerment as well.

In other words, in order to reach people for Jesus, we each need to have our own personal day of Pentecost. A moment when God baptizes us with His Spirit and empowers us to communicate the Gospel.

Now, does that mean we’ll speak in tongues like the believers did in . Well, the truth is, tongues is a gift that God has given the church, a gift that Paul talks about in & 14.

But that’s not what the focus of empowerment should be. Because to a large degree the tongues in were symbolic in nature. They symbolized that through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit God will give us the ability to communicate the gospel in a way people can understand it in our cultural context.

So, here’s what that means for you and me. If we’re willing to seek the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, God will empower you to share the Gospel with your friends, co-workers, and family members in a way you couldn’t before. What will that look like? I don’t know. All I know is in that moment you’ll be able to speak and explain the gospel in a way you couldn’t before.

Instead, it will involve God giving you the ability to speak to your co-worker about Jesus in a way you never could before. Or to your friend in a way you never could before. Or tp a loved one or maybe even to a stranger.\

And Jesus even says there may be instances where the Holy Spirit will speak through us when we don’t know what to say. Listen to what Jesus says about this in :

Luke 12:11–12 ESV

11 And when they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”

Jesus says there will be moments when the Holy Spirit will give you the words.

God wants to equip and empower us with His Holy Spirit. In fact, we need Him to. Because the truth is, without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we

He’ll give you the words when your friend challenges you.

He’ll give you the words when soem

Here’s the bottom line. We need this empowerment. Because without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we can’t accomplish the mission Jesus has given us.

God wants to equip and empower us with His Holy Spirit. In fact, we need Him to. Because the truth is, without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we can’t accomplish the mission He’s given us.

So, that’s where we’ve been this past Fall. And if you haven’t been with us, I would encourage you to go online and listen to those messages at www.mcf.life where I go into greater depth on how a person receives that empowerment.

And what we learned is there are some key components for a church to embrace if it truly wants to accomplish the mission Jesus has given us.

Now, for where we are going, and to get us there, let me quickly remind you of where we left off a few weeks ago.

Today as we come back to our study, we come to a pivotal point. A point where you could say the rubber meets the road.

You may recall as we closed out leading up to Christmas, Peter and John were on their way to the temple to pray. Something they would have done routinely and on a daily basis.

But on this particular day an opportunity presented itself as a crippled man at the temple entrance asked Peter and John for money. But instead of giving him money, Peter offers him something of greater value. Luke writes:

Acts 3:4–8 ESV

4 And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, “Look at us.” 5 And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” 7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. 8 And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.

Acts 3:4–10 ESV

Acts 3:4–6 ESV

Luke says as the man begs for money, Peter functioning in the power of the Holy Spirit, commands the man in the name of Jesus to stand up and walk. And if we read on, miraculously we would discover that the man walks.

And as you might imagine, it’s a miracle that catches peoples attention. Luke goes on to write:

Acts 3:9–10 ESV

9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

Acts 3:9

Luke says as the people saw the man walking, they were blown away. And now Peter and John have an opportunity to tell the temple crowd about Jesus. And they do.

And now Peter has an opportunity to tell people about Jesus.

Which leads us to chapter 4 and a turning point in the story. Because while this is a moment of celebration and gospel declaration, it’s also a moment where the disciples will face for the first time resistance to their message and ministry.

So, in order to introduce this next chapter and help us get a framework for where we are going, I want to begin by asking you a question that I think most of us in the room can relate with. And the question is this:

So, in order to introduce this next chapter, I want to begin by asking you a question.

Question - As a Christ follower, have you ever been in a situation where your stance for Jesus faced resistance?

In other words, have you ever had somebody make fun of you or mock you because of your faith in Jesus?

In other words, you told somebody about Jesus, but they rejected what you said.

Or you brought up the topic of Jesus, and somebody started acting put off or annoyed.

Or have you ever had somebody threaten you because of your faith in Jesus?

Or maybe you brought up Jesus, and somebody even went as far to threaten you to be quiet.

I think if you’ve been a Christian very long you’ve probably experienced something like this to some degree. Because the truth is, if you’re going to be “All In” for Jesus, then get ready, because resistance is coming soon.

In fact, all you have to do

In fact, I think we do new Christians a disservice if we don’t prepare them for this. Because whether you realize it or not, there is a real enemy out there, and his name is Satan. And he’s not a fan of Christians who are “All In”. In fact, he wants to take them out. The Apostle Peter writes:

1 Peter 5:8 ESV

8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

Peter says the devil is on the hunt. And he’s hunting for people who claim to be “All IN”.

People who are committed to reaching the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

People who are committed to sharing their faith.

And for Christians like that, Satan is going to look for opportunities to attack.

And in Acts chapter 4, that’s what the disciples are about to discover as they share their faith. And as a result, what chapter 4 teaches us comes in two parts:

First, it teaches us what kind of resistance we can expect when we share our faith. In other words, it highlights the negative response that sometimes comes when we tell people about Jesus.

In other words, what you can expect when you’re All In and you begin to tell people about Jesus.

Second, it teaches us how to respond to gospel resistance. In other words, when you share your faith, and people don’t respond well, chapter 4 shows us what to do and how to handle it.

So, here’s what I want to do this morning as we dive into this chapter.

So, here’s what I want to do this morning.

First, I want to read through , which is going to be our text for the next couple of weeks.

Second, I want to go back through the reading and highlight the kind of resistance you can expect when you share your faith.

And then next week we’re going to go back through the passage again and look at how to respond when resistance comes.

Everybody with me?

So, to get us started, let’s pick up in chapter 4 as Peter finishes sharing the gospel with the temple crowd. Beginning in verse 1 Luke writes:

Acts 4:1–12 ESV

Acts 4:1-12

Acts 4:1–22 ESV

1 And as they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came upon them, 2 greatly annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. 3 And they arrested them and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. 4 But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand. 5 On the next day their rulers and elders and scribes gathered together in Jerusalem, 6 with Annas the high priest and Caiaphas and John and Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly family. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they inquired, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, 9 if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. 11 This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. 12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” 13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. 14 But seeing the man who was healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. 15 But when they had commanded them to leave the council, they conferred with one another, 16 saying, “What shall we do with these men? For that a notable sign has been performed through them is evident to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 17 But in order that it may spread no further among the people, let us warn them to speak no more to anyone in this name.” 18 So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, 20 for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.” 21 And when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people, for all were praising God for what had happened. 22 For the man on whom this sign of healing was performed was more than forty years old.

Obviously there’s a lot happening in this passage, and as I said, we’re not going to cover it all today.

But what we I do want us to focus our attention on today is the resistance that now comes as Peter and John are approached, arrested, and threatened as they proclaim the name of Jesus. Something the disciples haven’t faced yet, but something that Jesus promised would happen. In fact Jesus puts it like this in :

Matthew 10:18 ESV

18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles.

Matthew 10:18–29 ESV

18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. 19 When they deliver you over, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. 20 For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, 22 and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next, for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes. 24 “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. 25 It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household. 26 “So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 27 What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. 28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.

And then in verse 22 Jesus says:

Matthew 10:22 ESV

22 and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

Jesus says, “Listen, people are going to have a problem with you because of me.”

And now what Jesus said would happen, is happening. So, maybe a good question to as first would be, “What’s the problem? Why are the disciples facing resistance? Why do people have issues when we talk about Jesus?”

But before we get to that resistance, let’s begin by asking the question, “Why is there resistance to begin with?” In other words, why all of a sudden are Peter and John beginning to face trouble?

In order to explain that to you, what I’d like to do is give you three typical responses you need to be aware of if you’re going to share your faith with people. Three responses that you can count on. And from these responses we will discover why talking about Jesus brings resistance.

In order to answer that question, what I’d like to do is give you three typical responses of resistance you need to be aware of if you’re going to share your faith with people. Three responses that you can count on. And from these responses we will discover why talking about Jesus so often brings resistance.

Acts 4:4 ESV

4 But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand.

Luke says after Peter finishes sharing the gospel, five thousand people put their faith in Jesus. That’s amazing, right? And it’s at this point it’s becoming apparent to the opponents of Jesus that the Jesus problem isn’t going away. In fact, it’s stronger than ever. An now the enemy has had enough. Now the enemy recognizes that even though Jesus is gone, He has left followers who are committed to the cause. And now resistance comes. Which leads us to what we can expect if we are truly committed to sharing our faith.

TYPICAL RESPONSES OF RESISTANCE:

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU SHARE YOUR FAITH:

Typical Responses:

Response #1 - When you share your faith, count on ticking somebody off.

Acts 4:1-

Acts 4:1–3 ESV

Luke writes:

Acts 4:1–2 ESV

Luke says as Peter wraps up his message, three different groups of people approach Peter and John, and Luke says they are “greatly annoyed”. Why were they annoyed? Because they were teaching people about Jesus.

The word for “annoyed” here comes from the Greek word “dia-poe-now-my” It means to be strongly irked or provoked to the point of great anger.

In other words, these guys are livid. So, to help you get an appreciation for the scene, let me put it in perspective for you.

Let me put it in perspective for you.

How many of you have seen one of those videos where walks into a restaurant or a store wearing a Trump shirt or a MAGA hat and somebody loses their mind. You’ve seen those videos, right?

In fact, it’s become such a phenomena that they’ve actually named it. It’s called TDS: Trump Derangement Syndrome.

Now, please hear me, I’m not comparing Trump to Jesus, but that’s the kind of response we are talking about here. But in this case, Peter and Johns accusers have JDS. They have Jesus derangement syndrome.

Apparently Peter has a MJGA hat on? And John’s wearing a Jesus t-shirt? And some people are losing their minds.

That’s kind of what’s going on here.

So, a good question might be, “Who are these people and why are they ticked off?” Well, in this passage there are three groups of people who are ticked off.

The first group are the priests. These are the religious leaders in the temple that day. In other words, they are the priests or pastors who are on duty and overseeing the sacrifices and rituals.

The second isn’t so much a group as it is a person. It’s the captain of the temple. This person would have been second in command to the High Priest and was like a temple guardsmen. This man is there to make sure everything runs smoothly.

The third group Luke mentions are the Sadducees. And in a nutshell, these are political religious leaders with a political agenda. And while we don’t have time to dissect this group, there are a couple of important details about this group I need to point out.

First, while they are religious, they hold to a very conservative view of scripture. In other words, they only believe in certain parts of the Bible. So, while they hold to the teachings of Moses and the law, they don’t believe in what the Bible actually teaches concerning things like the after life, demons, or angels. They actually believe when a person dies, that’s it. Game over. And that’s why they are Sadducee.

Bottom line, concerning God’s Word, the Sadducees only believe in what fits their lifestyle or agenda.

Second, because the Sadducees don’t have an eternal focus, they’re very much temporal focused. In fact, they are obsessed with obtaining as much power, money, and influence as they can in this life. To the point, that they had sacrificed what was best for the nation of Israel and were in partnership with the Roman government.

And the deal with Rome was, as long as the Sadducees kept the Jewish people in line, the Roman government would compensate them and give them the power they desired.

All that to say, the Sadducees are a politically corrupt group of people who only put their hope in what fits their lifestyle or political agenda.

So they’re ticked because Peter and John represent a threat tot heir political power, influence, and way of life.

In addition to that, they are the ones largely responsible for the death of Jesus. Because in all reality, Jesus was a threat to their political power and influence.

So, it shouldn’t surprise us that these are the ones raising the resistance flag. They resisted Jesus so it shouldn't’ surprise us they are now resisting His followers.

So, a good question would be, “Why are these groups upset, annoyed, and ticked off?” Well, their each upset for different reasons.

For the priests, Peter is preaching a message that runs contrary to the religious system of the day.

Because if you think about it, the priests are still pushing the sacrificial system. For the priests, daily sacrifices are still necessary. Rituals and ceremonies are still necessary in order to make penance with God.

But Peter has just proclaimed that the final sacrifice has been made. Because Peter just said:

Acts 4:10 ESV

10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well.

Acts 4:12 ESV

12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Peter is pointing people to Jesus as the one who has paid the price for their sin. What Peter is saying is, “You don’t need to make these sacrifices any longer. The rituals don’t save you. Jesus took care of the sin problem. He’s the final sacrifice. He’s the one who brings true salvation.”

The writer of Hebrews puts it like this:

Hebrews 10:8–10 ESV

8 When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), 9 then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He does away with the first in order to establish the second. 10 And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

The writer says, “Jesus did away with the temple sacrifice because He is the final sacrifice for our sin.”

All that to say, the priests are upset because Peter is pointing people away from religion and pointing them towards a relationship. Peter is pointing them away from a system and to a savior. And it’s ticking them off.

And that’s still true today. It’s why people get all bent out of shape when their religious heritage, tradition, and rituals are questioned.

For the temple guardsman, he’s upset because Peter and John are causing a disruption in the temple. In fact we know it was disruptive because Luke says after Peter finished speaking, 5000 people put their faith in Jesus. Apparently, there’s a revival going on here. People are shouting. People are celebrating. People are getting saved. And the temple guard doesn’t like it one bit.

And finally, the sadducees are ticked because what Peter and John are doing could cause political unrest. If Peter and John continue to convince people that Jesus was some sort of spiritual or political Messiah, it’s going to disrupt their partnership with Rome. It’s going to lead to their loss of power, influence, and resource. For them it’s best if the people have no hope of deliverance of any kind. These guys need to be silenced before this goes too far. All this Jesus talk could potentially put a kink in their cooshy lifestyle.

So, that’s why they’re ticked. For each group Jesus is a threat to their beliefs, their religious systems, and their way of life.

And what was true then is true today. And that’s why certain people are going to be ticked when you share your faith in Jesus.

That’s why religious systems and religious people struggle with a church like ours. Because like Peter and John we are pointing people away from a system and to a savior. We are pointing people away from religion and to a relationship with Jesus. And it ticks them off.

That’s why our secular culture struggles with a church like ours. Because our message disrupts their system.

Our message isn’t politically correct.

Our message condemns what Hollywood condones.

Our message points people away from temporal happiness to an eternal joy.

Our message reminds people that there are consequences for sin.

Our message reminds people they can’t just live how they want.

Our message reminds people that there is a God who they will one day be accountable to.

And so it ticks people off when you tell them they’re a sinner in need of a savior.

To be honest, that’s why some people attend MCF once or twice and then never come back. Why don’t they come back? Because they got ticked off. Why did they get ticked? For a number of reasons. For some:

They got ticked because God’s Word challenged their religious heritage, tradition, and system. So they said, “I can’t believe Pastor said that. He’s an anti-cathite.

They got ticked becauseGod’s Word says they shouldn't’ be sleeping with their boyfriend/girlfriend. So the said, “Who does he think he is telling me I can’t have sex with my girlfriend! That ticks me off!”

They got ticked becauseGod’s Word said they shouldn't’ be sleeping with their boyfriend/girlfriend.

They got ticked because God’s Word says they shouldn’t be living with someone that’s not their spouse. And so they got ticked off and said, “I’m never coming back to that church again!”

They got ticked because God’s Word challenged their lifestyle or worldview and caused unrest.

They got ticked because God’s word challenged their worldview.

You see, they left or they got ticked because the Bible isn’t politically, culturally, or Hollywood correct. So they got ticked.

And whether they realize it or not, in that moment they are exhibiting signs of “JDS”. Jesus derangement syndrome”.

Why? Because it robs them of their power and influence. It forces them to recongize that their man made systems and lifestyles run contrary to God’s Word. And it ticks them off. And whether they realize it or not, in that moment they are exhibiting signs of “JDS”. Jesus derangement syndrome”.

And some of you know exactly what I’m talking about, because you’ve encountered people like this.

You’ve ticked some friends off because you quit drinking.

You ticked off your girlfriend or boyfriend off because you said you aren’t going to have premarital sex.

You ticked off a religious family member because you told them you were going to MCF now.

Why are they ticked? Because your faith in Jesus has caused unrest. Your faith has called into question what they believe and how they’re living. So, it ticks them off.

This leads us to the second response you need to be aware of when you share your faith:

Response #2 - When you share your faith, count on being isolated.

Luke writes:

Acts 4:3 ESV

3 And they arrested them and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening.

Response #2 - When you share your faith, it’s going to cause other

The reality is, when you stand up for Jesus, the enemies first line of attack is to try and marginalize you.

For Peter and John, they were arrested and put in isolation where they would await formal questioning. Put in a place where their influence could now be controlled.

And what was true for them, will be true for you as well. If you’re committed to sharing your faith, isolatiion will soon follow.

And again, some of you know exactly what I’m talking about. Because of your faith in Jesus, you’ve been isolated. You’ve been isolated from family. You’ve been isolated from friendships. You’ve been isolated at school. You’ve been isolated in your workplace.

Why have you been isolated? Because it’s the enemies way of trying to silence you. Of trying to keep you from having influence. His goal is to keep people who need Jesus away from you. To paint you as some kind of weirdo or nut job. To cause people to fear what you represent so they will have nothing to do with you. “Stay away from them,” the enemy says. “They have one of those MJGA hats on” “They go to that church out by Taco Bell!”

At school, your the weird one

You see , the enemy wants to isolate you and put you in a place where you have no influence. And in doing so, his hope is that you’ll go along with it. That you’ll keep quiet. Which leads to a third response:

Response #3 - When you share your faith, count on being threatened.

Luke writes:

Acts 4:5–7 ESV

5 On the next day their rulers and elders and scribes gathered together in Jerusalem, 6 with Annas the high priest and Caiaphas and John and Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly family. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they inquired, “By what power or by what name did you do this?”

Acts 4:

Expectation #4 - When you share your faith, expect people to come to faith in Jesus.

Response #2 - When you share your faith, it’s going to lead certain people to faith.

Acts 4:4 ESV

4 But many of those who had heard the word believed, and the number of the men came to about five thousand.

Luke says the next morning Peter and John were brought out of isolation and put in front of several individuals. Individuals that made up a religious body known as the Sanhedrin. And ironically, this is the same group of people who condemned Jesus to death. So you can guess what comes next. Because after questioning Peter and John, and after hearing their responses, listen to what they tell them:

Acts 4:17–18 ESV

17 But in order that it may spread no further among the people, let us warn them to speak no more to anyone in this name.” 18 So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus.

Acts 4:17-

Luke says in order to silence Peter and John, the Sanhedrin now resorts to threats, and they tell Peter and John they better stop talking about Jesus. They better knock it off, or else...

Or else what?

Well, we’re going to see what they mean by "or else” as we journey further into Acts.

Because in some cases the “Or else” is going to be relational ostracization, as Christians are ostracized from friends and family.

Christian tradition tells us the Apostle Paul was probably married, but when he had his conversion, his family forsook him, including his wife.

In other cases it’s going to be whippings and beatings as Christians are physically beaten for their faith. The Apostle Paul writes:

Acts 5:41 ESV

41 Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.

2 Corinthians 11:25 ESV

25 Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea;

In other cases it’s going to be financial consequences. In the book of Revelation we’re told that some of the early Christians were not allowed to do business in the marketplace because of their faith in Jesus.

And finally, the “Or else” will lead to death for some Christians. We’re going to see the beginning stages of that in a couple of chapters with a disciple named Stephen who is the first recorded martyr for Jesus.

You see, when isolation won’t work, those who resist Jesus will resort to threats and violence.

And the truth is, we see these kind of threats around us everyday.

We saw it in Washington state a few years ago, when a Christian florist refused to put a floral arrangement together for a gay wedding, and the couple said, “You better make the arrangement, or else...”

It happened again in Colorado when a Christian baker refused to make a cake for a gay wedding, and the couple said, “You better bake the cake, or else...”

Or else what? Or else I’ll sue you. Or else I’ll take your business from you.

You see, when you stand up for Jesus, there are always going to be people who are threatened and will threaten you. Who will try and scare you into submitting to their ways and their views.

And again, some of you know what I’m talking about. No, maybe you haven’t been sued, taken to court, or beaten, but you’ve definitely felt the threats that come from following Jesus.

For some, maybe when you told your boyfriend or girlfriend that you weren’t going to have premarital sex, that said, “Well, if you don’t,

Maybe your a young person holding onto your virginity, but your friends are telling you, “If you’re not willing to have sex, then you won’t get a boyfriend/girlfriend. You’re going to be a weirdo. Nobody is going to want to date or hang out with you.”

Maybe you have some friends who have noticed the change Jesus has made in your life, and they’ve told you, “Listen, enough with the Jesus stuff. If you want to be in our group, you need to tone it down a little.”

Or maybe you’ve recently put your faith in Jesus, but you’ve been told if you get water baptized as an adult, that you’re going to lose your religious heritage.

Or maybe you’ve been told if you continue to attend the church out by Taco Bell, people are going to think differently of you.

You’ve been told if you attend MCF it’s going to make waves in the family.

Now, some of you might be thinking, “Come on pastor. That’s not really happening here in Marysville, is it?” More than you might think. I talk to people all the time who have received an “Or Else” because of their association with our church or because of their faith in Jesus.

Because of their association with our church or because of their faith in Jesus. Some have been told they better not get water baptized or they’re out. Some have been warned that attending MCF could affect their social standing. Some have lost relationships.

Some of the threats are minor and insignificant, but some of them are a big deal. It’s happening right here in our community.

Some have been told they better not get water baptized or they’re out.

Some have been warned that attending MCF could affect their social standing.

Some have lost relationships.

But it shouldn’t surprise us, because Jesus said it would happen.

Luke 21:17 ESV

17 You will be hated by all for my name’s sake.

And Jesus says:

Matthew 10:21–22 ESV

21 Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death, 22 and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

Matthew 10:21 ESV

21 Brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death,

Jesus says, when you stand up for him, you’re going to tick people off, you’re going to be relationally isolated, you’re going to be presented with an “Or else”.

And those are the responses of resistance we can expect.

Now, at this point, you might be thinking, “Wow, Pastor this is kind of depressing. Way to start the New Year out by telling me everybody is going to hate me!”

So, where do we go from here? How do we digest what we’ve just learned?

Now, at this point you might be thinking, “Wow pastor, that’s a lot to take in. It sounds like sharing my faith is going to present some challenges.”

That’s not my goal this morning. Really my goal is twofold this morning depending on where you are at with Jesus.

You’re right, it does. So, what exactly should I take from this message and what does this mean for my life moving forward?”

To be honest, it depends on where you’re at in your faith and commitment to Jesus.

If you’re “All In”, if you’re a committed follower of Jesus, today’s message is meant to be a reminder and an encouragement.

If you’re serious about reaching people for Jesus, then yes.

It’s a reminder of how the enemy responds when somebody like you and me decides to take a stand for Jesus. It’s a reminder of what happens when we put on the MJGA hat and t-shirt.

Because the truth is, there is a real enemy out there, and his name is Satan. And he’s not a fan of Christians who are “All In”. In fact, he wants to take them out. The Apostle Peter writes:

1 Peter 5:8 ESV

8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

Peter says the devil is on the hunt. And he’s hunting for people who claim to be “All IN”.

People who are committed to reaching the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

People who are committed to sharing their faith.

And for Christians like that, Satan is going to look for opportunities to attack.

Now, you might be thinking, “Well if that’s the case, then I don’t know if I want to be “All In” pastor. I’m not sure I want the devil hunting me like that. That can’t be good, right? How is that encouraging?”

Here’s what you need to understand.

It’s encouraging because when your on the enemies radar, and when you are facing resistance, it’s a sign.

First, it’s the sign of a soon coming victory.

I mean think about it. Why would the devil come after you so hard? Why do you think he’s attacking your marriage? Why is he after your kids? Why is he trying to discourage you? Why have the temptations intensified?

Takeaway #1 - Resistance is always a sign of victory

It’s what Phillip Kelley talked about last week. It’s one of the enemies tactics. He sees what God’s doing in you and he wants to destroy it. He wants to discourage you. He wants you to think that it’s just not worth it.

How about this. Because you’re “All In”. Because yo made Jesus Lord. Because you got baptized. Because you signed up for Wednesday night. And because you’re “All In” now, you’re a greater threat to the enemy. You’re not just a marginal Christian anymore. You’re a navy seal christian. And it means he’s not winning anymore. The resistance is a sign of soon coming victory in your life, your families life, and our community.

The resistance is a sign of victory in your life.

I have to be honest with you, if there was no resistance or spiritual challenges in my life or in our church, I’d be worried. I’d be thinking, “Why is the devil leaving us alone? Are we not a threat to him?” Because Jesus promised those that followed him would have trouble. Jesus says:

John 16:33 ESV

33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Second, resistance is a sign God is growing you.

Second, resistance is an opportunity for you to grow.

I know it’s not popular to say that Christians will suffer, but the Bible is full of godly people who suffered. And it was in their suffering that they experienced the greatest victories. And the greatest proof of that is the cross. Jesus’s greatest moment of suffering resulted in His greatest victory. The Apostle James writes:

James 1:2–4 ESV

James 1:2–5 ESV

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

The Apostle James tells us:

James 1:2–4 ESV

James says when trouble comes, instead of getting discouraged or freaking out, let it be an opportunity to trust God more. To allow the resistance to mature and grow you. Because it’s in the suffering that the victory comes.

John 16:33 ESV

33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

James 2:1–5 ESV

1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. 2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, 3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” 4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?

Second, it should be encouraging because with resistance comes an opportunity to grow. The Apostle James puts it like this:

“Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him’” (, ESV).

You’ve heard the sports adage, “No pain, no gain”. Its’ true spiritually as well. In our pain we grow. In our pain we are molded more and more into the image of Jesus.

So, for those of you who want to be “All In”, todays message is a reminder what resistance to expect, and an encouragement of the victory that will follow. And next week we’ll learn more about what our response should be and how that victory will come. So, that’s what today’s message means for some of you.

But for those of you who aren’t sure about whether you want to be “All In” or not, it’s an opportunity for reflection and change. A change that can come if you’re willing to ask yourself a couple of questions:

James 1:2–3 ESV

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.

Second, it should be encouraging because with resistance comes an opportunity to grow. The Apostle James puts it like this:

We’ll talk more about that next week.

The first question would be, “Why aren’t you “All In”?” What’s stopping you from making Jesus great in your life? What’s keeping you from giving your life fully to Jesus? What’s stopping you from signing up for baptism? What’s keeping you from attending Wednesday night?

Well, for some of you, today’s message is a reminder of what happens when you’re “All In”. How the enemy responds when somebody like you decides to take a stand for Jesus.

James 1:2–4 ESV

I’d like to suggest a reason for your apprehensiveness. Could it be that your not all in because your ticked off at Jesus? Could it be that you have JDS (Jesus derangement syndrome)?

1 Peter 5:8 ESV

8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

Can I suggest something to you? as to what is stopping you? Could it be that your ticked off at Jesus? Could it be that there is something in your life

Now, you might be thinking, “Pastor, how could you even suggest something like that? I’m not ticked at Jesus! I don’t have JDS”.

Peter says the devil is on the hunt. And he’s hunting for people who claim to be “All IN”.

People who are committed to reaching the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Could it be that there is something in your life that you know isn’t right? Something you’ve given yourself to? An area you’ve compromised in.

People who are committed to sharing their faith.

Then let me ask you this:

And for Christians like that, Satan is going to look for opportunities to attack.

Why were you squirming in your chair when I said you shouldn’t be sleeping with your girlfriend or boyfriend? Why did that bother you? Why did that upset you?

Why do you get upset when I talk about tithing or giving money to the church? Why does that tick you off?

Why did you get angry when I said you shouldn’t be living with somebody that’s not your spouse? Why in that moment did you think, “Who does that pastor think he is telling me I can’t live with them? What a judgmental jerk.”

Why do you get so upset when I say you shouldn’t be looking at porn?

Why were you so triggered when I said some of you need to knock off the gossip.

Why did you get bent out of shape when I said your religious background doesn’t save you. When I questioned your religious roots? When I said man made systems don’t work. Why all of a sudden did you label me as anti Catholic or Lutheran or somebody that doesn’t like religion?

Why did you get triggered when I said your religion doesn’t save you. When I questioned your religious roots? When I said man made systems don’t work. Why all of a sudden did you label me as anti Catholic or Lutheran or somebody that doesn’t like religion?

I can tell you why? You got ticked because when I presented you with the truth of God’s Word and, it ticked you off.

And the truth is, you’re not ticked at me, your ticked at God. Because I’m not the one who said you shouldn’t sleep around, He did. I’m not the one who said don’t live together, He did. I’m not the one who said give 10% of your income to the church, He did. These are His truths, not mine. I’m just telling you what it says. I’m just the messenger. And you can be mad at the messenger all you want and not come back to church next week, but if you’re honest with yourself, it’s really God that your mad at.

Like it or not, when it comes to God’s truth, some of you are like the person who can’t stand to see the Trump shirt or MAGA hat.

When presented with the truth, and it challenges how your living and what you believe, it annoys you. It ticks you off. You don’t want to hear it.

That’s true, right? We don’t like it when somebody points out our sin. It ticks us off.

Which leads to a second question I’d like to ask you to consider. What if instead of getting ticked off, you repented. What if you acknowledged your fault, your lack of understanding, or your sin, and gave your life fully to Jesus. What if you “Made Jesus Great Again” in your life.

What if instead of leaving here mad, you left here and committed to sexual purity.

What if instead of leaving here mad, you left here committed to moving out of your sinful situation.

What if instead of leaving here mad, you delete the images off your phone.

What if instead of leaving here mad, you stop texting that person that isn’t your spouse.

Instead of getting ticked off, why not give yourself to a response that would bring healing, bring hope, bring peace, and bring joy to your life. Why continue to hold onto the anger. Why not repent and give your life fully to Jesus and be “All In”.

Because here’s the deal, at the end of the day, there are only two responses to Jesus. Either you resist him or you receive Him.

And I can tell you right now, the receiving plays out better than the resistance in the end. The resistance leads to further anger and destruction in your life. And if you want proof, just look around at the world we live in. Look at how it’s working for others who resist. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that the world isn’t getting better, it’s getting worse. Why? Because of resistance. The Apostle Paul puts it like this:

Romans 1:21 ESV

21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

Paul says their lives only grew worse. Why? Because they resisted him.

If your resisting this morning. If you’re ticked at Jesus, all I’m saying is, “You need Jesus bro. I’m just saying.”

The question is, “Will you quit being angry long enough to allow Jesus to do something significant in your life?” Maybe today could be the day that You Make Jesus Great Again.

Let’s Pray

In 1992 while in college I was introduced to Denise. She was unlike any girl I had ever met. Life seemed to bubble from within her, and every time we were together she made me feel like anything was possible. On top of that she was funny, witty, and the most beautiful woman I had ever seen.

By the end of the year we were married.

At the time, marriage was everything I had hoped and dreamed it would be. I was just waiting for that mystical voice to proclaim, “And they lived happily ever after.”

The reality of our situation however was anything but a fairy tale. Truth be told, Denise and I were relationally and spiritually inept to handle married life. At the time neither one of us had a relationship with Jesus Christ; we were also self-absorbed, rebellious, and ignorant to the realities of life. By the end of our first year of marriage our relationship had disintegrated into verbal, physical and emotional abuse.

In the summer of 1994 we both agreed divorce was inevitable.

To be honest, I was relieved the marriage was finally going to be over. In my distorted view of God, I couldn’t imagine He wanted me to stay in a relationship where I was absolutely miserable. From my perspective the grass was greener on the other side, and I was ready to graze in new pastures.

Over the next couple of months we signed the divorce papers and prepared to go our separate ways. Things were looking up, happiness was just around the corner — or so I thought.

I once saw a divorce ad that said, “Need a divorce? Call our law office today for a fast, affordable and painless solution.”

That’s a marketing campaign straight from the pit of hell. Divorce is anything but fast, affordable and painless. It has lasting effects; it will cost you spiritually and emotionally; and it will leave a wound in the depth of your soul. I learned firsthand.

As a child growing up I had made a commitment to follow Jesus Christ. Unfortunately, my commitment to the Lord had waned by the time I left for college. But God had not abandoned me.

The Bible says He is a God characterized by steadfast love and faithfulness. In those days of desperation as I called out to the Lord, something miraculous began to take place in my heart. For the first time in a long time I began to sense the presence of God.

David writes in , “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” During those dark days I experienced a moment of spiritual clarity. I realized the relational problems I had with Denise stemmed from a far greater relational problem between God and me. The only way to reconcile that relationship, I knew, was through a relationship with His Son Jesus Christ.

In the days that followed my conversion, the Lord began to speak to my heart concerning my relationship with Denise. While I was driving, a song by Steve Green entitled, “Answer the Call,” came on the radio. The song talks about a man who had given his life to Christ and wanted to become the husband and father God intended him to be. The song resonated deeply with my spirit, and I began to pray specifically that God would reconcile my relationship with Denise and give me a second chance to make things right.

I’d like to say Denise was automatically open to my spiritual transformation, but understandably she was skeptical. But she was also intrigued. During the next few months Denise and I began to talk about the possibility of working things out.

Denise accepted Christ as her Savior and experienced the same radical transformation I had experienced. Today Denise and I are happily remarried and getting ready to celebrate our 16th wedding anniversary. God has miraculously continued to bring healing to our marriage as we have surrendered our lives to Christ.

Principle #1: God has ordained your marriage. Look at again: “Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him’ ”

Many people mistakenly believe when their marriage hits a wall that they have somehow married the wrong person. It’s as if they believe God had a Plan A, but somehow they ended up with Plan B.

Despite the feelings I had toward Denise during our divorce, God had not made a mistake bringing us together. He made Denise for me and me for her. Adam didn’t get to choose Eve out of a lineup. There was no voting Eve off the island or 12 weeks of The Bachelor for Adam to decide whom he wanted. Somehow in God’s economy of relationships, He teams us up with the person He intends us to be with. Like it or not, if you’re married, you’re married to the person God intended for you to marry. It’s no mistake. There’s no getting around it. Your spouse is Plan A!

Fortunately, we serve a God who forgives and has the power to work all of our mistakes for good. Every person needs to get to a place where he or she views his or her spouse as a gift from God. It’s in that place of faith that true relational happiness becomes a reality.

Principle #2: God has designed your spouse specifically to make you better and vice versa. God designed our spouses specifically to meet our needs and bring the best out in us.

In it says God made a helper fit for Adam. In other words, Eve was everything Adam needed. When I finally stopped trying to change Denise into what I thought she should be and started seeing her as everything I ever needed, our marriage improved. Within your spouse reside the keys to unleashing God’s best for your life.

“Brad, don’t ever be embarrassed with your wife,” he said. “She is a gift from God and someday she is going to play an important role in what God has in store for you.”

Principle #3: God cares about your relational health. I think it’s significant to note that in God noticed Adam was lonely. Despite the incredible relationship Adam had with God, there was something intrinsically missing in Adam’s life and God cared enough to do something about it.

Maybe you’re feeling alone in a marriage that seems to be going nowhere, or maybe you’re living on the brink of divorce. Whatever the case, know this: God cares about your relational health. He wants you to have a successful marriage. If you ask Him to, He cares enough to do something about it.

In ,, Jesus gives us some incredible insight into the love the Father has for those who call upon Him. Luke writes, “And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.”

Looking back on the past 16 years of my marriage, I am amazed to see what God has done as Denise and I have called on Him. No matter where your marriage is at today, rest in the understanding that God is with you and He will help you if you call on His name.

Response #1 - Rely on the Holy Spirit for help.

You can’t share what you don’t know.

Acts 4:8 ESV

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders,

Acts 4:

Respond in

Response #2 - Be bold and don’t be afraid to tell people the truth.

Acts 4:9–12 ESV

9 if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. 11 This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. 12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Acts 4:9-

Response

Acts 4:

Acts 4:13–22 ESV

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus. 14 But seeing the man who was healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. 15 But when they had commanded them to leave the council, they conferred with one another, 16 saying, “What shall we do with these men? For that a notable sign has been performed through them is evident to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. 17 But in order that it may spread no further among the people, let us warn them to speak no more to anyone in this name.” 18 So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, 20 for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.” 21 And when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people, for all were praising God for what had happened. 22 For the man on whom this sign of healing was performed was more than forty years old.

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