Sermon Tone Analysis

Introduction

People often miss the blessings of being involved with God in His work because they fail to see the needs of others.

God often places believers in situations that give them the opportunity to focus on others.

The question is: Are we so focused on ourselves that we miss these opportunities—or are we attentive to God so that we see others through His eyes?

Tension

Truth

1. God will lead us to specific people if we are receptive to His call (Acts 8:26–29)

• The Lord led Philip to the road that led from Jerusalem to Gaza (v.

26).

• Philip met an Ethiopian eunuch in a chariot reading from the book of Isaiah (vv.

27–28).

• The Holy Spirit directed Philip’s actions (v.

29).

Illustration: In his blog entry titled “Lessons from Pete,” Walt Mueller tells the following story: On a late evening flight, Walt met Pete, a fellow traveler who was facing a difficult situation and had many questions to ask “a God-fearing man.”

When Pete left the plane after their two-hour conversation, he said, “Usually Christians get mad at me when I ask my honest questions or share my honest confusion about Christianity.”

Pete’s final comment was, “This has been the most significant conversation I’ve ever had in my life.”

Walt’s talk with Pete, just when he was struggling with spiritual issues, was a divine appointment.

(Source: http://www.cpyu.org/Page.aspx?id=77249)

2. God will give us amazing opportunities to lead people to Christ (Acts 8:30–38)

• The eunuch was reading a biblical passage that he did not understand (vv.

30–33).

• Philip used the verses to tell the eunuch about Jesus (vv.

34–35).

• Philip baptized the eunuch because he trusted in Christ (vv.

36–38).

Illustration: Opportunity may knock only once.

With some people we may only have one chance to be a partner with God in changing their eternity.

3.

If we are faithful to respond to our opportunities, the Holy Spirit will direct us to minister to others as well (Acts 8:39–40)

• Philip was taken away immediately after the eunuch was baptized (v.

39).

• Philip then preached the gospel in another location (v.

40).

• Because The Holy Spirit is God and Empowerer, He frequently urges us to share the gospel with others.

When we follow His leading, He will supply the words and the response that God expects.

Illustration: On page 95 of the Ekklesia journal, Gene Wilkes points out: “Our matrix of friendships connects us with the very people to whom God desires for us to be His witness.”

He then challenges: “Write the names of family members, friends, coworkers, and neighbors who, like the Ethiopian official, are seeking a relationship with God—knowingly or unknowingly.

Pause and pray that God will give you an opportunity to tell them the story of Jesus.”

Gospel Application

Landing

Believers have the incredible opportunity to be part of God’s mission to reach the world.

When we follow the leading of the Spirit, we will have opportunities to share the gospel with many people whom He places in our path.

Like Philip, we will be able to move from place to place to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with those who are ready to hear and respond.