Embracing Divine Appointments in Gospel Sharing
Summary
### Summary
A divine appointment is a meeting orchestrated by God, where the timing, conversation, and readiness of the person involved are perfectly aligned. These encounters are not coincidental but are divinely arranged for the purpose of sharing the gospel. The foundation of such appointments begins with prayer, seeking God's guidance to prepare the way and smooth the ground for these interactions. Prayer is essential because, without the Holy Spirit's involvement, our efforts to share the gospel will fall on deaf ears. We must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading and be prepared to engage in gospel conversations.
Fear often hinders us from sharing the gospel, stemming from a lack of preparation. By praying for courage and readiness, we can overcome this fear. God equips us for the task of making disciples, using our unique personalities and stories. We must get over the notion that evangelism is not for us; if we are followers of Christ, we have a story to share.
The story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8 is a prime example of a divine appointment. Philip was obedient to the Spirit's leading, which resulted in the eunuch's conversion. This story highlights the importance of being prepared, obedient, and sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
We must also recognize that sharing the gospel is a spiritual battle. We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Therefore, we need to be spiritually prepared, prayed up, and ready to act when the opportunity arises. Engaging in gospel conversations requires practice and preparation, both in prayer and in understanding the Word of God.
In conclusion, divine appointments are opportunities for us to be vessels through which God works. By praying, preparing, and acting on these opportunities, we can be effective witnesses for Christ, leading others to salvation and expanding God's kingdom.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Prayer in Evangelism: Prayer is the foundation of any successful gospel conversation. Without the Holy Spirit's involvement, our efforts will be in vain. We must pray for divine appointments, courage, and the readiness to share the gospel effectively. [03:28]
2. Overcoming Fear Through Preparation: Fear often prevents us from sharing the gospel. This fear can be mitigated by being prepared and prayed up. When we are ready and sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading, we can confidently engage in gospel conversations. [08:08]
3. God Equips Us for Evangelism: God uses our unique personalities and stories to share the gospel. We must get over the notion that evangelism is not for us. If we are followers of Christ, we have a story to share, and God equips us for this task. [11:47]
4. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Divine Appointments: The story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch illustrates the importance of being obedient to the Holy Spirit's leading. Divine appointments are orchestrated by God, and our role is to be obedient and ready to share the gospel. [17:40]
5. Recognizing the Spiritual Battle in Evangelism: Sharing the gospel is a spiritual battle. We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Therefore, we need to be spiritually prepared, prayed up, and ready to act when the opportunity arises. [31:18]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[03:28] - The Role of Prayer in Divine Appointments
[08:08] - Overcoming Fear Through Preparation
[11:47] - God Equips Us for Evangelism
[17:40] - Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch: A Divine Appointment
[31:18] - Recognizing the Spiritual Battle in Evangelism
[41:34] - The Importance of Practice in Evangelism
[55:23] - Jesus and the Samaritan Woman: Another Divine Appointment
[01:00:48] - Trusting God with Everything
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 8:26-40 (Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch)
2. Ephesians 6:12 (Spiritual Battle)
3. 2 Timothy 1:7 (Overcoming Fear)
#### Observation Questions
1. What specific instructions did the angel of the Lord give to Philip in Acts 8:26-29? How did Philip respond? [17:40]
2. According to the sermon, why is prayer considered the foundation of successful gospel conversations? [05:45]
3. What are the three factors for a genuine conversion mentioned in the sermon, as illustrated by the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch? [23:50]
4. How does the sermon describe the role of the Holy Spirit in orchestrating divine appointments? [06:35]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch illustrate the importance of being obedient to the Holy Spirit's leading? [17:40]
2. In what ways does fear hinder us from sharing the gospel, and how can preparation help overcome this fear? [08:08]
3. What does it mean to recognize that sharing the gospel is a spiritual battle, and how should this influence our approach to evangelism? [31:18]
4. How does the sermon suggest that God uses our unique personalities and stories in evangelism? [11:47]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt prompted to share the gospel but hesitated due to fear. What specific steps can you take to be better prepared for such opportunities in the future? [08:08]
2. How can you incorporate prayer into your daily routine to seek divine appointments and the courage to act on them? [05:45]
3. Identify one person in your life who might be open to a gospel conversation. How can you prepare yourself to engage with them, considering the role of the Holy Spirit? [06:35]
4. Think about your unique personality and story. How can you use these to share the gospel more effectively with others? [11:47]
5. What are some practical ways you can remind yourself that sharing the gospel is a spiritual battle and not just a conversation? How can this perspective change your approach? [31:18]
6. How can you practice turning everyday conversations into gospel conversations? Share a recent example where you could have done this and discuss how you might approach it differently next time. [41:34]
7. Reflect on the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. How can you be more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading in your daily interactions? What specific actions can you take to be more obedient? [17:40]
Devotional
### Day 1: The Power of Prayer in Evangelism
Description: Prayer is the cornerstone of any effective gospel conversation. It is through prayer that we invite the Holy Spirit to guide our words and actions, ensuring that our efforts are not in vain. Without the Holy Spirit's involvement, our attempts to share the gospel can fall on deaf ears. By praying for divine appointments, we ask God to orchestrate encounters where the timing, conversation, and readiness of the person involved are perfectly aligned. This divine orchestration is crucial for the successful sharing of the gospel.
Prayer also prepares our hearts and minds, making us more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading. It helps us to be spiritually attuned and ready to act when the opportunity arises. By consistently praying for courage and readiness, we can overcome the fear that often hinders us from sharing the gospel. Remember, it is not by our strength but by the Spirit that we can effectively witness for Christ. [03:28]
Bible Passage: "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ." (Colossians 4:2-3, ESV)
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who needs to hear the gospel. Can you commit to praying daily for a divine appointment to share the gospel with them?
### Day 2: Overcoming Fear Through Preparation
Description: Fear is a common barrier that prevents many from sharing the gospel. This fear often stems from a lack of preparation and the uncertainty of how the conversation will unfold. However, this fear can be mitigated by being well-prepared and prayed up. When we take the time to prepare ourselves, both spiritually and practically, we can confidently engage in gospel conversations.
Preparation involves studying the Word of God, understanding the core message of the gospel, and being ready to share our personal testimony. It also means being sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading and being willing to step out in faith. By praying for courage and readiness, we can overcome the fear that holds us back. Remember, God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and self-discipline. [08:08]
Bible Passage: "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." (2 Timothy 1:7, ESV)
Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to better prepare yourself for sharing the gospel? Can you identify one area where you need to grow in knowledge or confidence?
### Day 3: God Equips Us for Evangelism
Description: God has uniquely equipped each of us for the task of evangelism. He uses our individual personalities, experiences, and stories to reach others. It is a common misconception that evangelism is only for those with a special calling or gift. However, if we are followers of Christ, we all have a story to share, and God equips us for this task.
We must get over the notion that evangelism is not for us. By embracing our unique stories and trusting in God's equipping, we can effectively share the gospel. God does not call the equipped; He equips the called. As we step out in faith, we will find that God provides the words, the courage, and the opportunities to share His love with others. [11:47]
Bible Passage: "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:9, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on your personal testimony. How has God uniquely equipped you to share the gospel? Can you think of a specific way to share your story with someone this week?
### Day 4: The Role of the Holy Spirit in Divine Appointments
Description: The story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8 is a powerful example of a divine appointment. Philip was obedient to the Holy Spirit's leading, which resulted in the eunuch's conversion. This story highlights the importance of being prepared, obedient, and sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Divine appointments are orchestrated by God, and our role is to be obedient and ready to share the gospel. When we are sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading, we can recognize these opportunities and act on them. It is through the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to share the gospel effectively. By being in tune with the Spirit, we can be vessels through which God works to bring others to salvation. [17:40]
Bible Passage: "And the Spirit said to Philip, 'Go over and join this chariot.' So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, 'Do you understand what you are reading?'" (Acts 8:29-30, ESV)
Reflection: Can you recall a time when you felt the Holy Spirit leading you to share the gospel? How did you respond? What can you do to be more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance in the future?
### Day 5: Recognizing the Spiritual Battle in Evangelism
Description: Sharing the gospel is not just a physical act but a spiritual battle. We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces. Therefore, we need to be spiritually prepared, prayed up, and ready to act when the opportunity arises. Engaging in gospel conversations requires practice and preparation, both in prayer and in understanding the Word of God.
Recognizing the spiritual battle helps us to approach evangelism with the seriousness and urgency it deserves. It reminds us that we need to rely on God's strength and not our own. By putting on the full armor of God and being vigilant in prayer, we can stand firm against the enemy's schemes and be effective witnesses for Christ. [31:18]
Bible Passage: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 6:12, ESV)
Reflection: What specific spiritual disciplines can you incorporate into your daily routine to prepare for the spiritual battle of evangelism? How can you be more vigilant in prayer and reliance on God's strength?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "A divine appointment is a meeting with another person that God has prepared for you. Specifically or unmistakably arranged. A divine appointment is something that only God could put together. The timing's right. The conversation's right. The person is ready to receive or hear whatever it is that you're going to say. All that constitutes a divine appointment where we could walk away from that later and say, you know what? God was in that. God was there. God put that thing together." [03:28](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We can't save anyone. It doesn't matter how well of a presentation I make. It doesn't matter if it's flawless and it's perfectly in tune with what's going on. If the Holy spirit of God is not there to bring conviction and to draw them to faith in Christ, it's not going to work. And I think that's the part that we put the least amount of emphasis on. We all want to know what to say, how to say it. We want to know what the formula is. We want to have an outline that we can follow." [05:45](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The Bible says that he equips us for what he calls us to do. And there's no doubt we can't get away. The Bible tells us over and over and over again, that the main responsibility of the church is to make disciples. So, we can't get past that. That's the main thrust of what the church should be about. So if that's the main thing, and God is going to use us as individuals to accomplish the main thing, then he has to equip us to be able to do that." [11:02](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "When we get over ourselves and we do this process, like we're going to be talking about divine appointments, praying ahead of time, asking God to give us, and then we open our mouths and engage. We're going to be amazed of how many people are receptive to that. Why? Because God's word doesn't return void. If we do it the way he says, we're going to be amazed. We're going to be amazed by the way he says he's going to do it. And we're putting him at the forefront and it's not us." [14:14](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have to get to the point where we trust God with everything, not just what we like to do, but we have to get to the point where we trust God with everything, not just what we like but trust him with everything and be obedient to what he says to do. If he says get up and go we got to get up and go. If he says talk we need to talk. If he says engage in this we need to engage in that. We need to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in our lives." [58:43](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The thing that keeps us from doing that is fear. And the reason we have fear is because we're not prepared when the opportunity arises. So if we're in prayer saying, God, we want to be your witnesses today. We're looking for that, a divine appointment that only you can put together and we're praying earnestly that God would give us that courage. That strength, the ability to walk up to somebody, discern, get into a gospel conversation with them, know that the spirit of God's working well now when that happens and we know we're supposed to say something now we're prepared for it." [06:35](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We got to get over ourselves. And realize this isn't about us. We're just being obedient to what God's told us to do. And listen, this is what amazes me. When we get over ourselves and we do this process, like we're going to be talking about divine appointments, praying ahead of time, asking God to give us, and then we open our mouths and engage. We're going to be amazed of how many people are receptive to that. Why? Because God's word doesn't return void." [14:14](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We have to be drawn by the spirit of God. We have to be convicted of our sin by the spirit of God so the spirit of God's orchestrating this divine appointment and the word of God he's reading from Isaiah 53 and then you have to have the man of God to bring all this about so we see the three factors there of a genuine conversion the work of the holy spirit the word of God and then the man of God being there to instruct to guide to share the gospel using the word of God and then you have that conversion." [23:50](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We need to be out among lost people. So, you know, we share the gospel every Sunday, we gospel every Wednesday when we preach when we do things that we do in the church when we're talking to people that come into our office but we're mainly dealing with Christians and part of the problem with believers is we hang out with other believers. I mean that's just the way things work we're cliquish people and we hang out with the people that most resemble what we believe and what we think." [33:29](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have got to get to the point to where we trust God with everything not just what we like to do but we have to get to the point where we trust God with everything not just what we like but trust him with everything and be obedient to what he says to do if he says get up and go we got to get up and go if he says talk we need to talk if he says engage in this we need to engage in that we need to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in our lives and if we're doing that the Holy Spirit's always going to lead us in the right direction never in the wrong direction." [58:43](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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