Embracing Scripture: Prayer, Perseverance, and Evangelism

 

Summary

Today, I began by emphasizing the importance of Scripture in our gatherings, inspired by a recent conference I attended. We started with a congregational reading of Acts 2:42-47, highlighting the early church's devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This set the tone for our service, underscoring the centrality of God's Word in our lives.

I then shared insights from the Book of Revelation, focusing on the encouragement it offers to believers facing persecution and trials. We explored the symbolism of the seven trumpets, which serve as warnings and judgments from God, reminding us of His sovereignty and the urgency of repentance.

Throughout the sermon, I stressed the dual responsibilities of earnest prayer and bold proclamation of the gospel. We delved into the significance of the prayers of the saints, which ascend to God and precipitate divine action, as depicted in Revelation 8. This illustrates the power and necessity of prayer in invoking God's intervention in our dark and sinful world.

I also touched on the personal and communal aspects of suffering and perseverance, encouraging the congregation to embody the faith and resilience of the early Christians. We discussed how Revelation reassures us of God's ultimate control over history and His definitive triumph over evil.

In conclusion, I called the church to a renewed commitment to prayer and evangelism, urging everyone to live out the truths of Scripture and to engage actively in the spiritual battle for souls, equipped with the hope and strength that come from God.

### Key Takeaways

1. The Primacy of Scripture in Worship
Starting our gatherings with Scripture centers our focus on God and His purposes, rather than our preferences or ideas. It is vital that we, as a church, commit to embedding God's Word deeply in every aspect of our worship and community life. This practice not only aligns us with the early church's model but also fortifies us against cultural drift and keeps our teachings grounded in truth. [02:05]

2. The Role of Prayer in Spiritual Warfare
The prayers of the saints are depicted as powerful and effective, directly contributing to the unfolding of God’s plans on earth. This should motivate us to prioritize prayer, both personally and corporately, as a crucial weapon in spiritual warfare. By engaging in prayer, we participate in God's sovereign work, appealing to Him to act in situations that reflect the brokenness of our world. [39:41]

3. Perseverance Through Trials
Revelation teaches that suffering and persecution are to be expected in the Christian life. However, these trials are used by God to refine and strengthen our faith. This perspective helps us to endure difficulties with hope and courage, knowing that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed to us. [33:56]

4. The Urgency of Evangelism
The imagery of the trumpets in Revelation serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the urgency of repentance. As believers, we are called to warn others of these truths, not out of fear, but out of love, desiring that none should perish but that all should come to repentance. This should invigorate our evangelistic efforts, knowing the stakes are eternal. [46:12]

5. Hope in God’s Sovereignty
Despite the vivid depictions of judgment and suffering, Revelation ultimately underscores God's sovereignty and the assured victory of His kingdom. This hope should anchor us, enabling us to face the challenges of life and ministry with confidence and steadfastness, assured that God is in control and His purposes will prevail. [42:21]

### Youtube Chapters

- [0:00] - Welcome
- [00:50] - Introduction and Announcements
- [01:36] - Opening with Scripture Reading
- [02:05] - Emphasis on the Importance of Scripture
- [15:01] - Prayer for the Congregation and Missions
- [28:22] - Introduction to Revelation Study
- [33:21] - Exploring the Theme of Persecution in Revelation
- [38:45] - The Power of Prayer in Revelation
- [42:21] - The Symbolism of the Trumpets
- [46:12] - Call to Evangelism and Warning of Judgment
- [57:32] - The Role of the Church as Witnesses

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:42-47 - "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved."

2. Revelation 8:1-4 - "When the Lamb opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. Then I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. And another angel came and stood at the altar with a golden censer, and he was given much incense to offer with the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar before the throne, and the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel."

3. Matthew 6:9-10 - "Pray then like this: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.'"

#### Observation Questions
1. What were the four main activities the early church devoted themselves to according to Acts 2:42-47?
2. In Revelation 8:1-4, what significant event happens when the seventh seal is opened?
3. How does Jesus instruct us to pray in Matthew 6:9-10, and what is the first petition in this prayer?
4. According to the sermon, what role do the prayers of the saints play in the unfolding of God's plans? ([39:41])

#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the early church's devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer was so impactful in their community? How can this model be applied to our church today?
2. What is the significance of the silence in heaven for about half an hour when the seventh seal is opened in Revelation 8:1? How might this silence relate to the prayers of the saints? ([39:10])
3. How does the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6:9-10 reflect the themes of God's sovereignty and the urgency of His kingdom coming, as discussed in the sermon?
4. The sermon emphasized the dual responsibilities of prayer and evangelism. How do these responsibilities interact and support each other in the life of a believer? ([36:54])

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your personal prayer life. How often do you pray for God's kingdom to come and His will to be done? What specific changes can you make to prioritize this type of prayer? ([50:26])
2. The early church was devoted to fellowship and breaking bread together. How can you foster deeper fellowship within your small group or church community? What practical steps can you take this week to connect with others? ([02:05])
3. The sermon highlighted the importance of perseverance through trials. Can you identify a current trial in your life? How can the hope of God's ultimate control and victory help you endure this trial with faith and courage? ([33:56])
4. Evangelism was described as urgent in the sermon. Think of one person in your life who does not know Christ. What specific action can you take this week to share the gospel with them? ([46:12])
5. The sermon mentioned the power of prayer in spiritual warfare. Are there specific areas in your life or in the world where you see the need for God's intervention? How can you commit to praying for these areas regularly? ([39:41])
6. How does understanding God's sovereignty and ultimate victory over evil influence your daily life and decisions? Can you share an example of a recent decision where this understanding made a difference? ([42:21])
7. The early church had all things in common and supported each other’s needs. Is there someone in your church or community who is in need? How can you practically support them this week, either through your time, resources, or prayers? ([02:53])

Devotional

Day 1: Anchoring Worship in Scripture
Scripture is not just a part of our worship; it is the foundation upon which every element of our service rests. By starting our gatherings with the reading of God's Word, we align our hearts and minds with divine truth, setting a precedent for the entire worship experience. This practice is not merely traditional but essential, as it directs our focus away from personal preferences and cultural influences, anchoring us in the timeless truths of the Bible. This commitment to scriptural primacy ensures that our worship remains grounded in truth and fosters a deeper communal and individual engagement with God. [02:05]

Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." This passage reminds us of the guiding power of Scripture in our lives, illuminating our steps and providing clarity amidst confusion.

Reflection: How can integrating more Scripture into your daily routine enhance your spiritual growth and decision-making?

Day 2: The Power of Prayer in Spiritual Warfare
Prayer is our strategic weapon in spiritual battles, a divine conduit that unleashes God's power and purposes in our world. The prayers of the saints, as depicted in Revelation, are powerful and effective, influencing heavenly actions and earthly events. This dynamic interaction reminds us that our prayers are not mere whispers into the void but potent appeals that reach the heart of God and activate His will on earth. By prioritizing personal and communal prayer, we engage directly in God's work, calling upon His sovereignty to mend the brokenness around us. [39:41]

Revelation 8:4 illustrates this beautifully: "And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel."

Reflection: What specific situation in your community can you commit to praying for more fervently, believing that God will act?

Day 3: Enduring Trials with Heavenly Perspective
The Christian journey is marked by trials and tribulations, yet these are not without purpose. Revelation teaches us that suffering is a tool used by God to refine our faith, much like gold is refined by fire. This perspective helps us to endure hardships not with despair but with hope and courage, knowing that our present sufferings pale in comparison to the eternal glory that awaits us. By viewing our trials through the lens of eternity, we gain the strength to persevere, anchored by the promise of God's faithful presence and victorious plan. [33:56]

1 Peter 1:6-7 says, "In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ."

Reflection: How can you shift your perspective on a current challenge to see it as an opportunity for spiritual growth and reliance on God?

Day 4: Urgency in Sharing the Gospel
The vivid imagery of the trumpets in Revelation serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the critical need for repentance. As followers of Christ, we are tasked with the urgent mission to share this truth, driven by love and a desire for none to perish. This call to evangelism is not born out of fear but out of a compassionate understanding of the eternal stakes involved. By embracing our role as messengers of God's truth, we participate in the redemptive work of Christ, seeking to reach the lost and extend the hope of salvation to all. [46:12]

Ezekiel 33:11 states, "Say to them, 'As I live, declares the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of Israel?'"

Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the gospel? What steps can you take this week to share your faith with them?

Day 5: Steadfast Hope in God’s Sovereignty
Despite the trials and tribulations depicted in Revelation, the book ultimately underscores the sovereignty of God and the assured victory of His kingdom. This hope is not wishful thinking but a firm anchor for our souls, enabling us to face life's challenges with confidence and steadfastness. Knowing that God is in control and that His purposes will prevail allows us to endure hardships with a peace that transcends understanding, assured of the ultimate triumph of good over evil. [42:21]

Daniel 2:44 says, "And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to trust more fully in God's sovereign control and His ultimate good purposes for you?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "I want to challenge you guys as you do that, as we get ready to praise together. There was a comment in one of the sermons this week at the conference. It said, As a church sings, as a church goes. All right. Now, I'm just going to tell you that the most powerful experience that I've ever experienced in my life was 1,600 men singing loudly. Loudly in this conference. I couldn't even hear the band. And I left so encouraged." [03:50]( | | )

2. "You can see, if you have a bulletin, we're going to change a couple things up just this morning. And Larry and I got the chance to go to the Alistair Begg conference this week and just be encouraged and listen to a bunch of great teaching over the course of three days. And there were just some things that God convicted me of." [00:50]( | | )

3. "It's not, and I just want to repeat as we dive into these four chapters, everything we're reading about, it's not to give us a set of signs to describe when and how the ends are. That's not the point here. That's not the purpose. No matter how you interpret this book, and if you read it that way, you're going to miss the blessing that's found in these pages." [36:18]( | | )

### Quotes for Members

1. "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And all came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together, and had all things in common." [02:05]( | | )

2. "The prayers of the saints are depicted as powerful and effective, directly contributing to the unfolding of God’s plans on earth. This should motivate us to prioritize prayer, both personally and corporately, as a crucial weapon in spiritual warfare." [39:41]( | | )

3. "The imagery of the trumpets in Revelation serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the urgency of repentance. As believers, we are called to warn others of these truths, not out of fear, but out of love, desiring that none should perish but that all should come to repentance." [46:12]( | | )

4. "Despite the vivid depictions of judgment and suffering, Revelation ultimately underscores God's sovereignty and the assured victory of His kingdom. This hope should anchor us, enabling us to face the challenges of life and ministry with confidence and steadfastness, assured that God is in control and His purposes will prevail." [42:21]( | | )

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?