Faithful Actions: Embracing Unexpected Consequences
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, church. Today, we explored the theme of unexpected consequences, particularly in the context of our actions and faith. We began by acknowledging how easily we can get distracted by minor things, like notifications on our devices, and how these distractions can lead to unintended outcomes. This led us to a personal story from my teenage years, where an attempt to bless my mother with an exceptionally clean kitchen resulted in me being stuck with the chore for years. This story served as a segue into our main topic: the consequences of our actions, especially when they are driven by good intentions.
We delved into the story of Stephen from the book of Acts, a man chosen to help distribute food to Greek widows but who went above and beyond his duties. Stephen's commitment to preaching the gospel and performing signs and wonders led to severe consequences. Despite his good deeds, he faced opposition and was ultimately stoned to death. This story illustrates that doing the right thing doesn't always lead to positive outcomes in this world. Sometimes, like Stephen, we face severe repercussions for our faith and actions.
Stephen's story is a powerful reminder that the truth often comes with a cost. He spoke boldly about Jesus, even when it meant confronting those in power. His courage and faithfulness, even unto death, serve as an example for us. Stephen's vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God as he was being stoned shows us that keeping our eyes on Jesus can help us endure even the most severe trials.
We also discussed the broader implications of Stephen's martyrdom. His death led to the scattering of the early church, which, paradoxically, helped spread the gospel even further. Additionally, Saul, who approved of Stephen's execution, later became Paul, one of the most influential apostles. This shows that God can bring good out of even the most tragic circumstances.
In conclusion, we are called to speak the truth in love, even when it comes with significant risks. The consequences of following Jesus can be severe, but the eternal rewards far outweigh the temporary sufferings. We are encouraged to take risks in sharing our faith, knowing that God is with us and that our efforts can have far-reaching impacts.
### Key Takeaways
1. Unexpected Consequences of Good Intentions: Our actions, even when well-intentioned, can lead to unexpected outcomes. This is evident in both everyday life and our spiritual journey. We must be prepared for the fact that doing the right thing doesn't always lead to immediate positive results. [45:20]
2. The Cost of Speaking Truth: Stephen's story in Acts shows that speaking the truth, especially to those in power, can lead to severe consequences. However, his unwavering commitment to the truth, even unto death, serves as a powerful example of faithfulness. [53:11]
3. Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus: Stephen's vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God as he was being stoned reminds us that focusing on Jesus can help us endure trials. Our faith should be anchored in the eternal, not the temporary. [56:42]
4. God's Greater Plan: The scattering of the early church after Stephen's martyrdom led to the spread of the gospel. This shows that God can bring good out of even the most tragic circumstances. Our sufferings can have a purpose beyond our understanding. [01:23:01]
5. The Importance of Boldness in Faith: We are called to speak the truth in love, even when it comes with significant risks. The consequences of following Jesus can be severe, but the eternal rewards far outweigh the temporary sufferings. We must take risks in sharing our faith, knowing that God is with us. [01:30:01]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[44:32] - Opening Prayer
[45:20] - Story of Unexpected Consequences
[46:41] - Blessing My Mom
[47:22] - Consequences of Actions
[48:53] - Introduction to Stephen
[50:04] - Stephen's Ministry
[51:27] - Cancel Culture in the Bible
[52:30] - Stephen's Boldness
[53:11] - Speaking Truth to Power
[55:09] - The Cost of Truth
[56:42] - Keeping Eyes on Jesus
[01:00:11] - Avoiding Hard Conversations
[01:03:06] - Stephen's Martyrdom
[01:23:01] - God's Greater Plan
[01:30:01] - Boldness in Faith
[01:31:15] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 7:54-60 - The stoning of Stephen
2. John 16:33 - Jesus' promise of peace amidst tribulation
3. Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake
#### Observation Questions
1. What was Stephen's role in the early church, and how did he go beyond his initial duties? ([48:53])
2. How did Stephen respond when he was being stoned, and what did he see in his vision? ([01:01:58])
3. What was the reaction of the people when Stephen spoke the truth to them? ([01:02:39])
4. Who was present and approved of Stephen's execution, and what was his later significance in the New Testament? ([01:04:20])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Stephen chose to speak boldly about Jesus even when he knew it could lead to severe consequences? ([53:11])
2. How does Stephen's vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God provide comfort and strength in times of trial? ([56:42])
3. What does Stephen's prayer for his persecutors reveal about his character and faith? ([01:14:17])
4. How does the scattering of the early church after Stephen's martyrdom demonstrate God's greater plan? ([01:23:01])
#### Application Questions
1. Have you ever faced unexpected consequences for doing something with good intentions? How did you handle it, and what did you learn from the experience? ([45:20])
2. Stephen spoke the truth even when it was risky. Is there a situation in your life where you need to speak the truth in love, despite potential backlash? ([53:11])
3. Stephen kept his eyes on Jesus during his trial. What are some practical ways you can keep your focus on Jesus during difficult times? ([56:42])
4. The early church was scattered and spread the gospel further as a result. How can you see God working through difficult or unexpected circumstances in your life? ([01:23:01])
5. Stephen's boldness in faith had a significant impact. How can you be more bold in sharing your faith with others? What specific steps can you take this week? ([01:30:01])
6. Reflect on a time when you avoided a hard conversation because you were afraid of the consequences. How might you approach a similar situation differently now? ([57:07])
7. Stephen forgave those who were stoning him. Is there someone you need to forgive, even if they have caused you significant pain? How can you take a step towards forgiveness this week? ([01:14:17])
Devotional
Day 1: The Unforeseen Impact of Good Intentions
Our actions, even when driven by good intentions, can lead to unexpected outcomes. This is evident in both our everyday lives and our spiritual journeys. We must be prepared for the fact that doing the right thing doesn't always lead to immediate positive results. For instance, a simple act of kindness or a well-meaning gesture can sometimes result in unforeseen responsibilities or challenges. This teaches us to be mindful and intentional in our actions, understanding that the outcomes are not always within our control.
In the story of Stephen from the book of Acts, we see a man whose good intentions and dedication to serving others led to severe consequences. Stephen was chosen to help distribute food to Greek widows, but his commitment to preaching the gospel and performing signs and wonders led to his martyrdom. This story reminds us that our good deeds, even when done with the best intentions, can sometimes lead to difficult and unexpected outcomes. [45:20]
Acts 6:8-10 (ESV): "And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people. Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, rose up and disputed with Stephen. But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking."
Reflection: Think of a recent action you took with good intentions that led to an unexpected outcome. How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience about trusting God with the results?
Day 2: The Cost of Speaking Truth
Speaking the truth, especially to those in power, can lead to severe consequences. Stephen's story in Acts shows us that unwavering commitment to the truth, even unto death, serves as a powerful example of faithfulness. Stephen boldly spoke about Jesus, confronting those in power, knowing that it could cost him his life. His courage and faithfulness, even in the face of death, remind us that the truth often comes with a cost.
Stephen's martyrdom illustrates that standing up for what is right and true can lead to opposition and persecution. However, his example encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when it is difficult. Speaking the truth in love, despite the risks, is a vital part of our Christian walk. [53:11]
Acts 7:51-53 (ESV): "You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you. Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered, you who received the law as delivered by angels and did not keep it."
Reflection: Is there a truth you need to speak to someone in your life, even if it might lead to conflict or discomfort? How can you prepare your heart and mind to speak this truth in love?
Day 3: Keeping Our Eyes on Jesus
Stephen's vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God as he was being stoned reminds us that focusing on Jesus can help us endure trials. Our faith should be anchored in the eternal, not the temporary. When we face challenges and hardships, keeping our eyes on Jesus provides us with the strength and perspective needed to persevere.
Stephen's unwavering focus on Jesus, even in his final moments, serves as a powerful example for us. By keeping our eyes on Jesus, we can endure even the most severe trials, knowing that our ultimate reward is with Him. This eternal perspective helps us navigate the difficulties of life with hope and resilience. [56:42]
Hebrews 12:2-3 (ESV): "Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted."
Reflection: What current trial or challenge are you facing that requires you to keep your eyes on Jesus? How can you practically focus on Him throughout your day to find strength and encouragement?
Day 4: God's Greater Plan
The scattering of the early church after Stephen's martyrdom led to the spread of the gospel. This shows that God can bring good out of even the most tragic circumstances. Our sufferings can have a purpose beyond our understanding. Stephen's death, while tragic, played a crucial role in the expansion of the early church and the spread of the gospel message.
This reminds us that God is sovereign and can use even the most difficult situations for His greater plan. Our sufferings and trials are not in vain; they can serve a higher purpose that we may not immediately see. Trusting in God's greater plan helps us endure hardships with hope and faith. [01:23:01]
Acts 8:1-4 (ESV): "And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison. Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word."
Reflection: Reflect on a difficult situation in your life that God used for a greater purpose. How did this experience shape your faith and understanding of God's sovereignty?
Day 5: The Importance of Boldness in Faith
We are called to speak the truth in love, even when it comes with significant risks. The consequences of following Jesus can be severe, but the eternal rewards far outweigh the temporary sufferings. We must take risks in sharing our faith, knowing that God is with us. Boldness in faith is essential for living out our Christian calling and making an impact in the world.
Stephen's boldness in proclaiming the gospel, even in the face of death, challenges us to be courageous in our own faith. We are encouraged to take risks in sharing our faith, trusting that God will use our efforts for His glory. The eternal rewards of following Jesus far outweigh any temporary sufferings we may face. [01:30:01]
2 Timothy 1:7-8 (ESV): "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to be more bold in your faith? What specific step can you take today to share your faith with someone, trusting that God is with you?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Sometimes you'll do the right thing and it'll cost you everything. I had a really good friend in high school, my best friend at the start of high school. His name was Simon. He was really my only friend. I was an introvert at the time, very introverted. I still shock sometimes that I'm on platforms talking to groups of people because I was shy, insecure, introvert." [01:24:22] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Take a risk and tell someone about Jesus. Take a risk and share the hope you have. Take a risk and invite someone to church. Do you know 90 to 95% of people who come to church come because one of you invited them?" [01:30:18] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We say God is good. We sing about the goodness of God. Where's the good news in the story? They rejected the truth. They rejected Stephen and the truth and then it cost Stephen his life. But I want you to see the good news. First of all, Stephen set us an example of faith in action. He did as Jesus did and he even forgave those who wounded him and killed him." [01:21:42] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Stephen's talking about truth. And he calls them out. But the truth is, we live in a time much like Stephen's time when simply speaking the truth, even with love, can get you in trouble. Today, I want you to be prepared for that. Today, I want you to hear the story of Stephen and understand the world we live in." [56:42] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Stephen does what we all need to do, he makes a choice to accept the consequences, whatever they may be, of doing what God has called him to do. He makes a conscious choice. Because he then begins to teach and preach." [51:59] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Stephen understood the truth, through Ecclesiastes 1, verse 9, where it says, history merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new. I find this a lot nowadays that I can think, because of modern technology and progress and all the rest of these things, well, there's some things happening that have never happened before. But the truth is, they have." [56:04] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Speaking the truth has eternal consequences. We fixate on the now consequences. If I speak the truth about this, I might get fired. Well, maybe you would. But if you don't, who might be lost forever? If you don't, what will happen to you? Stephen had to trust in Jesus and see times of testing like this reveal our true faith." [01:11:50] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Our mistake, I believe, is we often think that negative consequences are the result of disobedience and poverty. Positive consequences are the result of obedience. We think that if I do the right thing, good things should happen. Don't we? Isn't that our culture? You know, that's not only the culture, that's many church cultures." [01:23:34] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Folks seeking truth, speaking truth, has consequences. Now, I'm not inviting you to go pick fights with people, okay? We live in an internet-enabled world where everybody's got an opinion on everything and sometimes it seems like there's people that are just spoiling for a fight. Have you noticed this? Just read the comment section on any internet feed and you'll see that people are spoiling for a fight." [01:18:08] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Stephen's got his eyes on the prize, doesn't he? Jesus said, if I acknowledge him before men, he didn't say, if you acknowledge him before men and they like what you have to say. If you acknowledge me before men, I'll acknowledge you before my Father in heaven. And that means so much more." [01:12:49] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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