Hope and Healing: Sharing the Gospel in Ukraine
Summary
### Summary
Tonight, we gathered to reflect on the incredible work God is doing in Ukraine, particularly through our ministry efforts. Drawing inspiration from Acts 14:27, we see the importance of sharing testimonies of God's work. Our mission involves distributing gospel bags, which contain essential items and the message of Christ, to soldiers on the front lines. These bags have reached thousands, offering hope and salvation in dire circumstances. We shared stories of soldiers who received these bags, some of whom were later killed in action, underscoring the urgency and significance of our mission.
We also discussed the challenges faced by newly mobilized soldiers, many of whom are taken directly from their daily lives into training and combat. Despite these hardships, God has opened doors for us to minister to them, providing not just physical aid but spiritual nourishment. We have seen remarkable responses, with over 4,000 soldiers receiving the gospel in just three weeks. This work is not without its dangers, but God's protection and guidance have been evident throughout.
Our efforts extend beyond the battlefield. We are also reaching out to soldiers' widows and other affected families, offering support and the message of Christ's love. The need is immense, and we are committed to following God's lead in all our endeavors. As we prepare for our next trip, we aim to reach even more soldiers and continue to distribute gospel-based PTSD tracks, providing spiritual healing alongside physical aid.
Reflecting on Acts 3, we see the story of Peter and John healing a lame man at the temple gate. This miracle illustrates the power of giving what we have in Christ, rather than material wealth. Peter and John offered the man something far greater than silver or gold—they offered him healing and salvation in Jesus' name. This story serves as a powerful reminder that our true wealth lies in our relationship with Christ and our ability to share His love and power with others.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Urgency of the Gospel: The story of the soldier who received a gospel bag shortly before his death highlights the urgency of sharing the gospel. We never know how much time someone has, making it crucial to seize every opportunity to share Christ's love and message. [34:14]
2. God's Provision and Protection: Our experiences in Ukraine demonstrate God's provision and protection. From providing gospel bags and t-shirts to opening doors for ministry, God has shown His faithfulness. This encourages us to trust Him fully, even in dangerous and uncertain situations. [40:36]
3. The Power of Testimony: Sharing testimonies of God's work, as seen in Acts 14:27, strengthens our faith and encourages others. It is vital to recount and celebrate what God is doing, as it reminds us of His active presence and power in our lives. [33:03]
4. True Wealth in Christ: The story of Peter and John healing the lame man teaches us that our true wealth lies in what we have in Christ. Material possessions are temporary, but the spiritual gifts we have in Jesus—such as healing, salvation, and eternal life—are invaluable and everlasting. [58:40]
5. Compassion and Action: The compassion Peter and John showed the lame man, despite their busy schedules, challenges us to prioritize helping others. We must be willing to stop and share the love and power of Christ, even when life is hectic. This act of compassion can lead to miraculous transformations. [01:09:20]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[33:03] - Introduction and Photos
[33:46] - Urgency of the Gospel
[34:14] - Testimony of a Fallen Soldier
[35:08] - Stories of Salvation
[35:55] - Mobilization and Challenges
[36:32] - T-Shirts and Gospel Distribution
[37:16] - Reaching New Soldiers
[37:53] - Unexpected Encounters
[38:29] - Access and Favor
[39:19] - Preaching to the Front Lines
[40:36] - God's Protection
[41:46] - Last Night in Ukraine
[42:33] - Sharing the Gospel
[43:26] - Viral Video and Impact
[44:38] - Discipleship and Follow-Up
[45:45] - Supporting Widows
[46:55] - Stories of Hope and Healing
[47:45] - Future Plans and Needs
[51:54] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Acts 14:27 (ESV) - "And when they arrived and gathered the church together, they declared all that God had done with them, and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles."
2. Acts 3:1-10 (ESV) - "Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, 'Look at us.' And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. 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!' And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God, 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."
### Observation Questions
1. What was the main purpose of the gospel bags distributed to soldiers in Ukraine? [33:03]
2. How did Peter and John respond to the lame man at the temple gate in Acts 3? [55:07]
3. What was the reaction of the people when they saw the lame man healed and praising God? [01:07:42]
4. How many soldiers received the gospel in Ukraine over the span of three weeks? [36:32]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to share testimonies of God's work, as mentioned in Acts 14:27? [33:03]
2. How does the story of the lame man in Acts 3 illustrate the concept of true wealth in Christ? [58:40]
3. What does the urgency of distributing gospel bags to soldiers before they go to the front lines teach us about the urgency of sharing the gospel in our own lives? [34:14]
4. How does God's provision and protection manifest in the ministry efforts described in the sermon? [40:36]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt the urgency to share the gospel with someone. How did you respond, and what was the outcome? [34:14]
2. In what ways can you share your own testimonies of God's work in your life to encourage others? [33:03]
3. How can you trust in God's provision and protection in your own ministry or personal challenges? [40:36]
4. What are some practical ways you can offer spiritual support to those facing difficult circumstances, similar to how the ministry supports soldiers and their families? [45:45]
5. How can you prioritize helping others and sharing the love of Christ, even when life is hectic? Think of specific actions you can take this week. [01:09:20]
6. Identify one person in your life who might be in need of spiritual encouragement. How can you reach out to them and offer the hope and love of Christ? [47:45]
7. Reflect on the story of Peter and John healing the lame man. What "silver and gold" might you be holding onto that prevents you from giving what you have in Christ to others? [58:40]
Devotional
Day 1: The Urgency of the Gospel
The urgency of sharing the gospel cannot be overstated. The story of the soldier who received a gospel bag shortly before his death serves as a poignant reminder that we never know how much time someone has left. This underscores the importance of seizing every opportunity to share Christ's love and message. In moments of crisis and uncertainty, the hope and salvation offered through the gospel can be a lifeline. The urgency is not just about the immediacy of physical death but also about the spiritual state of those who have yet to hear the good news.
In our daily lives, we often encounter people who are spiritually lost or searching for meaning. The urgency of the gospel calls us to be vigilant and proactive in sharing our faith. Whether through words, actions, or simple acts of kindness, we have the opportunity to make an eternal impact on those around us. Let this urgency drive us to be bold and compassionate in our witness, knowing that every moment counts. [34:14]
Acts 20:24 (ESV): "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who may not know Christ. How can you share the gospel with them today, even in a small way?
Day 2: God's Provision and Protection
God's provision and protection are evident in the ministry efforts in Ukraine. From providing gospel bags and t-shirts to opening doors for ministry, God's faithfulness has been a constant source of encouragement. Despite the dangers and uncertainties, God's hand has been clearly seen in the protection of those involved in the mission. This serves as a powerful reminder that when we step out in faith, God is with us, guiding and protecting us every step of the way.
In our own lives, we may face situations that seem daunting or even dangerous. Trusting in God's provision and protection allows us to move forward with confidence, knowing that He is in control. This trust is not a passive waiting but an active reliance on God's promises and faithfulness. As we navigate the challenges of life, let us remember that God is our refuge and strength, always present and ready to help. [40:36]
Psalm 121:7-8 (ESV): "The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision and protection. How can this memory strengthen your trust in Him for current challenges?
Day 3: The Power of Testimony
Sharing testimonies of God's work is a vital practice that strengthens our faith and encourages others. Acts 14:27 highlights the importance of recounting and celebrating what God is doing. Testimonies serve as tangible evidence of God's active presence and power in our lives. They remind us that God is not distant or inactive but is continually working in and through us.
When we share our testimonies, we not only glorify God but also inspire and uplift those who hear them. Our stories of God's faithfulness can provide hope and encouragement to others who may be facing similar struggles. It is essential to be intentional about sharing these experiences, whether in small group settings, with friends and family, or even in casual conversations. Let us be bold in proclaiming the mighty works of God, knowing that our testimonies have the power to transform lives. [33:03]
Psalm 66:16 (ESV): "Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what he has done for my soul."
Reflection: Think of a recent experience where you saw God's hand at work. How can you share this testimony with someone this week to encourage them?
Day 4: True Wealth in Christ
The story of Peter and John healing the lame man at the temple gate teaches us that our true wealth lies in what we have in Christ. Material possessions are temporary and can never satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts. In contrast, the spiritual gifts we have in Jesus—such as healing, salvation, and eternal life—are invaluable and everlasting. Peter and John offered the lame man something far greater than silver or gold; they offered him healing and salvation in Jesus' name.
This story challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and recognize the true wealth we possess in Christ. It is easy to become consumed with the pursuit of material success and security, but these things are fleeting. Our true riches are found in our relationship with Jesus and the spiritual blessings He bestows upon us. Let us focus on sharing these eternal treasures with others, knowing that they have the power to bring lasting transformation. [58:40]
Ephesians 1:18 (ESV): "Having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints."
Reflection: Consider an area of your life where you may be prioritizing material wealth over spiritual riches. How can you shift your focus to value and share the true wealth found in Christ?
Day 5: Compassion and Action
The compassion Peter and John showed the lame man, despite their busy schedules, challenges us to prioritize helping others. In a world where busyness and distractions are commonplace, it is easy to overlook the needs of those around us. However, the act of stopping to show compassion can lead to miraculous transformations. Peter and John did not just pass by the lame man; they took the time to engage with him and offer him healing in Jesus' name.
This example calls us to be attentive and responsive to the needs of others, even when life is hectic. Compassion requires us to step out of our routines and comfort zones to make a difference in someone else's life. It is through these acts of kindness and love that we can reflect the heart of Christ and bring hope to those in need. Let us be intentional in seeking out opportunities to show compassion and take action, trusting that God can work through us to bring about His purposes. [01:09:20]
Colossians 3:12 (ESV): "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience."
Reflection: Identify someone in your life who may be in need of compassion and support. What specific action can you take today to show them the love and power of Christ?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "It is so important, as has been mentioned, it's so important to see the hand of God. We say it many times. Okay, we see God is working. God's in this trip. It matters to us because we're going into a war zone and, and sometimes on the front lines as we, we do. And so we do, we, we covet God's favor and blessing as we do these things. And God is certainly working in this trip that we're getting ready to make." [33:03] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "This is why we go. It's it's sometimes I don't have much time, uh, to be able to share the gospel again. That's why the gospel bags are so important, but my goal is to show them that the word of God has all the answers for them. And God knows exactly where they are. It is very difficult in Ukraine right now. They are mobilizing. And that means they are taking men. Sometimes they'll be at a coffee shop. They. They take them. They do not go home. They go straight to, to the training fields and many are given four weeks, as I've said before, and then they go to the fight." [35:55] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I'm so thankful that the word of God is a life. We have to have it every day. We do. We have to have it every day. We have to have it be real and a life to us every day. God speaks to us when we go to him and in prayer and as we open up to him, we have to have it be real and a life to us every day. He gives us exactly what we need because his word is alive and God is alive. He has the answers for all areas of life for us." [53:35] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And I submit to you tonight, this truth, this thought, there's no one too far gone that God cannot touch, save if they will just allow him to. We are not the judge. The Bible says people are already judged in their sins. They're already condemned. That's not our work. It's God's work in their heart between them and God. Well, when I see something like this, I say it's a miracle and that's what it is. But our God works miracles. He still does today. He does things and he delights in doing things that only he can take the credit for." [01:08:21] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "God, our world is in need of you. Our world is in need of salvation. God, we do not condemn the world. Our world is broken, and our hearts are broken as we think of our city, we think of our state, we think of our country, we think of this world. So many are dying without knowing you. God, may we put into action the things that you've told us to do as we wait and look for your return, that we would share. The great gift that you've given us, and it's hope of a home in heaven. God, we thank you for it. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen." [01:14:46] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "And when I hear testimonies like this, I realized God gave this man an opportunity to have the gospel in his hands before he went into eternity. And this happens often with the soldiers. We just don't always hear about this." [34:14] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Peter knew what he did have and who he did have. What he did have. And he says, but such as I have, give I thee. Give I thee. know, I relate that to the day I got saved. I mean, I knew I, I knew I got something. There is no doubt about it. I was a nine-year-old boy. I was scared to death. I mean, I was running around looking to see if mama was still here because if she's not here, that means Jesus came and left me. And I had that fear as a nine-year-old boy. Great fear." [01:03:42] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And it has been such a joy to watch God touch hearts. He touches hearts and decisions made for his honor and his glory. And that's what happens here. Can you, I picture these type of things. I mean, he doesn't have, you know, with muscles or bone strength or, but when God touches him, he's made whole. And it says right here, verse seven, and he took him by the right hand and lifted him up and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength." [01:07:01] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Do you remember the fire that God put in you when you got saved? Do you remember the hope and hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie promised before the world began? Do you cherish the hope? Or are there so many other things that have clouded or distracted our vision? Well don't let this be trouvé out cause in the Eucharist we have been staggered by fear for many years and many anointing happened. So I want to pray for those that have, that is fainted and need grace. I want you to grow within Jesus tomorrow." [01:13:05] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I'm so grateful, dear God, that we as a church know that the gospel was preached. 29 responded. That is what it's all about. God, that we stop because we are so busy. We allow ourselves to get our hearts and our minds so clouded with just maybe even good things, but we allow it to control or overtake the best things. And that is remembering what you've done in our heart, remembering what you've done in our life. God, your goodness, your grace, and just being willing to go ahead and share that with someone else." [01:14:46] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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