Visible Biblical Faith: Recognizing the Spirit of Christ Acts 14, Romans 1:18-20, & Matthew 7:21-23
Sermon Resources
Sermon Summary
Title: Visible Biblical Faith: Recognizing the Spirit of Christ
This sermon explores the concept of visible biblical faith, emphasizing how believers can recognize and embody the Spirit of Christ. It delves into Paul's missionary journey to Lystra, highlighting the power of faith, the challenges of spreading the Gospel in a pagan culture, and the transformative love of God. The sermon encourages listeners to embrace God's love during the Lenten season, fostering personal growth and spiritual renewal.
Key Points:
Visible faith is recognizing and embodying the Spirit of Christ General revelation of God exists in all cultures, preparing people for the Gospel The importance of contextualizing the Gospel message for different cultures The contrast between good faith, bad faith, and abiding faith The transformative power of God's love in overcoming persecution and hardship The significance of Lent as a time for spiritual growth and renewed connection with God
5-Day Personal Devotional
Day 1: Recognizing God's Presence Reading: Acts 14:8-10 Devotional: Just as Paul recognized faith in the crippled man, God calls us to be aware of His presence in our daily lives. Sometimes, we encounter God in unexpected places or people. Today, reflect on moments where you've sensed God's presence. How can you become more attuned to recognizing God's work around you? Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to see faith in others and to be a vessel of God's love in your interactions.
Day 2: The Power of Listening Reading: Romans 10:14-17 Devotional: The crippled man in Lystra was healed because he listened intently to Paul's words about Christ. Faith often begins with listening. In our busy world, it's easy to overlook the importance of truly hearing God's Word. Today, practice active listening - both to God through His Word and to others around you. How might God be speaking to you through Scripture or through the people in your life? Consider how attentive listening can deepen your faith and relationships.
Day 3: Overcoming Cultural Barriers Reading: Acts 17:22-31 Devotional: Paul faced the challenge of communicating the Gospel in a culture saturated with polytheistic beliefs. Yet he found common ground to share Christ's message. In our diverse world, we too may encounter cultural or ideological barriers when sharing our faith. Reflect on how you can bridge gaps in understanding to share God's love effectively. Ask God for wisdom to see the "common threads" that can connect people to the truth of Christ, no matter their background.
Day 4: Perseverance in Suffering Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-18 Devotional: Despite being stoned and left for dead, Paul got up and continued his mission. His resilience demonstrates the power of God's love working through human weakness. Consider the challenges or "stones" in your own life. How can you draw strength from God's love to persevere? Remember that our present sufferings are temporary, but God's glory is eternal. Pray for the courage to stand firm in your faith, even in difficult circumstances.
Day 5: The Transforming Power of God's Love Reading: Romans 12:1-2, 9-21 Devotional: Paul's transformation from persecutor to apostle is a powerful testament to God's redeeming love. This love not only changes us but empowers us to love others - even our enemies. Reflect on areas in your life where you need God's transforming touch. How can you extend Christ's love to those who are difficult to love? Ask God to renew your mind and fill your heart with His love, enabling you to be a living sacrifice and a visible demonstration of faith to the world around you.
Small Group Guide
Key Takeaways:
Visible faith means seeing and recognizing the Spirit of Christ in others.
There are three types of faith discussed: good faith, bad faith, and abiding faith.
God's general revelation is available to all people, even those who haven't heard the Gospel.
Cultural myths and beliefs can be used as bridges to share the truth about Jesus.
The love of God is powerful enough to transform even the most hardened hearts.
Small Group Questions:
1. The sermon mentions Paul recognizing faith in the crippled man. Have you ever experienced a moment where you "saw" faith in someone else? What was that like?
2. How do you think we can distinguish between genuine faith and false appearances of faith?
3. The sermon talks about God's general revelation through nature and conscience. How have you experienced God's presence or guidance through these means?
4. Paul used the cultural myth of Zeus and Hermes to connect with the people of Lystra. How can we use elements of our culture today to help explain the Gospel?
5. Despite being stoned, Paul returned to the city. What does this teach us about perseverance and forgiveness in our faith journey?
6. The sermon mentions that we're all "messed up" and in need of God's love. How does acknowledging this truth impact your relationship with God and others?
7. What does "abiding faith" mean to you, and how can we cultivate it in our daily lives?
Practical Applications:
This week, try to intentionally recognize and acknowledge the faith you see in others around you.
Reflect on an area of your life where you need God's healing or transformation. Spend time in prayer, asking for His love to work in that area.
Identify a cultural element (movie, book, current event) that could be used as a bridge to discuss faith with a non-believer. Share your ideas with the group next week.
Practice forgiveness this week, especially towards someone who has hurt you. Journal about the experience and how it relates to God's love for us.
Commit to a specific Lenten practice (prayer, fasting, service) to deepen your connection with God during this season.
Closing Prayer: Close the session by praying for each other, asking God to help the group members apply the lessons learned and to grow in visible, abiding faith.
