Acts PT6 – In Defense of Miracles

Acts PT6—In Defense of Miracles

Acts 4

· These leaders had long allowed their fire to go out, being quenched by the swirling winds of political ambition and secularism. Dr. Trevor Grizzle.

· Peter and John were now on trial with the miracle by those who do not believe for miracles nor are used by God for miracles. These types will always attack those who do believe for miracles and are used by God for miracles.

Peter and John were not silent. They responded. So should we.

How do we respond in defense of miracles/ministry that God is doing through us?

There are eight responses we need to be aware of in defense of what God has called us to do.

God wants us not to be shocked by the pushback of the enemy.

Acts 4:1-3

[Mar 13:9, 11 NASB95]

Know this: Satan never yields territory without a fight.

God wants us to stay full of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 4:8

One of the purposes of the attack is a distraction. Stay connected to Him.

God wants us not to comprise the message.

Acts 4:10-12

Jesus’ Name. His name connects us to His power. His name gets all the glory.

No other name. The Gospel is exclusive in that Jesus is the only source. No mixture.

God wants us to be confident in what Jesus has given to us.

Acts 4:13

The attack seeks to intimidate you. Make you self-conscious.

These men were trained and educated by the Master Teacher, Jesus Christ.

God wants us to refuse to give in to obstacles.

Acts 4:18-20

Christians are obliged to obey the government. [Rom 13:1 NASB95]

Yet, civil disobedience is necessary when the government counters God’s clear commands.

You will have to stand up against many excuses and oppositions to fulfill the call of God in your life.

God wants us to stay in community with others who encourage us.

Acts 4:23

Peter and John did have a company of people who supported them.

A quote: “You can go fast alone. You can go far with others.”

Who is your support group?

God wants us to pray.

Acts 4:24-30

Their prayer

Honored God’s power and sovereignty v. 24

Remembered God’s Word v. 25

Rehearsed recent victory v27

Asked for more power to counter current problem v 29-30

Ask God to help. From other Scriptures, it is appropriate to ask God to deliver you. It is also appropriate to ask God to empower you to endure and overcome.

God wants us to boldly do what God has called us to do.

Acts 4:31

Never stop doing what God has called you to do.

[Jer 20:8-9 NASB95]

· God wants us to weather the opposition of miracles and ministry with these seven responses.

· Opposition always comes. Reminder: Satan does not yield territory without a fight.

· Will you stand up to the opposition of what God is doing in your life or will you fold?

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