August 25, 2019 Sermon Notes and Slides

Sermon Notes & Slides

With All Boldness and Without Hindrance
Acts 27-28
Tony Chute, Interim Pastor

Overview: Paul’s journey to Rome is extremely dangerous, involving contrary winds and a clear warning that shipwreck and loss of life are real possibilities. Despite these dangers, the Lord assures Paul that he will arrive safely in Rome. This promise is initially confirmed when the crew and passengers reach land, and Paul finds favor among the inhabitants of Melita. Several miraculous events demonstrate that Paul is favored by the Lord; and yet, when he arrives in Rome, we are reminded that he is a prisoner whose rights are limited and whose gospel is often rejected. Nevertheless, Paul continues to proclaim the kingdom of God and teach about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance. These concluding words from Acts encourage us to consistently and confidently spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.

01. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a global message for all people which must be carried to the ends of the earth, including highly populated cities and remotely populated villages.

02. The gospel of Jesus Christ can be carried to the ends of the earth by extraordinary people in extraordinary ways; but most often by ordinary people in ordinary ways.

03. The gospel of Jesus Christ will be met with geographical, political, and personal obstacles, none of which will ultimately hinder God’s plan of salvation.

Questions For Discussion & Discovery

1. What does the level of detail about Paul’s journey in chapter 27 suggest about Luke’s ability as a historian? Given his care to report historical issues accurately, how much more attention should we give to the theological message of Acts?

2. Note how Paul warns and encourages the people aboard the ship (27:10-11, 21-25, 33-34). What model does Paul provide for us when we speak truth to others, but our message is disregarded? Are you able to encourage people even when you are disappointed in their actions?

3. When Paul survives the serpent bite, the islanders conclude that he must be a god (28:6). Notice how often Paul’s ministry reflects that of Christ, and yet he does not claim allegiance to himself (see 27:25, 35, 43; 28:8-9). Pray for leaders in the church that they will give glory to God for all He does through them, and pray for believers to recognize their leaders as servants, not substitutes, of the Lord.

4. Paul’s reference to the Holy Spirit in 28:25 indicates a vital truth about the inspiration of Scripture. Though Isaiah wrote the passage contained in 28:26-27, he was guided by the Holy Spirit. When you read the Bible, do you realize that these words are the words of God? See 2 Peter 1:16-21 for further insight.

5. Luke ends the book of Acts by referencing the “unhindered” gospel. Read the entire book once again in light of this theme, noting the areas where obstacles that would otherwise silence the gospel are overcome. How does this display of God’s providence give you confidence in sharing the gospel?

For Further Reading: Andreas Köstenberger and Peter O’Brien, Salvation to the Ends of the Earth: A Biblical Theology of Mission (IVP, 2001)