How can we encourage others to become "multitudes of men and women" believers? A Living Witness Bears Fruit Acts 5:14: “Yet more and more believers were added to the Lord—large numbers of both men and women.” • The explosive growth recorded in Acts sprang from believers who displayed an unmistakable transformation. • When the risen Christ changes lives, observers see real hope and are drawn to Him (cf. Acts 4:13). • Authentic, daily obedience validates the message we share (1 John 2:3-6). Bold, Clear Proclamation of the Gospel • Peter and the apostles “never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 5:42). • The message must include: – Human sin and separation from God (Romans 3:23). – Christ’s substitutionary death and bodily resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). – Personal repentance and faith (Acts 3:19). • Clarity saves souls; vagueness breeds confusion (Galatians 1:8-9). Spirit-Empowered Courage • The believers prayed and were “all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness” (Acts 4:31). • Depend on the Spirit for words, timing, and conviction (John 16:8). • Courage under pressure testifies that Jesus is worth any cost (Acts 5:40-41). Visible Love and Unity • “All the believers were one in heart and mind” (Acts 4:32). • Unity showcases the gospel’s reconciling power (John 17:20-23). • Practical generosity—sharing possessions, meeting needs—makes Christ’s love tangible (Acts 4:34-35). Consistent Prayer Covering • The early church “devoted themselves … to prayer” (Acts 2:42). • Intercede for: – Softened hearts (Ezekiel 36:26). – Open doors for the word (Colossians 4:3). – Bold ambassadors (Ephesians 6:19-20). Public Integrity and Holiness • The sobering account of Ananias and Sapphira produced “great fear” and underscored God’s holiness (Acts 5:5, 11). • A pure church attracts seekers by displaying the character of a holy God (1 Peter 1:15-16). Practical Steps to Multiply Believers 1. Share personal testimonies of Christ’s work daily. 2. Keep a short list of unreached friends and pray by name. 3. Host Scripture discussions in homes, workplaces, or online. 4. Serve community needs with the gospel in view. 5. Model repentance quickly when you sin, showing the gospel’s ongoing power. Result: Multitudes Drawn to Jesus • When the church walks in truth, love, power, and purity, “the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47). • The same Lord is still able—and willing—to gather multitudes of men and women today (Hebrews 13:8). |
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