How can we share the gospel knowing God appoints people to believe? Acts 13:48—where sovereignty meets faith “ When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and glorified the word of the Lord, and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.” What God does: the unshakable foundation - He appoints people to eternal life (Acts 13:48). - He chose us “in Him before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4-5). - “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me” (John 6:37). - Because the outcome is certain, the mission cannot fail (Acts 18:9-10). What we do: the beautiful assignment - “Go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15). - “How can they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?” (Romans 10:14-17). - Paul endured “for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation” (2 Timothy 2:10). God appoints the end—faith—and the means—our witness. Why evangelize if God appoints? - Commanded obedience: Jesus says “Go.” That’s enough. - Certain success: some will believe because God has prepared them. - Liberating confidence: results rest on God, freeing us from pressure. - Overflowing love: the same grace that saved us moves us to speak (2 Corinthians 5:14). Practical ways to share with confidence - Pray first: ask the Spirit to open hearts (Acts 16:14). - Speak Scripture: God’s word “is living and active” (Hebrews 4:12). - Keep the message clear: sin, cross, resurrection, faith. - Trust, don’t press: persuasion with gentleness, knowing God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). - Love visibly: good deeds adorn the good news (Matthew 5:16). - Rest afterward: faithfulness is our part; conversion is God’s. Encouragement for weary messengers - God has “many people in this city” (Acts 18:10)—even if we haven’t met them yet. - Every seed sown is meaningful; none is wasted (Isaiah 55:11). - One day, a great multitude from every nation will stand redeemed (Revelation 7:9). Our words today echo into that future choir. Walking out of this study Share boldly, lovingly, expectantly. The God who appoints is the God who sends—and He delights to use your voice to call His people home. |
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