NEW MEMBERS MOTIVATION SERIES: “LOOK ON US!”
ACTS 3: 1 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. 2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; 3 Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. 4 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look On Us. 5 And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. 6 Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. 7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. 8 And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God: 10 And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. 11 And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. 12 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? 13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. 14 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; 15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.
INTRO: 3 Weeks Ago: Encouragement To Church Members - “LOOK ON US”
1. Begging On The Streets Is An Art Most Of Us Are Not Comfortable To See.
As Seen In Passage, Begging Has Been Around For A Long Time. Jesus: Lazarus, Blind Bartimaeus. Many on the streets of Lowell recently. Some claim that given all the government and non-government assistance that is available to help the poor, we should not be seeing beggars on our streets. These are signs that government has failed. One article said we should not give to beggars because they are either con artists, mentally disabled, or on drugs or alcohol. Not true.
2. Poverty Fact Sheet
a. Nearly 1/2 Of The World’s Population - above 3 billion - live on less than $2.50 a day.
b. More Than 1.3 Billion Live In Extreme Poverty - less than $1.25 a day.
c. 1 Billion Children Worldwide Live In Poverty.
d. About 750 Million Lack Clean Drinking Water. Diarrhea kills 842,000 yearly, 2,300 a day.
e. In 2011, 165 Million children under the age 5 were stunted due to chronic malnutrition.
ACUTE CAUSES OF POVERTY
1. Warfare: War leads to breakdown of the social structure that provides for people.
2. Centralization Of Power: One major party responsible for decision-making over the country.
3. Corruption: When leaders are not accountable to those they serve & steal money.
4. Droughts & Flooding: Environmental forces often cause crisis destroying crops & animals.
5. Natural Disasters: Natural disasters as hurricanes & earthquakes devastate communities.
6. Plagues Or Affliction: Widespread illnesses cause panic and flight of economic contributors.
7. Colonial Histories: Stealing of country’s resources by colonial masters – resources shipped.
8. Social Inequality: Cultural ideas about the worth of different genders, races, ethnic groups, etc.
9. Structural Adjustment Programs (SAP): Cutbacks to meet IMF & World Bank conditions.
THE EFFECTS OF POVERTY IN THE COMMUNITY
1. Malnutrition: Poor families live in poverty and rarely have access to nutritious foods.
2. Health: Diseases are common because they lack means to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
3. Education: Many people in poverty unable to attend school early or have standard education.
4. Economy: Without an education, people are unlikely to find a paying job.
5. Homelessness: Many people living in poverty are homeless, which puts them on the streets.
6. Crime: Poverty often leads to high crime.
7. Greed: Wanting more than our fair share of resources. Accumulating excessive wealth.
8. Fear: Fear that helping others will have a negative effect on our life-style.
9. Indifference: Indifference to the needs of others. Example: South Africa burning foreigners.
WHAT IS CHRIST JUBILEE DOING?
We Are Involved In The Food Pantry: Pro. 22:22-23 Don’t take advantage of the poor just because you can; don’t take advantage of those who stand helpless in court. The Lord will argue their case for them and threaten the life of anyone who threatens theirs.
INTRODUCTION 2: ABOUT THE BOOK OF ACTS
Acts Gives The History Of The Christian Church and the spread of the gospel amidst opposition. On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came down and turned despairing doubters into dynamic disciples. The Disciples were faithful in preaching & teaching the gospel before Saul, the persecutor, burst on the scene after his conversion in Acts 9. Luke describes the Acts of the Apostles. Acts 2:43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. Acts 3 - the lame man healed at the Beautiful Gate is one of such miracles mentioned.
THE EARLY CHURCH ON FIRE AND MAKING THINGS HAPPEN. ACTS 3:1 “NOW…”
1. It Was A Learning Church: (Acts 2:41-42). They persisted in listening to the apostles.
2. It Was A Fellowshipping & Worshipping Church (Acts 2:42, 46). Met in homes to pray.
3. It Was A Church Of Unity (Acts 2:46): They did things together.
4. It Was A Praying Church: (2:42; Acts 4). When they prayed, the place was shook.
5. It Was A Church Where Things Happened: (Acts 2:43): Signs & wonders.
6. It Was A Sharing & Honest Church (Acts 2:44-5): Responsibility to each other - sold goods.
8. It Was A Joyful Church (Act 2:46): Gladness was there.
9. It Was A Church Whose Members People Liked: (Acts 2:47): Pro. 16:7 When a man’s way pleases the Lord, he makes his enemies to be at peace with him. Enemies bowed to them.
WHAT IS GOD AGAIN TELLING THE CHURCH THROUGH THIS ENCOUNTER?
1. We Must Recognize The Power Of Fellowship (Bring someone to church). Acts 3:1: Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.
Devout Jews & Gentiles Went To The Temple to observe 3 times of prayer - 9am, 3pm, 6pm. They were going at 3pm, the 9thhour. The gate was called "Beautiful" because it was an impressive sight – built with gold, bronze, etc. Sun would reflect glistening brightness for miles. Yet, sitting under its magnificent beauty was a suffering human being. Many people appear outwardly to be doing well, yet inwardly are struggling? Financially stressed out. Wayward families. Marriages falling apart. Jobs hanging by thread. No self-esteem. Guilty. Depressed. We’ve all been hurt, used, failed and needed healing. Every day he came to the Temple. Sat and begged. Unfortunately, this is the attitude of many people. They hurt, but they hurt in silence, not willing to share their pains with anyone. And the church is the last place they want to go. Many of them view the church as a judgmental society of self-righteous hypocrites anyway.
2. Suffering Is A Part Of Life Until Jesus Comes: Acts 3:2 And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple.
A Bit About Human Sufferings Is Real:
What Caused This Man To Be Crippled? Disciples also asked Jesus about man born blind. The Prophets, Apostles And Job Were All Examples Of Suffering. They gave up everything for the sake of the Cross - their properties, families, freedom; health and were beaten, killed. James 5:10 My Brethren, Take The Prophets, Who Spoke In The Name Of The Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. 11 Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord -- that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful. Our Supreme Example Comes From Christ Himself. Hebrews 12:1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Kinds Of Suffering (Deserved & Undeserved Suffering):
a. 1 PETER 2: 20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.
b. 1 PETER 5:8-10: Be sober be vigilant, because your adversary the devil as a roaring lion walks about seeking whom he may devour: 9. Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10. But the God of grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, AFTER that you have suffered a little while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen settle you.
Sources Of Suffering:
Sources Of Suffering Who Is Responsible Who Is Affected Needed Response
My Sin I Am Me And Others Repent, Confess And Accept Consequences
Your Sin Sinner And Others Who Allowed The Sin Probably Many Including Those Who Sinned Active Resistance To Sinful Behavior And Sinner
Avoidable Physical / Natural Disaster Those Who Ignored The Fact Or To Take Precaution Most Of Those Exposed To The Cause Prevent, If Possible, Prepare If Cannot Prevent
Unavoidable Physical / Natural Disaster God, Satan Most Of Those Present On-going Trust In God’s Faithfulness
Paul Gives Some Reasons (2 Corinthians 12:7-10):
a. Some Suffering Are From Satanic Origin. V.7b –Thorn in the Flesh - Messenger of Satan.
b. Some Suffering Comes As A Result Of Our Sins, Mistakes, etc. (I Peter 2: 19-21)
c. God Allows Suffering To Promote Humility. V.7a: Not To Be Conceited – Revelations.
d. Suffering Promotes A Healthy Prayer Life; V. 8 (The prayer) Verse 9. God said NO.
e. Suffering Promotes God’s Grace & Power; (V.9a) My Grace sufficient… My power perfect…
f. Suffering Promotes The Right Attitude (V. 9c) God’s power may rest on me in weakness.
g. Suffering Is Proof That We Are True Children Of God. (Heb. 12:8)
h. Suffering Helps Identify & Eradicate Impurities In Believers. (Heb. 12:9,10) - JOB
i. Suffering Helps Us Become More Fruitful (Qualitatively & quantitatively) Heb. 12:11.
j. Suffering Helps Know God’s Attributes Thru Identification With His Sufferings. (Phil. 3: 10)
k. Suffering Has A Way Of Sharpening Us To Make Us More Effective In Ministries. (Eccl. 10: 10) if the iron be blunt, we put in more strength to use it – it needs to be sharpened.
l. Suffering Allows Us To Teach Others Through Our Example How God Can Work All Things Together For Good. (Rom. 8:28,29)
m. Godly Suffering Produces Godly Blessings. (I Pet. 4: 13,14)
Job’s Troubles Were Worst - No Half Measures - Each A Complete Catastrophe.
a. The Loss Of Property: 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 cows, 500 donkeys.
b. Homes Were Destroyed In A Hurricane. Became homeless & sat in ashes on the streets.
c. The Loss Of Family: 7 sons, 3 daughters were all killed by one terrific stroke.
d. Loss Of Health: (Job 2:7) Satan inflicted horrible disease on Job – boils - head to feet - Possibly elephantiasis, leprosy, leukemia characterized by Boils (2:7); Itching (2:8); drastic change of appearance (2:12); Worms & running sores (7:5); Corroding bones & endless pain (30:17); Blackened skin & fever (30:30); This horrible condition continued for months (7:3; 29:2).
e. Loss Of Position: (Job 2:8) "Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes." The greatest man in the East becomes the most despised object.
f. Loss Of Sympathy: (Job 2:9) His wife is encouraging him to go against God.
g. Loss Of Friends: Accused him of sinning and was the reason for his sufferings.
Suffering Can Come To Christians And Make You Want To Question God. So being a church member is not everything. You will be tested.
3. We Must Focus On The Needs Of Others (Not Self). Acts 3:2-4: And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us!
Some Of Us Are Too Inwardly Focused. Peter & John going to church but took time to help the poor & suffering. Sometimes it is not all about our welfare. The Man Wasn’t Allowed Inside The Temple To Join In Prayer because he was a cripple. Because of spiritual pride and selfishness they felt he was not fit for the house of God. Even though Jesus had died and the temple veil rent in two, they sewed it back together to cater to themselves. He sat on the steps and begged. But when the saving, healing presence of God was no longer in this Temple, He was in the lives of Peter and John.
There Is A Difference Between Going To Church And Knowing God. People who know Jesus make a difference and benefit from going to church. Those who go to church and do not know God, or have never experienced the saving power of God are sitting on the Devil’s deceptive cushion. Song: I Don't Know What You Came To Do, But I Came To Praise The Lord. The apostles found time to go to the Temple. They could have said, we saw Jesus and don’t need church. But they were going to church together and on time.
4. We Must Realize That The World Expects Something From Us. Acts 3:4-5 And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.
"Expectancy" Here Means" To Wait For Something In Suspense". There was something about these two men who would bother to talk to him that made this lame man wait in suspense, expecting something. He may have only been thinking about silver & gold, but at least he was expecting something. Often we come to God not expecting anything at all - we’ll sing choruses, pray, take communion. Come to church longing to hear from God. This lame man expected something - and he got far more than he ever expected. God’s power flows where there is expectancy.
5. We Must Give What We Have (And It Does Not Have To Be Silver Or Gold) Acts 3:6: Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.
As Peter And John Approached This Particular Day He Saw Them, And Asked For Alms. They were filled with the Spirit and looked joyful. Peter said to him: "Look at us!" So he looked up at them "expecting to receive something from them." Peter did 2 things: First, he admitted he physically had nothing: “Silver and gold have I none.” Second, he demonstrated what he had in the spiritual realm - “In the Name of Jesus of Nazareth, arise and walk.” If we do not possess a living relationship with Jesus, we will be unable to impart a heavenly touch to others. The name of Jesus is enough - Demons tremble, sicknesses flee, etc. At the Name of Jesus, God provides cloud to lead you by day and the fire by night. We don’t not possessions, titles, praises, but need power.
6. We Must Recognize And Use The Name Of Jesus (No Other Name Will Do). Acts 3:6-7: Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.
There Is Great Authority In The Name Of Jesus - authority to heal and restore, to release and deliver, to advance His Kingdom. Matthew 28:18 All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. But Jesus has made His authority available to us! With that, Peter took hold of the man’s right hand and lifted him. Right there, "strength" came into his feet & ankle bones. He jumped up!
7. Some People Must Be Helped To Get Up: Acts 3:7 And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.
Peter Had To Pull The Man Up. Don’t just tell people about doing something, help them do it if you can. You can help someone with rent, but counsel them how not to constantly have rent problems. Chinese say: “Give a man a fish and you save life for a day. Teach him to fish and you save generations to come.
8. We Must Express The Joy Of Knowing God (Walk Jesus). Acts 3:8-10: And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God: And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him.
The Man Who Had Never Walked in his life stood up with a leap and he didn’t quit leaping. Not only was he healed, but joy flooded his soul: "Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God." Because someone cared enough to reach out to him in the name of Jesus, his life had been transformed. It meant now that he could walk; that he could work. It also, meant he was walking, leaping, praising God. He was excited. We should be & show it.
9. Our Lives Should Make People Wonder: Acts 3:9-10“And all the people saw him walking and praising God. (10) Then they knew that it was he who sat begging alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.”
There Was An Immediate Two-Fold Effect: First, the people were convinced that it was God at work and that this miracle had been done in the name of Jesus. Second, they were prepared to listen to the explanation. That explanation is Peter’s second sermon in the remainder of the chapter.
10. We Must Position Ourselves To Give The Glory To God (Not Self). Acts 3:11-12: And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? Or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man walk?
The Lame Man Was Healed because God’s power flows wherever God is and where He will receive the glory. God healed this lame man so that His name might be honored. Let us stop honoring ourselves. We hear preacher says: “This is what I have done; I can heal; I can deliver; I can speak in tongues; I can pray for hours; I can fast; etc.” People like Paul boasted of how they suffered for Christ. Modern day believers boast of their jets. Today they are beheading Christians and placing their heads on bibles, burning them, crucifying them and others are boasting of their yachts and jets. Who cares what you have? Paul says: “I determine to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2).
CONCLUSION:
God Has Chosen Each Of Us To Bring Good News To Those In Trouble. Luke 4:18-19 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has chosen me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind; to set free the oppressed and announce that the time has come when the Lord will save his people.
1. Mark 4: Just Like Contrary Winds, Troubles Are Certain To Come: They Come To Us All (No one can escape it). They Sometimes Come Suddenly And Unexpectedly. They Come In Multiplications. They Come From Different And Often Unsuspecting Directions. Some Winds Come To Frustrate And Hinder Our Best Intentions. Some Troubles / Winds Slow Our Progress & Deny Us Of Our Dreams. Some Make Our Lives Difficult And Distressing. Some Toss Us, Shake Us, And Frighten Us. Some Cause Us To Lose All Hope Of Deliverance.
2. What Are You Going Through? Divorce, Mistreatment, Unrealized Dreams And Goals, Discouragement, Bitterness, Envy, Negativism, Disappointment, Disillusionment, Deteriorating Health, Misunderstanding Of God, Consequences Of Sin, Etc.
PRAYER POINTS: NEW MEMBERS AND OLD MEMBERS
1. Spirit Of Endurance.
2. Spirit Of Being An Example.
3. Spirit Of Focus And Commitment.
4. Spirit Of Sound Speech.
5. Holy Spirit Baptism.
6. Boldness To Represent Christ.
