INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. Paul’s Witness: “Amidst Perilous Ragings”
2. Paul’s Witness: “After Promised Reassurances”
3. Paul’s Witness: “After Providential Rescue”
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today we are going to be discussing the theme: “All Hope was Lost!” As some might know, it is easy to witness of Christ and the church while things are going alright in our lives. But what about when there come into our lives, as in this text: “perilous ragings and times?” It appeared to Paul and to all these travelers, that “all hope was lost.” These perils of life and countrymen, were nothing new unto this servant of God; regarding them he wrote: “In journeying often, in perils of waters...in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren,” 2 Corinthians 11:26. I would be out of time quickly, if I spoke of some of these, like Abraham, Joseph, David and Job. Perils when allowed; are sent to test and try our faith. We will see this for certain in this lesson.
2. First, we will consider our witness, during these raging and perilous times. Our text of discussion takes place amidst a terrible storm. Luke wrote: “And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared and no small tempest lay on us (in the ship), all hope (that we might be saved) was then taken away,” Acts 27:20. But I came by to tell you; that you’re not bound by your present circumstances! There is nothing too “impossible with God,” Matthew 19:26. Storms are a part of life for us all; the blessing is that, we do not go through them alone.
3. Second, we will discuss the angel’s promised reassurances to Paul, regarding his visit to Rome. Luke wrote: “But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me,” Acts 27:21-26. This is the same Jesus who: “Arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm,” Mark 4:39.
4. Lastly, we will investigate God’s providential rescue of these stricken voyagers en-route to Rome. Luke wrote: “But when the fourteenth night was come...Being driven up and down in Adria... Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, except these abide in the ship they cannot be saved. And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat... And when it was day, they knew not the land... they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship... And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmovable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. Then the centurion commanded that they which could swim, should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land. And the rest, some on boards, some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land,” Acts 27:38-44. With this introduction, let’s consider our first point.
BODY OF LESSON
I PAUL’S WITNESS: “ADMISDT PERILOUS RAGINGS”
A. The word “witness” in Gr., is mártys, mar'-toos; a witness literally (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case); by analogy, a "martyr":—martyr, record, witness.
1. In our lesson today it means: “Those who after Christ’s example have proven their own strength and genuine faith to Him, by undergoing great hardships or even a violent death: as a martyr or witness to Christ.”
2. Luke the historian shares Paul’s witness during this perilous and troubling time; in his life, with 276 others en-route to Rome. Paul has been sent to stand trial before Caesar’s throne, to bear witness and testimony of Jesus Christ.
3. Luke wrote of these perilous and ragings times: “And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us (in the ship), all hope was then taken away,” Acts 27:20. All hope was lost, that they should arrive safely.
4. This journey was ordained of God. Therefore, regardless of the circumstances; things will be alright, because God has commissioned it. Notice:
a. First, Paul’s purpose: “After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome,” Acts 19:21. Work in Ephesus.
b. Further, after Paul’s arrest: “And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome,” Acts 23:11. Work in Jerusalem.
c. Finally, after Paul’s witness to Festus: “Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest. ... I refuse not to die: I appeal unto Caesar. Then Festus, when he had conferred with the council, answered, ‘Hast thou appealed unto Caesar?’ Unto Caesar shalt thou go,” Acts 25:10-12.
d. Conclusion: It was Paul’s testimony (witness) of Christ; that has brought him into these circumstances. He would be sent to Rome to be judged at Caesar’s seat. This journey will be arduous; he would journey by ship as a prisoner of Rome.
B. Paul’s admonishes these mariners: “Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast (with the Day of Atonement) was now already past (end of September to the start of October):”
1. Danger ahead: “Paul admonished them, and said unto them, sirs; I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.”
2. Decision to sail: “Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul,” Acts 27:9-11.
3. By ignoring the prophecy of Paul; the entire ship’s crew, centurions, soldiers and prisoners will now be placed “in harm’s way.”
4. They did not perceive Paul worth listening too, standing before them as a prisoner of Rome. They had before them an experienced mariner. Notice:
a. To the Corinthians: “In labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in death oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep: In journeying often, in perils of waters... in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren,” 2 Corinthians 11:23-26. He had a lifetime of perils.
b. To the Hebrews: “Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares,” Hebrews 13:1-2.
c. Is the angel of the Lord welcomed in this House? We never know who God has sent among us with His blessings!
C. Perilous times are ahead. Luke continues: “And because the haven was not commodious (suitable) to winter in, the more part advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south west and north west,” Acts 27:12. Notice:
1. Misjudging the winds: “And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after, there arose against it (the ship) a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon,” Acts 27:13-14. Their decision to sail with these “soft winds that blew;” was a foolish mistake, made by these experienced mariners. Yet knowing the dangers, they set out sailing, close to the isle of Crete. Notice:
a. The word Euroclydon, in Gr., is Euro-klý-don, or yoo-rok-loo'-dohn; which means the east wind, or a storm from the East (or southeast), i.e., (in modern phrase) a Levanter : -(a strong easterly wind) which blow violent in the western Mediterranean. If you would: “a hurricane.”
b. An “East-North East Wind,” a variant (abnormal) storm, with winds of “a violent agitation.” That is:
1) Creating wind like typhoon or tornado like whirling of the clouds.
2) Causing broad and high waves.
3) These waves were violently attacking the ship without ceasing.
4) These were “perilous time for any sailing ship and all occupants onboard.”
c. Illustrate: Hurricane Michael, which recently hit the coast of Florida and Georgia, on October 10, 2018. This was the worst storm in recorded history; that has ever struck the United States’ coast lines. The devastation of this storm is not yet even determined. Perilous times for Florida and it joining neighbor Georgia.
2. Ship now in danger: “And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. And running under a certain island which is called Clauda:” (They attempted to stabilize the ship).
a. “We had much work (exerted great energy and strength),”
b. “To come by (or master or control) the boat,”
c. “Which when they had taken up (raise up, elevate), they used helps (aids, ropes or chains, for frapping (wrapping around the ship’s hull or frame),”
d. “Undergirding (bind together) the ship; and,”
e. “Fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands,”
f. “Strake (striking the mass) and sail, and so were driven (carried about by the wind and waves),” Acts 27:15-17. (The boat could not be controlled by the helm; so it was permitted to drift about, while they held it together with all manner of ropes and tackle).
3. There is now “violent agitation” and “riotous winds” pressing against the ship. (There church sometimes must navigate through “perilous times.” It might be face with: great adversities; unimaginable challenges, personal trials and congregational discord; wherein she cannot see or find a solution, during such crises. Hang on and gird up your loins; hold the work together regardless of the sacrifices or challenges. This will be your witness of true faith and trust in God). The answer will be found in God’s word and your willingness to follow it! Notice:
a. However, I desire to “put you in remembrance,” the leadership, ministers and members; to use all of God’s “helps” to hold the church together.
b. Paul’s instruction to the church at Ephesian that: “(Christ gave gifts) some apostles, and some prophet, and some evangelist, and some pastors and teachers.” These are all the church’s “helps” to bind and hold it together. To equip the saints!
c. For these all these great works:
1) “The work of the ministry (growing the church).”
2) “The edifying of the body of Christ (building up the body).”
d. Why Paul? “That we henceforth be (are) no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. But speaking the truth in love, may grow up in Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ,” Ephesians 4:11-15.
e. How long Paul? Till the church become full grown; and no longer bottle babies: “Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make understand doctrine? That is: ‘teach them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breast;’ for line must be upon line... and precept upon precepts... here a little and there a little,” Isaiah 28:9-10. Consider:
1) Illustrate: Wagon Load. Pick up a little bit here; a little bit there; a little bit over yonder; and before long, your wagon will be full.
2) See also Hebrews 5:12-14. This is not just the preacher’s work; but, the work of the entire congregation.
4. All hands on deck. Luke recorded: “And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship; and the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship,” Acts 27:18-19. There will be times in our lives; we will need to lighten our load. What you mean preacher? Notice:
a. Paul to the Hebrews: “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses:”
1) “Let us lay aside every weight, and”
2) “The sin which doth so easily beset us, and”
3) “Let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”
4) “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith,” Hebrews 12:1-2.
b. You got to lay aside some things that are hindering you; in your race before this “great cloud of witnesses,” (those mentioned in Hebrews, chapter 11).
1) Paul speaking of his former life: “But what things were gain to me, I count loss for Christ,” Philippians 3:7.
2) There might be things like: pride in oneself, or ones self-accomplishments; that inhibits them from realizing these are all gifts granted by God’s material graciousness; in order that they might be used for His purpose and glory (i.e., Paul’s Jewish heritage, education, religious standing granted only by the grace of God; that he might glorify Christ both in life and death).
3) All of these things he willingly abandoned: “That he might win Christ. And be found in Him, not having his own righteousness... but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith,” Philippians 3:8-9.
c. What are some things we might need to give up to win Christ?
d. Let me suggest a few things that might bear witness of our faith and devotion to the church. Paul wrote further: “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do.” Notice these Three-in-One:
1) One, “Forgetting those things which are behind.”
a) That old “girlfriend.” You still call and text! Illustrate: Let your wife drive.
b) That old “boyfriend.” You still call and text! Brother Freeman, have you been looking at my phone? No, but I know some are doing it!
c) You got to “forget those things which are behind.”
2) Two, “Reaching forth unto those things which are before.”
a) Go back to college and finish your degree.
b) Take night classes to improve your “soft skills.”
c) Volunteer with some charity or disaster response organization (Red Cross).
d) Get involved in the church’s community outreach.
3) Three, “Press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus,” Philippians 3:13-14. Illustrate: Let Her Alone!
D. Paul instructs the young evangelist: “Timothy, these know also, that in the last day(s) perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves... despisers of those that are good... lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God... having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away,” 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
E. They that live godly. He further reminds Timothy, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ shall suffer persecution,” 2 Timothy 3:12; 2 Timothy 2:1-7. Let’s now consider our next point.
II PAUL’S WITNESS: “AFTER PROMISED REASSURANCES”
A. God’s promises to Paul regarding Rome. Let us not forget, that this journey to Rome was promised to Paul by God before his imprisonment in Caesarea.
1. It was under these promises and circumstances; Paul is now in a journey to Rome. However, this journey was not on a luxury jet line or cruise ship; but on a Roman ship, as a prisoner of Rome.
2. He had a great desire to visit Rome and preach Christ there, Romans 1:13-18.
3. He only desired: “God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son... Making request ... I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you,” Romans 1:9-10. Illustrate: Trip to Germany. It’s not how you get there; but your work for Christ once there.
4. Striving to preach: “Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation,” Romans 15:20. Let us now continue this journey and Paul’s witness after receiving promised assurances from God; regarding his journey, to Rome.
B. Paul now reminds them of his warning. Luke continues: “But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss,” Acts 27:21. Notice:
1. He reminds the captain and crew of his earlier warning.
2. Sometime those who make these decision; cannot see the dangers. Many are puffed up with pride; and feel they have the right to decide even if there are dangers to befall others or the entire ship. Does this remind you of someone!
3. It was the pressure of getting the “cargo to Rome”; while not paying attention to the signs of the weather, or the admonitions of a wise and aged man. Surely, Paul did not present the appearance of an experience mariner, in his chains.
4. I would like to emphasize: “He did not speak as to say: I told you so!” In some homes; marriages or congregations; there are some men and women who do not ever commit to anything; will find fault when good people make a wrong judgment.
a. When however, a decision is made in good faith; with sound counsel and in prayer those that might oppose such decision; should never relish in a mishap or a project going wrong, with: “I told you so.”
b. We must learn to work together; consult one another, and remember we are “members one of another.” Notice Paul’s wisdom:
1) First, “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another,” Romans 12:4-5.
2) Further, “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;” Romans 12:6.
3) Next, “Or he that ministers let us wait on (his) ministering: or he that teacheth, on (his) teaching;” Romans 12:7.
4) Finally, “Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, (do it) with cheerfulness,” Romans 12:8.
c. Conclusion: Whatever the work the Lord hath called you unto; do it with thy might. Hear Solomon: “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might,” Ecclesiastes 9:10. Brethren, know them that work with you; use them that God might get the glory.
d. Illustrate: Preacher’s Pulpit. In too many work’s I’ve have witnessed, that the pulpit is not shared with graciousness (to those laboring within or visiting preachers). When God has granted or sent help; used it, that your health and wellbeing might be blessed. I wish I had some help!
C. Paul witnesses to them: “And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee,” Acts 27:22-24. Paul informs the captain and others that things are going to work out to their good. Paul’s witness:
1. First he says: “Be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man’s life among you, but of the ship.”
2. Further, for this reason: “For there stood by me this night the angel of God:”
a. “Whose I am, and whom I serve.”
b. “Saying: Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.”
c. What a comfort that must have been for Paul to hear.
d. Then to those on the ship with him; “that no man’s life shall be loss.”
3. Finally, “But the ship shall suffer loss.” When things become more important than life; it will be the cost of your faith, and maybe even your soul. Had they waited for better weather; both could have arrived safely to Rome.
D. Paul’s trust in God: “Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me,” Acts 27:25. Notice:
1. First, Paul witnesses that he believes in God; and he has been granted assurance that things shall be, “just like He has promised.”
a. This was not Paul’s first time hearing from the Lord, words of encouragement during his perilous times in the faith. Paul had “experiential knowledge in the Lord’s” ability, to protect and deliver him. What you mean preacher?
b. He has “observed, practical and firsthand” knowledge that God would deliver him from this terrible tempest. He heard a word from the Lord before now.
2. Further, the Lord’s spoke to him in Jerusalem: “And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony (witness) concerning me,” Acts 22:17-18.
3. Next, the Lord spoke to him in Corinth: “Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee; for I have much people in this city,” Acts 18:9-10. I know we have great confidence in Paul as an Apostle. But he too experience fear at times doing the Lord’s work. Notice the Lord’s words unto the beloved apostle Paul:
a. First, “Be not afraid.”
b. Further, “But speak, and hold not thy peace.”
c. Next, “For I am with you and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee.”
d. Finally, “For I have much people in this city.”
4. Conclusion: We might face difficulties and persecutions that cause us to doubt our worth; or even make us hesitant in our witnessing and preaching. Do like Paul, ask the church to pray for you. Paul requested prayer from the Ephesian saints:
a. After describing the gospel armor, Ephesians 6:10-17.
b. He requested prayers for the saints and himself: “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Sprit... for all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak,” Ephesians 6:18-20.
c. He’s now in prison in Rome; asking the saints at Ephesus to pray that he might: “speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”
d. He is now in the Lion’s Den; asking for courage to witness for Christ!
5. The Spirit of the Lord came upon the prophet Oded.
a. To go speak words to Asa, king of Judah. His words were simple and clear:
1) Seek the Lord and he will seek thee.
2) Forsake the Lord and he will forsake thee.
b. The Spirit of God came upon the prophet Oded, both to instruct him in what he should say; and, then to enable him to say it clearly and with boldness.
c. The prophet was sent to Asa and his army, when they had returned victorious from a war with the Ethiopians:
1) Not to compliment them or to congratulate them on their success.
2) But to quicken them to their duty before the Lord.
d. This is the work and proper business of God's ministers; to speak with clarity and with boldness to His people, 2 Chronicles 15:1-8.
e. Oded charged the people of God: “Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded,” 2 Chronicles 15:7. What a great promise of God.
E. The fate that awaited them: “Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island,” Acts 27:26. As we consider our last point; we notice....
III PAUL’S WITNESS: “AFTER PROVIDENTIAL RESCUE”
A. We now come to our need for witnessing after God’s providential rescue. Luke wrote: “But when the fourteenth night was come... being driven up and down in Adria... we drew near to some country... And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship... Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, except these abide in the ship they cannot be saved,” Acts 27:27-32. Notice:
1. Trouble and church unrest. We must not allow trouble or church unrest to cause us to leave the safety of the Lord’s house: “Except ye abide in the church, ye cannot be saved.” Notice:
a. Too many saints will cut and run; when problem arise in the church!
b. Ride out the storm; be a help to the weak and discouraged.
c. Quit talking about solutions; and be part of them.
d. What kind of witness is a church, which cannot resolve its own internal problems?
2. The stronger members: “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves,” Romans 15:1-2. Let him that is strong:
a. Restore one overtaken in a fault, Galatians 6:1.
b. Bear one another’s burdens, Galatians 6:2.
c. Bear his own weight or burden without complaint, Galatians 6:5.
d. One, “Who is taught in the word communicate (give) unto him that teacheth in all good things,” Galatians 6:6.
e. Two, “And let us not be weary in well doing.... For we shall all reap if we faint not,” Galatians 6:9-10.
4. The leadership and ministers: “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you, brethren:”
a. First, “That ye know them which labour among you;”
b. Further, “That’s over you in the Lord;”
c. Next, “That’s among you to admonish and encourage;”
d. Finally, “That ye esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake,” 1 Thessalonians 5:11-13.
5. Membership: “Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, and patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men:”
a. “Rejoice evermore;”
b. “Pray without ceasing;”
c. “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you,” 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18; Romans 12:17-21.
d. In all of these, let’s be “witnesses for Christ and the church.” I wish I had a witness!
B. While the day was coming on. Luke continues: “And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat... And when it was day, they knew not the land... they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship... And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmovable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves.... Then the centurion commanded that they which could swim, should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land. And the rest, some on boards, some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land,” Acts 27:33-44. Notice:
1. Truly in times like these; we need to bear witness of God’s goodness and grace. This is a time for rejoicing and thanksgiving: “And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land,” Acts 27:44.
2. Here is our hope and witness church before the world:
a. As the angel of the Lord assured Paul and all those others; under his care, safety during these “perilous times.” We can also be confident of His protection. Notice:
1) First, Paul wrote of the Lord’s promise: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man (or circumstances; trials; dangers) shall do unto (or come upon) me,” Hebrews 13:5-6.
2) Further, Isaiah wrote of His salvation: “Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts: ‘Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you,’” Isaiah 25:3-4.
b. The lives and safety of all that was onboard this ship was saved because of God’s promise and care for His servant, Paul. There are many being blessed; and not knowing how, because you are a part of their lives; and your prayers and intercessions have not gone unheard, by your heavenly Father.
1) The “effectual and fervent prayer of a righteous man (or woman) availeth much,” James 5:16.
2) Your witness of faith unto God, in solemn and silent prayers has been answered by God and should be “shouted from the mountain top.”
a) Isaiah wrote: “You, who bring good news to Zion, go up on a high mountain. You, who bring good news to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, and do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, Here is your God!” Isaiah 40:9.
b) David wrote: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help... my help cometh from the Lord, which made the heavens and the earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved... The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil; he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, even for evermore,” Psalms 121:1-8.
3. Did I tell you? That: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever,” Hebrews 13:8. His loving kindness doth not change from one generation unto another. He is the same loving Lord of all, in every generation!
4. Can I remind you? This is the same Jesus who: “Arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm,” Mark 4:39. Don’t be afraid of the storms; he who permits them, will also quite them!
5. Be steadfast unmovable. Paul encourages the church at Corinth: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord,” 1 Corinthians 15:58. Illustrate: The Storms of Life; either see one approaching; or in one; or just coming out from one. Storms are a part of life.
C. Paul’s and the entire ship’s crew was casted upon the island, of Melita as promised by God. Notice:
1. The barbarous (heathen) people shewed great kindness unto everyone.
2. Paul was soon bitten by a poisonous viper, but experienced no harm.
a. Jesus said: “And these signs shall follow them that believe, in my name they shall cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover,” Mark 16:17-18.
b. Paul healed the father of Publius: “And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him. So when this was done, others also, which had disease in the island, came, and were healed,” Acts 28:8-9.
c. Illustrate: The Prophet Mohammed: “Who styled himself the apostle of God, lost his life by poison; and, had he been a true prophet, or a true apostle of God, he would not have died by such.”
3. Paul witnessed to the chief man on the island, Publius.
4. They laden upon them many of their necessities.
5. They depart the island, to continuing their trip unto Rome, Acts 28:1-11.
D. Paul arrives and witness to the Jews in Rome, Acts 28:12-16.
1. He witness unto them regarding his arrest and appeal to Caesar, Acts 28:17-22.
2. He preached unto them Jesus from the law and the prophets, Acts 28:23-29.
3. He was permitted to dwell two years in his own hired house, Acts 28:30.
4. He “preached the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concerned the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him,” Acts 28:31.
5. This closes out Paul’s trip to Rome; and the Book of Act. Let’s notice now his final witness regarding the Lord of glory; as we move to a conclusion.
E. Paul’s final witness before Caesar. These are the final words unto his “son in the faith,” Timothy. Notice his concern and loving affection for his son:
1. First, he wrote charging him: “I charge thee therefore before God... Preach the word... But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry,” 2 Timothy 4:1-5.
2. Further, he wrote regarding his own faithfulness: “For I am now ready to be offered (to become a sacrifice of faith for my witness of Christ), and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight... I have finished my course... I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me... not to me only... but also to all them that love His appearing,” 2 Timothy 4:6-8.
3. Finally, he wrote of his final witness for Christ: “At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be (given) glory for ever and ever. Amen,” 2 Timothy 4:16-18.
4. This is our hope, that we too share this same blessing; provided that we remain faithful; and in the house of the Lord, Revelations 2:10. As I move to a conclusion, let me summarize....
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Paul’s Witness: “Amidst Perilous Ragings”
2. Paul’s Witness: “After Promised Reassurance”
3. Paul’s Witness: “After Providential Rescue”
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered witnessing, during perilous ragings and times. Our text read: “And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared and no small tempest lay on us (in the ship), all hope (that we might be saved) was then taken away,” Acts 27:20. It surely appeared that there was no hope that any could be saved. But I came by to tell you; that you’re not bound by your current circumstances! There is nothing too “impossible with God,” Matthew 19:26.
2. Second, we discussed the angel’s promised reassurance to Paul, regarding his visit to Rome. Luke wrote: “But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me ... And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me,” Acts 27:21-26. Don’t be afraid of the storms; he who permits them, will also quite them!
3. Lastly, we investigated God’s providential rescue of these stricken voyagers en-route to Rome. Luke wrote: “But when the fourteenth night was come... being driven up and down in Adria... we drew near to some country... And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship... Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, except these abide in the ship they cannot be saved. And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat... And when it was day, they knew not the land... they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. Then the centurion commanded that they which could swim, should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land. And the rest, some on boards, some on broken pieces of the ship. And so up it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land,” Acts 27:38-44.
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation, H.B.R.C.B. (Another agitation, at the Pool of Bethesda, John 5:1-15).
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BEFORE THE LECTURE
34th Annual Arizona Lectureship, Phoenix, AZ, October 15, 2018.
Before I begin my lecture; would you please stand (those that can) for the reading of the word of God? The text of interest can be found in Acts 27:18-20.
Theme: Witnesses for Christ and the Church.
Please permit me a moment to give thanks to the lectureship committee; Merlon “Mack” Thompson, a beloved brother for over fifty years. Thank you also Jeffry Walker, the new minister call to labor at the Tonto, and to John Dunn his co-worker. Thanks are due to the brothers and sisters who don’t stand in front of you like us preachers, for their devotion and hard work to make this lectureship a success.
Let me also acknowledge as others find ministers have done; that I have a “sweetheart” that has support me and has been by my side on many a trips – doing the Lord’s business (Carolyn will you please stand up so these brothers can see you are my wife?) Finally, let me give honor to the pioneers preachers that have gone on before us: Carroll Pitts, R.N. Hogan; G.P. Holt; G.E. Stewart, Jim H. Warren (my father in the gospel), and the esteemed and beloved Marshall Keeble. These have carried the “blood stain banner” with faithfulness and in sincere devotion unto the Lord, we now serve. I give thanks for their examples and dedication, as being, "Witnesses for Christ and the Church."
The witness in our lesson did not obtain his commission to witness after the resurrection of Christ. He was an apostle “born out of due time.” He was not there on the mount to see the risen Lord ascend into the heaven. While they stood there “looking steadfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven,” Acts 1:9-11.
Our witness and apostle to the Gentiles was that of Paul: once a persecutor, now turn preacher; a destroyer of the way, now a defender of the faith; once an enemy of Christ now a servant of Christ. He now is on his way to Rome, to stand before the seat of Caesar, to bear witness of Christ and the Church.
Our topic title: “All Hope was Lost.” We will discuss three things:
1. Paul’s Witness: “Amidst Perilous Ragings”
2. Paul’s Witness: “After Promised Reassurance”
3. Paul’s Witness: “After Providential Rescue”
www.SermonCentral.com if you want to follow me in this lesson.
