Series: Action [#150]
OUT OF CONTROL
Acts 23:1-35
Introduction:
Does your life ever seem out of control? Do things going on in this world seem out of control? I’m sure that many of you can say yes to 1 or both of these questions. So, what do you do when things are out of control? Paul gives us an illustration how to handle these times.
Acts 23:1-5
When things are out of control…
1. Do not stop thinking.
Paul just got punched in the mouth and he told them exactly who they were; but when he found out that he was speaking to the high priest, he apologized. Why? Paul knew that God’s Word said to not speak evil about a leader, and he did; so, he apologized. Do not let your emotions take over- Be obedient to God’s Word.
Acts 23:6-11
When things are out of control…
2. Know your surroundings.
Paul was a Pharisee, and he knew that a major difference between the Pharisees and Sadducees was that the Pharisees believed in a resurrection and the Sadducees did not. He realized that he could divert their attention from killing him to fighting over their religious differences. He knew how to take over the situation. Things got so crazy that Paul had to be removed.
We cannot ignore verse 11. The next night, the Lord stood by Paul and told him that he was going to testify about Him in Rome. God was saving Paul’s life to continue his ministry. God told him to take courage.
Acts 23:12-22
When things are out of control…
3. Remember that God is still in control.
There was a plot to kill Paul; but Paul’s nephew overheard what was about to happen. He went and told Paul what was going on and Paul sent him to tell the commander the situation. I do not think that it was by accident that Paul’s nephew was there. God knew how He was saving Paul from death so that he could continue his ministry in Rome. God was not caught by surprise.
Acts 23:23-35
When things are out of control…
4. Let God move you.
Paul needed to get out of there. In the middle of the night, Paul was transferred to Caesarea and handed over to the Governor. Once again, God rescued Paul. Sometimes, God allows you to stay in a tough situation and sometimes, He gets you out of that situation.
Conclusion:
When life gets out of control, remember that if God is for you, who can be against you. God is in control.
