Introduction:
Why is this building sitting at 3131 Duff Road today? Let’s agree one thing: Northside Baptist Church is Christ’s church. Amen? It doesn’t belong to you, it doesn’t belong to the preacher, it belongs to Jesus. He has a reason why He located us here.
So, let me ask you again: "Why are we here?"
A church member who cannot answer that question to Jesus’ satisfaction, lacks vision and is destined to wander aimlessly. At best, like Mr. Magoo, wracking havoc on those around them; at worst, like the children of Israel, walking in circles, never content, always longing for the "good ‘ol days" in Egypt . . . until the day each one died.
** Prov 29:18 puts it this way: "Where there is no vision, the people perish."
** I want to talk to you today about:
ACQUIRING A VISION
ACTS 16:6-10
I. THE PREPARATION FOR A VISION (ACTS 16:6-8)
A. A Determined Activity (16:6a)
B. A Divine Sensitivity (16:6b-8)
II. THE PROCESS OF A VISION (ACTS 16:9)
A. It Is Given Privately (16:10a; Ps 103:7)
B. It Is Shared Publicly (16:10b)
C. It Is Embraced Personally (16:10c)
D. It Is Accomplished Providentially (16:10d)
III. THE PURPOSE OF A VISION (ACTS 16:10)
A. To Motivate Action (16:10a)
1. Based on confidence in the Lord (Trust)
2. Bolstered by cooperation among the members (Teamwork)
B. To Promote Evangelism (16:10b)
CONCLUSION:
** What we say and what we believe is of little value until those around us see
us live out, in practical ways, what we say we believe!
** Let’s not become comfortable, but conformable to the image of Christ
** Never content, but always concerned about a lost and dying world
** Not cautious, but courageous . . . trusting in the Lord to work out His will through the vision He has given to us!
