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Are You Sure? (Acts 18-19) When preaching the gospel the question is “Are You Sure of your Salvation?” If not the gospel has the answer! |
Are You Sure? (Acts 18-19)
1. Some thought they were sure yet rejected the gospel.
a. The Jews at Corinth opposed themselves and blasphemed (18:6), others at Ephesus were hardened and believed not (18:9), Demetrius cared more for his craft and gain than the truth (19:24ff).
b. These were content to reject the One in Whom is salvation (John 14:6; Acts 4:12) and attempt to establish their righteousness (Rom. 10:1-4).
c. Reminder that conscience cannot be our guide!
2. Some thought they were sure yet heeded instruction.
a. Crispus and others of Corinth heard and obeyed the gospel (18:8), Apollos was willing to be taught more perfectly (18:24-28), the twelve disciples at Ephesus were willing to learn and obey the true gospel (19:1-7).
b. Shows the gospel’s effect on honest hearts (19:18-19; Matt 13:23, 7:21; Jms 1:22, 26-27; Phil 1:27; Eph 4:1).
c. A reminder that sincerity or “going through the motions” is not enough!
3. Some were sure and stood steadfastly.
a. Paul and others boldly proclaimed what they knew. Consider what they were doing in these chapters: reasoning (18:4, 19), testifying (18:5), teaching (18:11), speaking boldly, disputing, and persuading (19:8).
b. Those of Ephesus showed their conviction by their actions: burning their books (19:18-19).
c. One can know and obey truth in confidence (Jn 8:31-32).
