Sermons

Better Together

OUR INSTRUCTIONS

We are always to follow the instructions of Scripture.

(Acts 1:15-26) During these days Peter stood up among the brothers – the number of people who were together was about 120 – and said: “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled that the Holy Spirit through the mouth of David spoke in advance about Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. For he was one of our number and was allotted a share in this ministry.” Now this man acquired a field with his unrighteous wages; and falling headfirst, he burst open in the middle and all his insides spilled out. This became known to all the residents of Jerusalem, so that in their own language that field is called Hakeldama, that is, Field of Blood. “For it is written in the Book of Psalms: Let his dwelling become desolate; let no one live in it; and Let someone else take his position. “Therefore, from among the men who have accompanied us during the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us – beginning from the baptism of John until the day He was taken up from us – from among these, it is necessary that one become a witness with us of His resurrection.” So they proposed two: Joseph, called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed, “You, Lord, know the hearts of all; show which of these two You have chosen to take the place in this apostolic service that Judas left to go to his own place.” Then they cast lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias. So he was numbered with the 11 apostles.

1. Fulfillment of Scripture

(16) “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled…”

A. God is in total control of everything.

(16) Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled that the Holy Spirit through the mouth of David spoke in advance about Judas…

(Psalm 41:9) Even my friend in whom I trusted, one who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.

B. God knew the ending from the beginning.

C. Nothing in our lives catches God off guard.

D. Every difficult event in life finds explanation in Scripture.

E. God’s instructions to us are the fulfillment of Scripture.

2. Requirement of Scripture

(21-22) “Therefore, from among the men who have accompanied us during the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us – beginning from the baptism of John until the day He was taken up from us – from among these, it is necessary that one become a witness with us of His resurrection.

A. We want to follow Christ’s instructions as closely as possible.

B. We want to follow Christ’s intentions as closely as possible.

3. Advancement of Scripture

A. Pray.

B. Ask God to reveal His will.

C. Make a choice.