Acts
Go straight to chapter -
3 - 6 - 9 - 12 - 15 - 18 - 21 - 24 - 27
Chapter 1 v 1 - 3
"The former account I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began to do and to teach"
The 'former account' is volume 1 of Luke's work and Acts is a continuation of that which is described in Luke's Gospel. Luke's Gospel is an account of Jesus' ministry
in the flesh beginning with the Incarnation - the one promised of old - through to the Ascension.
Acts of the Apostles is a record of how Christ applies His
redemptive work to believers and fuses them together to become one church - one body.
"He presented Himself alive after his sufferings by many infallible truths." If all the Bible said "He appeared" then that could be open to interpretation
but the Bible gives us various details regarding these appearances. We serve a risen Lord and it is His will that we be empowered to live our lives through
the power of the Holy Spirit. Christ continues to work through His church - His people - to this present day.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 18th July 2010 |
Chapter 1 v 4 - 8
Ian covers some of the misunderstandings regarding the baptism of the Holy Spirit and stresses that as believers we should look carefully
to the Bible to see what was recorded in scripture.
We can do nothing in our natural ability but the baptism of the Holy Spirit is a sovereign
work of God and we need to be the sort of people who hunger and thirst and desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
The purpose of the baptism of the Holy Spirit is that as believers we might be empowered to live victorious lives and reach the world for Christ.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 25th July 2010 |
Chapter 1 v 9 - 14 (and Luke Chapter 24 v 50 - 52)
The Heavenlies.
Following the command of the Lord Jesus Christ for the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit, we now turn our attention to the fact that Jesus
is taken up into heaven and then sat down at the right hand of God.
Ian points out that the word 'heaven' is used to describe three different realms in scripture - the sky, outer space and the Paradise of God where God dwells,
and because of our union with Christ, our citizenship is in heaven too.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th Aug 2010 |
Chapter 1 v 12 - 25
Concerning Judas.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd Aug 2010 |
Chapter 2
An overview of the Day of Pentecost.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 29th Aug 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 1 to 16
Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th Sep 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 1 to 16
Doctrine of Baptisms.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th Sep 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 1 to 16
Baptism in the Holy Spirit.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 19th Sep 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 1 to 16
Spiritual phenomenon.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 26th Sep 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 16
Lesson from Joel.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 3rd Oct 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 16 to 21
The Gospel illustration - Chilean Miners.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th Oct 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 22
Jesus accredited by God.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th Oct 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 22 - 24
Delivered.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 31st Oct 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 24
The Mystery of Death.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th Nov 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 25
Teaching of Resurrection in the Old Testament.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 14th Nov 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 25 - 36
Resurrection - continued.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 21st Nov 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 37 - 41
Conversion.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 28th Nov 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 41
Converted lives.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th Dec 2010 |
Chapter 2 v 42 - 47
Fruit of conversion.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 19th Dec 2010 |
Chapter 3
Works of Faith.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 26th Dec 2010 |
Chapter 3 v 11 - 12
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 9th Jan 2011 |
Chapter 3 v 13 - 14
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 23rd Jan 2011 |
Chapter 3 v 14 - 15
Calvary.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 30th Jan 2011 |
Chapter 3 v 17
Knowledge and Belief.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th Feb 2011 |
Chapter 3 v 19
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th Feb 2011 |
Chapter 3 v 19 - 21
The Messianic Kingdom.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th Feb 2011 |
Chapter 3 v 20 - 21
Restoration of the Church.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th Feb 2011 |
Chapter 3 v 22 - 23
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th Mar 2011 |
Chapter 4 v 1 - 22
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th Mar 2011 |
Chapter 4 v 5 - 11
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th Mar 2011 |
Chapter 4 v 12
True Christianity.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th Apr 2011 |
Chapter 4 v 23 -31
Evangelism.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th Apr 2011 |
Chapter 4 v 32 -37
Resurrection of Christ.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th Apr 2011 |
Chapter 4 v 32 -37
The early church beliefs. (1)
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th May 2011 |
Chapter 4 v 32 -37
The early church beliefs. (2)
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th May 2011 |
Chapter 5 v 1 - 10
Ananias and Sapphira.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd May 2011 |
Chapter 5 v 13 - 14
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 29th May 2011 |
Chapter 5 v 12 - 21
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th June 2011 |
Chapter 5 v 17
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th June 2011 |
Chapter 5 v 17 - 18
Go preach the Word.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 26th June 2011 |
Chapter 5 v 27
Standing up for the faith.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th July 2011 |
Chapter 5 v 40
Church ministry to the needy.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th July 2011 |
Chapter 6 v 1 - 7
Cells.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th July 2011 |
Chapter 6 v 8 - 15
Stephen.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 31st July 2011 |
Chapter 7
Stephen's defence.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th Aug 2011 |
Chapter 7
Abraham.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 14th Aug 2011 |
Chapter 7
Abraham's faith in yet unfulfilled promises.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 21st Aug 2011 |
Chapter 7 v 9 - 16
Joseph - A 'Type' of Jesus.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 4th Sep 2011 |
Chapter 7 v 17
Eye of Faith.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 11th Sep 2011 |
Chapter 7
Stephen.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 25th Sep 2011 |
Chapter 7 v 35
One True God.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 2nd Oct 2011 |
Chapter 7
Law and Faith.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 9th Oct 2011 |
Chapter 7 v 48 - 53
The poor and contrite heart.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 16th Oct 2011 |
Chapter 7 v 54 - Chapter 8 v 1
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th Nov 2011 |
Chapter 8 v 1 - 4
Press on.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th Nov 2011 |
Chapter 8 v 4 - 8
Preach.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th Nov 2011 |
Chapter 8 v 4 - 25
Simon the sorcerer.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th Nov 2011 |
Chapter 8 v 4 - 25
Continuing from last week.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 4th Dec 2011 |
Chapter 8 v 14 - 16
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 11th Dec 2011 |
Chapter 8 v 18
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th Dec 2011 |
Chapter 8
An overview.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th Jan 2012 |
Chapter 9
Religious freedom and bondage.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th Jan 2012 |
Chapter 9
The Damascus Road.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd Jan 2012 |
Chapter 9
Signs of new believers.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 29th Jan 2012 |
Chapter 9
Persecution of Paul.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th Feb 2012 |
Chapter 9 v 10 - 30
Causes of persecution 1.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th Feb 2012 |
Chapter 9 v 10 - 30
Causes of persecution 2.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 19th Feb 2012 |
Chapter 9 v 23 - 31
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 26th Feb 2012 |
Chapter 9 v 26 - 31
Encouraging others.
Ian takes examples from Barnabas' life to show how a true Christian should encourage, inspire, support and comfort those who are going through difficulties in their Christian life.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 4th March 2012 |
Chapter 9 v 31 - 43
Answer to weak chruches
Ian explores the growth of the church in times of persecution and its growth (or lack of it) in times of rest and peace.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 18th March 2012 |
Chapter 10
Was Cornelius saved?
No matter how long we have been Christians, God will always have something to say to us and we need to live a life that God commends.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 25th March 2012 |
Chapter 10 v 1 - 35
Vision of Peter.
In the eternal scheme of things God's 'Great Commission' matters and it is required of disciples to obey and stewards to be faithful.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 1st April 2012 |
Chapter 10 v 34 - 36
Peter's message to Cornelius - Part 1.
Who is it that God really accepts and on what basis does He accept them?
Peter begins to explain the message of peace from God while at the house of Cornelius.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the morning of 8th April 2012 |
Chapter 10 v 34 - 36
Peter's message to Cornelius - Part 2.
How do you know the Bible is true? The scriptures bear witness to the truth as it is in Christ.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the evening of 8th April 2012 |
Chapter 10 v 42 - 43
God has appointed a day when He will judge the world in righteousness. What may be known about Him? And what does it mean to have remission of sins?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th April 2012 |
Chapter 10 v 38 - 44
Taking off Theological spectacles.
God had to deal with Peter's preconceived ideas so that Cornelius' household might be blessed. Do our preconceived ideas prevent us from entering into
the truth of God's Word and the fulness of the Holy Spirit?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd April 2012 |
Chapter 11 v 1 - 18
Peter's mission report.
Peter gives a full account to the church members in Jerusalem in defense of his mission to the Gentiles and answered all their concerns.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 29th April 2012 |
Chapter 11 v 19 - 26
Jesus is Lord.
The gospel has spread to Antioch and reports of what was happening there reached the believers in Jerusalem. Barnabas was sent to see what was happening.
What did he see that made him glad and how does it apply to us today?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th May 2012 |
Chapter 11 v 25 - 30
Famine of the Word.
Agabus prophesied concerning a worldwide famine. The disciples took the word seriously and determined to act upon it. What should believers do
knowing that the Bible speaks about a famine of the Word?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th May 2012 |
Chapter 12
When the genuine disciple of Christ refuses that which the world promotes, but feeds on the pure Word of God and lives by it, their adversary the devil becomes infuriated.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th June 2012 |
Chapter 12
Herod had Peter arrested but Peter lay soundly asleep whilst chained in a heavily guarded prison. This is faith in action.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th June 2012 |
Chapter 12
The family Herod were all acquainted with the Lord Jesus Christ but instead of submitting to Him as Lord, rather they rejected Him and as such serves as a
picture of the unrepentant sinner.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th June 2012 |
Chapter 12 - 13
The sinner is at enmity with God and this sometimes manifests itself in acts of aggression. How should the saints of God respond?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 1st July 2012 |
Chapter 13
Active involvement in, and commitment to, ones local church is imperative as it is not just a fellowship but where a person's ministry is developed and proved.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th July 2012 |
Chapter 13 v 4 - 12
It became Paul's practice, when he came to a city, was to first preach in the synagogue. What was it that Paul and Barnabas preached that Elymas opposed?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th July 2012 |
Chapter 13 v 13 - 16
After reading the scriptures the Rulers of the Synagogue invited Paul to expound the Word of God. Paul was always prepared and his main message would be a call to
repentance and faith towards the Lord Jesus Christ. Are we ready at all times to share the gospel?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th August 2012 |
Chapter 13 v 38 - 39
Paul was speaking to the Jews who knew the law and by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Is it Ok to do your best to keep the law or are our debts more than we can pay?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th August 2012 |
Chapter 13 v 38 - 41
Ian gives illustrations of the fact that our sins are debts to God, which we, the debtors cannot pay. So how can we hold currency with God?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 19th August 2012 |
Chapter 13 v 16 - 48
In these spiritually perilous times we need to stand for the gospel which is the power of God unto salvation.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 26th August 2012 |
Chapter 13 v 44 - Ch.14 v 7
Paul knew that God would save those appointed to eternal life and spent his time faithfully and consistently ministering to open hearts
according to the rule of Christ for the sake of the elect.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 16th September 2012 |
Chapter 14 v 1 - 7
Ian shows that it is the works of Satan which are behind the Jews who objected to the proclamation of the Gospel at Iconium and that his tactics have not
changed to this day. Satan has a dual attach on the gospel 1) Christ's Servants are expelled or 2) He poisons peoples minds against the brethren or the Word.
Ian then finishes with the antidote.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 23rd September 2012 |
Chapter 14 v 8 - 20
Ian compares the man born without strength in his feet with any sinner prior to salvation in a spiritual sense. He then shows how the Apostle
exercises Spiritual gifts to indentify his condition and that his healing is a picture of what happens when a soul is saved.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th October 2012 |
Chapter 14 v 8 - 20
Ian reflects further on the healing of the crippled man and how the crowd attributed the healing to their false gods showing the
blinding effect of sin. Signs and wonders are given to point people to something particular by God but they can be easily mis-read,
willfully ignored, just completely missed by man.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 14th October 2012 |
Chapter 14 v 19 - 28
When Paul and Barnabus went to Derbe they made disciples and not got people to make decisions. Ian then shows that disciples require three things 1)
the Word, 2) the Holy Spirit and 3) Prayer and that it is only disciples who can have their souls strengthened;
which is God's will for all disciples. Finally Ian explains why trials and tribulations come into a Christians life by using Timothy as an example.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 4th November 2012 |
Chapter 15 v 1 - 31
Ian teaches about the relevance of circumcision to the Christian today and what is behind much of the confusion there is today.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 11th November 2012 |
Chapter 15 v 1 - 31
Ian continues his teaching from last weeks message on Law and Grace and expands on the subject of circumcision and what it meant to the Jews.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 18th November 2012 |
Chapter 15 v 1 - 33
Ian speaks of the necessity of keeping and preaching on biblical doctrines and not avoiding them even at the risk of disputes. Biblical guidance, as shown
from this passage has a threefold witness 1) the Holy Spirit, 2) Testimonies of the saints and 3) The Scriptures.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 25th November 2012 |
Chapter 15 v 1 - 33
Ian starts a small two part series on verses 28 and 29. In this first part he focuses on abstinence and raises the issue of Halal meat.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 2nd December 2012 |
Chapter 15 v 28 - 29
In the second part of this mini series Ian supplies the spiritual application of these verses as it effects the church today. Ian uses the issue of rock music as an example.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 9th December 2012 |
Chapter 15 v 30 - 41
Ian suggests three reasons why, when the letter was delivered to the church at Antioch, they were encouraged. Because 1) The Word of God was read publicly, 2) There
was preaching and teaching of the Word and 3) There was a concern for the wider church.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 16th December 2012 |
Chapter 15 v 36 - Chapter 16 v 5
In the first part of a two part mini series Ian speaks about the dispute that arose between Paul and Barnabas.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 6th January 2013 |
Chapter 16 v 1 - 5
In this second part of his two part mini series Ian speaks about Timothy and the reason Paul circumcised him.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 13th January 2013 |
Chapter 16 v 4 - 10
Ian speaks on the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of unbelievers and uses CH Spurgeon's conversion as an example.
He also draws out very clearly how this passage is an excellent illustration of how the great commission Christ gave in Matthew and Mark's gospels was being fulfilled.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th January 2013 |
Chapter 16 v 6 - 15
God puts people where He wants them and having been prevented by the Holy Spirit from taking their own route Paul and his companions are directed to
Macedonia, to the great city of Philippi.
Like so many today these people had culture and architecture, education, philosophy and wealth so what did they need 'help' with?
They did not have Christ.
God had given Paul the Gospel and the desire to preach it. We also have the Gospel and the desire to preach it and God has directed us to where He wants us.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th January 2013 |
Chapter 16 v 16 - 24
Paul and the slave girl.
The message proclaimed by the girl was correct but was not helpful due to being who and what she was. People knew her, listened to her and paid her owners for what
she could tell them but it was wrong to associate the gospel of Christ with a person perceived by Paul to be possessed by a demon.
Ian explains that the girl represents all those who are today controlled by sin. She was freed of her demon and today we see the truth makes people free.
Whenever someone makes a stand for Christ it is likely Satan will oppose them. Their actions brought consequences for Paul and Silas and that is also the same today
with all those who promote the gospel being persecuted in some way.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 3rd February 2013 |
Chapter 16 v 22 - 34
Paul and Silas imprisoned.
These two apostles were having a rough time of it but did they moan or complain? On the contrary their circumstances did not affect their inner joy at being free of sin
and they were singing hymns and praising God.
What did the other prisoners in the same situation make of it?
Do you know what it is to be saved? Today many face trials and problems but those who are saved understand that God has already done the greatest thing ever in giving us
His son. We have his promise of what is to come and can be confident and happy that we are in His hands whereas the unsaved only find happiness in their circumstances.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th February 2013 |
Chapter 16 v 22 - 34
The conversion of the jailer.
Everyone understands that breaking the law results in punishment.
The jailer knew of gods but had no knowledge of the true God until he heard Paul and Silas in his prison. On realisation of his sin against God he was ready
to do whatever it took to be saved and the apostles "spoke the word of the Lord" to him and his household.
Do you truly "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ"? What does this mean?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th February 2013 |
Chapter 16 v 35 - 40
Slavery and freedom.
Unbelieving sinners are in bondage - slaves to the things of this world. Satan offers to set them free via drugs, alcohol, religion, entertainment, etc but they continue
as prisoners.
Only Christ can set people free.
Even believers receive offers from Satan but we know at what tremendous cost our freedom was bought.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th February 2013 |
Chapter 17 v 1 - 10
Preaching Christ at Thessalonica.
In preaching Paul reasoned from the scriptures and explained why Jesus died and was raised from the dead. He used scripture to prove Jesus is the Christ.
He did this wherever he was and no matter who he was speaking to. We should do the same.
Ian tells us how and sets us a little homework to do before next week (24th March).
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th March 2013 |
Chapter 17 v 1 - 10
Uproar in Thessalonica.
Paul was not in Thessalonica for long and he did his 'day job' to earn a living but used his other time there to preach 'the gospel of God'.
What knowledge did he impart to the people in so short a time that was so important, so significant, so wonderful that people would change their lives
and immediately face persecution?
Can we do likewise?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th March 2013 |
Chapter 17 v 10 - 15
Ministering at Berea.
What is the foundation of your life? What is the foundation of the church or fellowship that you attend?
The foundation should be Christ and we are to build on it with good materials - that is Christ's word, the word of truth.
Some churches are built on the ideas of men and their foundations are on sand. Our building will stand.
The Bereans did not accept Paul's preaching without questioning. They "searched the Scriptures daily" to check what they were being told and we should always do similarly.
Ian suggests that this week we search the same Scriptures (the Old Testament) as the Bereans did regarding Christ.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 31st March 2013 |
Chapter 17 v 10 - 15
The scriptures proved Jesus is the Christ.
Last week Ian suggested we search the Scriptures as did the Bereans. Today he gives us many references to where Scripture gives prophetic detailed accounts,
where the death and resurrection are given in 'type' and where 'shadows' depict what is to come.
Do we believe in an intellectual way - even demons know who Jesus is, or do we truly believe and put our trust in Jesus so that we would suffer and even die
if necessary?
The last ten minutes of todays sermon is the testimony of Robert Barnett who was imprisoned and executed due to being a true believer.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 7th April 2013 |
Chapter 17 v 15 - 34
Idolatry in our nation.
Ian makes comparison of what Paul saw in Athens and what we see in our nation today. We too should be provoked to righteous anger and do something.
Paul 'reasoned' with them and preached the gospel of Jesus Christ 'in the marketplace daily'. The least we can do is pray, live our life as a testimony
and be supportive of our evangelising brothers and sisters in Christ.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 14th April 2013 |
Chapter 17 v 16 - 34
So many in our country are Epicurians and Stoics.
Both have their own belief systems and we are surrounded by them but neither understand the truth of the gospel which even a child or the uneducated can understand.
Those that Paul was speaking to in Athens thought to appease a god they didn't know by their own means.
Is it possible to worship God if you don't know Him? Is it possible to be saved if you don't know the way of salvation provided by the Lord?
Do YOU know Him? Do YOU know the way of salvation?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 28th April 2013 |
Chapter 17 v 16 - 33
Infant baptism is not biblical and we don't do it but today has been the 'dedication' service for the infant 'Theo' and because of this there are more people than usual
attending and it is likely some are not Christians.
Ian explains the meaning of the name 'Theo' (Theophilus) and delivers the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ to believers and non-believers alike just as the apostle Paul
does in Acts 17.
Are you a good person? By what standard do you measure that?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th May 2013 |
Chapter 18 v 1 - 11
Paul goes to Corinth.
To be called a 'Corinthian' is to say you live in a culture of immorality and depravity. Much like Britain today with its cosmopolitan mixture of cultures, false gods and
man-made philosophies.
As Paul wrote his letter to the Romans (Rom.1 v 18-31) he was describing what he saw around him.
How are believers to cope in such environments? Like Paul who had the fellowship of Aquila and Priscilla we are to maintain our wellbeing through fellowship with others in
an exchange of support and encouragement.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th May 2013 |
Chapter 18 v 5 - 8
Preaching Jesus Christ crucified.
Ian teaches the unchangableness of the message of the gospel showing that sinners need to realise their standing before a Holy God, that there is a
judgement to come, and that the only means of salvation is through the Lord Jesus Christ and no other.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 19th May 2013 |
Chapter 18 v 11 - 23
The Nazerite vow.
Ian explains why Paul takes a Nazerite vows and how this principle is applicable to believers today.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 26th May 2013 |
Chapter 18 v 18 - 28
Spiritual growth.
Ian explores Spiritual growth through regular study of the Scriptures and prayer. He uses Paul's prayers in Ephesians to shows Gods desire for His children and their walk with Him.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 2nd June 2013 |
Chapter 18 v 24 - Ch.19 v 7
Apollos receives the Holy Spirit.
Explains fully that which Aquila and Priscilla "explained....more accurately" to Apollos and that which Paul spoke to the twelve in Ephesus about was the Baptism in the Holy Spirit
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 9th June 2013 |
Chapter 19 v 8 - 12
Paul preaching Christ in Ephesus.
Ian looks at Paul's strategy for preaching the gospel as he goes around to different places, starting usually at the Synagogue. Then how he deals with those who oppose the gospel
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 23rd June 2013 |
Chapter 19 v 11 - 41
Authentic Christianity.
Ian powerfully speaks on how we should defend "....the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude v 3) against the onslaught of the evil one in our day.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 30th June 2013 |
Chapter 19 v 11 - 20
Dealing with powers of evil.
Ian asks the question as to how we can stand against such a powerful, although defeated, foe as Satan and shows that it is not by religion or
works. But that it is by the weapons God himself has supplied as shown in Ephesians 6 vs. 10 - 18.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 7th July 2013 |
Chapter 19 v 17 - 19
Faithfulness and evidence.
Ian shows that these few verses are a model of all true believers. We are called to stand fast for the truth and to faithfulness. He shows that there are
five things which should be evident in the lives of all true believers.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 14th July 2013 |
Chapter 19 v 21 - Chapter 20 v 1
The fight with idolatry.
Ian explores how the true church will always fight against idolatry. When things seem to be going well in the church Satan will seek an opportunity to attack.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 21st July 2013 |
Chapter 20 v 17 - 37
Enemies within.
Ian explains how, as in the church at Ephesus, that enemies will "come in" and come "from among yourselves" into today's church if we are slack
and allow them to. And is a sobering warning for us today.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 4th August 2013 |
Chapter 20 v 17 - 38
Paul's own life example.
In theses verses Paul, by using his life as an example, and by using two of the gifts of the holy spirit (a word of knowledge and a word of wisdom),
tells the Ephesian elders what will happen after his departure.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 11th August 2013 |
Chapter 20 v 17 - 38
Paul's teaching ministry.
Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of his teaching and doctrine whilst he was among them. Ian then goes on to show why this is so
important today if our leaders are to protect the flock of God today.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 18th August 2013 |
Chapter 20 v 32 - 38
The boundless store of grace.
Ian explains fully that Paul could commend the Ephesians into the hand of God, the highest possible authority, and to the "word of His grace"
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 1st September 2013 |
Chapter 21 v 1 - 14
Prophecy.
At this stage of his journey Paul is met by believers who try to persuade him not to go to Jerusalem whilst he is fully convinced that the Holy Spirit has
directed him.
Ian shows that here the apparent contradiction that the Holy Spirit guides Paul in one direction and other believers in another, is not so on deeper investigation
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 8th September 2013 |
Chapter 21 v 1 - 14
Lessons for students.
From this passage Ian gives eight pieces of advice specifically to two young members who are about to commence university. But not only to them but
to everyone who is walking on the Christian journey of life in Christ.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 15th September 2013 |
Chapter 21 v 15 - 36
Paul arrives in Jerusalem.
Ian introduces us to the rather complex issue of "Did James and Paul disagree on the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith alone?" The outcome
should not surprise too many of us.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 22nd September 2013 |
Chapter 21 v 15 - 30
Relationship between law and grace.
We are introduced to another complex issue, that of the relationship between law and faith and the issue of antinomianism. This introduces us
to the question of how should a Christian respond to the Law of Moses.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 29th September 2013 |
Chapter 21 v 15 - 30
The law of Moses to believers in Christ.
This message is a continuation of the previous one and the question of which of the 613 laws (the law of Moses) in the Old Testament should
Christians keep and which it is correct to ignore.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on the 13th October 2013 |
Chapter 21 v 27 - Ch 22 v 22
All believers have a testimony to share. Why did Paul give his testimony on this occasion?
The people wanted to kill him. What are we to do in trying to reach those who are hostile? We were once as they are before we met Jesus Christ through
the gospel so we must be sensitive and understanding in sharing our testimony.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 20th October 2013 |
Chapter 22 v 22 - Ch 23 v 11
All people have troubles but Christians must also face those that accompany their faith. Paul knew he was "in the midst of wolves."
We can be as Jesus said, "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" by looking at how Paul demonstrates this first with the centurion and then with the
Pharisees and Sadducees.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 27th October 2013 |
Chapter 23 v 11 - 35
Paul was accused of not following the law of Moses whereas he sought to "establish the law".
Ian demonstrates the numerous ways the legalistic group of more than forty would-be murderers broke the law that they claimed to uphold.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 3rd November 2013 |
Chapter 24
Paul answers for himself before Festus who already has accurate knowledge of 'the way'. Having knowledge does not bring salvation.
Many today preach that God loves, forgives and accepts us just as we are but what Paul has to say convicts Festus of his sin
and he doesn't want to hear. Such conviction leads a person one of two ways. Ian explains.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 10th November 2013 |
Chapter 24 v 24 - 26
How can man become righteous before God?
By nature man is an unrighteous sinner - unfit to face God. He is unable to free himself from sin but will one day face God in judgement. The answer is
not in our good works but in Christ alone.
Ian explains the importance between faith IN Christ and faith OF Christ.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 17th November 2013 |
Chapter 24 v 24 - 27
Felix and the Unpardonable Sin.
What is the sin that is unpardonable, that Jesus said, "will not be forgiven" EVER?
Ian explains blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. People hear the gospel but continue to refuse to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit which convicts them of sin.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 24th November 2013 |
Chapter 25 - 26
Festus, Agrippa and Paul.
Three men with two things in common. They were all born sinners and they all heard the gospel.
The gospel of Christ is simple to understand. Festus heard it from Paul and although he did everything to support Paul as a Roman citizen under Roman law it
appears that he remained spiritually blind, unwilling to receive the message of salvation.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 1st December 2013 |
Chapter 26
Agrippa had knowledge but no understanding or belief.
Ian explains that Herod Agrippa was a sinner from a long line of sinners. All people are born as sinners and like Agrippa many will
have knowledge about Christ and hear the gospel but will not believe and remain spiritually blind.
The gospel is for everyone and its purpose is to open eyes.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 8th December 2013 |
Chapter 26
Paul's testimony.
Ian explains why Paul describes himself as being the chief of sinners prior to his conversion.
In saving Paul Christ is showing us all that there is no sin so bad that it cannot be forgiven.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 15th December 2013 |
Chapter 26
The purpose of Christ's coming.
This is a true Christmas message, not of shepherds but of the reason Jesus came to us. He came to open our eyes.
Paul thought he was perfect in his knowledge and understanding of scripture. How had he got it so terribly wrong?
Ian considers six things that happened to Paul at his conversion and they happen to all believers.
We have our eyes opened, we move from darkness to light, we are delivered from the power of Satan, we are granted forgiveness of our sins, we receive an inheritance and
we receive the gift of repentance and faith.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 22nd December 2013 |
Chapter 26 v 24 - 32
The Apostle Paul stood in chains before Festus who thought him mad and Agrippa who could not be persuaded as to the truth and reason of God's word.
Many others would have been present in the court. None are mentioned as accepting Paul's message so was he failing? Should he have changed the message or the method of delivery?
As a bondservant of Christ Paul did not change anything but many churches today are doing exactly that in attempting to please those spiritually blinded by Satan.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 29th December 2013 |
Chapter 26 v 29
Why did Paul use the words, "almost and altogether"?
Many today preach 'health, wealth and happiness' but the Bible tells us Christians will suffer trials and persecution. This has been demonstrated throughout
history. Paul wishes everyone to become true believers like him but does not wish his 'chains' on anyone.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 5th January 2014 |
Chapter 27
Journey of life.
The description of Paul's journey and the verifiable technical detail and language used makes this a chapter that demonstrates the reliability of the Bible.
We can make comparison with our own journey through life. We are all in the 'same boat' with the same predetermined destination of physical death and judgement.
Paul - a man of God - was at first ignored and the 'experts' were taking everyone to destruction just as is happening today.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 12th January 2014 |
Chapter 27 v 21 - 32
Journey of life (3).
"Men, you should have listened to me,".
As can similarly be seen in our society the people on their journey were in jeopardy because
they listened to so-called experts instead of the word of God. Those who hear and don't act are lost.
Those who stay in the 'ship' are saved.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 2nd Feb 2014 |
Chapter 27 v 33
Journey of life (4).
"The Apostle Paul implored them all to take food,".
We are all 'earnestly begged' to fulfill our need for spiritual food by adopting
a disciplined approach. Verse 38 says, "they lightened the ship" and Ian asks us
to consider whether we should lighten our ship of the 'stuff' that will be of no help
and may be a hindrance to us at our time of judgement.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 9th Feb 2014 |
Chapter 28 v 1 - 11
Paul in Malta.
Does the world see Christians only as those who do acts of kindness? What is the difference then to
the Maltese who showed "unusual kindness" but were not Christians? What does Paul's incident with
a viper tell us about God's promise?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 2nd Mar 2014 |
Chapter 28 v 7 - 10
The powers of the age to come.
Every believer is enlightened to the truth of the Bible and has received Heavenly gifts.
Ian talks about "the powers of the age to come" and how they are seen working
in the Apostle Paul.
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 9th Mar 2014 |
Chapter 28 v 11 to end
The end of Paul's journey.
Why did Paul think it necessary to mention that the "ship's figurehead was the Twin Brothers"? What
does this mean today?
Paul summarised his life when he wrote, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." He used every opportunity
to tell others about the Gospel.
Ian asks us how we spend our lives?
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 16th Mar 2014 |
Chapter 28 v 17 to end
Paul preached wherever and whenever he could, to the Jew first and also to the Gentile,
preaching from The Law of Moses and The Prophets, (using the whole Bible).
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Listen to this sermon preached by Ian on 23rd Mar 2014 |
Chapter 28 - Conclusion
In this, Ian's last sermon on the book of Acts he summarises what it is about, ie. the continuing
work of Jesus by the Apostles through some thirty years.
With emphasis on verse 24 Ian asks why "some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved."
They all heard the same message from the Apostle Paul. There was nothing wrong with the message. There was nothing wrong with
the way it was preached.
Paul didn't change the message or preach in a different manner so as to make it more 'appealing' to sinners who refuse to hear and see.
Nor should we.
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Listen to this last sermon on Acts preached by Ian on 30th Mar 2014 |