God and the Gospel - God wants to use us to accomplish His will!
Jesus looked into the future and predicted what would happen to His disciples and He said something very sobering but also encouraging.
Sobering thing: following Jesus will definitely mean suffering for some disciples.
Encouraging thing: God intends to use the suffering to be a strategic opportunity for the truth of the gospel.
Difference between our plans and God’s plans
Acts 16:6-10 – Macedonian Call
In every circumstance, especially the unexpected ones, be ready to bear witness for Christ.
How Paul Got Before King Agrippa
Two years earlier was arrested on false charges in Jerusalem
There was a plot to kill him so they moved him to Caesarea
Gave his testimony to Felix the Roman Governor
After two more years in prison the new Roman Governor Festus hears the Gospel
How can I become a believer that loves the Gospel, lives the Gospel, and shares the Gospel?
It starts with having the right heart for people!
Matthew 9:35-38
Glimpse into the Heart of God
v35 we see Christ ministry
v36 we see Christ motives
v37-38 we see Christ method
Christ focused on peoples needs internally first!
How does God choose to use us?
1) Go and tell the Gospel (v17)
2) Help open the eyes of unbelievers (v18)
Result:
1) Help turn people from darkness to light (v18)
2) Forgiveness of Sins
3) Inheritance