Scripture Reading: Acts 16:6-10
The Macedonian Call
(Acts 16)
Intro.
1. After the meeting in Jerusalem, Paul and Barnabas had remained in Antioch with many others, teaching and preaching, Acts 15:35.
2. When the dispute over taking John Mark on a second trip, Paul and Silas go through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches, 15:41.
3. Acts 16 is a powerful, instructive and encouraging record of the spread of the gospel into Europe.
I. GO WHERE THE GOSPEL IS NEEDED AND WANTED, Acts 16:1-10.
-Yes, the gospel is needed everywhere. This must not prevent going (cf. Antioch, 15:35). Take it where it is wanted.
A. Go with Faithful Men, Acts 15:40; 16:1-2 (2 Tim. 1:5; 3:15).
1. Seasoned, experienced in the word and wise in faith.
2. Zeal without knowledge (novice) causes problems! (cf. foreign works)
3. Take a younger man to learn from older (Timothy, Paul and Silas).
B. Remove Potential Impediments, 16:3-4.
1. Action taken to enhance effectiveness, 1 Cor. 9:19-23.
2. Shows a religious act can be used non-religiously (depending on several factors).
C. Go Where the Pressing Need and Interest Exists, Acts 16:6-10.
1. Paul and company had divine help in getting to those who would hear the gospel. Holy Spirit directed them to Troas; Vision of man from Macedonia.
2. We have to assess that based on various factors.
-(Luke joined Paul’s company in Troas, 16:8, 10)
II. CONVERSIONS AND PERSECUTION IN PHILIPPI.
A. Lydia and her Household, 16:13-15.
1. Heart opened by the Lord (by His word) to heed (obey) Paul’s message, Acts 2:39.
2. Judged “faithful to the Lord” because she believed and obeyed.
B. Beaten and Jailed for a Miraculous Work, 16:16-24.
1. Slave girl possessed by evil spirit and exploited by masters.
2. Right message – wrong messenger, 16:17-18.
3. Healed – Masters lost their source of profit, 16:18-19.
4. Accused as Jews, multitude aroused, magistrates beat them without trial (bare-backed with long staff).
5. Interior prison with feet in stocks, 16:24.
C. The Jailer and his Household, 16:25-34.
1. Faith in the darkness, 16:25.
2. Miraculous release and merciful rescue from death, 16:26-28.
3. “What must I do to be saved”? 16:29-34
a. Nature of saving faith.
b. The immediacy of obedience for salvation.
c. The joy of salvation.
D. Public Release Demanded and Obtained, 16:35-40.
-Luke remained in Philippi, 16:40, 17:1.
III. THE GOSPEL IS THE SAME IN EVERY NATION AND CULTURE.
A. The Gospel is Defined by Revelation, not Culture, 16:21.
1. Jews in the regions of Lycaonia, Phrygia, and Galatia (16:1-3); Woman from Asia in Europe (16:14); A Gentile jailer and his family (16:31-32).
2. Everywhere in every church, 1 Cor. 4:17 (“my ways in Christ”); 7:17.
B. Common to All:
1. Same need: Sinners needing salvation (16:30).
2. Same truth: The word of the Lord (16:32).
3. Same commands: believe, repent, be baptized (16:14-15, 31-34).
4. Same blessing: Salvation (16:15, 30, 34).
C. The Culture in which One Preaches may call for Certain Expediencies, but it does not Define the Truth.
1. Expedient to circumcise Timothy, 16:3 (would go to synagogues).
-Illus. In India: Take off shoes when we enter meeting place; men and women sit in segregated areas.
2. Cannot condone sin because it is culturally accepted!
-Ex. Fornication in Corinth; Social drinking in Europe; Immodesty in Hawaii/California…
Conclusion
1. The gospel will find open hearts today (like Lydia) and repentant sinners (like the jailer).
2. We must go and help them learn about the Lord Jesus Christ.
By: Joe R. Price
Posted: September 5, 2013