The sermon "All Things Common" by Norm Wells centers around the foundational theological topic of the early Christian community as depicted in Acts 2:41-47. The preacher emphasizes that every spiritual blessing comes from God and that human effort alone cannot attain salvation; it is entirely the work of the Holy Spirit. He discusses the significance of repentance and the necessity of the resurrection of Jesus Christ as essential doctrines of the faith, highlighting that salvation leads to transformative community practices, including shared resources and mutual support among believers. Key Scripture references include Acts 2, where the early church is said to have had all things in common due to their shared faith, and 1 Thessalonians 1:5, stressing the power of the Holy Spirit in the preaching of the gospel. The sermon underlines how a genuine encounter with the gospel not only leads to individual salvation but also fosters a united, devoted body of believers.
Key Quotes
“Everything that we have spiritual, that is positive, that is good, has been issued to us by God.”
“It is out of our hands. We have to say, where did you find that? And we must point people to Jesus Christ.”
“Believing the gospel, repentance and faith is a private embrace of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
“They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine... This doctrine that we have, they did not disregard the instructions of the apostles.”
The resurrection of Jesus is central to the Gospel, as it affirms His divine nature and our justification.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the heart and core of the Gospel message, serving as proof of His divine authority and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. In Acts 2, the Apostle Peter emphasizes the significance of Christ's resurrection- it is the pivotal event that confirms Jesus as both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36). Without the resurrection, our faith would be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14). It is through His resurrection that believers can be assured of their own resurrection and eternal life, as outlined in Romans 8:30 where it states that those whom God predestined are also justified and glorified through Christ.
Acts 2:36, 1 Corinthians 15:14, Romans 8:30
God saves through grace as evidenced by Scripture and the work of the Holy Spirit in believers.
The doctrine of salvation by grace is prevalent throughout Scripture, illustrating that it is God alone who initiates and accomplishes salvation. Ephesians 2:8-9 reinforces this truth by declaring that salvation is a gift from God and not of works, hence eliminating any possibility for human boasting. Acts 13:48 further supports this by stating that as many as were ordained to eternal life believed, indicating that belief itself is a result of God’s election and grace. Additionally, the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in transforming hearts and opening understanding, as discussed in 1 Thessalonians 1:5, where the Apostle Paul asserts that the Gospel comes not only in words but also in power and the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 2:8-9, Acts 13:48, 1 Thessalonians 1:5
Church fellowship is vital as it encourages spiritual growth and unity among believers.
Fellowship among Christians is crucial for edifying and strengthening the church body. In Acts 2:42, the early church is described as continuing steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. This communal bond fosters encouragement and mutual support, creating a sense of belonging and shared faith. Fellowship also enhances accountability, guiding believers to pursue holiness and growth in Christ. It reinforces the understanding that believers are part of the larger body of Christ, called to love and serve one another as they grow in knowledge and grace (Hebrews 10:24-25). Through fellowship, believers can experience the presence of God in a unique way, as the unity of the Spirit binds them together in love.
Acts 2:42, Hebrews 10:24-25
Being dead in trespasses and sins refers to the spiritual state of separation from God due to sin.
The term 'dead in trespasses and sins' signifies a total spiritual inability to respond to God due to the fallen nature inherited from Adam. Scripture in Ephesians 2:1-3 describes this condition, indicating that such individuals are spiritually lifeless and incapable of seeking God on their own. This state reflects not only a lack of spiritual life but also results in a life characterized by rebellion against God and enslavement to sin. It is through the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit that a dead soul is given new life, enabling it to respond to the Gospel, repent, and believe in Jesus Christ for salvation (John 5:24). The transformation from spiritual death to life is essential for understanding God’s amazing grace and mercy.
Ephesians 2:1-3, John 5:24
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