The sermon titled "We Have Heard" by Norm Wells focuses on the theological significance of the resurrection of Christ as proclaimed in Acts 2:1-13. Wells argues that the events at Pentecost, including the miraculous speaking in tongues, served as a divine proclamation of the gospel and the fulfillment of God's redemptive purpose for humanity. Citing various Scriptures, including Ephesians 1 and Isaiah 53, he emphasizes that the resurrection confirms God's acceptance of Christ's sacrifice and the promise of salvation for His chosen people from the foundation of the world. The sermon concludes by reminding the audience of the practical implications of resurrection theology, highlighting the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of believers and the assurance that all whom God intends to save will indeed be saved.
Key Quotes
“His purpose is to redeem a people... identified in the Old Testament, in the Gospels and throughout the New Testament.”
“It is a sign from Almighty God that Jesus Christ was accepted.”
“This is a promise... I will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”
“The resurrection of Jesus Christ assures us that everyone that he has intended to save will be there in his presence on that day.”
The Bible teaches that believers are predestined according to God's purpose and grace from before the foundation of the world.
Predestination is a fundamental doctrine in Scripture that highlights God's sovereignty and grace in the salvation of His people. Ephesians 1:4-5 clearly states that God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before Him. This selection was not based on foreseen merits or actions of individuals, but solely on His will and purpose. As seen throughout the Bible, this doctrine assures believers that their salvation is secure because it is grounded in God's eternal decree rather than human effort.
Ephesians 1:4-5
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is essential because it validates His sacrifice and promises eternal life to believers.
The resurrection of Jesus is at the heart of the Christian faith, as it affirms the truth of the Gospel and the power of God over death. In Acts 2:31-32, the Apostle Peter preaches that the resurrection is a fulfillment of God's promise and a demonstration of His acceptance of Christ's sacrifice. Without the resurrection, Christian faith would be futile, as Paul states in 1 Corinthians 15:14. The resurrection not only assures believers of their justification but also secures their future resurrection and eternal life with God. It signifies that Jesus is indeed the Messiah, who conquered sin and death for His chosen people.
Acts 2:31-32, 1 Corinthians 15:14
Scripture affirms that God has chosen a people for salvation, as seen in His plan of redemption revealed in the Bible.
The doctrine of God's chosen people for salvation is rooted deeply in scripture. Ephesians 1:3-14 outlines God's election established before creation, emphasizing His grace and purpose. Throughout both the Old and New Testaments, we see God specifying a people whom He will redeem. This is evident in passages like Jeremiah 31:3, where God declares His everlasting love for His people. The consistent message of scripture is that salvation is an act of God's sovereign grace, and He has predetermined to save those He has called. This truth offers tremendous comfort and assurance to Christians, knowing that their salvation is secured in God's unchanging love.
Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:3
The signs of the Holy Spirit's presence include regeneration, empowerment for witness, and the manifestation of spiritual gifts.
The Holy Spirit's presence can be discerned in multiple ways, as described in Scripture. First and foremost, the Holy Spirit regenerates believers, granting them new life and the ability to comprehend spiritual truths (John 3:5-8). Furthermore, at Pentecost, as outlined in Acts 2, the coming of the Holy Spirit was accompanied by extraordinary signs, such as speaking in different languages, demonstrating His power and the onset of the church’s mission to the world. Additionally, the Holy Spirit empowers Christians to bear witness to the resurrection of Christ and bestows spiritual gifts for building up the church (1 Corinthians 12). These manifestations of the Holy Spirit affirm His active work in and through believers.
John 3:5-8, Acts 2, 1 Corinthians 12
The Holy Spirit comforts believers by providing assurance of salvation and reminding them of God's promises.
The Holy Spirit serves as the Comforter for believers, as promised by Christ in John 14:16-17. He reveals the truth of God's Word, reminds us of the teachings of Christ, and brings peace amid trials. In times of distress, the Spirit sustains believers by assuring them of their status as children of God (Romans 8:16). He intercedes for us when we do not know how to pray (Romans 8:26), providing comfort and guidance. The presence of the Holy Spirit empowers believers to remain steadfast in faith, encouraging them to trust in God's promises, thereby deepening their relationship with Him.
John 14:16-17, Romans 8:16
Comments
Your comment has been submitted and is awaiting moderation. Once approved, it will appear on this page.
Be the first to comment!