It’s Friday, but Sunday’s Coming!
One of my favorite things about elementary school was when the teacher would call us all together for story time. I was an avid reader of fiction, and I loved all kinds of stories, especially those packed with action, mystery, and adventure. But even when the teacher picked something else to read, I didn’t mind. Sitting at my desk, listening to the soothing voice of a favorite teacher reading a good story was the best part of the day.
I still love good stories, even if I don’t read as much action and adventure as I once did. Most of my reading now is either from the Word or books written about theology and ministry. Sometimes, I get a dose of both at the same time.
As we continue winding through the New Testament book of Acts, you’ve probably already noticed that it is packed with action stories. A key difference between these stories and the ones I read as a child, however, is that all of these stories are true. They really happened. And that only adds to their power and their ability to keep my interest.
This morning as I preach, I hope you’ll put your other work away and listen as we read a large chunk of text (Acts 3:1-4:31). There are multiple stories there within the big picture story of God at work in his people. Miraculous healing. Convicting preaching. Revealing of mysteries. The arrest of heroes. Speaking truth to power. Threats and warnings. Even earth-shaking victory.
If you listen closely enough, somewhere in all this you’ll find your story, too. Because the Spirit of God is still at work in his people.
— Patrick Barber