With steadfast purpose

It was great to get back into the Book of Acts last Sunday after a two-year hiatus. What a challenge these passages are going to be to us each week! As we turn our attention to Acts 11:19-30 this Sunday, we’ll see the character and actions of those who have a steadfast purpose to live for and serve Christ in this life. Often that comes at great cost. If you’d like to work through previous messages in this series, the archive has the previous messages covering Acts 1-10 and last week’s message in the first part of Acts 11.

Series: The Acts of the Apostles (Chapters 11-16)
Todd Dugard
Message: 29 – With Steadfast Purpose
Harvest Bible Chapel
Text: Acts 11:19-30
November 5, 2023

Most people fail, not because of lack of desire, but, because of lack of commitment.
Vince Lombardi

The widespread relativism in our culture undermines any clarity about what to be committed to. This is because it leaves us unsure as to what, if anything, is most worthy.
Arthur W. Lindsley

2 Corinthians 4:18

As a Christian, I steadfastly purpose to...

...work within the conditions God sets out for me (v. 19a)

We are not necessarily doubting that God will do the best for us; we are wondering how painful the best will turn out to be.
C. S. Lewis

...innovate appropriately in fulfilling the mission (v. 19b-20)

...reflect the gospel in my life and ministry (v. 21-26)

James 2:19

The Greek expression translated as "devotion" describes the purpose of one's will, the resolve to believe in the crucified, risen, and exalted Jesus as Israel's Messiah, Lord, and Saviour of the world, to rely on God for the atonement of sins through Jesus' death, to count on Jesus for reconciliation with God, and to depend on the Holy Spirit for the transformation of one's life and behavior.
Eckhard J. Schnabel

I wish not merely to be called Christian, but also to be Christian.
Ignatius

...act with compassion toward those in need (v. 27-30)

My giving should be:
(1) Generous
(2) Sacrificial
(3) Willing and even eager
(4) Regular
(5) Cheerfully given
(6) Trusting of God’s provision for me
(7) Out of gratitude for my salvation

Most professing Christians fail in the Christian life, not because of lack of believing in God, but, because of lack of a steadfast purpose to truly live out the gospel of Jesus Christ.