Sermons Worth Stealing - Pt 5

Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. So there was much joy in that city. (Acts 8:4-8 ESV).

As we continue to look at the sermons in Acts, we come to the preaching of Philip. The content is found in three verses with four examples of what his message was. He preached Christ (v. 5); the things concerning the kingdom of God (v. 12); the name of Jesus Christ (v. 12); and, he simply preached “Jesus” (v. 35). It should not be discarded too quickly as we think about Sermons Worth Stealing. The person and work of the Jesus must be at the center of our faith and works. It is this simplicity of message that changes the lives of people for eternity. In 1880, one of the great hynmists, Frances J. Crosby wrote “Tell me the Story of Jesus.” You may remember the chorus: Tell me the story of Jesus, Write on my heart every word; Tell me the story most precious, Sweetest that ever was heard. While a bit longer than I normally use in these devotionals, I felt this particular quote from Sinclair Ferguson is particularly appropriate: There is a center to the Bible and its message of grace. It is found in Jesus Christ crucified and resurrected. Grace, therefore, must be preached in a way that is centered and focused on Jesus Christ Himself. We must never offer the benefits of the gospel without the Benefactor Himself. For many preachers, however, it is much easier to deal with the pragmatic things, to answer “how to” questions, and even to expose and denounce sin than it is to give an adequate explanation of the source of the forgiveness, acceptance, and power we need. This is what will reach the heart! And when you have experienced such preaching, or seen its fruit, you will know what true preaching is. And you will agree that its fruit lasts for all eternity. Notice the result of his preaching: So there was much joy in that city (v. 8). I am not saying there is not a place for “steps” to any of the improvements of life we desire; however, I am saying we must found each of them in the person and work of Jesus. This is where the real power is; this is where the real change takes place. And, that will preach!