The Response to Truth
Introduction:
At the end of Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill in Athens, the listeners
responded to the truth of his message in three different ways. (Acts
17:32-34)
People haven’t changed in the past 1900 years. Those responses to
the truth of the gospel are still seen.
Unfortunately, many Christians today believe we should “tone down”
our message so as not to offend. It is not our responsibility to
make sure that people never feel troubled or uncomfortable when the
truth is presented. The Scriptures make clear that the gospel will
trouble people today just like it did in the first century.
What kinds of people will be troubled when the truth is presented?
Body:
I.
The Hypocrites (Pretenders)
·
Matthew 23:25-28 These scribes and Pharisees went to great lengths to appear
religious and spiritual. Jesus repeatedly throughout His ministry
denounced them for their hypocrisy. When He taught them the truth,
instead of repenting; they tried to kill Him.
(Matthew
12:1-7, 14)
II.
The Worldly (Comfortable)
·
Setting: City of Ephesus (Acts
19:1-10)
Paul presented the truth to them.
·
Paul performed great miracles. (Verses
17-20)
The truth caused them to repent.
·
This caused quite a disturbance. (Verses
23-27)
Demetrius’ lifestyle was threatened; his financial security was in
danger; his god was being dethroned.
·
Was it Paul’s fault for the riot that followed? Of course not! The
gospel challenged the existing culture. Many didn’t like it. They
were comfortable with how things were. This will always happen when
people’s way of life (financial, religious, political. . .) is
challenged by the truth of the gospel. (Acts
16:16-21)
III.
The Compromisers
·
In the first century, there were men who wanted to bring in beliefs,
ideas, and practices from other religions. (Acts
15:10-11)
·
Paul was greatly disturbed that many in the churches of Galatia were
changing or distorting the true gospel. (Galatians
1:6-10)
·
Today people are doing the same. They are willing to alter the
gospel to accept teachings both secular and religious. They accept
evolution, abortion, homosexuality, multiple ways of salvation, all
religions and faiths are equal. . .
·
The more we insist on the exclusiveness of the gospel, the more we
will be shunned. The truth is very narrow.
Conclusion:
Jesus said of Himself, “I am the way, the truth and the life; no one
comes to the Father except through Me.” (John
14:6)
Jesus is the only way, the exclusive way. That truth is troubling
to many people. Jesus knew it would be. (Matthew
10:34)
Bobby
Stafford
May 5, 2013 |