I. God Wants To Do Great Things v.11
God wants to do things that will cause people to be greatly amazed.
This involves Christians stepping out in faith as we perceive God leading us. It could be…
1. Miraculous healing
2. Bold witnessing
3. Step of faith- “ventures of faith”- Chuck Smith- Calvary Distinctives, last chapter
Steps of faith we (Cornerstone) are taking, and praying about taking.
1. Michael Sewell outreach- August 16, 17. Vet’s park: Aug. 16. Possibly Am. Can.: August 17
We will pray every Wednesday night at end of service, until the event.
Public outreach, public preaching: not normally seen in Napa.
2. Possible land purchase in Viscaino. 3.7 acres for $3000. Right off hwy, water, elec. nearby
a. Possible church plant.
b. Possible building of another “La Posada” style missions base.
c. Two ministry students from La Posada: 90% sure that they are moving to start a new work.
C.C. Monterrey, C.C. Antelope Valley have indicated interest in helping build.
3. My first reaction- we can’t do this, it will cost too much, how can we get it done?
God reminded me of how He has been working with us /me for 5 years re. Baja missions.
If it happens, it will be bigger than what Cornerstone could accomplish.
God has to be in it, and then we will be amazed.
Religious work apart from God doesn’t amaze people.
- The work of God makes people amazed.
Religious work which originates from man is not what we want to aim for.
- Great things are bigger than us. Beyond what we can do.
- We need to walk in faith, obedience, holiness.
- If we can do it on our own, then it doesn’t require faith, and may not be God.
- See what God wants to do, and then pursue it in faith.
- That leaves people amazed.
- That brings forth eternal results.
Jesus said that this would happen.
Acts 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
II. The People God Uses v.12
This is a perfect example of a godly servant.
He does not take credit, even when people want to give it to him.
He points people to God, even though God has worked mightily through him.
Peter asks 2 good questions.
1. Why are you looking at us, as if we could do this?
2. Why does this surprise you?
The servant of God ought to point to God, and remind people about how awesome God is.
- This is best done by the Christian who has personally experienced God’s greatness in their life.
- We should desire not 2nd hand experiences, not vicarious Christianity, but firsthand experiences that we can share with others
Example- Walden family move to Napa. - Computer purchase and sale before moving
- Groceries on the doorstep
- Flexible job opportunities
- Constant provision for our family, gifts, support, checks in the mailbox
- Acts 3:13-26