First Baptist Church

Colossians 9-14 The book of Colossians follows the typical pattern of Paul's letters: the first half is heavily theological, while the second half is intensely practical. In most of his letters you can clearly identify a pivot point where he transitions from explaining what is true to outlining what to do about it.

The Scriptures are clear that no human being has the capacity or the ability in and of himself to secure salvation. No mere man can save another man, let alone save himself. No man has the power to save anyone else; no man has the authority to save. We cannot earn salvation through human effort.

The message of the glorious gospel is the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ alone. The gospel centers on the belief that through faith in Jesus (his death, burial, and resurrection) sinful man can be saved and reconciled to God (this encompasses both God's grace and the faith enabled by the Holy Spirit that leads to repentance, confession, and receiving the free gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ).

Psalm 103

The passage for today tell us - the men sent by Cornelius along with Peter and several of the brothers from Joppa are headed to Caesarea. This marks the final leg of this particular divine journey. The visions experienced by Cornelius and Peter will come into play as these two men will meet.

Peter's journey, which begins with our passage this morning, is a divine journey. The sovereign grace of God prepares a Jewish apostle, Simon Peter, to bring the gospel message to the Gentiles. Peter's journey was the catalyst of a journey that continues today.

Acts 9:23-30

Friday evening sermon by Don Currin