Jeff Shackelford's Podcast

We talk often in churches about the Christmas story in Luke 2. We see the narrative about the birth of Jesus but we see in verse 15 that some ordinary shepherds found the truth of the prophecies in the Old Testament were true. The angels sent them to Bethlehem and there they found the baby Jesus just as they were told. The great news was then told by the shepherds with deep and rich excitement. The same gospel then is the same gospel that we should all tell as well. Not just at Christmas but all the time.

Paul models for us how to live a life for Jesus and to be committed to the gospel and to stand up for what is right. As we examine Acts 23 we see that God provides for Paul the strength to endure the challenges of false accusations as well as tremendous amounts of pressure and hardship.

A life story that gives honor to God for all He has done in Karl's life.

A life story that gives honor to God for all He has done in Jim's life/

Paul issues to the elders of Ephesus in Acts 20 a strong and important warning that is good for all of us. We must stay rooted and grounded in the Word of God. We must stay connected to the source of all life, direction and purpose which is Jesus and we also must be doing His will in all parts and walks of our life.

As we look at Act 20 we see that we are called to a higher level in following Jesus. We are instructed to know Him fully. We are instructed to serve Him with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength. We are to living a life fully sold out to Jesus. Are you willing to live that way? Are you willing to lean into Him and finish the race He has set for you and I? Are you willing to rely on Him fully to pursue the Great Commission in all you do? (Sorry for the long lead on the recording)

As we move through Acts we see countless times that the apostles encountered times of trouble, difficulties and joy. In those moments, they were instructed as we are to be joyful! To have a Grateful Heart! To rejoice when the time may not be joyful. We must recycle joy no matter the time. How is your heart condition?

As a follower of Jesus Christ, we have the Holy Spirit living inside us. His power is right from the Source of all things, God the Father. With this, we need to begin to live according to the way the Spirit wants us to live and that requires that we live in the Spirit and walk in step with the Spirit. As we see tonight in the series on the book of Acts, we examine the way to Live In The Spirit by seeing this from Galatians 5:16-26 and Psalms 51:1-11. Grab your Bible, a cup of God's Brew and dig in to His Word and also into the offer to Live In The Spirit that the Father makes for us.

As we examine Acts 19:1-10, we see that the 12 believers that Paul encountered had only heard of Jesus to come and had not experienced the life changing impact of Jesus. So, they had never received the Holy Spirit. It is here we see as with Apollos, they knew of Jesus the Messiah to come, but didn't know Jesus the Savior and in part, had not received the Holy Spirit either. We begin tonight looking at the Holy Spirit and just who He is in connection with the Trinity as well as His role, purpose and part of our lives in relationship to our walk with Jesus.

So often in our life we have a head knowledge of God and yet, there isn't a real personal connection and relationship with God. We have to take what we know and have it radically impact our lives in order for us to surrender fully and completely to God. Know things of Him or about Him isn't enough, it take a genuine and real acceptance of our need for Him and then receiving what He has for us. Forgiveness of the sins in our lives, freeing us from our bondage and shame, walking with us in good and bad, leading and directing our steps and paths, giving us the Holy Spirit and the assurance of eternal life. Do you have a head knowledge of God? Do you have a heart knowledge of Him as well? If not, ask Him to reveal Himself to you today. Acts 18:18-28

In Acts 18 we see that Paul once again starts to preach the Gospel and many come to faith. And he also, learns a new trade and joins a husband and wife team making tents. It isn't only just for making tents, he does what he does well...making disciples! Often in the churches today, we feel it is the pastor, elders and others job to teach, mentor and disciple and yet, we see here a real example of disciple making in action.

We see in Acts 17 that Paul confronts the people on all their idols that they have and worship. Even today, people have idols that we worship and have that take the fore front of our lives over our worship of God. We will look at this passage and see that God is the only real and true God and that we must not have any other God's but Him. We also must examine our own lives and see if we are needing to rid ourselves of idols, things we worship and value more than God.

In the first half of chapter 17 we see that Paul and the crew of servants of Jesus encounter not one more, not two more but three encounters with evil opposition when they are spreading the gospel. When we boldly go where God wants us to go, we will encounter obstacles and yet, we are given full authority over the evil one in the Name of Jesus and we are given full power and victory through Jesus as we are in the battle. We need people however to be in the battle with us that will hold us up and pray for us. That will encourage us. We also need to be studying the Word for ourselves and growing. We need to boldly share the truth wherever we are and with whomever we are with.

Often in life we are held captive by things of the world that jail us. They hold us prisoners. We are allowed to be free of these when we surrender our will and way to Jesus. When we invite Him to control, direct, lead and be master of our lives. Following Jesus gives us a get out of jail free card if you will. Lets dig into Act 16 and see the account there as well as how we can apply these truths to our own lives.

When we see and encounter roadblocks in our lives and ministry, we often respond to them in varies ways. We see here in Acts 16:6-16 Paul and Timothy responded to the closed doors in life by waiting on God and then going as He led them to go. How do you and I respond to the closed doors in our lives? Seek Him first in all we do and He will be found and He will lead.

In Acts 16:1-5 we are introduced to a young man named Timothy. Raised and mentored by his grandmother and mother, they were an active part in the discipleship process of him. Here we see Paul starting the next level of discipleship with him and through this we see the crucial element of spiritual discipleship for all believers.

As we look at Acts 15 we see two scenarios of struggles of people not getting along. Due to traditions by the Jews now followers of Jesus expecting the Gentile believers to adhere to the laws and customs. All parties were unable to do that and so, a letter is written and directions for how to live as Christ indeeds for them and us to live was written and delivered. The second struggle was with two missionaries that needed to be about the call of Jesus on their life and due to a young man, Mark, there was a disagreement that arose. See how God intends for us to live and act as followers of Him through the text. (Due to a technical problem, last weeks sermon was not recorded and a review was done in the start of this sermon)

When we encounter struggles, persecution, difficulties and unfair advantages we often back away from them. We also can respond in a way that is not God honoring. Persecution is part of being a disciple. Our response is critical and paramount to the name of God. Do we tarnish His name in difficult times or do we count the cost of following Him as a disciple of His. Act 14:20-28

When the Lord leads us into a deeper walk and relationship with Him it requires us to follow Him regardless of the cost. Paul and Barnabas encounter tough obstacles and people that were horrible to them. They pushed through the ministry they were called to by God and by His strength and plan, people came to faith in Christ. Acts 14 shows us how we should live and follow Him and His plan. Boldly go where others won't go by His leading and strength.

We look at the reason and purpose for the existence of Paul and Barnabas on this journey in the spreading of the Gospel. They meet resistance again and yet, in history there is always a reason and purpose for everything. They will now embark on what God is commissioning them to do...reach the Gentiles. Act 13:26-52 The Gospel is about Christ, Christ centered and available to all! This makes Paul and Barnabas Two Happy Campers!

When you live your life, we typically live for ourselves. When people talk about us, it is usually all about us. However, as we see in Act 13:13-32, the history account that Paul shares is not about him but it is all about God! It is History! Yes, history and HisStory! Pray that you and I can live life's that are about History in us lived out of us!

We see that the Holy Spirit is continuing to spread the gospel and people are coming to faith in Christ. We also see again in Acts 13, Saul (Paul) and Barnabas encounter struggles after being sent by the Holy Spirit, commissioned by the believers/church in Antioch to go on a Search and Save mission for God. We also see how they confronted the adversary and how the adversary desired to twist the truth and divert the focus of others and yet, just like with Peter and Cornelius, the Holy Spirit prepares the governor's heart and he comes to faith in Christ. We must remember to not be in maintenance mode but on Mission for God.

We see that despite the horrible situation that Peter was in, the death of James, the persecution of the early church followers of Jesus, the prayers of His people are answered. The Lord responds to the prayers of His people and not only was Peter released, the early church witnessed the answer to their prayers. As we look at Acts 12, watch how the Lord moves, response and reveals His plan. When the Lord works, it is for His glory and we are able to be the participants in His plan.

When we as believers begin to realize that the Lord's plans and ways are right, the result is phenomenal. When God was increasing the early church, Acts 11:19-30, we see that it was done through His grace for His glory. As the apostles and disciples shared the gospel message of Jesus, people came to faith. Lives were changed and cities were reached. The spreading of the good news of Jesus starts with just one person that know the power and beauty of GRACE! Then, they share their story and life and others see it and want it too. Will you share His story and His life through yours so that others will see His grace?

When we think of our walk with Jesus, we are give the ability to be free of all the things that have enslaved us. We need to live in the freedom that was given to us on our behalf by our Lord. As we reflect this weekend on the freedoms that we enjoy in our country, may we not forget that the freedom of a nation and our freedom in Christ isn't free, it cost everything. Thankful for the Lord's willingness to give His life for us. Thankful to for the men and women who have sacrificed for the freedom's we have in the US.

When God is involved in life, He has a plan, a purpose and a way. He takes in Acts 10 and moves a man that knew of Him and feared Him and purposed that he would KNOW God personally. Moving in unexpected and socially unexpected ways, God uses a Peter from a whole different lifestyle and culture to bring the Gospel of Jesus to man, his family and friends. Despite our circumstances and our lack of skills, God can move in ways that we would never expect to His Glory. Follow movement of the Holy Spirit drawing and preparing Cornelius and Peter as well. Their lives were diverse and different and yet, God's plan was to breakdown the walls and bring them together. His purpose was fulfilled in both men. And in the end, God receives the Glory.

When Saul in Act 9:23-43 finds himself as the Hunter now the Hunted is in the midst of chaos. The paralytic and the disciple Tabitha's death puts others in chaos, God moves in and in the eye of the storm brings peace and growth. The gospel message moved in the regions just as Jesus said it would and it came in the midst of chaos then calmness! When you find your life is in chaos, focus on the eye of the storm and rest in the hands of the God who is in total and complete control.

As we see Saul's conversion take place, in Acts 9, we now see the same man radically changed. The transformation in his life took root and grew to the point that the synagogue he was going to go to and create a mess as well as the new followers of Jesus would be taken, jailed and possibly killed were hearing the truth of the Son of God being told by him. How does this happen, a true encounter with God via His Son. Luke describes this in Act 9:19-22. Grab your Bible and join us from there as we see who Jesus is! Also, be ready to navigate to other scriptures we look at in the message tonight.

When we see people around us that are horrific in their lifestyle, we often say there is no possible way that God would save them. Whether a mass murder, rapist, terrorist or whomever, we often write them off. God however, hasn't and doesn't write them off. He love all as we see in John 3:16 and has made a way to have a personal relationship with them. Just like He wants or has with you. As we examine Acts 9:1-19 we will see this in the life of the "chief sinner" of all. Saul receives a personal invitation to know God and to receive His mercy and grace.

I apologize that the end of the sermon did not get recorded. With at said, we are looking at the way God directs us to follow in obedience to His call and His leading. The way we do this is to be immersed in Him, His Word and to listen to the still small voice that He speaks with inside each person that follows Jesus fully. We see how Philip listened and the Ethiopian did as well. Looking into Acts 8:25-40 this account is full of the wonder and power of God setting divine appointments for the Glory of the Lord. May you be blessed as you examine this text with us and on your own.

Often times we skirt around the issue of true faith in Jesus as well as the matters of the battle in the supernatural realm. In Acts 8 we see Simon the sorcerer seeing the full power of God and wants it for personal and selfish reasons/motives. His heart was not right and his motive was off base. He has a non-saving faith and also a wow factor believe/amazement at the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter boldly calls him out and challenges him to repent and follow Christ. Trust you will find some challenges and areas to surrender and yield to the Lord. May His Word bless and keep you.

In the early church, they encountered difficulties and joyous times. We are also going to or already experiencing that. As we see, joy is in the suffering, the pain, the hurt and the struggle when we go through it with God. As you look at His Word in this message, may you find strength, courage and endurance to go through whatever you are going through. I pray for you, your life, your family, your marriage, your job and all you are in that you will seek God and the Holy Spirit to sustain you through the hard times. In Him, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! Acts 8:1-8

As we look at Act 7 we see that Stephen prove that God is who He said He was, is and His promises. His story is one of Truth and Grace and it woven through out the Old and New Testament. Stephen respectfully tells God's story, ones these religious leaders knew very well as the evidence of who God is. Not wanting to hear the truth as they couldn't handle the truth, they have Stephen put to death at their own hands. God's love and grace comes out on Stephen and his testimony was evidence enough that God is real. Do you know He is real? You can know He is and experience Him in your life today.

Stephen we see in Acts 6 is selected as a deacon. Then he serves, many come to faith in Jesus and the leaders then drag him in on false trumped up charges. Stephen faces a mock trial like that of the Jesus. He never waivers and never falters from the truth. Stephen remains constant, passionate and holds on to the truth. Quote...Working hard for something we don't care about is stress, Working for something we love is called passion! What is your passion? Who is your passion?

When we look at Acts 6:1-7 we see there was a need to be met. God used Godly men filled with the Holy Spirit and full of wisdom to meet the need. He also used everyone in the body as they gave of their time, gifts, talents and possessions. We have to ask ourselves, "How Can I Help?" and What can I do? When it comes to serving in the body of Christ, we need everyone to ask the Spirit to help them know where to serve and how to serve. One way to serve the body is through prayer! Ask God to prompt you to find a few people you can intercede on their behalf and watch what He does in your life and theirs as you pray.

We look at a review of the first 12 verses in Acts 5. Then we delve into the nitty gritty of the struggles that come from obedience and following God. No matter the issues, the struggles, the challenges and trials, we can trust that the Father has a plan and the end result is for His Glory. The apostles met with major demands and situations that were overcome able by the Hand of the Father. What are you facing that seems huge and difficult? Trust Him and in full obedience, just do it!

When we are in the family of God, He desires for us to be one with Him and one with the family of God. Part of that is being completely committed to Him, His plan and His will in our lives. As the early church was, there was a need...they met it! What a blessing to be a part of a body that is that way. Acts 4:32-37

As we look at Luke 24:1-12 we see that the Father's plan was to glorify Himself through the Son. Even in the cruel death of Jesus, the Father was glorified. In His resurrection, the Father was glorified. Now, even in our lives, we need to glorify the Father. The empty grave gives us victory over our sin and death! The promise of the ONE that came to save! He is Risen Indeed!

When it is tough around us and we encounter struggles, trials, hardships, disappointments and all life can throw at us, we are given the opportunity to Be Big and Bold in and through the Name of Jesus! Look at Peter and John as they battled tough times as we look at Acts 4:1-31. PTL

Looking at the early church that starts declaring the truth of who Jesus was and is. Peter declares to the masses that are there. He gives his first sermon proofing Jesus is the Messiah and at the end of his sermon, 3000 come to follow Jesus. The model for us today, Acts 2:42, devoted to teaching of His Word, fellowship, communion and prayer. Also, share boldly the truth of who Jesus was and is and let others know how to know Him.

A look at Acts 2 and the start of the early Church. We examine the first portion of the chapter by looking at the connection of Pentecost in the Old Testament and the connection of the day recorded in Act 2:1-13

We examine the final days of Christ's public ministry and how this should impact our lives today as followers of Jesus Christ.