The message of Acts 17:1-7 calls FaithWay Baptist Church to rise as a beacon of God’s transformative power, shaking our community and the world for Christ. Pastor Torres delivered a stirring sermon during our fall revival, reminding us of the early church’s impact and challenging us to embrace a revival of impact today. Through a renewed love for the gospel, boldness for Christ, and devotion to our mission, God can use this church to turn the world upside down, just as He did through the believers in Thessalonica.
A Renewed Love of the Gospel (Acts 17:1-3)
The gospel of Jesus Christ remains the most powerful message in the world, capable of breaking chains, healing lives, and bringing light to the darkest places. In Acts 17:1-3, Paul entered the synagogue in Thessalonica and, over three Sabbath days, reasoned from the Scriptures, proclaiming that Christ suffered and rose again. His message was rooted in the Word of God, not clever arguments, and it pointed directly to Jesus as the promised Messiah. Some believed, and lives were transformed because of the gospel’s power.
As a church, we must never tire of this message. The gospel is not mere advice but the good news that saves and transforms. Romans 1:16 declares, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” We are called to keep the gospel central in our sermons, songs, and conversations, ensuring it saturates every aspect of our ministry. Like a soldier cherishing a letter from his beloved, we should treasure the gospel (God’s love letter written in the blood of Christ) never growing weary of its truth.
A Renewed Boldness for Christ (Acts 17:4-5)
Boldness for Christ is essential for a church to shake the world. In Thessalonica, the gospel divided: some believed, while others, moved by envy, stirred up a mob against Paul and Silas. Yet, Paul never shrank back, even in the face of persecution. His courage came not from himself but from the Holy Spirit, as Acts 1:8 promises, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me.” Peter, once fearful, became a bold preacher after the Spirit filled him, proclaiming Christ to thousands.
We, too, must stand unashamed for Christ in our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. Boldness does not mean arrogance but confidence in the truth that Jesus is with us. The gospel will face opposition, as it confronts sin and challenges pride, but we must not cower. The same Spirit that empowered Paul and Peter lives in us, enabling us to speak truth in love, no matter the cost. Let us commit to being a church that boldly proclaims Christ, trusting God to use our courage to advance His kingdom.
A Renewed Devotion to Our Mission (Acts 17:6-7)
The early church’s devotion to their mission turned the world upside down. In Acts 17:6-7, the Jews accused Paul and Silas of disrupting the city by preaching “another king, one Jesus.” Though meant as criticism, this was the greatest compliment, revealing the church’s impact. Without buildings, budgets, or technology, the early believers spread the gospel from Jerusalem to Rome, driven by the Holy Spirit and a commitment to their mission.
FaithWay Baptist Church is called to the same mission: to make disciples and proclaim Christ to the nations. Revival is incomplete if we only gather to sing and hear preaching. True revival sends us out to our neighbors, coworkers, and beyond, sharing the gospel with urgency. God has chosen us, imperfect as we are, to be His vessels, carrying the message of salvation to those who may never hear it otherwise. Let us re-devote ourselves to this mission, trusting that the same God who used the early church can use us to transform communities, restore families, and save souls.
Conclusion
For 51 years, God has been faithful to FaithWay Baptist Church, but our story is far from over. The same gospel that saved and transformed lives in Acts still works today. The same Spirit empowers us, and the same Christ reigns. Acts 17:1-7 challenges us to pursue a revival of impact, one that shakes our homes, schools, workplaces, and cities for Christ. Will we respond to God’s call? Let us pray for a renewed love for the gospel, boldness for Christ, and devotion to our mission, trusting God to use this church to turn the world right side up for His glory.
