Calvary Chapel Lake Stevens

In this teaching out of Acts 16, we're reminded of God's intricate guidance in our lives. The story of Paul, Silas, and Timothy's journey teaches us about following the Holy Spirit's lead, even when doors seem closed. We see how God orchestrates events, leading them to Lydia - an unexpected first convert in Europe. This narrative challenges us to trust in God's higher ways, as Isaiah 55:8-9 beautifully illustrates. The message encourages us to be open to God's direction, understanding that His plans may unfold differently than we expect. As we reflect on Lydia's conversion, we're prompted to consider how our own response to God's grace can bless not just us, but our households and communities. This sermon invites us to embrace the adventure of faith, being under the influence of the Holy Spirit, and ready for the good works God has prepared for us.

In this sermon out of Acts 15, we delve into the early church's struggle with legalism and the true meaning of salvation by grace. The central conflict revolves around whether Gentile believers needed to follow Jewish customs to be saved. This debate mirrors our own struggles with adding human requirements to God's free gift of grace. We're reminded that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not by our works or adherence to religious traditions. The apostles' resolution to this conflict teaches us valuable lessons about unity, sensitivity to others' consciences, and the importance of basing our decisions on Scripture and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As we reflect on this passage, we're challenged to examine our own hearts: Are we relying solely on God's grace, or are we unconsciously adding our own conditions to salvation? How can we better extend grace to others while remaining true to the gospel?

In this sermon out of Acts 14, we delve into the transformative power of faith over fear. As we follow Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey, we witness the stark contrast between those who embrace belief and those who reject it. This passage challenges us to examine our own lives and ask: Are we stepping out in faith or remaining paralyzed by fear? The miraculous healing of the lame man in Lystra serves as a poignant reminder that God's power is unleashed when we choose to believe. Just as the man leaped up at Paul's command, we too are called to rise above our limitations and walk in the freedom Christ offers. This message encourages us to recognize the 'lame' areas in our lives where we've become comfortable with bondage, and to courageously stand up in faith, trusting in God's power to transform us.

In this sermon out of Acts 13, we're reminded of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. The central message revolves around how all of history points to Jesus as the promised Messiah. As we journey through Israel's history - from Egypt to the wilderness, through judges and kings - we see God's hand at work, leading to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ. This narrative challenges us to consider: How often do we miss God's bigger picture in our own lives? Are we wandering in fear, or stepping out in faith? The apostle Paul's bold proclamation of the gospel reminds us that salvation comes not through our own efforts, but through faith in Jesus. As we reflect on this, let's consider how we can embrace God's grace and share the 'good news' with others, even in the face of rejection or opposition. Remember, our joy isn't dependent on circumstances, but on the presence of God's Spirit within us.

In this sermon out of Acts 13, we delve into the early church's first missionary journey, uncovering timeless lessons about following God's call. We see how the believers in Antioch, through prayer, fasting, and ministering to the Lord, prepared their hearts to hear God's voice. This reminds us of the importance of clearing out life's clutter to discern God's will. The Holy Spirit's role in guiding and empowering believers is emphasized, showing us that when we step out in faith, we can expect divine encounters and supernatural results. As we witness Paul confronting darkness and false teaching, we're challenged to examine the ongoing battle between our sinful nature and the Spirit within us. This message encourages us to lean into the power of the Holy Spirit, believing that greater is He who is in us than he who is in the world.

In this sermon, we're reminded of the transformative power of prayer and the importance of trusting God in seemingly impossible situations. The story of Peter's miraculous escape from prison in Acts 12 serves as a striking illustration of God's ability to intervene in our lives, even when all hope seems lost. We're encouraged to pray fervently, just as the early church did for Peter, and to remain open to God's unexpected methods of answering our prayers. This narrative also beautifully mirrors the gospel message itself - we're all imprisoned by sin, but God sends a Deliverer to set us free. As we reflect on this, we're challenged to consider: Are we truly expecting God to answer our prayers? Are we giving Him the glory when He does? This message invites us to deepen our faith, to pray with expectation, and to trust in God's sovereign power over every circumstance in our lives.