AM Scripture Reading: Luke 23.44-49

This Morning’s Sermon:                                               Brent T. Willey

From the Cross to the Throne

Acts 2.22-36

Introduction:

1. The apostle Paul wrote, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1.18).

2.   As important as the scene of the cross is, fortunately, the message does not end at the cross!

I. THE STORY OF THE CROSS OF CALVARY

1. Read Acts 2.22-23

1. The death of a sinless Man! (Verse 22; Heb. 7.26)

2. This was God’s “definite plan” (verse 23).

3. Several people were involved in this real-life drama: Jewish leaders, Judas Iscariot, Peter, Pilate, Herod, Jewish mob, soldiers, two thieves, Roman centurion, etc.

1. What does the “message of the cross” mean to you?

II. THE CASE OF THE EMPTY TOMB

1. Read Acts 2.24-36

   1. As a prophet, David “foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ” (verse 31; Psa. 16.8-11).

   2. Jesus’ body was not left in the grave, and therefore, it did not decay! (Verses 27, 31)

   3. The resurrection of Jesus is the basis of the gospel, as well as giving Christians a living hope! (1 Pet. 1.3-5)

2. What does the “message of the cross” mean to you?

III. THE JOURNEY BACK TO THE THRONE OF GOD

1. Read Acts 1.1-11

   1. He had told them that He was going back to the Father in heaven. (John 14.28)

   2. He returns to where He had formerly existed! (John 1.1-3)

   3. “Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption” (1 Cor. 15.50).

2. What does the “message of the cross” mean to you?

Conclusion: What did the “message of the cross” mean to over 3,000 Jews on the day of Pentecost? (Acts 2.37-41)