PM Scripture Reading: Acts 7.54-60

This Evening’s Sermon:

Brent T. Willey

The Godly Rejected!

Acts 7

Introduction:

1. The evangelist Stephen presents four historical accounts in which Israel rejected the leaders God raised up for them, and then concludes his sermon addressing the rejection of Christ.

2. Stephen, himself, faced the ultimate rejection be being stoned to death for preaching the truth (vs. 54-60).

I. WHY ARE THE GODLY REJECTED?

1. Joseph rejected by his brothers} ENVY & JEALOUSY  (V. 9; cf., Gen. 37:4-11; 1 John 3.12-13)

2.  Moses rejected by Israel} LACKED UNDERSTADNING (V. 25; cf., Acts 28.17-28)  
3. Moses rejected by Israel again} IDOLATRY (Vs. 37-40; cf., Num. 14.1-4)
4. Prophets rejected & slain} STUBBORNNESS  (Vs. 51-53; cf., Neh. 9.30; Isa. 63.10)

II. WHY WAS, AND IS, CHRIST REJECTED TODAY?

1. He epitomizes Godliness! (Matt. 27.19,24; Luke 23.47)

2. Why Christ is rejected today… (Vs. 52-53) All of the above!

   1. Envy & Jealousy! (Matt. 27.18)
   2. No Understanding! (John 8.31-45)
   3. Idolatry! (2 Cor. 6.14-18)
   4. Stubbornness! (John 12.48; Luke 6.46-49)

Conclusion: The message of truth has never been popular!

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