Open Hearts

Primary Scripture: Acts 16:11-40 Cross References: Luke 24:45; Acts 9:15-16, 26:16-18 Message Overview: Ministry will take us where we have not been before. Philippi was a Gentile place without a synagogue. Paul went down by the river thinking that he may find people praying. There he met Lydia, and God opened her heart to the gospel. Later, Paul casts a demon from a slave girl and a mob quickly forms around Paul and Silas, eventually landing them in jail. But as they are praying and singing hymns to God in the presence of other prisoners, God moves again by causing an earthquake. The Gospel prevails as the jailer and his family believe. About 10 years later, Paul wrote to the church at Philippi thanking this church for their partnership in the gospel. They had stories to tell as they remembered together how God had used them as he open hearts to the gospel. This was a church full of joy as they reflect on the movement of God (Philippians 1:3-14). Prompting Questions: How can our people learn sensitivity to the Holy Spirit as he works in unexpected ways through us...even when conflict is present? How can we find the people praying by the river or see through the angry mob that seeks to silence the gospel where we live? How do we balance careful ministry planning with new capacity to adapt to unexpected circumstances when God moves? How can we find joy in the chaos of rapidly growing ministry opportunity?