Unstoppable: The Book of Acts: People Like Us - Pastor Ben Hodges

Acts 5:33-42Expect Resistance :: Faithful ministry draws resistance. The apostles are imprisoned twice in this chapter (vv. 18, 26), threatened (v.28), and flogged (v.40). Ministry is not safe or convenient—it’s a spiritual battleground.Suffering is a Badge of Honor :: Instead of shrinking in fear, they rejoice that they are counted worthy to suffer. The Kingdom does not measure success by ease but by faithfulness—especially under pressure.Acts 6:42Effective Ministry is Word-Centered :: Peter and John preach relentlessly—not privately but publicly. The Gospel is not to be treated as a private encouragement but lived out and spoken outas a publicly. They are arrested not for healing but for preaching Jesus as the Christ (v.28).Proclaiming in Every Space :: The apostles teach in the temple (public) and from house to house (personal). Healthy faith doesn’t pick between church and home—it does both. The mature bring Christ into every sphere of life.Acts 6:1-7Character Driven :: Stephen wasn't chosen for his résumé but for his reputation, wisdom, and spiritual depth. These are the true qualifications for church leadership, and makes for good home-leadership and good self-leadership.Identify and Respond to Real Needs :: The Apostles didn’t ignore the complaint of the widows. Good ministers listen, consider, then act appropriately within a reasonable amount of time.Formally Divide the Load :: The Apostles gave others an opportunity to serve, within their abilities, by formally identifying the responsibilities that each would do. No formal role clarification equals loads of disfunction.Spirit-led Not Charisma-led :: The early church leaders were not clever or great strategists. They were empowered by the Holy Spirit. How could this work in your life?What Is Most Important :: You must protect unity without losing focus on priorities – living for Christ. And preaching the Gospel is the priority.Acts 2:7