God’s People in the City - by Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin

Summary of Message:

“God’s People in the City” by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min.

This message focuses on God's call for His people to commit to long-term ministry and outreach, especially in the urban context, under the theme “Each One, Reach One.” Drawing from Acts 18, Pastor Hudson reflects on Paul’s ministry in Corinth, emphasizing that God told Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid... for I have many people in this city.” This refers not only to current believers but to those who would be saved.

Key scripture Text:

Acts18:9, Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. 

Key Themes:

1. God Knows Who Will Be Saved—We Don't

   • God, in His foreknowledge, knows those who will respond to the gospel.

   • Our responsibility is to share the message with everyone—we are not told who will or won’t respond.

   • Romans 8:29–30 outlines the process: foreknown, predestined, called, justified, glorified.

2. The Power and Necessity of the Gospel

   • Romans 1:16: “The gospel is the power of God to salvation.”

   • Programs and outreach are good, but they must be vehicles for presenting the gospel.

3. The Concept of “Locus” as Ministry Focus

   • "Locus" means the central area of activity.

   • Paul’s “locus” was preaching and teaching where God sent him, even staying for long periods to build impact.

   • We each must identify our personal ministry locus and stay committed.

4. Faithful Commitment Bears Fruit

   • Ministry impact takes time, consistency, and sometimes suffering.

   • Like Paul, we may face opposition, but God can shift us to nearby, fruitful places (e.g., Paul moved next door when rejected at the synagogue).

   • Being planted and focused leads to long-term results.

5. Salvation Process is God’s Work—but Requires Our Obedience

   • God does the calling, justifying, and glorifying.

   • Our job is to preach, share, and position ourselves so others can hear and respond.

6. Don’t Be Distracted or Discouraged

   • Ministry requires resilience. Not everyone will receive the message.

   • Even if we don’t see results, we may be sowing seeds others will water.

7. Christ Is Our Everything

   • 1 Corinthians 1:30 says Christ becomes our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

   • No one can boast—salvation is fully God’s work.

Final Challenge:

• Recognize that God has people in your city who haven’t heard yet.

• Be intentional about your focus and committed to your calling.

• Share the gospel faithfully—through outreach, in relationships, and wherever God places you.

Conclusion:
The city is full of potential believers waiting to hear. Our role is not to figure out who they are, but to be faithful in sharing, knowing that God will do the work of salvation. As Pastor Hudson put it: “Get a real locus—something you can take to heaven with you.”