Law and Grace in Action

Rev. Paul J. Miller – Sermon Outline – September 19, 2021

Series Title: “The Church is Persecuted”

Today’s Title: “If it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men”

Today’s Text: Acts 5:17-42

 

Acts 5:17-42

Factors and aspects about this story:

 

LAW IMPRISONS US AND LEADS TO DEATH

Peter lays responsibility for Jesus’ death on the people of Jerusalem

• Acts 2:23 and you, … put him to death by nailing him to the cross.”
• Acts 2:36 …this Jesus, whom you crucified,
• Acts 3:13-15 …You handed him over to be killed,… 15 You killed the author of life,
• Acts 4:10 …whom you crucified
• Acts 5:30 …whom you killed by hanging him on a cross.

 

THE GRACE OF CHRIST SETS US FREE AND LEADS TO LIFE!

19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. 20 “Go, stand in the temple courts,” he said, “and tell the people all about this new life.” – Acts 5:19

 

Angelic appearances and messages are rare. Just 6x in Acts

 

What the angel didn’t say…

• Attack the Sanhedrin, they are the problem
• Outwit them, outsmart them, say clever things to discredit them
• Get the people on your side thru political means, show them your wounds to raise anger & fear

 

The angel DID say to TELL THEM ALL ABOUT THIS NEW LIFE!

• John 10:10 - The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.