READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary l Man’s exploration of the galaxies reveals a hunger to connect with something or someone beyond our physical material world. John Wesley, a devout man and missionary, had a hunger for deeper connection with God as he did not feel sure that there was a God who loved him and would forgive him of his sins. His desire for deeper connection culminated in his heart-warming experience on 24 May 1738 when he felt his heart strangely warmed and he was assured of his salvation from sin and death. John Wesley’s experience reveals a God who wants such a heart-warming experience to all.
Acts 10 describes the experience of two religious persons:
1) Cornelius
Cornelius does not yet know Christ though he was devout, God-fearing, gave generously to those in need and prayed regularly (V1-2). God sent an angel to invite him to a deeper experience of God’s love. Cornelius responded positively and experienced a heart-warming experience with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
2) Peter
Peter is both Jew and Christian. He believed Jesus is the Messiah but his belief in Christ involved conversion to Jewish religion requiring circumcision and kosher food. God led Peter to understand that conversion to Jewish religion was not necessary for salvation. Cornelius was accepted into God’s family without the need to do so.
God does not show favouritism but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right through Jesus who is Lord of all (V34-36). Just as Peter experienced the wideness of God’s love, Cornelius found acceptance by God and was baptised in the name of Jesus Christ.
May the Lord guide us to show love to our religious neighbours and help lead them to Jesus Christ through whom we are accepted into God’s family.
(Sermon notes by Woo Choi Yin)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
- How has the Holy Spirit spoken to you through the preaching of God’s word? What is one takeaway for you?
- Do you have any questions about the message?
- Is there someone the Lord is calling you to reach out in love or to pray for?
- Is there someone you can partner with to reach out to this person?
- Take some time to ask the Lord to fill you with His love as you pray for opportunities to reach out to the person concerned.
