A Life Well-Lived | Finishing Strong

Feeling [music] a bit disconnected in Feeling [music] a bit disconnected in your walk with Christ? Well, Pastor Greg your walk with Christ? Well, Pastor Greg your walk with Christ? Well, Pastor Greg Laurie has a great [music] new book Laurie has a great [music] new book Laurie has a great [music] new book called What Every Growing Christian called What Every Growing Christian called What Every Growing Christian Needs to Know that will help. Needs to Know that will help. Needs to Know that will help. >> Let's say you're feeling lethargic and >> Let's say you're feeling lethargic and >> Let's say you're feeling lethargic and tired. You know, if you have a [music] tired. You know, if you have a [music] tired. You know, if you have a [music] diet of social media and you don't take diet of social media and you don't take diet of social media and you don't take time for the word of God, this [music] time for the word of God, this [music] time for the word of God, this [music] is going to have a damaging effect. So, is going to have a damaging effect. So, is going to have a damaging effect. So, this is just one of the things we talk this is just one of the things we talk this is just one of the things we talk about in this new book called What Every about in this new book called What Every about in this new book called What Every Growing Christian Needs to Know. Growing Christian Needs to Know. Growing Christian Needs to Know. >> Available at harvest.org. >> Are you living your life [music] well? >> Are you living your life [music] well? You know, as you get older, you You know, as you get older, you You know, as you get older, you understand that verse that says we live understand that verse that says we live understand that verse that says we live our lives like a story [music] our lives like a story [music] our lives like a story [music] that's been told. What story is your that's been told. What story is your that's been told. What story is your life telling? [music] life telling? [music] life telling? [music] >> We see people who walk closely with the >> We see people who walk closely with the >> We see people who walk closely with the Lord and are on fire for him through Lord and are on fire for him through Lord and are on fire for him through thick and thin. thick and thin. thick and thin. How can we enjoy that kind of abundant How can we enjoy that kind of abundant How can we enjoy that kind of abundant life? Today on A New Beginning, [music] life? Today on A New Beginning, [music] life? Today on A New Beginning, [music] Pastor Greg Laurie has the answer. Pastor Greg Laurie has the answer. Pastor Greg Laurie has the answer. >> Get your goals right and let your >> Get your goals right and let your >> Get your goals right and let your passion be for Jesus.

[music] [music] >> We're on an inspiring journey through >> We're on an inspiring journey through >> We're on an inspiring journey through the book of Acts here on A New the book of Acts here on A New the book of Acts here on A New Beginning. Pastor Greg Laurie is helping Beginning. Pastor Greg Laurie is helping Beginning. Pastor Greg Laurie is helping us learn [music] from our spiritual us learn [music] from our spiritual us learn [music] from our spiritual forefathers and see how the Acts of the forefathers and see how the Acts of the forefathers and see how the Acts of the Apostles show us how to live more Apostles show us how to live more Apostles show us how to live more rewarding lives here and now, [music] 20 rewarding lives here and now, [music] 20 rewarding lives here and now, [music] 20 centuries later. Today, in a message centuries later. Today, in a message centuries later. Today, in a message called A Life Well Lived, Pastor Greg called A Life Well Lived, Pastor Greg called A Life Well Lived, Pastor Greg helps us consider the story of a young helps us consider the story of a young helps us consider the story of a young man in [music] Acts chapter 7 that set a man in [music] Acts chapter 7 that set a man in [music] Acts chapter 7 that set a strong example for other believers to strong example for other believers to strong example for other believers to follow. It was an inspiring [music] life follow. It was an inspiring [music] life follow. It was an inspiring [music] life right up to the very end. >> [music] >> [music] >> The day when >> The day when >> The day when life begins. life begins. life begins. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> A young man named Stephen was a >> A young man named Stephen was a >> A young man named Stephen was a well-respected man. He was full of faith well-respected man. He was full of faith well-respected man. He was full of faith and the Holy Spirit. And he had this and the Holy Spirit. And he had this and the Holy Spirit. And he had this great wisdom. And though he was young, great wisdom. And though he was young, great wisdom. And though he was young, he was so wise. But here's another thing he was so wise. But here's another thing he was so wise. But here's another thing that will come out of this story. Is that will come out of this story. Is that will come out of this story. Is Stephen died at a very young age. In Stephen died at a very young age. In Stephen died at a very young age. In fact, he was the first martyr of the fact, he was the first martyr of the fact, he was the first martyr of the early church.

early church. early church. The greatest tragedy is not a life that The greatest tragedy is not a life that The greatest tragedy is not a life that is cut short, if we want to use that is cut short, if we want to use that is cut short, if we want to use that verbage. The greatest tragedy is a life verbage. The greatest tragedy is a life verbage. The greatest tragedy is a life that is wasted. that is wasted. that is wasted. Jim Elliot Jim Elliot Jim Elliot was a martyr along with Nate Saint and was a martyr along with Nate Saint and was a martyr along with Nate Saint and others who went to take the gospel to a others who went to take the gospel to a others who went to take the gospel to a tribe known as the Aucas. tribe known as the Aucas. tribe known as the Aucas. And they were killed by this tribe. And And they were killed by this tribe. And And they were killed by this tribe. And And in fact, Jim's wife, Elizabeth, went And in fact, Jim's wife, Elizabeth, went And in fact, Jim's wife, Elizabeth, went back and led the very man that killed back and led the very man that killed back and led the very man that killed her husband to Christ. So, it was a her husband to Christ. So, it was a her husband to Christ. So, it was a story of redemption, ultimately. But Jim story of redemption, ultimately. But Jim story of redemption, ultimately. But Jim was a very young man when he died. He was a very young man when he died. He was a very young man when he died. He was only 28 years old. He had a little was only 28 years old. He had a little was only 28 years old. He had a little journal. And in his journal, he wrote journal. And in his journal, he wrote journal. And in his journal, he wrote these words, and they found this later. these words, and they found this later. these words, and they found this later. Quote, "He is no fool to give up what he Quote, "He is no fool to give up what he Quote, "He is no fool to give up what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot cannot keep to gain that which he cannot cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose." End quote. So, Stephen, he looked lose." End quote. So, Stephen, he looked lose." End quote. So, Stephen, he looked for opportunities and he sees them. So, for opportunities and he sees them. So, for opportunities and he sees them. So, now he's brought before the Sanhedrin. now he's brought before the Sanhedrin. now he's brought before the Sanhedrin. Now, if Stephen had played his cards Now, if Stephen had played his cards Now, if Stephen had played his cards right, he could have gone home for right, he could have gone home for right, he could have gone home for dinner. But he thought, "No, I I want to dinner. But he thought, "No, I I want to dinner. But he thought, "No, I I want to reach these people with the gospel." And reach these people with the gospel." And reach these people with the gospel." And I wonder, and I can't guarantee this, of I wonder, and I can't guarantee this, of I wonder, and I can't guarantee this, of course, but I wonder if he even zeroed course, but I wonder if he even zeroed course, but I wonder if he even zeroed in on one of those men in the Sanhedrin.

in on one of those men in the Sanhedrin. in on one of those men in the Sanhedrin. Clearly the leader, a young man named Clearly the leader, a young man named Clearly the leader, a young man named Saul. And he thought, "What if God Saul. And he thought, "What if God Saul. And he thought, "What if God reached that guy? reached that guy? reached that guy? What if he became a follower of Jesus? What if he became a follower of Jesus? What if he became a follower of Jesus? Can you imagine what the Lord could do Can you imagine what the Lord could do Can you imagine what the Lord could do through a man like that?" We don't know through a man like that?" We don't know through a man like that?" We don't know if that was the case, but we know Saul if that was the case, but we know Saul if that was the case, but we know Saul was there. So, now Stephen gives this was there. So, now Stephen gives this was there. So, now Stephen gives this amazing overview of the history of the amazing overview of the history of the amazing overview of the history of the Jewish people and there's so much Jewish people and there's so much Jewish people and there's so much interesting detail in it and then he interesting detail in it and then he interesting detail in it and then he brings it to Jesus and reminds them that brings it to Jesus and reminds them that brings it to Jesus and reminds them that they betrayed Christ, they crucified they betrayed Christ, they crucified they betrayed Christ, they crucified Christ. Well, this didn't go over real Christ. Well, this didn't go over real Christ. Well, this didn't go over real well. We pick the story up in Acts well. We pick the story up in Acts well. We pick the story up in Acts chapter 7 verse 54. Want to look at that chapter 7 verse 54. Want to look at that chapter 7 verse 54. Want to look at that with me. with me. with me. The Jewish leaders The Jewish leaders The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen's accusation were infuriated by Stephen's accusation were infuriated by Stephen's accusation and they shook their fists at him in and they shook their fists at him in and they shook their fists at him in rage. rage. rage. You know a message is not going over You know a message is not going over You know a message is not going over well when people do that. well when people do that. well when people do that. When they shake their fists at you. When they shake their fists at you. When they shake their fists at you. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the gazed steadily into heaven and saw the gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God and he saw Jesus standing glory of God and he saw Jesus standing glory of God and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God's right in the place of honor at God's right in the place of honor at God's right hand and he told them, "Look, I see the hand and he told them, "Look, I see the hand and he told them, "Look, I see the heavens open and the Son of Man standing heavens open and the Son of Man standing heavens open and the Son of Man standing at the place of honor at God's right at the place of honor at God's right at the place of honor at God's right hand." And then they put their hands hand." And then they put their hands hand." And then they put their hands over their ears and began shouting and over their ears and began shouting and over their ears and began shouting and they rushed at him and dragged him out they rushed at him and dragged him out they rushed at him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him and of the city and began to stone him and of the city and began to stone him and his accusers took off their coats and his accusers took off their coats and his accusers took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man laid them at the feet of a young man laid them at the feet of a young man named Saul.

named Saul. named Saul. And as they stoned him, Stephen prayed, And as they stoned him, Stephen prayed, And as they stoned him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell to his knees shouting, "Lord, don't to his knees shouting, "Lord, don't to his knees shouting, "Lord, don't charge him with this sin." And with charge him with this sin." And with charge him with this sin." And with that, he fell asleep. that, he fell asleep. that, he fell asleep. Wow, what a story. Wow, what a story. Wow, what a story. God gave Stephen the grace he needed God gave Stephen the grace he needed God gave Stephen the grace he needed when he needed it. when he needed it. when he needed it. You say, "Well, if I were in this You say, "Well, if I were in this You say, "Well, if I were in this situation, I wouldn't have reacted as situation, I wouldn't have reacted as situation, I wouldn't have reacted as Stephen did." I don't know that that's Stephen did." I don't know that that's Stephen did." I don't know that that's true. God will give you what you need true. God will give you what you need true. God will give you what you need when you need it. Not before, never when you need it. Not before, never when you need it. Not before, never after. after. after. Cuz I can think of Cuz I can think of Cuz I can think of people I've seen that are suffering and people I've seen that are suffering and people I've seen that are suffering and I think, "Man, I would never be like I think, "Man, I would never be like I think, "Man, I would never be like that. My you know, I wouldn't have that that. My you know, I wouldn't have that that. My you know, I wouldn't have that kind of faith." Why do you say that? The kind of faith." Why do you say that? The kind of faith." Why do you say that? The Bible says he's a very present help in Bible says he's a very present help in Bible says he's a very present help in times of trouble. So, God will give you times of trouble. So, God will give you times of trouble. So, God will give you what you need when that moment comes. what you need when that moment comes. what you need when that moment comes. And that's exactly what he did for And that's exactly what he did for And that's exactly what he did for Stephen. Hebrews 4:16 says, God will Stephen. Hebrews 4:16 says, God will Stephen. Hebrews 4:16 says, God will give us grace to help in time of need. give us grace to help in time of need. give us grace to help in time of need. And so, God gave him that grace. And And so, God gave him that grace. And And so, God gave him that grace. And what does Stephen see? Verse 56, I see what does Stephen see? Verse 56, I see what does Stephen see? Verse 56, I see the heavens open and the son of man the heavens open and the son of man the heavens open and the son of man standing at the place of honor at God's standing at the place of honor at God's standing at the place of honor at God's right hand. Isn't that interesting? What right hand. Isn't that interesting? What right hand. Isn't that interesting? What keeps Stephen going?

keeps Stephen going? keeps Stephen going? He sees Jesus. He sees Jesus. He sees Jesus. What will keep you going? You need to What will keep you going? You need to What will keep you going? You need to see Jesus. see Jesus. see Jesus. You need to get your eyes off of your You need to get your eyes off of your You need to get your eyes off of your circumstances, off of your problems, and circumstances, off of your problems, and circumstances, off of your problems, and put your eyes on God himself. put your eyes on God himself. put your eyes on God himself. Yeah. [applause] In Hebrews 12, the author says, lay In Hebrews 12, the author says, lay aside the weight and the sin that so aside the weight and the sin that so aside the weight and the sin that so easily beset you and look under Jesus, easily beset you and look under Jesus, easily beset you and look under Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. the author and finisher of your faith. the author and finisher of your faith. That's what will get you through the That's what will get you through the That's what will get you through the troubles you might be facing even now. troubles you might be facing even now. troubles you might be facing even now. But here's what is really unique. But here's what is really unique. But here's what is really unique. Is Jesus is standing. Is Jesus is standing. Is Jesus is standing. Have you ever noticed that every other Have you ever noticed that every other Have you ever noticed that every other time we read of Jesus in glory, time we read of Jesus in glory, time we read of Jesus in glory, he is sitting at the right hand of God. he is sitting at the right hand of God. he is sitting at the right hand of God. But here uniquely, he is standing at the But here uniquely, he is standing at the But here uniquely, he is standing at the right hand of God. Why was Jesus right hand of God. Why was Jesus right hand of God. Why was Jesus standing? I don't know, he just got standing? I don't know, he just got standing? I don't know, he just got tired of sitting. No. tired of sitting. No. tired of sitting. No. There's a reason. My opinion There's a reason. My opinion There's a reason. My opinion is he was standing in honor, welcoming is he was standing in honor, welcoming is he was standing in honor, welcoming the first martyr of the early church. As the first martyr of the early church. As the first martyr of the early church. As Stephen was standing for Jesus on earth, Stephen was standing for Jesus on earth, Stephen was standing for Jesus on earth, Jesus was standing for Stephen in Jesus was standing for Stephen in Jesus was standing for Stephen in heaven.

heaven. heaven. Because Jesus said, if you will confess Because Jesus said, if you will confess Because Jesus said, if you will confess me before people, I will confess you me before people, I will confess you me before people, I will confess you before the Father. Jesus is saying, before the Father. Jesus is saying, before the Father. Jesus is saying, Stephen, I see what's happening here. I Stephen, I see what's happening here. I Stephen, I see what's happening here. I love you. You're going to be with me in love you. You're going to be with me in love you. You're going to be with me in just a moment. And Stephen saw that and just a moment. And Stephen saw that and just a moment. And Stephen saw that and it just changed everything. it just changed everything. it just changed everything. And he fell on his knees, verse 15:9, And he fell on his knees, verse 15:9, And he fell on his knees, verse 15:9, saying, "Lord, don't charge them with saying, "Lord, don't charge them with saying, "Lord, don't charge them with this sin." And he fell asleep. Wow. this sin." And he fell asleep. Wow. this sin." And he fell asleep. Wow. Is that not a perfect reflection of what Is that not a perfect reflection of what Is that not a perfect reflection of what Jesus did on the cross? Jesus did on the cross? Jesus did on the cross? When Christ was crucified, When Christ was crucified, When Christ was crucified, he gave seven statements, each one he gave seven statements, each one he gave seven statements, each one significant. The order of them is significant. The order of them is significant. The order of them is significant. Statement number one, significant. Statement number one, significant. Statement number one, "Father, forgive them for they know not "Father, forgive them for they know not "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." what they do." what they do." Stephen says effectively the same thing, Stephen says effectively the same thing, Stephen says effectively the same thing, "Lord, don't charge them with this sin." "Lord, don't charge them with this sin." "Lord, don't charge them with this sin." And then we read he said, "Lord Jesus, And then we read he said, "Lord Jesus, And then we read he said, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." receive my spirit." receive my spirit." This means that he knew he was passing This means that he knew he was passing This means that he knew he was passing in to glory. in to glory. in to glory. And it's a reminder that there's no And it's a reminder that there's no And it's a reminder that there's no delay delay delay from the time we leave this world and go from the time we leave this world and go from the time we leave this world and go to the next one. When you close your to the next one. When you close your to the next one. When you close your eyes on earth, you open them in heaven.

eyes on earth, you open them in heaven. eyes on earth, you open them in heaven. When you take your last breath on earth, When you take your last breath on earth, When you take your last breath on earth, you take your next breath in heaven. you take your next breath in heaven. you take your next breath in heaven. When a believer dies, they go straight When a believer dies, they go straight When a believer dies, they go straight to heaven. This is what the Bible to heaven. This is what the Bible to heaven. This is what the Bible teaches. Second Corinthians 5:8 says, teaches. Second Corinthians 5:8 says, teaches. Second Corinthians 5:8 says, "We're fully confident, we'd rather be "We're fully confident, we'd rather be "We're fully confident, we'd rather be away from these bodies and then we'll be away from these bodies and then we'll be away from these bodies and then we'll be at home and with the Lord." at home and with the Lord." at home and with the Lord." I come you back to the cross. Remember I come you back to the cross. Remember I come you back to the cross. Remember that thief that was crucified next to that thief that was crucified next to that thief that was crucified next to Christ. Christ. Christ. And he says, "Lord, remember me when you And he says, "Lord, remember me when you And he says, "Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And Jesus said, come into your kingdom." And Jesus said, come into your kingdom." And Jesus said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, today you "Truly, truly, I say to you, today you "Truly, truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise." John will be with me in paradise." John will be with me in paradise." John Bunyan, the writer, said, and I quote, Bunyan, the writer, said, and I quote, Bunyan, the writer, said, and I quote, "Death is but a passage out of a prison "Death is but a passage out of a prison "Death is but a passage out of a prison into a palace." End quote. When death into a palace." End quote. When death into a palace." End quote. When death strikes the Christian, they fall into strikes the Christian, they fall into strikes the Christian, they fall into heaven. God allowed Stephen's life to be heaven. God allowed Stephen's life to be heaven. God allowed Stephen's life to be taken because he had fulfilled his task. taken because he had fulfilled his task. taken because he had fulfilled his task. He had fulfilled his calling in his He had fulfilled his calling in his He had fulfilled his calling in his generation. Now, here's the thing. generation. Now, here's the thing. generation. Now, here's the thing. None of us has a guarantee we will live None of us has a guarantee we will live None of us has a guarantee we will live a long life.

a long life. a long life. Uh coming back to Jim Elliot, another Uh coming back to Jim Elliot, another Uh coming back to Jim Elliot, another entry in his journal went as follows, entry in his journal went as follows, entry in his journal went as follows, and I quote, "I seek not a long life, and I quote, "I seek not a long life, and I quote, "I seek not a long life, but a full one like you, Lord Jesus." but a full one like you, Lord Jesus." but a full one like you, Lord Jesus." End quote. End quote. End quote. That's what we want. We want a full That's what we want. We want a full That's what we want. We want a full life. life. life. God determines the length of our life. God determines the length of our life. God determines the length of our life. We don't. We don't. We don't. Oh, we think we do. Oh, yes, but I'm Oh, we think we do. Oh, yes, but I'm Oh, we think we do. Oh, yes, but I'm eating all the proper foods, you know, eating all the proper foods, you know, eating all the proper foods, you know, and and then there's some random dude and and then there's some random dude and and then there's some random dude who lives on hot dogs and makes it past who lives on hot dogs and makes it past who lives on hot dogs and makes it past 100. 100. 100. And you spent your life eating tofu and And you spent your life eating tofu and And you spent your life eating tofu and kale and kale and kale and But, a full life, But, a full life, But, a full life, a meaningful life, a meaningful life, a meaningful life, that's what we want. Corrie ten Boom that's what we want. Corrie ten Boom that's what we want. Corrie ten Boom made this statement, quote, "A life is made this statement, quote, "A life is made this statement, quote, "A life is not measured by its duration, but by its not measured by its duration, but by its not measured by its duration, but by its donation." donation." donation." We all want to live long lives. I mean, We all want to live long lives. I mean, We all want to live long lives. I mean, look, Stephen didn't have a death wish. look, Stephen didn't have a death wish. look, Stephen didn't have a death wish. He wanted to live life. No one loves He wanted to live life. No one loves He wanted to live life. No one loves life more than the Christian. life more than the Christian. life more than the Christian. Because as Paul said, "To live is Because as Paul said, "To live is Because as Paul said, "To live is Christ, to die is gain." We love life, Christ, to die is gain." We love life, Christ, to die is gain." We love life, but the Christian does not have to be but the Christian does not have to be but the Christian does not have to be afraid of death.

afraid of death. afraid of death. Doesn't mean we want to die. Doesn't mean we want to die. Doesn't mean we want to die. >> [applause] >> But, what it means is we will die. >> But, what it means is we will die. You wake up in the morning, "What if You wake up in the morning, "What if You wake up in the morning, "What if this is my last day on Earth?" Then it's this is my last day on Earth?" Then it's this is my last day on Earth?" Then it's your last day on Earth. your last day on Earth. your last day on Earth. So, live it well. So, live it well. So, live it well. Live it right. Honor God, and you go Live it right. Honor God, and you go Live it right. Honor God, and you go straight into glory. But, the chances straight into glory. But, the chances straight into glory. But, the chances are it's not your last day on Earth. are it's not your last day on Earth. are it's not your last day on Earth. You'll probably have many more days on You'll probably have many more days on You'll probably have many more days on Earth. But, the point is it's all in Earth. But, the point is it's all in Earth. But, the point is it's all in God's hands. In a broad sense, God's hands. In a broad sense, God's hands. In a broad sense, life for the Christian never ends at life for the Christian never ends at life for the Christian never ends at all. all. all. Because Jesus said, "I am the Because Jesus said, "I am the Because Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He that resurrection and the life. He that resurrection and the life. He that believes in me, though he were dead, yet believes in me, though he were dead, yet believes in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. And whoever lives and shall he live. And whoever lives and shall he live. And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die." So, are believes in me shall never die." So, are believes in me shall never die." So, are you living your life well? you living your life well? you living your life well? You know, as you get older, You know, as you get older, You know, as you get older, you understand that verse that says, "We you understand that verse that says, "We you understand that verse that says, "We live our lives like a story that's been live our lives like a story that's been live our lives like a story that's been told." told." told." What story is your life telling? And let What story is your life telling? And let What story is your life telling? And let me say a word to you that are young. me say a word to you that are young. me say a word to you that are young. It's so important to make the right It's so important to make the right It's so important to make the right decisions because in a blink of an eye, decisions because in a blink of an eye, decisions because in a blink of an eye, you'll be old.

you'll be old. you'll be old. Like me. Like me. Like me. But, you'll probably look much better But, you'll probably look much better But, you'll probably look much better than I look. than I look. than I look. But, it's kind of shocking But, it's kind of shocking But, it's kind of shocking to think about how quickly life goes by. to think about how quickly life goes by. to think about how quickly life goes by. And that's why you want to make the And that's why you want to make the And that's why you want to make the right decisions now. right decisions now. right decisions now. Lay the foundation because the evening Lay the foundation because the evening Lay the foundation because the evening of your life is determined by the of your life is determined by the of your life is determined by the morning of your life or the end from the morning of your life or the end from the morning of your life or the end from the beginning. Stephen, beginning. Stephen, beginning. Stephen, he had his life right. He was young, but he had his life right. He was young, but he had his life right. He was young, but he lived it for God's glory. he lived it for God's glory. he lived it for God's glory. Ecclesiastes 12:1 says, "Don't let the Ecclesiastes 12:1 says, "Don't let the Ecclesiastes 12:1 says, "Don't let the excitement of youth cause you to forget excitement of youth cause you to forget excitement of youth cause you to forget your creator. Honor him in your youth your creator. Honor him in your youth your creator. Honor him in your youth before you grow old and no longer enjoy before you grow old and no longer enjoy before you grow old and no longer enjoy living." So, get your goals right living." So, get your goals right living." So, get your goals right >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> and let your passion be for Jesus. >> Pastor Greg [music] Laurie will have the >> Pastor Greg [music] Laurie will have the second half of his message in just a second half of his message in just a second half of his message in just a moment. moment. moment. >> You know, I've heard [music] people >> You know, I've heard [music] people >> You know, I've heard [music] people describe a trip to Israel as seeing the describe a trip to Israel as seeing the describe a trip to Israel as seeing the Bible actually come to life. Hey Bible actually come to life. Hey Bible actually come to life. Hey everybody, Greg Laurie. And I've been to everybody, Greg Laurie. And I've been to everybody, Greg Laurie. And I've been to Israel many times [music] and I've led a Israel many times [music] and I've led a Israel many times [music] and I've led a lot of tours and I have to say that's lot of tours and I have to say that's lot of tours and I have to say that's absolutely true. Listen, when you're absolutely true. Listen, when you're absolutely true. Listen, when you're walking on the same stones that Jesus walking on the same stones that Jesus walking on the same stones that Jesus himself walked on, well, that's himself walked on, well, that's himself walked on, well, that's something that's enriching to your something that's enriching to your something that's enriching to your faith. It's not just a travel faith. It's not just a travel faith. It's not just a travel experience. It actually energizes experience. It actually energizes experience. It actually energizes [music] [music] [music] and enhances your study of the Bible.

and enhances your study of the Bible. and enhances your study of the Bible. Think of it this [music] way. It's a Think of it this [music] way. It's a Think of it this [music] way. It's a vacation with a purpose. And we're going vacation with a purpose. And we're going vacation with a purpose. And we're going to be taking a tour of Israel April 6th to be taking a tour of Israel April 6th to be taking a tour of Israel April 6th to 15th, 2027. [music] to 15th, 2027. [music] to 15th, 2027. [music] You can find out more at You can find out more at You can find out more at israel.harvest.org. >> Step right [music] into biblical >> Step right [music] into biblical history. Join Pastor Greg for a tour of history. Join Pastor Greg for a tour of history. Join Pastor Greg for a tour of the Holy Land April 6th [music] through the Holy Land April 6th [music] through the Holy Land April 6th [music] through 15th, 2027. 15th, 2027. 15th, 2027. Get details at israel.harvest.org. Get details at israel.harvest.org. Get details at israel.harvest.org. [music] Well, we're in the middle of Pastor Well, we're in the middle of Pastor Greg's series called the upside-down Greg's series called the upside-down Greg's series called the upside-down life, and we're focusing on the example life, and we're focusing on the example life, and we're focusing on the example of Stephen today from Acts chapter 7. of Stephen today from Acts chapter 7. of Stephen today from Acts chapter 7. >> Now, let me close >> Now, let me close >> Now, let me close with just a few quick points. If you're with just a few quick points. If you're with just a few quick points. If you're taking notes, number one, for the taking notes, number one, for the taking notes, number one, for the Christian walking in God's will, death Christian walking in God's will, death Christian walking in God's will, death will come at the appointed time. will come at the appointed time. will come at the appointed time. Again, for the Christian walking in the Again, for the Christian walking in the Again, for the Christian walking in the will of God, death will come at the will of God, death will come at the will of God, death will come at the appointed time, not a minute before or appointed time, not a minute before or appointed time, not a minute before or after. after. after. The Bible says there's a time to be The Bible says there's a time to be The Bible says there's a time to be born, there's a time to die. So, it born, there's a time to die. So, it born, there's a time to die. So, it comes down to this, you are comes down to this, you are comes down to this, you are indestructible until God is done with indestructible until God is done with indestructible until God is done with you.

you. you. So, just relax. Don't panic. It's So, just relax. Don't panic. It's So, just relax. Don't panic. It's organic. organic. organic. That means nothing. I don't know why I That means nothing. I don't know why I That means nothing. I don't know why I even said that, but uh even said that, but uh even said that, but uh You're okay, so don't worry. Jesus says, You're okay, so don't worry. Jesus says, You're okay, so don't worry. Jesus says, "Who of you by worrying can add one "Who of you by worrying can add one "Who of you by worrying can add one moment to your life?" Answer, no one. moment to your life?" Answer, no one. moment to your life?" Answer, no one. So, don't worry about it. It's all in So, don't worry about it. It's all in So, don't worry about it. It's all in God's hands. Number two, God's hands. Number two, God's hands. Number two, I already made this point, but I'll make I already made this point, but I'll make I already made this point, but I'll make it again. The Christian does not have to it again. The Christian does not have to it again. The Christian does not have to fear death. Notice verse 59 says, fear death. Notice verse 59 says, fear death. Notice verse 59 says, "Stephen fell asleep." "Stephen fell asleep." "Stephen fell asleep." Actually, this was a violent death. Actually, this was a violent death. Actually, this was a violent death. This young man was stoned, and it says This young man was stoned, and it says This young man was stoned, and it says he fell asleep. You know, sleep is only he fell asleep. You know, sleep is only he fell asleep. You know, sleep is only used to describe the death of a used to describe the death of a used to describe the death of a Christian in the Bible. It's never used Christian in the Bible. It's never used Christian in the Bible. It's never used to describe the death of a to describe the death of a to describe the death of a non-Christian. non-Christian. non-Christian. And I think the reason the word sleep is And I think the reason the word sleep is And I think the reason the word sleep is used is it's something, well, it doesn't used is it's something, well, it doesn't used is it's something, well, it doesn't have to be feared, have to be feared, have to be feared, right? You know, when you get older, right? You know, when you get older, right? You know, when you get older, sleeping's kind of, well, sleeping's kind of, well, sleeping's kind of, well, take a nap.

take a nap. take a nap. When you're older, happy hour is a nap. When you're older, happy hour is a nap. When you're older, happy hour is a nap. Right? Right? Right? You don't have to be afraid. Oh, no, I'm You don't have to be afraid. Oh, no, I'm You don't have to be afraid. Oh, no, I'm going to fall asleep. Oh, no. It's okay going to fall asleep. Oh, no. It's okay going to fall asleep. Oh, no. It's okay to fall asleep cuz you'll wake up. to fall asleep cuz you'll wake up. to fall asleep cuz you'll wake up. And he woke up in the presence of God. And he woke up in the presence of God. And he woke up in the presence of God. Number three, in heaven all of our Number three, in heaven all of our Number three, in heaven all of our questions will be answered. questions will be answered. questions will be answered. Oh, we have so many questions now. Oh, we have so many questions now. Oh, we have so many questions now. So many things we don't understand. Why So many things we don't understand. Why So many things we don't understand. Why did God let this happen? I just did God let this happen? I just did God let this happen? I just was with a couple in our church who lost was with a couple in our church who lost was with a couple in our church who lost a member of their family, a young man a member of their family, a young man a member of their family, a young man unexpectedly. unexpectedly. unexpectedly. And you know, the questions. I know And you know, the questions. I know And you know, the questions. I know these questions. I asked these same these questions. I asked these same these questions. I asked these same questions when our son went to be with questions when our son went to be with questions when our son went to be with the Lord 13 years ago. Why did this the Lord 13 years ago. Why did this the Lord 13 years ago. Why did this happen? Why him? He was so young. He had happen? Why him? He was so young. He had happen? Why him? He was so young. He had his whole life ahead of him. Why? Why? his whole life ahead of him. Why? Why? his whole life ahead of him. Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? It's okay to ask why questions. Even It's okay to ask why questions. Even It's okay to ask why questions. Even Jesus hanging on the cross said, "My Jesus hanging on the cross said, "My Jesus hanging on the cross said, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" So, ask away. Doesn't mean you'll get an So, ask away. Doesn't mean you'll get an So, ask away. Doesn't mean you'll get an answer, but you can ask.

answer, but you can ask. answer, but you can ask. But one day you will get an answer. And But one day you will get an answer. And But one day you will get an answer. And until that day, we live on promises, not until that day, we live on promises, not until that day, we live on promises, not explanations. explanations. explanations. So, don't spend too much time wondering So, don't spend too much time wondering So, don't spend too much time wondering why. why. why. Instead, go back to who and what. Instead, go back to who and what. Instead, go back to who and what. Who as in who shall I turn to? You need Who as in who shall I turn to? You need Who as in who shall I turn to? You need to turn to God. What as in what should I to turn to God. What as in what should I to turn to God. What as in what should I do now? You should seek to glorify God. do now? You should seek to glorify God. do now? You should seek to glorify God. One day your questions will be answered. One day your questions will be answered. One day your questions will be answered. One day your tears will be dried. One One day your tears will be dried. One One day your tears will be dried. One day all of these things will be day all of these things will be day all of these things will be resolved. But until that day, we must resolved. But until that day, we must resolved. But until that day, we must trust God. trust God. trust God. Never trade Never trade Never trade what we do know for what we don't know. what we do know for what we don't know. what we do know for what we don't know. There's a lot of things I don't know. There's a lot of things I don't know. There's a lot of things I don't know. You should have met me when I was 21. You should have met me when I was 21. You should have met me when I was 21. I was a young pastor and I knew I was a young pastor and I knew I was a young pastor and I knew everything. everything. everything. I had a verse for everything. I had a verse for everything. I had a verse for everything. I'd say, "You need to do this. You need I'd say, "You need to do this. You need I'd say, "You need to do this. You need to do that." Now that I'm 51, to do that." Now that I'm 51, to do that." Now that I'm 51, See, that's even funnier. That's sad. See, that's even funnier. That's sad. See, that's even funnier. That's sad. I'm older. I'm older. I'm older. You know, my grandkids, "Oh, Papa, my You know, my grandkids, "Oh, Papa, my You know, my grandkids, "Oh, Papa, my birthday's coming."

birthday's coming." birthday's coming." Man, when my birthday's coming, it's Man, when my birthday's coming, it's Man, when my birthday's coming, it's like, "Oh, no, another birthday's like, "Oh, no, another birthday's like, "Oh, no, another birthday's coming." I don't look forward to coming." I don't look forward to coming." I don't look forward to birthdays. birthdays. birthdays. Is that only true of me? When you're Is that only true of me? When you're Is that only true of me? When you're older, you say, "Oh, no." All those older, you say, "Oh, no." All those older, you say, "Oh, no." All those candles, it's so much work to blow them candles, it's so much work to blow them candles, it's so much work to blow them out. out. out. Too many candles. Too many candles. Too many candles. And they're too expensive to have that And they're too expensive to have that And they're too expensive to have that many, too. many, too. many, too. But all these things are going to be But all these things are going to be But all these things are going to be resolved one day, resolved one day, resolved one day, and all these questions are going to be and all these questions are going to be and all these questions are going to be answered. But until that day, we want to answered. But until that day, we want to answered. But until that day, we want to live for God. There's one other thing I live for God. There's one other thing I live for God. There's one other thing I want to close with. God can bring good want to close with. God can bring good want to close with. God can bring good out of the worst kind of bad. out of the worst kind of bad. out of the worst kind of bad. God can bring good out of the worst kind God can bring good out of the worst kind God can bring good out of the worst kind of bad. Now, Romans 8:28 is a verse that of bad. Now, Romans 8:28 is a verse that of bad. Now, Romans 8:28 is a verse that is so beautiful and powerful. is so beautiful and powerful. is so beautiful and powerful. But it's often misunderstood. But it's often misunderstood. But it's often misunderstood. We all know it, right? You want to get We all know it, right? You want to get We all know it, right? You want to get stabbed at just saying it together stabbed at just saying it together stabbed at just saying it together without it on the screen. For we know without it on the screen. For we know without it on the screen. For we know that all things work together to those that all things work together to those that all things work together to those who love God, and are the called who love God, and are the called who love God, and are the called Pretty good. Like 12 of you knew it.

That's a great verse. We quote it. That's a great verse. We quote it. Now, here's where we misunderstand it. Now, here's where we misunderstand it. Now, here's where we misunderstand it. We think maybe it means that no matter We think maybe it means that no matter We think maybe it means that no matter what bad thing happens to me, God will what bad thing happens to me, God will what bad thing happens to me, God will turn it into something good, right? turn it into something good, right? turn it into something good, right? That's not actually what the verse says. That's not actually what the verse says. That's not actually what the verse says. It says, "We know that all things work It says, "We know that all things work It says, "We know that all things work together for good to those that love together for good to those that love together for good to those that love God." You see, there are things that God." You see, there are things that God." You see, there are things that happen in life that are bad things, happen in life that are bad things, happen in life that are bad things, they're tragic things, and they'll they're tragic things, and they'll they're tragic things, and they'll always be a bad and tragic thing. But always be a bad and tragic thing. But always be a bad and tragic thing. But despite that tragic thing, God can still despite that tragic thing, God can still despite that tragic thing, God can still do something good. So, it doesn't mean I do something good. So, it doesn't mean I do something good. So, it doesn't mean I need to say, "This bad thing happened, need to say, "This bad thing happened, need to say, "This bad thing happened, so this good thing will happen." No, so this good thing will happen." No, so this good thing will happen." No, maybe it's like this. This bad thing maybe it's like this. This bad thing maybe it's like this. This bad thing happened. I don't know why this bad happened. I don't know why this bad happened. I don't know why this bad thing happened. I wish it did not thing happened. I wish it did not thing happened. I wish it did not happen, and one day maybe God will happen, and one day maybe God will happen, and one day maybe God will explain it to me, but despite that, I explain it to me, but despite that, I explain it to me, but despite that, I pray that God will bring good in my life pray that God will bring good in my life pray that God will bring good in my life as I've come through this tragedy with as I've come through this tragedy with as I've come through this tragedy with his help. So, it's a difference. his help. So, it's a difference. his help. So, it's a difference. There's a difference. There's a difference. There's a difference. >> [applause] >> [applause] >> [applause] >> Everything doesn't have a tidy little >> Everything doesn't have a tidy little >> Everything doesn't have a tidy little bow on it. bow on it. bow on it. But with Jesus, But with Jesus, But with Jesus, he'll show me his purposes ultimately.

he'll show me his purposes ultimately. he'll show me his purposes ultimately. Now, how did this work out in the Now, how did this work out in the Now, how did this work out in the church? Well, instead of stopping the church? Well, instead of stopping the church? Well, instead of stopping the church, the church exploded in a good church, the church exploded in a good church, the church exploded in a good way. way. way. You see, up to this point, the church is You see, up to this point, the church is You see, up to this point, the church is kind of hanging out in Jerusalem. Jesus kind of hanging out in Jerusalem. Jesus kind of hanging out in Jerusalem. Jesus said, "You shall receive power after the said, "You shall receive power after the said, "You shall receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you to be Holy Spirit has come upon you to be Holy Spirit has come upon you to be witnesses for me in Jerusalem, Judea, witnesses for me in Jerusalem, Judea, witnesses for me in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth." And they're like, "Yeah, that's earth." And they're like, "Yeah, that's earth." And they're like, "Yeah, that's cool, but we're going to hang out in cool, but we're going to hang out in cool, but we're going to hang out in Jerusalem." Jerusalem." Jerusalem." They're having a little holy huddle. But They're having a little holy huddle. But They're having a little holy huddle. But after they saw the courage of Stephen, after they saw the courage of Stephen, after they saw the courage of Stephen, after they saw him lay his life down as after they saw him lay his life down as after they saw him lay his life down as he did, they went everywhere with the he did, they went everywhere with the he did, they went everywhere with the gospel. And there was one man that was gospel. And there was one man that was gospel. And there was one man that was reached this day, and his name was Saul reached this day, and his name was Saul reached this day, and his name was Saul of Tarsus. of Tarsus. of Tarsus. And later on, we're going to look at his And later on, we're going to look at his And later on, we're going to look at his amazing conversion story. So incredible. amazing conversion story. So incredible. amazing conversion story. So incredible. I love this story. I love this story. I love this story. And I think that God used Stephen in a And I think that God used Stephen in a And I think that God used Stephen in a significant way to get through to Saul. significant way to get through to Saul. significant way to get through to Saul. He planted the seed. So, you could say He planted the seed. So, you could say He planted the seed. So, you could say Stephen didn't reach a lot of people, Stephen didn't reach a lot of people, Stephen didn't reach a lot of people, but the one he reached, man, that was but the one he reached, man, that was but the one he reached, man, that was one whopper of a convert.

one whopper of a convert. one whopper of a convert. Saul of Tarsus, later to become the Saul of Tarsus, later to become the Saul of Tarsus, later to become the great Apostle Paul. great Apostle Paul. great Apostle Paul. So, Stephen's life is short, So, Stephen's life is short, So, Stephen's life is short, but it was full. but it was full. but it was full. And he was faithful to death, and God And he was faithful to death, and God And he was faithful to death, and God gave to him a crown of life. And that's gave to him a crown of life. And that's gave to him a crown of life. And that's what he promises to all of us as we what he promises to all of us as we what he promises to all of us as we serve him. So, let me close with this serve him. So, let me close with this serve him. So, let me close with this thought, and then we're going to pray. thought, and then we're going to pray. thought, and then we're going to pray. If you died today, would you go to If you died today, would you go to If you died today, would you go to heaven? heaven? heaven? You say, "Well, I I hope so." Well, You say, "Well, I I hope so." Well, You say, "Well, I I hope so." Well, look, I want more than hope. I want to look, I want more than hope. I want to look, I want more than hope. I want to know. I know I will go to heaven when I know. I know I will go to heaven when I know. I know I will go to heaven when I die. die. die. Why? Because I'm a preacher? No. Why? Because I'm a preacher? No. Why? Because I'm a preacher? No. Because I put my faith in Christ and Because I put my faith in Christ and Because I put my faith in Christ and he's forgiven me of my sins. Same way he's forgiven me of my sins. Same way he's forgiven me of my sins. Same way you're going to get into heaven. As I've you're going to get into heaven. As I've you're going to get into heaven. As I've said so many times, heaven is not for said so many times, heaven is not for said so many times, heaven is not for good people, it's for forgiven people. good people, it's for forgiven people. good people, it's for forgiven people. You need to be forgiven. You need to be forgiven. You need to be forgiven. So, if you're not sure if So, if you're not sure if So, if you're not sure if you're forgiven of your sin, if you're you're forgiven of your sin, if you're you're forgiven of your sin, if you're not certain that you'll go to heaven not certain that you'll go to heaven not certain that you'll go to heaven when you die, I would like to have a when you die, I would like to have a when you die, I would like to have a prayer prayer prayer and I would like to lead you in a prayer and I would like to lead you in a prayer and I would like to lead you in a prayer where you would ask Christ to come into where you would ask Christ to come into where you would ask Christ to come into your life.

your life. your life. If you need Jesus in your life, pray If you need Jesus in your life, pray If you need Jesus in your life, pray this after me right now. Pray these this after me right now. Pray these this after me right now. Pray these words. Lord Jesus, words. Lord Jesus, words. Lord Jesus, I know that I'm a sinner, I know that I'm a sinner, I know that I'm a sinner, but I know that you're the savior but I know that you're the savior but I know that you're the savior who died on the cross for my sin who died on the cross for my sin who died on the cross for my sin and rose again from the dead. and rose again from the dead. and rose again from the dead. I turn from my sin now I turn from my sin now I turn from my sin now and I choose to follow you and I choose to follow you and I choose to follow you from this moment forward from this moment forward from this moment forward >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> as my savior and Lord. >> as my savior and Lord. >> as my savior and Lord. Thank you for hearing this prayer Thank you for hearing this prayer Thank you for hearing this prayer and answering [music] it. and answering [music] it. and answering [music] it. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. >> Pastor Greg Laurie leading listeners in >> Pastor Greg Laurie leading listeners in an important prayer, a prayer to receive an important prayer, a prayer to receive an important prayer, a prayer to receive Christ and have their sins forgiven. Christ and have their sins forgiven. Christ and have their sins forgiven. And if you prayed that prayer, we want And if you prayed that prayer, we want And if you prayed that prayer, we want to be the first to welcome you into the to be the first to welcome you into the to be the first to welcome you into the family of God.

family of God. family of God. And we want to make sure you can get And we want to make sure you can get And we want to make sure you can get started off right in your new started off right in your new started off right in your new relationship with the Lord. So, we'd relationship with the Lord. So, we'd relationship with the Lord. So, we'd like to send you Pastor Greg's New like to send you Pastor Greg's New like to send you Pastor Greg's New Believers Bible. It's yours at no charge Believers Bible. It's yours at no charge Believers Bible. It's yours at no charge and it'll help lay a foundation for your and it'll help lay a foundation for your and it'll help lay a foundation for your walk of faith. Just ask for it when you walk of faith. Just ask for it when you walk of faith. Just ask for it when you call us at 1-800-821-3300. That's a 24/7 phone number, That's a 24/7 phone number, 1-800-821-3300. or go online to harvest.org or go online to harvest.org and click the words know God. and click the words know God. and click the words know God. And then let us take a moment to thank And then let us take a moment to thank And then let us take a moment to thank you for praying for this ministry and you for praying for this ministry and you for praying for this ministry and for supporting it through your generous for supporting it through your generous for supporting it through your generous donation. It's an investment in kingdom donation. It's an investment in kingdom donation. It's an investment in kingdom business. Isn't that right, Pastor Greg? business. Isn't that right, Pastor Greg? business. Isn't that right, Pastor Greg? >> Yeah, it's really true, Dave. And I >> Yeah, it's really true, Dave. And I >> Yeah, it's really true, Dave. And I believe it's so important because you believe it's so important because you believe it's so important because you know, the gospel saves lives. It saves know, the gospel saves lives. It saves know, the gospel saves lives. It saves eternal lives eternal lives eternal lives because when a person believes in Jesus because when a person believes in Jesus because when a person believes in Jesus according to scripture, they pass from according to scripture, they pass from according to scripture, they pass from darkness to light, from the power of darkness to light, from the power of darkness to light, from the power of Satan to the power of God. And then of Satan to the power of God. And then of Satan to the power of God. And then of course, that changes the course of their course, that changes the course of their course, that changes the course of their future. That impacts their children and future. That impacts their children and future. That impacts their children and their children's children. The gospel their children's children. The gospel their children's children. The gospel changes everything. And thousands and changes everything. And thousands and changes everything. And thousands and thousands of people respond every single thousands of people respond every single thousands of people respond every single year.

year. year. Thanks to the Lord. Thanks to the Lord. Thanks to the Lord. Also thanks to you for your investment Also thanks to you for your investment Also thanks to you for your investment in this ministry, enabling us to reach in this ministry, enabling us to reach in this ministry, enabling us to reach people people people wherever they are. So, if this is wherever they are. So, if this is wherever they are. So, if this is something you care about, I encourage something you care about, I encourage something you care about, I encourage you to make a financial investment in a you to make a financial investment in a you to make a financial investment in a new beginning in Harvest Ministries. new beginning in Harvest Ministries. new beginning in Harvest Ministries. >> Yeah, that's right. And we really do >> Yeah, that's right. And we really do >> Yeah, that's right. And we really do appreciate your support. Thanks for appreciate your support. Thanks for appreciate your support. Thanks for partnering with us today. It can make a partnering with us today. It can make a partnering with us today. It can make a real difference, not just for today or real difference, not just for today or real difference, not just for today or this week, but for eternity. this week, but for eternity. this week, but for eternity. So, get in touch with your support today So, get in touch with your support today So, get in touch with your support today by calling 1-800-821-3300. That's a 24/7 phone number, That's a 24/7 phone number, 1-800-821-3300 [music] or go online [music] to harvest.org. or go online [music] to harvest.org. Next time, Pastor Greg highlights the Next time, Pastor Greg highlights the Next time, Pastor Greg highlights the lives of two men in scripture lives of two men in scripture lives of two men in scripture >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> to prove the point that no one is beyond >> to prove the point that no one is beyond >> to prove the point that no one is beyond the reach of God. the reach of God. the reach of God. Join us here [music] on A New Beginning Join us here [music] on A New Beginning Join us here [music] on A New Beginning with Pastor and Bible teacher Greg with Pastor and Bible teacher Greg with Pastor and Bible teacher Greg Laurie. Laurie. Laurie. >> This is the day >> This is the day >> This is the day >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> when life >> when life >> when life begins. life begins.