A Life Well-Lived | Staying the Course

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. >> What are [music] you really passionate >> What are [music] you really passionate about? about? about? >> The Lord wants us to be passionate about >> The Lord wants us to be passionate about >> The Lord wants us to be passionate about him, loving him, serving him, honoring him, loving him, serving him, honoring him, loving him, serving him, honoring him. [music] But, Pastor Greg Laurie him. [music] But, Pastor Greg Laurie him. [music] But, Pastor Greg Laurie says it's too easy to focus elsewhere. says it's too easy to focus elsewhere. says it's too easy to focus elsewhere. >> We can be distracted by secondary >> We can be distracted by secondary >> We can be distracted by secondary things. [music] They're not bad things things. [music] They're not bad things things. [music] They're not bad things in and of themselves, they're just not in and of themselves, they're just not in and of themselves, they're just not the main thing. The main thing [music] the main thing. The main thing [music] the main thing. The main thing [music] is to keep the main thing the main is to keep the main thing the main is to keep the main thing the main thing. And people, the main thing is thing. And people, the main thing is thing. And people, the main thing is Jesus Christ. That's where our passion Jesus Christ. That's where our passion Jesus Christ. That's where our passion needs to be. needs to be. needs to be. >> [applause] [music] [music] >> Remember back to your school years.

>> Remember back to your school years. >> Remember back to your school years. You're in class paying attention to the You're in class paying attention to the You're in class paying attention to the teacher, [music] but the cutup in the teacher, [music] but the cutup in the teacher, [music] but the cutup in the front row, the class clown, starts to front row, the class clown, starts to front row, the class clown, starts to perform. He's miming [music] what the perform. He's miming [music] what the perform. He's miming [music] what the teacher is saying. You try not to look, teacher is saying. You try not to look, teacher is saying. You try not to look, but you can't help yourself. but you can't help yourself. but you can't help yourself. Distractions are powerful, aren't Distractions are powerful, aren't Distractions are powerful, aren't [music] they? And they're everywhere. [music] they? And they're everywhere. [music] they? And they're everywhere. Today on A New Beginning, Pastor Greg Today on A New Beginning, Pastor Greg Today on A New Beginning, Pastor Greg Laurie points out the importance [music] Laurie points out the importance [music] Laurie points out the importance [music] of keeping our eyes fixed on the author of keeping our eyes fixed on the author of keeping our eyes fixed on the author and finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ. and finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ. and finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ. It's the pathway [music] of a life well It's the pathway [music] of a life well It's the pathway [music] of a life well lived. >> The day when >> The day when >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> life begins. >> A new study shows that many Americans >> A new study shows that many Americans are suffering from what experts call are suffering from what experts call are suffering from what experts call digital distraction, right? And it's all digital distraction, right? And it's all digital distraction, right? And it's all because of this device I'm holding in my because of this device I'm holding in my because of this device I'm holding in my hand, the phone. In fact, there was a hand, the phone. In fact, there was a hand, the phone. In fact, there was a Harvard study that was done and it Harvard study that was done and it Harvard study that was done and it revealed that people are experiencing revealed that people are experiencing revealed that people are experiencing digital overload. Uh it's a defining digital overload. Uh it's a defining digital overload. Uh it's a defining problem in today's workplace. All day problem in today's workplace. All day problem in today's workplace. All day and night on desktops, laptops, tablets, and night on desktops, laptops, tablets, and night on desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and even watches, we have smartphones, and even watches, we have smartphones, and even watches, we have so many messages and alerts that even so many messages and alerts that even so many messages and alerts that even when we want to focus, it's nearly when we want to focus, it's nearly when we want to focus, it's nearly impossible. And people, you know, when impossible. And people, you know, when impossible. And people, you know, when they're driving, it's like people are they're driving, it's like people are they're driving, it's like people are driving drunk these days, but actually driving drunk these days, but actually driving drunk these days, but actually they're driving while using their phone.

they're driving while using their phone. they're driving while using their phone. You know what it's like, someone's up You know what it's like, someone's up You know what it's like, someone's up front of you in a light and and the front of you in a light and and the front of you in a light and and the light goes green and they don't go and light goes green and they don't go and light goes green and they don't go and you honk and you go around them, they're you honk and you go around them, they're you honk and you go around them, they're looking at their phone or they're doing looking at their phone or they're doing looking at their phone or they're doing something else. So, we're very something else. So, we're very something else. So, we're very distracted by these things, but this can distracted by these things, but this can distracted by these things, but this can happen among Christians as well. We can happen among Christians as well. We can happen among Christians as well. We can be distracted. Because here's what it be distracted. Because here's what it be distracted. Because here's what it comes down to, we're going to follow our comes down to, we're going to follow our comes down to, we're going to follow our passion in life. You're going to walk passion in life. You're going to walk passion in life. You're going to walk where you look. So, if I'm looking this where you look. So, if I'm looking this where you look. So, if I'm looking this way, that's the direction I walk in. You way, that's the direction I walk in. You way, that's the direction I walk in. You walk where you look. So, here's my walk where you look. So, here's my walk where you look. So, here's my question for you in this message, what question for you in this message, what question for you in this message, what are you really passionate about? I know are you really passionate about? I know are you really passionate about? I know the default answer is Jesus, but here's the default answer is Jesus, but here's the default answer is Jesus, but here's how I'm going to find out what you're how I'm going to find out what you're how I'm going to find out what you're really passionate about, I'll just look really passionate about, I'll just look really passionate about, I'll just look at your social media. at your social media. at your social media. Because the Bible says, where your Because the Bible says, where your Because the Bible says, where your Instagram is, there will your heart be Instagram is, there will your heart be Instagram is, there will your heart be also. also. also. Actually, the Bible doesn't say that, Actually, the Bible doesn't say that, Actually, the Bible doesn't say that, but it says, where your treasure is, but it says, where your treasure is, but it says, where your treasure is, there will your heart be also, but I can there will your heart be also, but I can there will your heart be also, but I can find out a lot by you. In fact, now find out a lot by you. In fact, now find out a lot by you. In fact, now employers will look at the social media employers will look at the social media employers will look at the social media of a potential hire. They'll go, "Oh, of a potential hire. They'll go, "Oh, of a potential hire. They'll go, "Oh, this is a red flag or this is a problem this is a red flag or this is a problem this is a red flag or this is a problem or this person is really obsessed with or this person is really obsessed with or this person is really obsessed with cats or whatever it is that that you cats or whatever it is that that you cats or whatever it is that that you post about the most, but that's where post about the most, but that's where post about the most, but that's where our passion is going to be revealed. And our passion is going to be revealed. And our passion is going to be revealed. And here's the problem. We can be distracted here's the problem. We can be distracted here's the problem. We can be distracted by secondary things. They're not bad by secondary things. They're not bad by secondary things. They're not bad things in and of themselves. They're things in and of themselves. They're things in and of themselves. They're just not the main thing. Because as I've just not the main thing. Because as I've just not the main thing. Because as I've said before, the main thing is to keep

said before, the main thing is to keep said before, the main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing. And the main thing the main thing. And the main thing the main thing. And people, the main thing is Jesus Christ. people, the main thing is Jesus Christ. people, the main thing is Jesus Christ. That's where our passion needs to be. That's where our passion needs to be. That's where our passion needs to be. >> [applause] >> [applause] >> [applause] >> Well, the devil hates evangelism. The >> Well, the devil hates evangelism. The >> Well, the devil hates evangelism. The devil hates the church. The devil hates devil hates the church. The devil hates devil hates the church. The devil hates followers of Jesus. So, the enemy followers of Jesus. So, the enemy followers of Jesus. So, the enemy attacks the church. He tried two attacks the church. He tried two attacks the church. He tried two strategies that backfired. Strategy strategies that backfired. Strategy strategies that backfired. Strategy number one was persecution. So, Peter number one was persecution. So, Peter number one was persecution. So, Peter and John were arrested for preaching the and John were arrested for preaching the and John were arrested for preaching the gospel. They were told by the gospel. They were told by the gospel. They were told by the authorities to cease and desist. And authorities to cease and desist. And authorities to cease and desist. And instead of doing that, they got together instead of doing that, they got together instead of doing that, they got together with the other believers and prayed for with the other believers and prayed for with the other believers and prayed for even more boldness to preach the gospel even more boldness to preach the gospel even more boldness to preach the gospel to even more people. Then the room shook to even more people. Then the room shook to even more people. Then the room shook and they were filled with the Holy and they were filled with the Holy and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Then the devil tried to Spirit. Then the devil tried to Spirit. Then the devil tried to infiltrate the church through infiltrate the church through infiltrate the church through corruption. Enter Ananias and Sapphira. corruption. Enter Ananias and Sapphira. corruption. Enter Ananias and Sapphira. The literal definitions of a hypocrite. The literal definitions of a hypocrite. The literal definitions of a hypocrite. Because as you recall, a hypocrite, Because as you recall, a hypocrite, Because as you recall, a hypocrite, biblically speaking, is an actor. It's a biblically speaking, is an actor. It's a biblically speaking, is an actor. It's a person who is playing a part. But this person who is playing a part. But this person who is playing a part. But this was dealt with swiftly and in short was dealt with swiftly and in short was dealt with swiftly and in short order. So, now the devil comes with his order. So, now the devil comes with his order. So, now the devil comes with his third wave of attack against the church third wave of attack against the church third wave of attack against the church and I would describe it simply as and I would describe it simply as and I would describe it simply as distraction. Distraction. So, let's read distraction. Distraction. So, let's read distraction. Distraction. So, let's read Acts chapter 6. I'm going to read verses Acts chapter 6. I'm going to read verses Acts chapter 6. I'm going to read verses 1 to 8 and I'm reading from the New 1 to 8 and I'm reading from the New 1 to 8 and I'm reading from the New Living Translation.

Living Translation. Living Translation. As the believers rapidly multiplied, As the believers rapidly multiplied, As the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. there were rumblings of discontent. there were rumblings of discontent. That's a fascinating verse right there. That's a fascinating verse right there. That's a fascinating verse right there. As the believers were multiplying As the believers were multiplying As the believers were multiplying rapidly, there were rumblings of rapidly, there were rumblings of rapidly, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers discontent. The Greek-speaking believers discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking complained about the Hebrew-speaking complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers saying their widows were being believers saying their widows were being believers saying their widows were being discriminated against in the daily discriminated against in the daily discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. So, the 12 called distribution of food. So, the 12 called distribution of food. So, the 12 called a meeting together of all the believers a meeting together of all the believers a meeting together of all the believers and they said, "We apostles need to and they said, "We apostles need to and they said, "We apostles need to spend our time teaching the word of God spend our time teaching the word of God spend our time teaching the word of God and praying, not running a food program. and praying, not running a food program. and praying, not running a food program. And so, brothers, select seven men who And so, brothers, select seven men who And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected, full of the Holy are well respected, full of the Holy are well respected, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and we'll give them Spirit and wisdom, and we'll give them Spirit and wisdom, and we'll give them this responsibility, this responsibility, this responsibility, and then we apostles can spend our time and then we apostles can spend our time and then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and preaching the word." in prayer and preaching the word." in prayer and preaching the word." Everyone liked the idea, so they chose Everyone liked the idea, so they chose Everyone liked the idea, so they chose seven spirit-filled men, and among those seven spirit-filled men, and among those seven spirit-filled men, and among those men was Stephen and also Philip. And men was Stephen and also Philip. And men was Stephen and also Philip. And then we read, "God's message continued then we read, "God's message continued then we read, "God's message continued to spread, and the number of believers to spread, and the number of believers to spread, and the number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, of the Jewish priests were converted, of the Jewish priests were converted, too. But Stephen, a man full of God's too. But Stephen, a man full of God's too. But Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed amazing grace and power, performed amazing grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people."

miracles and signs among the people." miracles and signs among the people." We'll stop there. So, you can see just We'll stop there. So, you can see just We'll stop there. So, you can see just by reading those passages what the focus by reading those passages what the focus by reading those passages what the focus of the first-century believers was. It of the first-century believers was. It of the first-century believers was. It was about prayer, Bible study, and was about prayer, Bible study, and was about prayer, Bible study, and evangelism. Hey guys, we're getting evangelism. Hey guys, we're getting evangelism. Hey guys, we're getting distracted. The apostles are saying, "We distracted. The apostles are saying, "We distracted. The apostles are saying, "We need to spend time need to spend time need to spend time studying the word of God and praying we studying the word of God and praying we studying the word of God and praying we can use the gifts that God has called us can use the gifts that God has called us can use the gifts that God has called us to use. And therefore, we want to to use. And therefore, we want to to use. And therefore, we want to continue on in evangelism. So, let's get continue on in evangelism. So, let's get continue on in evangelism. So, let's get this resolved." And so, that's what they this resolved." And so, that's what they this resolved." And so, that's what they did. And and man, they were having did. And and man, they were having did. And and man, they were having incredible success in reaching people. incredible success in reaching people. incredible success in reaching people. 3,000 people believed on the day of 3,000 people believed on the day of 3,000 people believed on the day of Pentecost. In Acts 4, another 4,000 Pentecost. In Acts 4, another 4,000 Pentecost. In Acts 4, another 4,000 believed in Jesus. So, when God is believed in Jesus. So, when God is believed in Jesus. So, when God is working, the devil will always be working, the devil will always be working, the devil will always be attacking, and it's through division. attacking, and it's through division. attacking, and it's through division. Look at verse 1. As the believers Look at verse 1. As the believers Look at verse 1. As the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. You know, it's not even of discontent. You know, it's not even of discontent. You know, it's not even really important what they were really important what they were really important what they were complaining about. In this instance, complaining about. In this instance, complaining about. In this instance, they thought one group was being favored they thought one group was being favored they thought one group was being favored over another group, but really what it over another group, but really what it over another group, but really what it was about was selfishness, instead of was about was selfishness, instead of was about was selfishness, instead of selflessness. What about me? When are we selflessness. What about me? When are we selflessness. What about me? When are we going to mature enough as a Christian going to mature enough as a Christian going to mature enough as a Christian where we realize it's not about me, it's where we realize it's not about me, it's where we realize it's not about me, it's about we, right? Not just me, we. It's about we, right? Not just me, we. It's about we, right? Not just me, we. It's like us. Like, it's not just how can like us. Like, it's not just how can like us. Like, it's not just how can everyone serve me? How can I be blessed?

everyone serve me? How can I be blessed? everyone serve me? How can I be blessed? What can I get out of this? But when are What can I get out of this? But when are What can I get out of this? But when are we going to mature enough to come to we going to mature enough to come to we going to mature enough to come to church and say, "How can I serve others? church and say, "How can I serve others? church and say, "How can I serve others? How can I be used by God? How can I How can I be used by God? How can I How can I be used by God? How can I develop and use my gifts?" This is the develop and use my gifts?" This is the develop and use my gifts?" This is the thing that sometimes we miss out on is thing that sometimes we miss out on is thing that sometimes we miss out on is if you want to know the secret of if you want to know the secret of if you want to know the secret of Christian living, it's sort of upside Christian living, it's sort of upside Christian living, it's sort of upside down. And that's why I've called this down. And that's why I've called this down. And that's why I've called this series upside down living. It's upside series upside down living. It's upside series upside down living. It's upside down in this way. The way to up is down. down in this way. The way to up is down. down in this way. The way to up is down. Happiness is found in serving, not being Happiness is found in serving, not being Happiness is found in serving, not being served. Happiness is not found in served. Happiness is not found in served. Happiness is not found in self-fulfillment, but in self-denial. self-fulfillment, but in self-denial. self-fulfillment, but in self-denial. Jesus said, "Hey, you want to find your Jesus said, "Hey, you want to find your Jesus said, "Hey, you want to find your life, then lose your life. If any man life, then lose your life. If any man life, then lose your life. If any man will take up his cross, will follow me, will take up his cross, will follow me, will take up his cross, will follow me, and lose his life, then he will find and lose his life, then he will find and lose his life, then he will find it." What does that mean? It means if it." What does that mean? It means if it." What does that mean? It means if you put God's will first in your life you put God's will first in your life you put God's will first in your life and pursue that, you will find the and pursue that, you will find the and pursue that, you will find the happiness and joy that you really want. happiness and joy that you really want. happiness and joy that you really want. So, the next time you feel like throwing So, the next time you feel like throwing So, the next time you feel like throwing in the towel, why don't you take up the in the towel, why don't you take up the in the towel, why don't you take up the towel instead and wash the feet of towel instead and wash the feet of towel instead and wash the feet of others, so to speak, because Jesus said, others, so to speak, because Jesus said, others, so to speak, because Jesus said, "It's more happy to give than it is to "It's more happy to give than it is to "It's more happy to give than it is to receive. So, the apostles say, "Look, receive. So, the apostles say, "Look, receive. So, the apostles say, "Look, let's find some spirit-filled men." And let's find some spirit-filled men." And let's find some spirit-filled men." And I find this really interesting. Is that I find this really interesting. Is that I find this really interesting. Is that they needed spirit-filled, godly they needed spirit-filled, godly they needed spirit-filled, godly individuals of wisdom to do the things individuals of wisdom to do the things individuals of wisdom to do the things that needed to be done. And I bring this that needed to be done. And I bring this that needed to be done. And I bring this up because sometimes people think if

up because sometimes people think if up because sometimes people think if you're called to be a teacher or a you're called to be a teacher or a you're called to be a teacher or a preacher, that's the highest calling. preacher, that's the highest calling. preacher, that's the highest calling. But if you're called to serve behind the But if you're called to serve behind the But if you're called to serve behind the scenes or do different kinds of work, scenes or do different kinds of work, scenes or do different kinds of work, that's not as important not at all. that's not as important not at all. that's not as important not at all. These men needed to be as spirit-filled These men needed to be as spirit-filled These men needed to be as spirit-filled as anybody else did. These musicians as anybody else did. These musicians as anybody else did. These musicians that lead us in worship, they need to be that lead us in worship, they need to be that lead us in worship, they need to be full of wisdom, the word of God, and full of wisdom, the word of God, and full of wisdom, the word of God, and they need to be spirit-filled. But the they need to be spirit-filled. But the they need to be spirit-filled. But the people running the equipment, they people running the equipment, they people running the equipment, they really need to be spirit-filled. really need to be spirit-filled. really need to be spirit-filled. Every- I'm kidding when I say that. Every- I'm kidding when I say that. Every- I'm kidding when I say that. Everybody needs this power. So, we see Everybody needs this power. So, we see Everybody needs this power. So, we see some unique qualities in the [music] some unique qualities in the [music] some unique qualities in the [music] life of Stephen that I want to identify. >> Pastor Greg Laurie [music] will have the >> Pastor Greg Laurie [music] 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. Many listeners [music] write or call us Many listeners [music] write or call us Many listeners [music] write or call us sharing their stories of pain and loss, sharing their stories of pain and loss, sharing their stories of pain and loss, but also of hope. but also of hope. but also of hope. >> Pastor Greg, [music] >> Pastor Greg, [music] >> Pastor Greg, [music] I wanted to share that not long ago, my I wanted to share that not long ago, my I wanted to share that not long ago, my brother and 10-year-old nephew died in a brother and 10-year-old nephew died in a brother and 10-year-old nephew died in a tragic house fire. tragic house fire. tragic house fire. The months [music] that followed were a The months [music] that followed were a The months [music] that followed were a nightmare for me and my family.

nightmare for me and my family. nightmare for me and my family. Even though we received much love Even though we received much love Even though we received much love [music] and support from friends and [music] and support from friends and [music] and support from friends and family, it was still a very difficult family, it was still a very difficult family, it was still a very difficult time. But a friend gave [music] me a time. But a friend gave [music] me a time. But a friend gave [music] me a copy of your book, As It Is in Heaven, copy of your book, As It Is in Heaven, copy of your book, As It Is in Heaven, and it helped me so much. I've been and it helped me so much. I've been and it helped me so much. I've been walking closer to Jesus than I ever have walking closer to Jesus than I ever have walking closer to Jesus than I ever have before. [music] before. [music] before. [music] I've also found your podcasts and now I've also found your podcasts and now I've also found your podcasts and now listen every day while doing computer listen every day while doing computer listen every day while doing computer work and while driving. work and while driving. work and while driving. Your sermons [music] on trials and Your sermons [music] on trials and Your sermons [music] on trials and suffering have brought me so much hope, suffering have brought me so much hope, suffering have brought me so much hope, more than I can really ever explain. more than I can really ever explain. more than I can really ever explain. And now I can't get enough of reading And now I can't get enough of reading And now I can't get enough of reading the Bible. the Bible. the Bible. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> And when you explain how God allows >> And when you explain how God allows >> And when you explain how God allows trials and suffering so that we can grow trials and suffering so that we can grow trials and suffering so that we can grow up spiritually, it really resonated with up spiritually, it really resonated with up spiritually, it really resonated with me. me. me. I'm now clinging [music] more tightly to I'm now clinging [music] more tightly to I'm now clinging [music] more tightly to Jesus than ever before and have thanked Jesus than ever before and have thanked Jesus than ever before and have thanked God many times for you. Blessings to God many times for you. Blessings to God many times for you. Blessings to you, [music] Pastor Greg. you, [music] Pastor Greg. you, [music] Pastor Greg. >> It's wonderful to know that listeners >> It's wonderful to know that listeners >> It's wonderful to know that listeners are hearing these messages and God is are hearing these messages and God is are hearing these messages and God is using His [music] word to touch hearts. using His [music] word to touch hearts. using His [music] word to touch hearts. Would you share your story with Pastor Would you share your story with Pastor Would you share your story with Pastor Greg? If so, send him an email Greg? If so, send him an email Greg? If so, send him an email [email protected].

[email protected]. [email protected]. That's [email protected]. [music] And for more information about Pastor And for more information about Pastor Greg's book, As It Is in Heaven, go to Greg's book, As It Is in Heaven, go to Greg's book, As It Is in Heaven, go to harvest.org. [music] >> Well, we're taking a look at the life of >> Well, we're taking a look at the life of Stephen during the days of the first Stephen during the days of the first Stephen during the days of the first century church. Pastor Greg titled century church. Pastor Greg titled century church. Pastor Greg titled today's message, A Life Well Lived. today's message, A Life Well Lived. today's message, A Life Well Lived. >> Here's another thing that will come out >> Here's another thing that will come out >> Here's another thing that will come out of this story. Is Stephen died at a very of this story. Is Stephen died at a very of this story. Is Stephen died at a very young age. In fact, he was the first young age. In fact, he was the first young age. In fact, he was the first martyr of the early church. martyr of the early church. martyr of the early church. And when we look at someone who dies And when we look at someone who dies And when we look at someone who dies when they're young, we think of it as a when they're young, we think of it as a when they're young, we think of it as a tragedy and in fact, in many ways, it tragedy and in fact, in many ways, it tragedy and in fact, in many ways, it is. is. is. But it's interesting because Stephen's But it's interesting because Stephen's But it's interesting because Stephen's name means crown. name means crown. name means crown. Crown. And an early death means an early Crown. And an early death means an early Crown. And an early death means an early crown. crown. crown. Let me illustrate it. Let's say you were Let me illustrate it. Let's say you were Let me illustrate it. Let's say you were standing in line to go to Disneyland. standing in line to go to Disneyland. standing in line to go to Disneyland. And let's say the line is like 45 And let's say the line is like 45 And let's say the line is like 45 minutes before you're going to get into minutes before you're going to get into minutes before you're going to get into the park. And you're hot and you're the park. And you're hot and you're the park. And you're hot and you're sweating and you're miserable and all of sweating and you're miserable and all of sweating and you're miserable and all of a sudden the CEO of Disneyland comes out a sudden the CEO of Disneyland comes out a sudden the CEO of Disneyland comes out with Donald Duck next to him. And he with Donald Duck next to him. And he with Donald Duck next to him. And he walks to you in the back of that line walks to you in the back of that line walks to you in the back of that line and he says, "You don't look like you're and he says, "You don't look like you're and he says, "You don't look like you're that comfortable. I'm going to take you that comfortable. I'm going to take you that comfortable. I'm going to take you to the front of the line and take you to the front of the line and take you to the front of the line and take you into the park." And Donald Duck says, into the park." And Donald Duck says, into the park." And Donald Duck says, And so you go.

And so you go. And so you go. I just three people woke up. What? I just three people woke up. What? I just three people woke up. What? What's happening? What's happening? What's happening? Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So you walk in. Not a bad Donald Duck, So you walk in. Not a bad Donald Duck, So you walk in. Not a bad Donald Duck, right? Donald's hard to do. right? Donald's hard to do. right? Donald's hard to do. When I have time sometime, I'll have When I have time sometime, I'll have When I have time sometime, I'll have Donald Duck do a worship song. I Donald Duck do a worship song. I Donald Duck do a worship song. I actually have a couple. actually have a couple. actually have a couple. But, I almost pass out when I do it, and But, I almost pass out when I do it, and But, I almost pass out when I do it, and I don't know why. Something with making I don't know why. Something with making I don't know why. Something with making that sound. that sound. that sound. But, um here's Donald Duck getting But, um here's Donald Duck getting But, um here's Donald Duck getting angry. You ready for it? It's like that. Okay, so anyway. It's like that. Okay, so anyway. That's it, people. That's all you'll That's it, people. That's all you'll That's it, people. That's all you'll remember. >> [applause] >> [applause] >> What was this sermon about? I don't >> What was this sermon about? I don't >> What was this sermon about? I don't know, but he did this duck thing. So, Stephen had certain qualities that So, Stephen had certain qualities that God put in his life, but he was called God put in his life, but he was called God put in his life, but he was called home to heaven early. But, he made a home to heaven early. But, he made a home to heaven early. But, he made a great impact. Here's some of the great impact. Here's some of the great impact. Here's some of the qualities of his life. I'm going to just qualities of his life. I'm going to just qualities of his life. I'm going to just sort of fly over these. Uh verse 3 tells sort of fly over these. Uh verse 3 tells sort of fly over these. Uh verse 3 tells us he was a well-respected man. Listen, us he was a well-respected man. Listen, us he was a well-respected man. Listen, if you want to be used by God, you need if you want to be used by God, you need if you want to be used by God, you need to be well-respected.

to be well-respected. to be well-respected. And that phrase well-respected is And that phrase well-respected is And that phrase well-respected is translated in the King James version as translated in the King James version as translated in the King James version as a man of good reputation. This means a man of good reputation. This means a man of good reputation. This means that even non-believers spoke well of that even non-believers spoke well of that even non-believers spoke well of him. Uh in 1 Timothy 3:7, we read people him. Uh in 1 Timothy 3:7, we read people him. Uh in 1 Timothy 3:7, we read people outside the church should speak well of outside the church should speak well of outside the church should speak well of a person who is called into leadership. a person who is called into leadership. a person who is called into leadership. Number two, he was full of faith and the Number two, he was full of faith and the Number two, he was full of faith and the Holy Spirit. You know, when we think of Holy Spirit. You know, when we think of Holy Spirit. You know, when we think of the Holy Spirit, we think of power, we the Holy Spirit, we think of power, we the Holy Spirit, we think of power, we think of gifts. think of gifts. think of gifts. But, let's not forget there's also the But, let's not forget there's also the But, let's not forget there's also the fruit of the Holy Spirit, right? fruit of the Holy Spirit, right? fruit of the Holy Spirit, right? Galatians 5:22 says the fruit of the Galatians 5:22 says the fruit of the Galatians 5:22 says the fruit of the spirit spirit spirit uh is love, joy, peace, patience, uh is love, joy, peace, patience, uh is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Look, I gentleness, and self-control. Look, I gentleness, and self-control. Look, I don't care how gifted you are. Can you don't care how gifted you are. Can you don't care how gifted you are. Can you be a patient person? be a patient person? be a patient person? I mean, I appreciate the fact that you I mean, I appreciate the fact that you I mean, I appreciate the fact that you have an ability to speak perhaps, but have an ability to speak perhaps, but have an ability to speak perhaps, but can you be a loving person? Can you be a can you be a loving person? Can you be a can you be a loving person? Can you be a kind person? We don't just need the kind person? We don't just need the kind person? We don't just need the power of the spirit, we need the fruit power of the spirit, we need the fruit power of the spirit, we need the fruit of the spirit, too.

of the spirit, too. of the spirit, too. Stephen also was filled with wisdom, Stephen also was filled with wisdom, Stephen also was filled with wisdom, verse 3. And as you see in the message verse 3. And as you see in the message verse 3. And as you see in the message that he gave here in Acts 6 and 7, it that he gave here in Acts 6 and 7, it that he gave here in Acts 6 and 7, it was just filled with scripture. And he was just filled with scripture. And he was just filled with scripture. And he had this great wisdom, and though he was had this great wisdom, and though he was had this great wisdom, and though he was young, he was so wise. I've met young young, he was so wise. I've met young young, he was so wise. I've met young people that I'm so impressed people that I'm so impressed people that I'm so impressed with their wisdom. with their wisdom. with their wisdom. Uh it because they've studied the word Uh it because they've studied the word Uh it because they've studied the word of God. They have this passion for of God. They have this passion for of God. They have this passion for Christ. And I've met older people who Christ. And I've met older people who Christ. And I've met older people who are just they're old fools. are just they're old fools. are just they're old fools. They haven't learned anything in life. They haven't learned anything in life. They haven't learned anything in life. So, Stephen was young, but he was full So, Stephen was young, but he was full So, Stephen was young, but he was full of wisdom. Also, I would point out he of wisdom. Also, I would point out he of wisdom. Also, I would point out he was faithful in the little things. What was faithful in the little things. What was faithful in the little things. What was his job? Wait on tables, distribute was his job? Wait on tables, distribute was his job? Wait on tables, distribute food, do the menial work, if you will. food, do the menial work, if you will. food, do the menial work, if you will. But because he was faithful in the But because he was faithful in the But because he was faithful in the little things, God gave him an little things, God gave him an little things, God gave him an opportunity to do even greater things. opportunity to do even greater things. opportunity to do even greater things. So, his enemies saw that God had gifted So, his enemies saw that God had gifted So, his enemies saw that God had gifted Stephen, so they wanted to stop him. And Stephen, so they wanted to stop him. And Stephen, so they wanted to stop him. And Acts 6:11 says they persuaded men to lie Acts 6:11 says they persuaded men to lie Acts 6:11 says they persuaded men to lie about Stephen, saying, "We heard him about Stephen, saying, "We heard him about Stephen, saying, "We heard him blaspheme Moses and even God."

blaspheme Moses and even God." blaspheme Moses and even God." Nothing could have been further from the Nothing could have been further from the Nothing could have been further from the truth. truth. truth. Uh Stephen honored God. He glorified Uh Stephen honored God. He glorified Uh Stephen honored God. He glorified God. God. God. Uh but they made these lies up about Uh but they made these lies up about Uh but they made these lies up about him. Let people make up lies about you. him. Let people make up lies about you. him. Let people make up lies about you. Jesus said, "Blessed are you when men Jesus said, "Blessed are you when men Jesus said, "Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and say all revile you and persecute you and say all revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for my kinds of evil against you falsely for my kinds of evil against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven." for great is your reward in heaven." for great is your reward in heaven." Have you ever had someone tell a lie Have you ever had someone tell a lie Have you ever had someone tell a lie about you? about you? about you? Have you ever been slandered before? Have you ever been slandered before? Have you ever been slandered before? Well, let them be lies. Because he lived Well, let them be lies. Because he lived Well, let them be lies. Because he lived such a godly life, they had to make such a godly life, they had to make such a godly life, they had to make stuff up. Here's another quality of stuff up. Here's another quality of stuff up. Here's another quality of Stephen. He looked for opportunities and Stephen. He looked for opportunities and Stephen. He looked for opportunities and he seized them. he seized them. he seized them. So, now he's brought before the So, now he's brought before the So, now he's brought before the Sanhedrin. Sanhedrin. Sanhedrin. The Sanhedrin was sort of like the The Sanhedrin was sort of like the The Sanhedrin was sort of like the Supreme Court of the day. But back in Supreme Court of the day. But back in Supreme Court of the day. But back in this culture, they had religious this culture, they had religious this culture, they had religious authority, but they also had secular authority, but they also had secular authority, but they also had secular authority. So, they ruled in all kinds authority. So, they ruled in all kinds authority. So, they ruled in all kinds of affairs and issues of the day. These of affairs and issues of the day. These of affairs and issues of the day. These guys were the most influential people in guys were the most influential people in guys were the most influential people in the land. So, here stands Stephen before the land. So, here stands Stephen before the land. So, here stands Stephen before this very distinguished group of this very distinguished group of this very distinguished group of individuals.

individuals. individuals. And he's thinking, this is an And he's thinking, this is an And he's thinking, this is an opportunity for the gospel. Now, if opportunity for the gospel. Now, if opportunity for the gospel. Now, if Stephen had played his cards right, he Stephen had played his cards right, he Stephen had played his cards right, he could have gone home for dinner. But he could have gone home for dinner. But he could have gone home for dinner. But he thought, no, I want to reach these thought, no, I want to reach these thought, no, I want to reach these people with the gospel. And I wonder, people with the gospel. And I wonder, people with the gospel. And I wonder, and I can't guarantee this, of course, and I can't guarantee this, of course, and I can't guarantee this, of course, but I wonder if he even zeroed in on one but I wonder if he even zeroed in on one but I wonder if he even zeroed in on one of those men in the Sanhedrin. Clearly, of those men in the Sanhedrin. Clearly, of those men in the Sanhedrin. Clearly, the leader, a young man named Saul. And the leader, a young man named Saul. And the leader, a young man named Saul. And he thought, what if God reached that he thought, what if God reached that he thought, what if God reached that guy? guy? 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. Look at the blind bias Look at the blind bias Look at the blind bias of these people that should know better. of these people that should know better. of these people that should know better. They knew the word of God. But verse 57 They knew the word of God. But verse 57 They knew the word of God. But verse 57 says they put their hands over their says they put their hands over their says they put their hands over their ears and began shouting and rushed at ears and began shouting and rushed at ears and began shouting and rushed at him and dragged him out of the city. him and dragged him out of the city. him and dragged him out of the city. Isn't it interesting how irrational Isn't it interesting how irrational Isn't it interesting how irrational people can be when you start talking people can be when you start talking people can be when you start talking about Jesus? about Jesus? about Jesus? You know, you can talk talk about You know, you can talk talk about You know, you can talk talk about anything. They're like, "Cool." Have a anything. They're like, "Cool." Have a anything. They're like, "Cool." Have a little debate, maybe. Boy, you bring up little debate, maybe. Boy, you bring up little debate, maybe. Boy, you bring up Jesus and now they get all fired up and Jesus and now they get all fired up and Jesus and now they get all fired up and now they're upset and the veins pop out now they're upset and the veins pop out now they're upset and the veins pop out of their forehead. They get red and of their forehead. They get red and of their forehead. They get red and their voice is louder. They're upset. their voice is louder. They're upset. their voice is louder. They're upset. They're angry. "DON'T EVEN TALK TO ME They're angry. "DON'T EVEN TALK TO ME They're angry. "DON'T EVEN TALK TO ME ABOUT THAT. IT'S NOT REAL. I DON'T ABOUT THAT. IT'S NOT REAL. I DON'T ABOUT THAT. IT'S NOT REAL. I DON'T BELIEVE ANY OF IT." OKAY, OKAY, calm BELIEVE ANY OF IT." OKAY, OKAY, calm BELIEVE ANY OF IT." OKAY, OKAY, calm down. down. down. But why do they react that way? But why do they react that way? But why do they react that way? Jesus gave us the answer in John 3:20. Jesus gave us the answer in John 3:20. Jesus gave us the answer in John 3:20. He says they hate the light because they He says they hate the light because they He says they hate the light because they want to sin in the darkness. They stay want to sin in the darkness. They stay want to sin in the darkness. They stay away from the light for fear their sins away from the light for fear their sins away from the light for fear their sins will be exposed and they'll be punished. will be exposed and they'll be punished. will be exposed and they'll be punished. The reason they don't like what you're The reason they don't like what you're The reason they don't like what you're saying is you're a bright light in a saying is you're a bright light in a saying is you're a bright light in a dark place.

dark place. dark place. Think about when you're asleep, you have Think about when you're asleep, you have Think about when you're asleep, you have all the shades drawn all the shades drawn all the shades drawn and maybe your mom and dad come in, and maybe your mom and dad come in, and maybe your mom and dad come in, "Time to wake up." The sad thing is "Time to wake up." The sad thing is "Time to wake up." The sad thing is you're in your 40s. So, your mom opens up the light shade So, your mom opens up the light shade and the LIGHT COMES IN, "OH, [screaming] and the LIGHT COMES IN, "OH, [screaming] and the LIGHT COMES IN, "OH, [screaming] MAN." YOU PUT YOUR PILLOW OVER your MAN." YOU PUT YOUR PILLOW OVER your MAN." YOU PUT YOUR PILLOW OVER your head. You're not ready for the light. head. You're not ready for the light. head. You're not ready for the light. That's how people are when we talk about That's how people are when we talk about That's how people are when we talk about Jesus. But, I love how it says Stephen Jesus. But, I love how it says Stephen Jesus. But, I love how it says Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit. Listen, was full of the Holy Spirit. Listen, was full of the Holy Spirit. Listen, when you're when you're when you're obeying God, he'll fill you with the obeying God, he'll fill you with the obeying God, he'll fill you with the Holy Spirit. God doesn't pour his spirit Holy Spirit. God doesn't pour his spirit Holy Spirit. God doesn't pour his spirit on us just for the fun of it. Listen, on us just for the fun of it. Listen, on us just for the fun of it. Listen, the gifts of the spirit are not toys to the gifts of the spirit are not toys to the gifts of the spirit are not toys to play with. play with. play with. They're weapons to fight with, and They're weapons to fight with, and They're weapons to fight with, and they're tools to build with. The power they're tools to build with. The power they're tools to build with. The power that God gives us is power with a that God gives us is power with a that God gives us is power with a purpose. Acts 1:8 says, "You shall purpose. Acts 1:8 says, "You shall purpose. Acts 1:8 says, "You shall receive power after the Holy Spirit has receive power after the Holy Spirit has receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you." For what purpose? "To be come upon you." For what purpose? "To be come upon you." For what purpose? "To be witnesses unto me." Think about a fire witnesses unto me." Think about a fire witnesses unto me." Think about a fire hose. You ever seen when the hose. You ever seen when the hose. You ever seen when the firefighters lose control of the hose?

firefighters lose control of the hose? firefighters lose control of the hose? It's flailing about, water going It's flailing about, water going It's flailing about, water going everywhere. Then they get hold of that everywhere. Then they get hold of that everywhere. Then they get hold of that hose, and they aim it in the direction hose, and they aim it in the direction hose, and they aim it in the direction of a burning house, and think of the of a burning house, and think of the of a burning house, and think of the good they can do. So, God gave this good they can do. So, God gave this good they can do. So, God gave this power to Stephen for a purpose, to power to Stephen for a purpose, to power to Stephen for a purpose, to proclaim the gospel. I bring this up proclaim the gospel. I bring this up proclaim the gospel. I bring this up because sometimes people say, "You know, because sometimes people say, "You know, because sometimes people say, "You know, I'm so dry spiritually." I'm so dry spiritually." I'm so dry spiritually." Let me ask you this question. When is Let me ask you this question. When is Let me ask you this question. When is the last time you shared your faith with the last time you shared your faith with the last time you shared your faith with someone? someone? someone? See, the gospel is designed to be See, the gospel is designed to be See, the gospel is designed to be shared, not hoarded. You're blessed to shared, not hoarded. You're blessed to shared, not hoarded. You're blessed to be a blessing. be a blessing. be a blessing. Proverbs 11:25 says, "The generous soul Proverbs 11:25 says, "The generous soul Proverbs 11:25 says, "The generous soul will be made fat, and he that waters will be made fat, and he that waters will be made fat, and he that waters others will be watered himself." Now, others will be watered himself." Now, others will be watered himself." Now, don't you want a fat soul? don't you want a fat soul? don't you want a fat soul? Maybe not a fat body, but you want a fat Maybe not a fat body, but you want a fat Maybe not a fat body, but you want a fat soul, right? soul, right? soul, right? And so, it says when you water others, And so, it says when you water others, And so, it says when you water others, when you give to others, when you serve when you give to others, when you serve when you give to others, when you serve others, you are watered. Got it? See, we others, you are watered. Got it? See, we others, you are watered. Got it? See, we think, "No, no, it's all about me. It's think, "No, no, it's all about me. It's think, "No, no, it's all about me. It's about you doing this for me." Actually, about you doing this for me." Actually, about you doing this for me." Actually, it isn't. It's about you doing something it isn't. It's about you doing something it isn't. It's about you doing something for someone else, and the Bible says, for someone else, and the Bible says, for someone else, and the Bible says, "Give, and it shall be given unto you, "Give, and it shall be given unto you, "Give, and it shall be given unto you, pressed down, shaken together, and pressed down, shaken together, and pressed down, shaken together, and running over." As you give, God will running over." As you give, God will running over." As you give, God will replenish you. I can tell you this from replenish you. I can tell you this from replenish you. I can tell you this from experience. There have been times I get experience. There have been times I get experience. There have been times I get up to preach and I'm not really in the up to preach and I'm not really in the up to preach and I'm not really in the mood. Can you believe that?

mood. Can you believe that? mood. Can you believe that? And it's not because of you, it's And it's not because of you, it's And it's not because of you, it's because of me. It's maybe it's uh some I because of me. It's maybe it's uh some I because of me. It's maybe it's uh some I heard some news that's troubling or or heard some news that's troubling or or heard some news that's troubling or or there's some conflict of some kind or there's some conflict of some kind or there's some conflict of some kind or something's happening or whatever it is, something's happening or whatever it is, something's happening or whatever it is, I'm just not feeling I'm just not feeling I'm just not feeling up to it at that moment and I can tell up to it at that moment and I can tell up to it at that moment and I can tell you so many times I've started my sermon you so many times I've started my sermon you so many times I've started my sermon on empty and I've ended it on full. on empty and I've ended it on full. on empty and I've ended it on full. I'm replenished. It's true. I'm replenished. It's true. I'm replenished. It's true. >> [applause] >> [applause] >> [applause] >> Now, we say my life is so hard. You >> Now, we say my life is so hard. You >> Now, we say my life is so hard. You know, maybe you need to just get out a know, maybe you need to just get out a know, maybe you need to just get out a little bit. little bit. little bit. Maybe go see someone that's really Maybe go see someone that's really Maybe go see someone that's really suffering. I don't know, man. I've got suffering. I don't know, man. I've got suffering. I don't know, man. I've got like a cold and it's a really bad one. like a cold and it's a really bad one. like a cold and it's a really bad one. And then you go visit someone And then you go visit someone And then you go visit someone in a hospital in a hospital in a hospital with stage three cancer and all of a with stage three cancer and all of a with stage three cancer and all of a sudden your problem isn't very big, is sudden your problem isn't very big, is sudden your problem isn't very big, is it? See, I think we need to get it? See, I think we need to get it? See, I think we need to get perspective. And when you are obeying perspective. And when you are obeying perspective. And when you are obeying God, God will bless you and God will use God, God will bless you and God will use God, God will bless you and God will use you. And Stephen was filled with the you. And Stephen was filled with the you. And Stephen was filled with the Holy Spirit. And these members of the Holy Spirit. And these members of the Holy Spirit. And these members of the Sanhedrin were coming under the Sanhedrin were coming under the Sanhedrin were coming under the conviction of the spirit because conviction of the spirit because conviction of the spirit because according to verse 51, they were according to verse 51, they were according to verse 51, they were resisting the spirit. Which implies they resisting the spirit. Which implies they resisting the spirit. Which implies they knew it was true and they were saying, knew it was true and they were saying, knew it was true and they were saying, "No."

"No." "No." I I know what you're saying is true. I I know what you're saying is true. I I know what you're saying is true. That's why I'm putting my hands over my That's why I'm putting my hands over my That's why I'm putting my hands over my ears. That's why I'm I'm screaming. ears. That's why I'm I'm screaming. ears. That's why I'm I'm screaming. That's why I want you to stop. That's That's why I want you to stop. That's That's why I want you to stop. That's why I'm shaking my fist. I know it's why I'm shaking my fist. I know it's why I'm shaking my fist. I know it's true and I don't want to hear it true and I don't want to hear it true and I don't want to hear it anymore." It says in verse 54, they were anymore." It says in verse 54, they were anymore." It says in verse 54, they were cut to the heart. cut to the heart. cut to the heart. That could literally be translated they That could literally be translated they That could literally be translated they were sawn in half. were sawn in half. were sawn in half. Stephen was a true hero of the Christian Stephen was a true hero of the Christian Stephen was a true hero of the Christian [music] faith and was so Christ-like in [music] faith and was so Christ-like in [music] faith and was so Christ-like in his actions. Even when he was on his his actions. Even when he was on his his actions. Even when he was on his knees, he stood tall. >> We're seeing Stephen gave us a godly >> We're seeing Stephen gave us a godly example we can follow. example we can follow. example we can follow. And Pastor Greg Laurie has more from And Pastor Greg Laurie has more from And Pastor Greg Laurie has more from this message yet to come here on A New this message yet to come here on A New this message yet to come here on A New Beginning. Beginning. Beginning. So many of the early disciples risked So many of the early disciples risked So many of the early disciples risked their very lives to share the gospel. their very lives to share the gospel. their very lives to share the gospel. Stephen was the first martyr for doing Stephen was the first martyr for doing Stephen was the first martyr for doing so.

so. so. But that speaks to the importance of the But that speaks to the importance of the But that speaks to the importance of the message. It's a message we share every message. It's a message we share every message. It's a message we share every day here on A New Beginning. day here on A New Beginning. day here on A New Beginning. Have you ever responded to the Lord's Have you ever responded to the Lord's Have you ever responded to the Lord's offer of forgiveness? You can know your offer of forgiveness? You can know your offer of forgiveness? You can know your sins are forgiven and you can know sins are forgiven and you can know sins are forgiven and you can know you're going to heaven when this life is you're going to heaven when this life is you're going to heaven when this life is over. over. over. Pastor Greg, someone can enter into that Pastor Greg, someone can enter into that Pastor Greg, someone can enter into that kind of relationship with God today, kind of relationship with God today, kind of relationship with God today, can't they? can't they? can't they? >> They can and it's so simple and I think >> They can and it's so simple and I think >> They can and it's so simple and I think because it's so simple, people think, because it's so simple, people think, because it's so simple, people think, "Oh, it can't be that easy." Well, look, "Oh, it can't be that easy." Well, look, "Oh, it can't be that easy." Well, look, Jesus did all the heavy lifting. Jesus did all the heavy lifting. Jesus did all the heavy lifting. He carried the cross for you. He died on He carried the cross for you. He died on He carried the cross for you. He died on that cross that he carried. This isn't that cross that he carried. This isn't that cross that he carried. This isn't about what you do, it's about what he's about what you do, it's about what he's about what you do, it's about what he's done. But here's what the Bible says, done. But here's what the Bible says, done. But here's what the Bible says, "Whoever will call upon the name of the "Whoever will call upon the name of the "Whoever will call upon the name of the Lord will be saved." So, let's just say Lord will be saved." So, let's just say Lord will be saved." So, let's just say that you're caught in a rip tide out in that you're caught in a rip tide out in that you're caught in a rip tide out in the ocean and you need help and there's the ocean and you need help and there's the ocean and you need help and there's a lifeguard at the stand and they see a lifeguard at the stand and they see a lifeguard at the stand and they see you. You've got to call out to them and you. You've got to call out to them and you. You've got to call out to them and let them know you need saving. And the let them know you need saving. And the let them know you need saving. And the same is true when it comes to eternal same is true when it comes to eternal same is true when it comes to eternal life. Jesus is ready to save you. Will life. Jesus is ready to save you. Will life. Jesus is ready to save you. Will you call out to him? You'll say, "Well, you call out to him? You'll say, "Well, you call out to him? You'll say, "Well, okay, how do I do that?" You do it okay, how do I do that?" You do it okay, how do I do that?" You do it through prayer.

through prayer. through prayer. And prayer is just talking to God. So, And prayer is just talking to God. So, And prayer is just talking to God. So, listen, I'd like to lead you in a simple listen, I'd like to lead you in a simple listen, I'd like to lead you in a simple prayer. prayer. prayer. And if you pray this prayer after me, And if you pray this prayer after me, And if you pray this prayer after me, I believe God will hear it and answer it I believe God will hear it and answer it I believe God will hear it and answer it and Christ will come to live inside of and Christ will come to live inside of and Christ will come to live inside of you. Thousands of people have prayed a you. Thousands of people have prayed a you. Thousands of people have prayed a prayer like this over the years that prayer like this over the years that prayer like this over the years that we've been doing this radio broadcast we've been doing this radio broadcast we've been doing this radio broadcast and have seen their life change. There's and have seen their life change. There's and have seen their life change. There's no power or magic in a prayer. It's all no power or magic in a prayer. It's all no power or magic in a prayer. It's all about your commitment to Christ, but about your commitment to Christ, but about your commitment to Christ, but this is a way to call on the name of the this is a way to call on the name of the this is a way to call on the name of the Lord in this prayer. Lord in this prayer. Lord in this prayer. So, if you want Jesus to come into your So, if you want Jesus to come into your So, if you want Jesus to come into your life and forgive you of your sin, if you life and forgive you of your sin, if you life and forgive you of your sin, if you want to know that you'll go to heaven want to know that you'll go to heaven want to know that you'll go to heaven when you die, if you want to fill that when you die, if you want to fill that when you die, if you want to fill that big hole in your heart, big hole in your heart, big hole in your heart, just pray this prayer after me. You can just pray this prayer after me. You can just pray this prayer after me. You can pray it out loud if you like. pray it out loud if you like. pray it out loud if you like. Pray it in the quietness of your heart, Pray it in the quietness of your heart, Pray it in the quietness of your heart, but pray these words if you would. but pray these words if you would. but pray these words if you would. Lord Jesus, Lord Jesus, 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. I am sorry for my sin and I turn from it I am sorry for my sin and I turn from it I am sorry for my sin and I turn from it now.

now. now. And I choose to follow you from this And I choose to follow you from this And I choose to follow you from this moment forward. moment forward. moment forward. Be my savior and my Lord. Be my God and Be my savior and my Lord. Be my God and Be my savior and my Lord. Be my God and my friend. my friend. my friend. Thanks for hearing this prayer Thanks for hearing this prayer Thanks for hearing this prayer and answering this prayer. In Jesus' and answering this prayer. In Jesus' and answering this prayer. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. name I pray. Amen. name I pray. Amen. Listen, if you just prayed that prayer, Listen, if you just prayed that prayer, Listen, if you just prayed that prayer, I want you to know that God has heard I want you to know that God has heard I want you to know that God has heard you and has answered it. The Bible says, you and has answered it. The Bible says, you and has answered it. The Bible says, "These things we write to you that "These things we write to you that "These things we write to you that believe on the name of the Son of God believe on the name of the Son of God believe on the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal that you may know that you have eternal that you may know that you have eternal life." That you may know. It's yours life." That you may know. It's yours life." That you may know. It's yours now. God has given it to you because now. God has given it to you because now. God has given it to you because it's the gift of eternal life through it's the gift of eternal life through it's the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Congratulations Jesus Christ our Lord. Congratulations Jesus Christ our Lord. Congratulations and welcome to the family of God. and welcome to the family of God. and welcome to the family of God. >> Yeah, that's right. And listen, would >> Yeah, that's right. And listen, would >> Yeah, that's right. And listen, would you let us help you get started living you let us help you get started living you let us help you get started living this new life? Let us send you Pastor this new life? Let us send you Pastor this new life? Let us send you Pastor Greg's New Believers Bible. It's in an Greg's New Believers Bible. It's in an Greg's New Believers Bible. It's in an easy-to-understand translation with so easy-to-understand translation with so easy-to-understand translation with so many helps specifically for those who many helps specifically for those who many helps specifically for those who are new to the faith. are new to the faith. are new to the faith. We'll send it free of charge. Just get We'll send it free of charge. Just get We'll send it free of charge. Just get in touch for your copy of the New in touch for your copy of the New in touch for your copy of the New Believers Bible. Call us at Believers Bible. Call us at Believers Bible. Call us at 1-800-821-3300.

We can take your call anytime. That's We can take your call anytime. That's 1-800-821-3300. Or write a new Beginning Box 4000 Or write a new Beginning Box 4000 Riverside, California 92514. Riverside, California 92514. Riverside, California 92514. Or you can always go online to Or you can always go online to Or you can always go online to harvest.org harvest.org harvest.org and click the words "know God." and click the words "know God." and click the words "know God." And Pastor Greg, we're so thankful for And Pastor Greg, we're so thankful for And Pastor Greg, we're so thankful for the work God is doing through this the work God is doing through this the work God is doing through this ministry. ministry. ministry. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> We're touching lives for eternity. >> We're touching lives for eternity. >> We're touching lives for eternity. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> And we're really thankful for our >> And we're really thankful for our >> And we're really thankful for our friends who see the fruit of this friends who see the fruit of this friends who see the fruit of this ministry and invest so this work can ministry and invest so this work can ministry and invest so this work can reach even further. Isn't that right? reach even further. Isn't that right? reach even further. Isn't that right? >> Absolutely. When you invest in Harvest >> Absolutely. When you invest in Harvest >> Absolutely. When you invest in Harvest Ministries you're investing in the souls Ministries you're investing in the souls Ministries you're investing in the souls of men and women, boys and girls. And of men and women, boys and girls. And of men and women, boys and girls. And what is the value of a soul? Well, let what is the value of a soul? Well, let what is the value of a soul? Well, let me personalize it. me personalize it. me personalize it. What's the value of your soul? What's the value of your soul? What's the value of your soul? What's the value of the soul of your What's the value of the soul of your What's the value of the soul of your husband, your wife husband, your wife husband, your wife your son or your daughter your son or your daughter your son or your daughter or your mom or your dad or your mom or your dad or your mom or your dad or your best friend? Well, I would say or your best friend? Well, I would say or your best friend? Well, I would say you probably couldn't put a price tag on you probably couldn't put a price tag on you probably couldn't put a price tag on it. It's so valuable.

it. It's so valuable. it. It's so valuable. Well, listen, God says all souls are Well, listen, God says all souls are Well, listen, God says all souls are mine. God loves us and sent his son to mine. God loves us and sent his son to mine. God loves us and sent his son to die on the cross to pay the price for die on the cross to pay the price for die on the cross to pay the price for all of our sins so we could be forgiven all of our sins so we could be forgiven all of our sins so we could be forgiven and come into a relationship with him. I and come into a relationship with him. I and come into a relationship with him. I can't think of a better investment of my can't think of a better investment of my can't think of a better investment of my resources, of my money resources, of my money resources, of my money than in the work of the kingdom of God. than in the work of the kingdom of God. than in the work of the kingdom of God. So, we would ask you to prayerfully So, we would ask you to prayerfully So, we would ask you to prayerfully consider investing in Harvest Ministries consider investing in Harvest Ministries consider investing in Harvest Ministries as we continue on to fulfill the Great as we continue on to fulfill the Great as we continue on to fulfill the Great Commission. Commission. Commission. >> Yeah, that's right. And you can make >> Yeah, that's right. And you can make >> Yeah, that's right. And you can make your donation right now at harvest.org your donation right now at harvest.org your donation right now at harvest.org or write us at A New Beginning Box 4000 or write us at A New Beginning Box 4000 or write us at A New Beginning Box 4000 Riverside, California 92514. Riverside, California 92514. Riverside, California 92514. Or call 1-800-821-3300. That's a 24/7 phone number. >> [music] >> 1-800-821-3300. Well, next time more [music] inspiration Well, next time more [music] inspiration from the life of Stephen as Pastor Greg from the life of Stephen as Pastor Greg from the life of Stephen as Pastor Greg continues his message called [music] A continues his message called [music] A continues his message called [music] A Life Well Lived.

Life Well Lived. Life Well Lived. Join us here on A New Beginning with Join us here on A New Beginning with Join us here on A New Beginning with Pastor and Bible teacher Greg Laurie. Pastor and Bible teacher Greg Laurie. Pastor and Bible teacher Greg Laurie. >> This day will >> This day will >> This day will >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> This day will last >> This day will last >> This day will last again. again. again. >> [music]