The First Jesus Movement | Living on Mission

For America's 250th birthday, Greg For America's 250th birthday, Greg Laurie recommends a great film about the Laurie recommends a great film about the Laurie recommends a great film about the man behind the spiritual [music] man behind the spiritual [music] man behind the spiritual [music] awakening of our nation. awakening of our nation. awakening of our nation. >> Just as surely as George Washington is >> Just as surely as George Washington is >> Just as surely as George Washington is our founding father, George Whitfield is our founding father, George Whitfield is our founding father, George Whitfield is our spiritual founding [music] father. our spiritual founding [music] father. our spiritual founding [music] father. Two Georges played a role in founding Two Georges played a role in founding Two Georges played a role in founding the United States. So, find out more the United States. So, find out more the United States. So, find out more about George Whitfield [music] in this about George Whitfield [music] in this about George Whitfield [music] in this film that's called A Great Awakening, film that's called A Great Awakening, film that's called A Great Awakening, and we'll send it to you for your and we'll send it to you for your and we'll send it to you for your [music] gift of any size. [music] gift of any size. [music] gift of any size. >> Available on DVD at harvest.org. Believers [music] are to be salt and Believers [music] are to be salt and light to influence our world for the light to influence our world for the light to influence our world for the kingdom. But, Pastor Greg Laurie [music] kingdom. But, Pastor Greg Laurie [music] kingdom. But, Pastor Greg Laurie [music] points out we can't influence our points out we can't influence our points out we can't influence our community if we're isolated from our community if we're isolated from our community if we're isolated from our community. community. community. >> We need to go out and permeate [music] >> We need to go out and permeate [music] >> We need to go out and permeate [music] our culture. We need Christians in the our culture. We need Christians in the our culture. We need Christians in the arts. We need Christians in politics. We arts. We need Christians in politics. We arts. We need Christians in politics. We need Christian doctors, lawyers, and need Christian doctors, lawyers, and need Christian doctors, lawyers, and business [music] people. Instead of business [music] people. Instead of business [music] people. Instead of isolating, we need to be infiltrating. isolating, we need to be infiltrating. isolating, we need to be infiltrating. That's what's needed in the world That's what's needed in the world That's what's needed in the world [music] today.

>> Before [music] COVID, few of us had ever >> Before [music] COVID, few of us had ever been subjected to a quarantine. But, been subjected to a quarantine. But, been subjected to a quarantine. But, that experience effectively isolated us that experience effectively isolated us that experience effectively isolated us in a bubble. In a spiritual [music] in a bubble. In a spiritual [music] in a bubble. In a spiritual [music] sense, sometimes believers are sense, sometimes believers are sense, sometimes believers are constantly isolated from the world in a constantly isolated from the world in a constantly isolated from the world in a self-imposed quarantine. We don't want self-imposed quarantine. We don't want self-imposed quarantine. We don't want [music] to be of the world, so we try [music] to be of the world, so we try [music] to be of the world, so we try not to be in the world. Today on A New not to be in the world. Today on A New not to be in the world. Today on A New Beginning, Pastor Greg Laurie [music] Beginning, Pastor Greg Laurie [music] Beginning, Pastor Greg Laurie [music] points out how that neglects one of our points out how that neglects one of our points out how that neglects one of our most important responsibilities. most important responsibilities. most important responsibilities. It's the kickoff of a new series in Acts It's the kickoff of a new series in Acts It's the kickoff of a new series in Acts called The Upside-Down Life. called The Upside-Down Life. called The Upside-Down Life. >> [music] >> I think we would all agree that our >> I think we would all agree that our world is a mess right now. There's world is a mess right now. There's world is a mess right now. There's global instability. global instability. global instability. We see Bible prophecy being fulfilled We see Bible prophecy being fulfilled We see Bible prophecy being fulfilled before our very eyes. And then you have before our very eyes. And then you have before our very eyes. And then you have the breakdown of the family and the the breakdown of the family and the the breakdown of the family and the redefinition of the family and even the redefinition of the family and even the redefinition of the family and even the redefinition of the sexes. It reminds me redefinition of the sexes. It reminds me redefinition of the sexes. It reminds me of what scripture says in Isaiah 5:20 of what scripture says in Isaiah 5:20 of what scripture says in Isaiah 5:20 when it says, "What sorrow for those who when it says, "What sorrow for those who when it says, "What sorrow for those who say evil is good and good is evil. For say evil is good and good is evil. For say evil is good and good is evil. For those who say that dark is light and those who say that dark is light and those who say that dark is light and light is dark and bitter is sweet and light is dark and bitter is sweet and light is dark and bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter." I mean, that is the sweet is bitter." I mean, that is the sweet is bitter." I mean, that is the way it is right now. Things that are way it is right now. Things that are way it is right now. Things that are virtuous and wonderful are mocked and virtuous and wonderful are mocked and virtuous and wonderful are mocked and derided. Things that are evil and wicked derided. Things that are evil and wicked derided. Things that are evil and wicked are celebrated and promoted in our are celebrated and promoted in our are celebrated and promoted in our classrooms, in our culture. And you can classrooms, in our culture. And you can classrooms, in our culture. And you can become very frustrated by all this. Now, become very frustrated by all this. Now, become very frustrated by all this. Now, add to this a global pandemic and shake

add to this a global pandemic and shake add to this a global pandemic and shake it up and you have a lot of trouble. it up and you have a lot of trouble. it up and you have a lot of trouble. What are we to do in a time like this? What are we to do in a time like this? What are we to do in a time like this? Well, it's clear what the Bible says. It Well, it's clear what the Bible says. It Well, it's clear what the Bible says. It says, "When you see these things begin says, "When you see these things begin says, "When you see these things begin to happen, watch and pray." And we're to happen, watch and pray." And we're to happen, watch and pray." And we're also told to look up because our also told to look up because our also told to look up because our redemption is drawing near. Here's the redemption is drawing near. Here's the redemption is drawing near. Here's the answer. We need divine intervention in answer. We need divine intervention in answer. We need divine intervention in our nation. We need divine intervention our nation. We need divine intervention our nation. We need divine intervention in our world. We need another spiritual in our world. We need another spiritual in our world. We need another spiritual awakening desperately. And that's what awakening desperately. And that's what awakening desperately. And that's what we should be praying for. we should be praying for. we should be praying for. >> [applause] >> That's what we should be praying for >> That's what we should be praying for right now. We need another Jesus right now. We need another Jesus right now. We need another Jesus movement. And when we hear the phrase movement. And when we hear the phrase movement. And when we hear the phrase Jesus movement, our minds race back to Jesus movement, our minds race back to Jesus movement, our minds race back to the late '60s, early '70s and we think the late '60s, early '70s and we think the late '60s, early '70s and we think of the hippies with their long hair and of the hippies with their long hair and of the hippies with their long hair and their bell-bottoms and their beads. And their bell-bottoms and their beads. And their bell-bottoms and their beads. And I never wore beads, really. I But, you I never wore beads, really. I But, you I never wore beads, really. I But, you know, all those things that we think of know, all those things that we think of know, all those things that we think of in the '60s, but I want to go further in the '60s, but I want to go further in the '60s, but I want to go further back. There was long hair and there were back. There was long hair and there were back. There was long hair and there were beards, but no bell-bottoms.

beards, but no bell-bottoms. beards, but no bell-bottoms. But most importantly, guess who started But most importantly, guess who started But most importantly, guess who started the first Jesus movement. Guess. the first Jesus movement. Guess. the first Jesus movement. Guess. Jesus himself started it, and it was a Jesus himself started it, and it was a Jesus himself started it, and it was a very dark backdrop when it happened the very dark backdrop when it happened the very dark backdrop when it happened the first time. Mighty Rome ruled the world first time. Mighty Rome ruled the world first time. Mighty Rome ruled the world with an iron fist. Immorality was with an iron fist. Immorality was with an iron fist. Immorality was rampant. In Roman cities like Corinth, rampant. In Roman cities like Corinth, rampant. In Roman cities like Corinth, thousands of prostitutes would walk the thousands of prostitutes would walk the thousands of prostitutes would walk the street. Idolatry, spiritism, and demon street. Idolatry, spiritism, and demon street. Idolatry, spiritism, and demon worship all was openly practiced. Added worship all was openly practiced. Added worship all was openly practiced. Added to this the fact that the religious to this the fact that the religious to this the fact that the religious establishment was completely corrupt. establishment was completely corrupt. establishment was completely corrupt. Sounds like a good time for a Jesus Sounds like a good time for a Jesus Sounds like a good time for a Jesus movement. And who starts it? But Jesus movement. And who starts it? But Jesus movement. And who starts it? But Jesus himself. He bursts on the scene, himself. He bursts on the scene, himself. He bursts on the scene, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old fulfilling the prophecies of the Old fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament, giving the greatest teachings Testament, giving the greatest teachings Testament, giving the greatest teachings ever heard, performing miracles, and ever heard, performing miracles, and ever heard, performing miracles, and openly declaring himself as the Messiah. openly declaring himself as the Messiah. openly declaring himself as the Messiah. His followers numbered in the thousands. His followers numbered in the thousands. His followers numbered in the thousands. His name was on everyone's lips, and His name was on everyone's lips, and His name was on everyone's lips, and then seemingly it appears that the whole then seemingly it appears that the whole then seemingly it appears that the whole thing came off the rails. Jesus is thing came off the rails. Jesus is thing came off the rails. Jesus is betrayed by one of his own followers.

betrayed by one of his own followers. betrayed by one of his own followers. He's He's He's brought before religious authorities brought before religious authorities brought before religious authorities with false trumped-up charges, with false trumped-up charges, with false trumped-up charges, ultimately placed into the hands of the ultimately placed into the hands of the ultimately placed into the hands of the Roman governor Pontius Pilate, who has Roman governor Pontius Pilate, who has Roman governor Pontius Pilate, who has Jesus flogged and then sent to be Jesus flogged and then sent to be Jesus flogged and then sent to be crucified. But actually, God was at work crucified. But actually, God was at work crucified. But actually, God was at work in everything that was happening. in everything that was happening. in everything that was happening. Because if people read the prophecies Because if people read the prophecies Because if people read the prophecies carefully, they would discover the carefully, they would discover the carefully, they would discover the Messiah would first suffer, Messiah Messiah would first suffer, Messiah Messiah would first suffer, Messiah would die, Messiah would rise again from would die, Messiah would rise again from would die, Messiah would rise again from the dead. And these demoralized, the dead. And these demoralized, the dead. And these demoralized, discouraged disciples that were discouraged disciples that were discouraged disciples that were beginning to scatter were now empowered beginning to scatter were now empowered beginning to scatter were now empowered by the spirit, and the church was born. by the spirit, and the church was born. by the spirit, and the church was born. And that's really what the book of Acts And that's really what the book of Acts And that's really what the book of Acts is all about. It's about the birth of is all about. It's about the birth of is all about. It's about the birth of the first-century church. And this the first-century church. And this the first-century church. And this church changed their world. So, Rome church changed their world. So, Rome church changed their world. So, Rome tried to suppress them. Rome tried to tried to suppress them. Rome tried to tried to suppress them. Rome tried to stop them. And a wave of persecutions stop them. And a wave of persecutions stop them. And a wave of persecutions came against the church starting with came against the church starting with came against the church starting with the wicked and twisted Caesar Nero and the wicked and twisted Caesar Nero and the wicked and twisted Caesar Nero and eventually ending with Diocletian.

eventually ending with Diocletian. eventually ending with Diocletian. Caesar Nero was so depraved, he took Caesar Nero was so depraved, he took Caesar Nero was so depraved, he took Christians and covered them in pitch and Christians and covered them in pitch and Christians and covered them in pitch and set them on fire to light his garden as set them on fire to light his garden as set them on fire to light his garden as he rode around in his chariot screaming he rode around in his chariot screaming he rode around in his chariot screaming with delight. The Roman Emperor with delight. The Roman Emperor with delight. The Roman Emperor Diocletian was so certain that he had Diocletian was so certain that he had Diocletian was so certain that he had effectively eradicated Christianity, he effectively eradicated Christianity, he effectively eradicated Christianity, he had a special coin struck with these had a special coin struck with these had a special coin struck with these words, quote, "The Christian religion is words, quote, "The Christian religion is words, quote, "The Christian religion is destroyed and the worship of the Roman destroyed and the worship of the Roman destroyed and the worship of the Roman gods is restored." End quote. Hmm. gods is restored." End quote. Hmm. gods is restored." End quote. Hmm. Famous last words. Famous last words. Famous last words. Where's Rome today? Where's Rome today? Where's Rome today? Mighty Rome is reduced to ruins, but the Mighty Rome is reduced to ruins, but the Mighty Rome is reduced to ruins, but the church marches on and always will church marches on and always will church marches on and always will because the gates of hell will not because the gates of hell will not because the gates of hell will not prevail against us. prevail against us. prevail against us. The gates of hell will not prevail The gates of hell will not prevail The gates of hell will not prevail against us. The church continues to against us. The church continues to against us. The church continues to march and when persecution comes, it march and when persecution comes, it march and when persecution comes, it actually strengthens the church. So, actually strengthens the church. So, actually strengthens the church. So, Rome, what do we know of Rome? What do Rome, what do we know of Rome? What do Rome, what do we know of Rome? What do we remember of Rome? We name our we remember of Rome? We name our we remember of Rome? We name our children after apostles and our dogs children after apostles and our dogs children after apostles and our dogs after Roman emperors, right? Here, after Roman emperors, right? Here, after Roman emperors, right? Here, Caesar. Come on, Caesar. Caesar, sit.

Caesar. Come on, Caesar. Caesar, sit. Caesar. Come on, Caesar. Caesar, sit. What do we know of Rome today? Caesar What do we know of Rome today? Caesar What do we know of Rome today? Caesar salad? salad? salad? Little Caesars pizza? Pizza pizza. You Little Caesars pizza? Pizza pizza. You Little Caesars pizza? Pizza pizza. You know what? know what? know what? Not much left. Not much left. Not much left. But the church continues to grow and But the church continues to grow and But the church continues to grow and within 30 years, within 30 years, within 30 years, the original 120 the original 120 the original 120 uh of followers of Jesus and their uh of followers of Jesus and their uh of followers of Jesus and their comrades changed the world. How did they comrades changed the world. How did they comrades changed the world. How did they do it? Answer, through upside-down do it? Answer, through upside-down do it? Answer, through upside-down living. They turned the world upside living. They turned the world upside living. They turned the world upside down. That's why we're calling this the down. That's why we're calling this the down. That's why we're calling this the upside-down life. In fact, there's an upside-down life. In fact, there's an upside-down life. In fact, there's an interesting statement given to us in interesting statement given to us in interesting statement given to us in Acts chapter 17, verse 6. It was a Acts chapter 17, verse 6. It was a Acts chapter 17, verse 6. It was a criticism. When the religious leaders criticism. When the religious leaders criticism. When the religious leaders said, "Paul and Silas have turned the said, "Paul and Silas have turned the said, "Paul and Silas have turned the rest of the world upside down, and now rest of the world upside down, and now rest of the world upside down, and now they're entering our city." they're entering our city." they're entering our city." That criticism was, in effect, the That criticism was, in effect, the That criticism was, in effect, the greatest compliment of all. These guys, greatest compliment of all. These guys, greatest compliment of all. These guys, they're turning the world upside down, they're turning the world upside down, they're turning the world upside down, and now they're entering our city. This and now they're entering our city. This and now they're entering our city. This is what you call a complisult.

is what you call a complisult. is what you call a complisult. Do you know what a complisult is? It's Do you know what a complisult is? It's Do you know what a complisult is? It's when someone compliments you, but really when someone compliments you, but really when someone compliments you, but really it's kind of an insult. A few days ago, it's kind of an insult. A few days ago, it's kind of an insult. A few days ago, I was at the Orange County Fair with my I was at the Orange County Fair with my I was at the Orange County Fair with my family and Levi Lusko and his family. family and Levi Lusko and his family. family and Levi Lusko and his family. So, there was the, you know, the thing So, there was the, you know, the thing So, there was the, you know, the thing where you bring the hammer down and ring where you bring the hammer down and ring where you bring the hammer down and ring the bell, right? So, we went to that, the bell, right? So, we went to that, the bell, right? So, we went to that, and Levi says, "Greg, you want to do and Levi says, "Greg, you want to do and Levi says, "Greg, you want to do it?" I said, "Sure." So, he went first. it?" I said, "Sure." So, he went first. it?" I said, "Sure." So, he went first. He didn't ring the bell. Then it was my He didn't ring the bell. Then it was my He didn't ring the bell. Then it was my turn. I rang the bell. turn. I rang the bell. turn. I rang the bell. Then Levi went again. Then Levi went again. Then Levi went again. He still didn't ring the bell. I went He still didn't ring the bell. I went He still didn't ring the bell. I went again. I rang the bell. Levi says, "You again. I rang the bell. Levi says, "You again. I rang the bell. Levi says, "You know what that is? It's old man know what that is? It's old man know what that is? It's old man strength, okay?" strength, okay?" strength, okay?" That's a complisult. That's a complisult. That's a complisult. He acknowledges my strength, but it's He acknowledges my strength, but it's He acknowledges my strength, but it's old man strength, right? It's like old man strength, right? It's like old man strength, right? It's like someone says to you, "You look great for someone says to you, "You look great for someone says to you, "You look great for your age." your age." your age." Uh, yeah, that's kind of a complisult, Uh, yeah, that's kind of a complisult, Uh, yeah, that's kind of a complisult, for sure. Or you say to someone, "You're for sure. Or you say to someone, "You're for sure. Or you say to someone, "You're actually on time. I'm amazed." Which actually on time. I'm amazed." Which actually on time. I'm amazed." Which means they're usually late. "You're a means they're usually late. "You're a means they're usually late. "You're a really good driver for a woman." That, really good driver for a woman." That, really good driver for a woman." That, that's Don't say that. That's a that's Don't say that. That's a that's Don't say that. That's a complisult.

complisult. complisult. Or saying to somebody, Or saying to somebody, Or saying to somebody, "You look so great. Why are you still "You look so great. Why are you still "You look so great. Why are you still single? I mean, what is that all about? single? I mean, what is that all about? single? I mean, what is that all about? Don't say that. Don't say that. Don't say that. Oh, wow, you look really nice for a Oh, wow, you look really nice for a Oh, wow, you look really nice for a change. Another accomplice all. Your change. Another accomplice all. Your change. Another accomplice all. Your hair looks great when you actually do hair looks great when you actually do hair looks great when you actually do something with it. Implication, they something with it. Implication, they something with it. Implication, they don't normally do something with it. So, don't normally do something with it. So, don't normally do something with it. So, and by the way, I never hear that and by the way, I never hear that and by the way, I never hear that compliment about the hair. compliment about the hair. compliment about the hair. But, here's the point. This was meant as But, here's the point. This was meant as But, here's the point. This was meant as an insult, but it was the ultimate an insult, but it was the ultimate an insult, but it was the ultimate compliment. >> 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. We really enjoy [music] hearing when We really enjoy [music] hearing when We really enjoy [music] hearing when Pastor Greg's teaching and preaching Pastor Greg's teaching and preaching Pastor Greg's teaching and preaching touches lives. touches lives. touches lives. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> Hi, Pastor Greg. I love listening to >> Hi, Pastor Greg. I love listening to >> Hi, Pastor Greg. I love listening to your podcasts as they help me grow in my your podcasts as they help me grow in my your podcasts as they help me grow in my walk with Christ. You are one of the walk with Christ. You are one of the walk with Christ. You are one of the first pastors I've ever listened to that first pastors I've ever listened to that first pastors I've ever listened to that actually held my attention because the actually held my attention because the actually held my attention because the way you share scripture, your stories, way you share scripture, your stories, way you share scripture, your stories, and especially your humor.

and especially your humor. and especially your humor. Thank you for letting God use you. Thank you for letting God use you. Thank you for letting God use you. You have helped me greatly in times of You have helped me greatly in times of You have helped me greatly in times of confusion, and I've grown closer to God confusion, and I've grown closer to God confusion, and I've grown closer to God because of your messages. because of your messages. because of your messages. Thank you so much, and God bless you. Thank you so much, and God bless you. Thank you so much, and God bless you. >> When we hear [music] from you, it's not >> When we hear [music] from you, it's not >> When we hear [music] from you, it's not only a blessing, it also confirms that only a blessing, it also confirms that only a blessing, it also confirms that the program is making an impact. the program is making an impact. the program is making an impact. If you have a story [music] to share, If you have a story [music] to share, If you have a story [music] to share, call Pastor Greg and let him know. Call call Pastor Greg and let him know. Call call Pastor Greg and let him know. Call 1-866-871-1144. [music] [music] Again, 866-871-1144. Well, as Pastor Greg presents his Well, as Pastor Greg presents his opening message in the book of Acts, opening message in the book of Acts, opening message in the book of Acts, he's pointing out how those he's pointing out how those he's pointing out how those first-century believers were impacting first-century believers were impacting first-century believers were impacting their culture. their culture. their culture. >> It says there in Acts 17:6, they're >> It says there in Acts 17:6, they're >> It says there in Acts 17:6, they're disturbing our city. disturbing our city. disturbing our city. We need to disturb more cities with the We need to disturb more cities with the We need to disturb more cities with the gospel. That's what's needed in the gospel. That's what's needed in the gospel. That's what's needed in the world today. We need a holy disturbance. world today. We need a holy disturbance. world today. We need a holy disturbance. Bible commentary G. Campbell Morgan Bible commentary G. Campbell Morgan Bible commentary G. Campbell Morgan said, and I quote, "Organized said, and I quote, "Organized said, and I quote, "Organized Christianity which fails to make a Christianity which fails to make a Christianity which fails to make a disturbance is dead." End quote. That's disturbance is dead." End quote. That's disturbance is dead." End quote. That's true.

true. true. You know, the fact of the matter is You know, the fact of the matter is You know, the fact of the matter is wherever Paul the Apostle went, wherever Paul the Apostle went, wherever Paul the Apostle went, something happened. It was either something happened. It was either something happened. It was either conversion or a riot. conversion or a riot. conversion or a riot. It was action constantly. And think It was action constantly. And think It was action constantly. And think about this, these guys didn't have all about this, these guys didn't have all about this, these guys didn't have all the tools we have at our disposal. the tools we have at our disposal. the tools we have at our disposal. Thomas did not tweet. Thomas did not tweet. Thomas did not tweet. Paul did not have a Facebook page. Peter Paul did not have a Facebook page. Peter Paul did not have a Facebook page. Peter did not have an Instagram uh page or a did not have an Instagram uh page or a did not have an Instagram uh page or a YouTube channel. But yet, they were able YouTube channel. But yet, they were able YouTube channel. But yet, they were able to change their world. And here's an to change their world. And here's an to change their world. And here's an amazing thing to think about. For the amazing thing to think about. For the amazing thing to think about. For the first time in human history, our first time in human history, our first time in human history, our generation literally has the ability to generation literally has the ability to generation literally has the ability to fulfill the Great Commission in our fulfill the Great Commission in our fulfill the Great Commission in our lifetime. lifetime. lifetime. You ever thought about that? You ever thought about that? You ever thought about that? We literally have the ability, the Great We literally have the ability, the Great We literally have the ability, the Great Commission, to get the gospel out with Commission, to get the gospel out with Commission, to get the gospel out with all the tools of tech, with all the mass all the tools of tech, with all the mass all the tools of tech, with all the mass media, we can do more than we could ever media, we can do more than we could ever media, we can do more than we could ever do before. But the point of the matter do before. But the point of the matter do before. But the point of the matter is, these guys didn't have any of that is, these guys didn't have any of that is, these guys didn't have any of that tech, and look what they did. They tech, and look what they did. They tech, and look what they did. They permeated their culture.

permeated their culture. permeated their culture. Everyone was aware of their faith. Everyone was aware of their faith. Everyone was aware of their faith. Tertullian, a church leader, Tertullian, a church leader, Tertullian, a church leader, uh wrote these words around 200 of the uh wrote these words around 200 of the uh wrote these words around 200 of the early church, quote, "We have filled early church, quote, "We have filled early church, quote, "We have filled every place among you, cities, islands, every place among you, cities, islands, every place among you, cities, islands, fortresses, towns, marketplaces, fortresses, towns, marketplaces, fortresses, towns, marketplaces, the very camp, tribes, companies, the very camp, tribes, companies, the very camp, tribes, companies, palaces, the Senate, the Forum." And palaces, the Senate, the Forum." And palaces, the Senate, the Forum." And then he says, "We've left nothing to you then he says, "We've left nothing to you then he says, "We've left nothing to you but the temples of your gods." End but the temples of your gods." End but the temples of your gods." End quote. quote. quote. See, here's the way the early church See, here's the way the early church See, here's the way the early church thought. Everybody had a part to play. thought. Everybody had a part to play. thought. Everybody had a part to play. Everybody had a role to fulfill. Everybody had a role to fulfill. Everybody had a role to fulfill. Everybody had gifts to discover and use. Everybody had gifts to discover and use. Everybody had gifts to discover and use. And that's the same for us today. We And that's the same for us today. We And that's the same for us today. We need to go out and permeate our culture. need to go out and permeate our culture. need to go out and permeate our culture. We need Christians in the arts, making We need Christians in the arts, making We need Christians in the arts, making music, film, and doing graphic design. music, film, and doing graphic design. music, film, and doing graphic design. We need Christians in politics, bringing We need Christians in politics, bringing We need Christians in politics, bringing godly wisdom in the leadership of our godly wisdom in the leadership of our godly wisdom in the leadership of our nation because the Bible says when the nation because the Bible says when the nation because the Bible says when the righteous rule, the people rejoice. We righteous rule, the people rejoice. We righteous rule, the people rejoice. We need Christian doctors, lawyers, and need Christian doctors, lawyers, and need Christian doctors, lawyers, and business people. Instead of isolating, business people. Instead of isolating, business people. Instead of isolating, we need to be infiltrating. Every we need to be infiltrating. Every we need to be infiltrating. Every Christian in the church of the first Christian in the church of the first Christian in the church of the first century, at least most of them, century, at least most of them, century, at least most of them, understood they had to do their part.

understood they had to do their part. understood they had to do their part. And as we read the book of Acts, and And as we read the book of Acts, and And as we read the book of Acts, and we'll do that in the weeks ahead, what we'll do that in the weeks ahead, what we'll do that in the weeks ahead, what happens may seem radical to us at times. happens may seem radical to us at times. happens may seem radical to us at times. But in a way it wasn't radical at all But in a way it wasn't radical at all But in a way it wasn't radical at all because anything short of that is a because anything short of that is a because anything short of that is a watered-down watered-down watered-down version. So, we need this radical, version. So, we need this radical, version. So, we need this radical, upside-down Christianity today, and that upside-down Christianity today, and that upside-down Christianity today, and that has to start in our life. Yes, we need a has to start in our life. Yes, we need a has to start in our life. Yes, we need a revival, but before revival can start in revival, but before revival can start in revival, but before revival can start in the church, it needs to start in you, the church, it needs to start in you, the church, it needs to start in you, and it needs to start in me. So, let's and it needs to start in me. So, let's and it needs to start in me. So, let's look now at a few verses from the book look now at a few verses from the book look now at a few verses from the book of Acts, chapter 1. I'm going to read of Acts, chapter 1. I'm going to read of Acts, chapter 1. I'm going to read verses 1 to 4 and share some points with verses 1 to 4 and share some points with verses 1 to 4 and share some points with you. Uh and I'm reading from the New you. Uh and I'm reading from the New you. Uh and I'm reading from the New Living Translation. Living Translation. Living Translation. "In my first book I told you, "In my first book I told you, "In my first book I told you, Theophilus," Luke writes, "about Theophilus," Luke writes, "about Theophilus," Luke writes, "about everything Jesus began to do and teach everything Jesus began to do and teach everything Jesus began to do and teach until the day he was taken up to heaven until the day he was taken up to heaven until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further after giving his chosen apostles further after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit.

instructions through the Holy Spirit. instructions through the Holy Spirit. During the 40 days after he suffered and During the 40 days after he suffered and During the 40 days after he suffered and died, he appeared to the apostles from died, he appeared to the apostles from died, he appeared to the apostles from time to time, and he proved to them in time to time, and he proved to them in time to time, and he proved to them in many ways he was actually alive, and he many ways he was actually alive, and he many ways he was actually alive, and he talked to them about the kingdom of talked to them about the kingdom of talked to them about the kingdom of God." Okay, we'll stop there. God." Okay, we'll stop there. God." Okay, we'll stop there. Here's point number one, if you're Here's point number one, if you're Here's point number one, if you're taking notes. taking notes. taking notes. before you can change the world, you before you can change the world, you before you can change the world, you yourself must first be changed. Before yourself must first be changed. Before yourself must first be changed. Before you can change the world, you can change the world, you can change the world, you must first be changed. Look at verse you must first be changed. Look at verse you must first be changed. Look at verse three, during the 40 days after he three, during the 40 days after he three, during the 40 days after he suffered and died, he appeared to the suffered and died, he appeared to the suffered and died, he appeared to the apostles. apostles. apostles. The apostles. Now, when we think of The apostles. Now, when we think of The apostles. Now, when we think of these guys, we we see them in stained these guys, we we see them in stained these guys, we we see them in stained glass, standing on pedestals, Peter, glass, standing on pedestals, Peter, glass, standing on pedestals, Peter, James, John, Andrew, Matthew, later James, John, Andrew, Matthew, later James, John, Andrew, Matthew, later Paul, the list goes on. These great men Paul, the list goes on. These great men Paul, the list goes on. These great men of God. But one thing we see clearly in of God. But one thing we see clearly in of God. But one thing we see clearly in the Gospels and in the book of Acts, is the Gospels and in the book of Acts, is the Gospels and in the book of Acts, is these guys were humans just like we are. these guys were humans just like we are. these guys were humans just like we are. They had their shortcomings, they made They had their shortcomings, they made They had their shortcomings, they made their mistakes, but God used them. We their mistakes, but God used them. We their mistakes, but God used them. We say, "Oh, but they were saints. I I say, "Oh, but they were saints. I I say, "Oh, but they were saints. I I can't connect to them. I can't relate to can't connect to them. I can't relate to can't connect to them. I can't relate to them." Well, they were saints, but them." Well, they were saints, but them." Well, they were saints, but technically, you're a saint, too.

technically, you're a saint, too. technically, you're a saint, too. Heard about a Sunday school teacher that Heard about a Sunday school teacher that Heard about a Sunday school teacher that was talking to her class, and she said, was talking to her class, and she said, was talking to her class, and she said, "Hey kids, can anyone tell me what a "Hey kids, can anyone tell me what a "Hey kids, can anyone tell me what a saint is?" Little girl raised her hand saint is?" Little girl raised her hand saint is?" Little girl raised her hand up. Teacher called on her, and the up. Teacher called on her, and the up. Teacher called on her, and the little girl said, thinking of the little girl said, thinking of the little girl said, thinking of the stained glass windows with the saints in stained glass windows with the saints in stained glass windows with the saints in them, she said, "Saint, those are people them, she said, "Saint, those are people them, she said, "Saint, those are people that the light shines through." that the light shines through." that the light shines through." And that's true. And that's true. And that's true. That's all a saint is. A saint is a true That's all a saint is. A saint is a true That's all a saint is. A saint is a true believer. You're a saint, I'm a saint, believer. You're a saint, I'm a saint, believer. You're a saint, I'm a saint, we're all saints, and we can be used by we're all saints, and we can be used by we're all saints, and we can be used by God as well. Listen, the greatness of God as well. Listen, the greatness of God as well. Listen, the greatness of the disciples was not because of who the disciples was not because of who the disciples was not because of who they were, it's because God put his hand they were, it's because God put his hand they were, it's because God put his hand on them. on them. on them. It's almost as though the Lord went out It's almost as though the Lord went out It's almost as though the Lord went out of his way to find the most ordinary of his way to find the most ordinary of his way to find the most ordinary people to do the most extraordinary people to do the most extraordinary people to do the most extraordinary things through. things through. things through. First Corinthians 1:26, Paul says, First Corinthians 1:26, Paul says, First Corinthians 1:26, Paul says, "Isn't it obvious that God deliberately "Isn't it obvious that God deliberately "Isn't it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture chose men and women that the culture chose men and women that the culture overlooks? God chose these nobodies to overlooks? God chose these nobodies to overlooks? God chose these nobodies to expose the hollow pretensions of the expose the hollow pretensions of the expose the hollow pretensions of the somebodies. Interesting insight there. I somebodies. Interesting insight there. I somebodies. Interesting insight there. I heard the other day that a while ago heard the other day that a while ago heard the other day that a while ago now, but now, but now, but someone paid $1 million someone paid $1 million someone paid $1 million for for for for a Fender Stratocaster guitar.

for a Fender Stratocaster guitar. for a Fender Stratocaster guitar. Now, uh this is a very popular guitar Now, uh this is a very popular guitar Now, uh this is a very popular guitar and and they normally would cost you and and they normally would cost you and and they normally would cost you somewhere around $600 to $1,500, but somewhere around $600 to $1,500, but somewhere around $600 to $1,500, but this guy paid $1 million this guy paid $1 million this guy paid $1 million for a Fender Strat. Why? Because it was for a Fender Strat. Why? Because it was for a Fender Strat. Why? Because it was the guitar that Bob Dylan played at the the guitar that Bob Dylan played at the the guitar that Bob Dylan played at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. This was a 1965 Newport Folk Festival. This was a 1965 Newport Folk Festival. This was a defining moment cuz Dylan was known to defining moment cuz Dylan was known to defining moment cuz Dylan was known to play acoustic guitar and his harmonica, play acoustic guitar and his harmonica, play acoustic guitar and his harmonica, but he busted out a Fender Stratocaster, but he busted out a Fender Stratocaster, but he busted out a Fender Stratocaster, plugged it in, and all the folk purists plugged it in, and all the folk purists plugged it in, and all the folk purists freaked out. freaked out. freaked out. And they thought it was some form of And they thought it was some form of And they thought it was some form of heresy in their folky world. heresy in their folky world. heresy in their folky world. But that became a seminal moment in rock But that became a seminal moment in rock But that became a seminal moment in rock history. That's the guitar sold for $1 history. That's the guitar sold for $1 history. That's the guitar sold for $1 million. Maybe that makes a little more million. Maybe that makes a little more million. Maybe that makes a little more sense than some guy that bought a piece sense than some guy that bought a piece sense than some guy that bought a piece of a burned-up Fender Stratocaster. That of a burned-up Fender Stratocaster. That of a burned-up Fender Stratocaster. That one was played by Jimi Hendrix at the one was played by Jimi Hendrix at the one was played by Jimi Hendrix at the Monterey Pop Festival. And at the end of Monterey Pop Festival. And at the end of Monterey Pop Festival. And at the end of playing the song Wild Thing, Hendrix playing the song Wild Thing, Hendrix playing the song Wild Thing, Hendrix poured lighter fluid on it, set it on poured lighter fluid on it, set it on poured lighter fluid on it, set it on fire, and threw pieces of it into the fire, and threw pieces of it into the fire, and threw pieces of it into the audience. Some guy grabbed a piece, and audience. Some guy grabbed a piece, and audience. Some guy grabbed a piece, and that piece of the guitar was sold later that piece of the guitar was sold later that piece of the guitar was sold later for $380,000.

Okay, so here's the point. The value Okay, so here's the point. The value clearly was not in a burned-up piece of clearly was not in a burned-up piece of clearly was not in a burned-up piece of a guitar. The value was in who played a guitar. The value was in who played a guitar. The value was in who played the guitar. See, if I pick up a guitar the guitar. See, if I pick up a guitar the guitar. See, if I pick up a guitar and play it and try to sell it, it goes and play it and try to sell it, it goes and play it and try to sell it, it goes down in value. down in value. down in value. But if Eric Clapton picked up the same But if Eric Clapton picked up the same But if Eric Clapton picked up the same guitar and played it, it goes up in guitar and played it, it goes up in guitar and played it, it goes up in value. Jesus did not call these men who value. Jesus did not call these men who value. Jesus did not call these men who became apostles because they were great, became apostles because they were great, became apostles because they were great, they They great because Jesus called they They great because Jesus called they They great because Jesus called them. That's a difference. And God wants them. That's a difference. And God wants them. That's a difference. And God wants to use you. Maybe you're like a to use you. Maybe you're like a to use you. Maybe you're like a burned-out guitar. burned-out guitar. burned-out guitar. Maybe you don't have a lot to bring to Maybe you don't have a lot to bring to Maybe you don't have a lot to bring to the table. the table. the table. You don't have a lot to offer to the You don't have a lot to offer to the You don't have a lot to offer to the Lord. God can work through you. So, Lord. God can work through you. So, Lord. God can work through you. So, these apostles these apostles these apostles they had their lives changed when they they had their lives changed when they they had their lives changed when they saw Jesus risen from the dead. See, they saw Jesus risen from the dead. See, they saw Jesus risen from the dead. See, they never thought they would see Jesus never thought they would see Jesus never thought they would see Jesus again. When they looked at his beaten, again. When they looked at his beaten, again. When they looked at his beaten, traumatized body hanging on the cross of traumatized body hanging on the cross of traumatized body hanging on the cross of Calvary, which according to Isaiah 53, Calvary, which according to Isaiah 53, Calvary, which according to Isaiah 53, as the prophet spoke prophetically, he as the prophet spoke prophetically, he as the prophet spoke prophetically, he was so beaten and marred and was so beaten and marred and was so beaten and marred and traumatized, you could not even tell he traumatized, you could not even tell he traumatized, you could not even tell he was a man. But Jesus rose again and was a man. But Jesus rose again and was a man. But Jesus rose again and appeared many times over a 40-day appeared many times over a 40-day appeared many times over a 40-day period. He appeared first to Mary period. He appeared first to Mary period. He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, who came to anoint his dead Magdalene, who came to anoint his dead Magdalene, who came to anoint his dead body at the tomb. He appeared after that body at the tomb. He appeared after that body at the tomb. He appeared after that to Simon Peter. Then he appeared in the to Simon Peter. Then he appeared in the to Simon Peter. Then he appeared in the upper room to the disciples and upper room to the disciples and upper room to the disciples and specifically to Thomas, who said, "I specifically to Thomas, who said, "I specifically to Thomas, who said, "I won't believe until I can put my hand in won't believe until I can put my hand in won't believe until I can put my hand in the wounds in his side." He appeared to

the wounds in his side." He appeared to the wounds in his side." He appeared to two disciples walking on the Emmaus two disciples walking on the Emmaus two disciples walking on the Emmaus road. He appeared to Simon Peter again road. He appeared to Simon Peter again road. He appeared to Simon Peter again at the Sea of Galilee telling him to at the Sea of Galilee telling him to at the Sea of Galilee telling him to feed God's sheep. And he appeared over feed God's sheep. And he appeared over feed God's sheep. And he appeared over 500 people at one time. This transformed 500 people at one time. This transformed 500 people at one time. This transformed them. Jesus was them. Jesus was them. Jesus was basically popping up everywhere. And basically popping up everywhere. And basically popping up everywhere. And they knew he was alive and they knew he they knew he was alive and they knew he they knew he was alive and they knew he had risen. You see, before they could had risen. You see, before they could had risen. You see, before they could change the world, Jesus needed to change change the world, Jesus needed to change change the world, Jesus needed to change them. them. them. And 1 John 1:1 says, John writing, "We And 1 John 1:1 says, John writing, "We And 1 John 1:1 says, John writing, "We proclaim to you the one who existed from proclaim to you the one who existed from proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and the beginning, whom we have heard and the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and we touched him with our own hands. He is we touched him with our own hands. He is we touched him with our own hands. He is the word of life." Listen to this. If the word of life." Listen to this. If the word of life." Listen to this. If you want people to follow Jesus, you want people to follow Jesus, you want people to follow Jesus, you must be a good example as a follower you must be a good example as a follower you must be a good example as a follower of Jesus. of Jesus. of Jesus. Example, would you go to a dentist with Example, would you go to a dentist with Example, would you go to a dentist with half of his teeth missing? half of his teeth missing? half of his teeth missing? You couldn't even understand what he was You couldn't even understand what he was You couldn't even understand what he was saying. I'll fix your teeth with your saying. I'll fix your teeth with your saying. I'll fix your teeth with your What?

What? What? Well, sir, what happened to your teeth? Well, sir, what happened to your teeth? Well, sir, what happened to your teeth? He tells you, "Well, I never really He tells you, "Well, I never really He tells you, "Well, I never really brushed or took care of my teeth." Well, brushed or took care of my teeth." Well, brushed or took care of my teeth." Well, I don't want you to do dental work on I don't want you to do dental work on I don't want you to do dental work on me. How about this one? Would you go to me. How about this one? Would you go to me. How about this one? Would you go to a music teacher who was tone deaf? a music teacher who was tone deaf? a music teacher who was tone deaf? Would you go to a gym and have as your Would you go to a gym and have as your Would you go to a gym and have as your trainer someone who was morbidly obese? trainer someone who was morbidly obese? trainer someone who was morbidly obese? I don't think so. You would want that I don't think so. You would want that I don't think so. You would want that person to be an example of what it is person to be an example of what it is person to be an example of what it is they're teaching you to do, right? So, they're teaching you to do, right? So, they're teaching you to do, right? So, in the same way we say to people, in the same way we say to people, in the same way we say to people, "Follow Jesus," but they're looking at "Follow Jesus," but they're looking at "Follow Jesus," but they're looking at you. you. you. They're looking to see if you, yourself, They're looking to see if you, yourself, They're looking to see if you, yourself, are following Jesus. Paul said, "Follow are following Jesus. Paul said, "Follow are following Jesus. Paul said, "Follow my example as I follow the example of my example as I follow the example of my example as I follow the example of Christ." [music] 1 Corinthians 11:1. So, Christ." [music] 1 Corinthians 11:1. So, Christ." [music] 1 Corinthians 11:1. So, first, it must happen [music] to us. >> Pastor Greg Laurie with the first lesson >> Pastor Greg Laurie with the first lesson of many to come from our new study of many to come from our new study of many to come from our new study series in the book of Acts, a series series in the book of Acts, a series series in the book of Acts, a series called The Upside Down Life. And we'll called The Upside Down Life. And we'll called The Upside Down Life. And we'll bring a whole series your way here on A bring a whole series your way here on A bring a whole series your way here on A New Beginning.

New Beginning. New Beginning. And uh Pastor Greg, we've been talking And uh Pastor Greg, we've been talking And uh Pastor Greg, we've been talking about sharing the good news, the gospel. about sharing the good news, the gospel. about sharing the good news, the gospel. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> What about the person listening who's >> What about the person listening who's >> What about the person listening who's never responded to the gospel? They've never responded to the gospel? They've never responded to the gospel? They've never come to that point of entering never come to that point of entering never come to that point of entering into a relationship with the Lord. into a relationship with the Lord. into a relationship with the Lord. They're open to it, but just haven't They're open to it, but just haven't They're open to it, but just haven't made that change. made that change. made that change. >> Right. >> Right. >> Right. >> Someone can enter into that kind of >> Someone can enter into that kind of >> Someone can enter into that kind of relationship today, can't they? relationship today, can't they? relationship today, can't they? >> They can, and it's so simple. And I >> They can, and it's so simple. And I >> 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." think, "Oh, it can't be that easy." think, "Oh, it can't be that easy." Well, look, Jesus did all the heavy Well, look, Jesus did all the heavy Well, look, Jesus did all the heavy lifting. lifting. 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 riptide out in that you're caught in a riptide out in that you're caught in a riptide 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 just pray this prayer after me. You just pray this prayer after me. You could pray it out loud if you like. could pray it out loud if you like. could 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. Yeah, that's right. And listen, we >> Yeah. Yeah, that's right. And listen, we >> Yeah. Yeah, that's right. And listen, we want to help you get started in this new want to help you get started in this new want to help you get started in this new relationship with the Lord. relationship with the Lord. relationship with the Lord. Would you let us send you something? Would you let us send you something? Would you let us send you something? It's free of charge. It's Pastor Greg's It's free of charge. It's Pastor Greg's It's free of charge. It's Pastor Greg's New Believer's Bible. Scores of people New Believer's Bible. Scores of people New Believer's Bible. Scores of people have read this edition of God's word. have read this edition of God's word. have read this edition of God's word. New believers love the study helps New believers love the study helps New believers love the study helps written just for them. And they written just for them. And they written just for them. And they appreciate that it's in an appreciate that it's in an appreciate that it's in an easy-to-understand easy-to-understand easy-to-understand translation. We'll send it to you today.

translation. We'll send it to you today. translation. We'll send it to you today. Just ask for the New Believer's Bible Just ask for the New Believer's Bible Just ask for the New Believer's Bible when you call 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 go online to harvest.org. Or go online to harvest.org. Or go online to harvest.org. And then let us say a word of thanks to And then let us say a word of thanks to And then let us say a word of thanks to those who support us financially. Those those who support us financially. Those those who support us financially. Those who make it possible for us to bring you who make it possible for us to bring you who make it possible for us to bring you these studies each day. these studies each day. these studies each day. We're definitely a listener-supported We're definitely a listener-supported We're definitely a listener-supported ministry. It's the generosity of ministry. It's the generosity of ministry. It's the generosity of listeners that help us be here with listeners that help us be here with listeners that help us be here with these programs. these programs. these programs. So, if you partnered with us, thank you. So, if you partnered with us, thank you. So, if you partnered with us, thank you. And if you have yet to partner with us, And if you have yet to partner with us, And if you have yet to partner with us, well, I hope you'll get in touch today well, I hope you'll get in touch today well, I hope you'll get in touch today and let us know that you're standing and let us know that you're standing and let us know that you're standing with us. Even a small investment would with us. Even a small investment would with us. Even a small investment would help. It's actually an investment in help. It's actually an investment in help. It's actually an investment in changing lives. Thank you for partnering changing lives. Thank you for partnering changing lives. Thank you for partnering with us. You can donate securely online with us. You can donate securely online with us. You can donate securely online at harvest.org at harvest.org at harvest.org or write A New Beginning Box 4000, or write A New Beginning Box 4000, or write A New Beginning Box 4000, Riverside, California 92514.

Riverside, California 92514. Riverside, California 92514. Or call us at 1-800-821-3300. [music] Well, next time more insights to help us Well, next time more insights to help us [music] reach out and impact our culture [music] reach out and impact our culture [music] reach out and impact our culture from this new series in the book of from this new series in the book of from this new series in the book of Acts. Acts. Acts. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> 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. >> A new day >> A new day >> A new day >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> will >> will >> will begin.