Preparing for the Lord's Day
Acts
One time, while living in South Carolina, I had the uncommon opportunity of a free day to myself, so I decided to take a hike. Without much planning, I drove out to Kings Mountain, grabbed a quick biscuit and coffee, and set out on the trail. Initially, I intended only a four-mile hike, but when I reached a fork in the trail, the day felt open, and I impulsively chose the longer route; a thirteen-mile trek. With no water, no food, and no real plan, the first eleven miles went by smoothly. But those last two miles turned into a grueling march. Dehydrated and exhausted, each step became an extraordinary effort of will. The final climb back to the parking lot had me wondering if I might need to call out for help.
When I finally reached my truck, I immediately drove to the nearest minimart, purchased a liter of water and a candy bar, and took what felt like the most satisfying drink of my life. Within ten minutes, I began to feel restored, refreshed, almost like my old self again.
In our passage for this Sunday, the Apostle Peter speaks about "times of refreshing." He describes the spiritual health and renewal that Jesus Christ brings to a world weary from the burden of sin and death. Just as that drink restored my strength, Christ comes to refresh our dry and weary souls. As Peter explains the healing of the lame man, he points out that this miracle is merely a foretaste—a sign pointing to the greater restoration Jesus promises. If we, too, feel weary and spiritually thirsty, our only true refreshment is found by looking in faith to Jesus Christ, who alone can restore and renew all things. To prepare your heart for the sermon, take time this week to read and meditate on Acts 3:11-26, Isaiah 35:5-6, Matthew 11:4-5, Romans 8:18-25, Ephesians 1:13-14, Hebrews 6:4-5, Revelation 21:1-5, and this article on Spiritual Thirst.
As we gather to worship the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit this Lord’s day, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Hymn of Praise “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” the Acclamation of Praise, “Amazing Grace,” and the Hymn of Response “In Christ Alone.” Let us come to worship this Sunday prepared to hear God’s Word, to receive it in faith, to love and treasure it in our hearts, and to practice it in our lives that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him!
Sermon Information
Text: Acts 3:11-26
Title: The Times of Refreshing
Outline:
- Refreshing Comes Through Faith In Jesus (vv.11-16)
- Refreshing Comes Through Repentance of Sin (vv. 17-21)
- Refreshing Comes Through Obedience to God’s Word (vv. 22-26)