When All Hope Is Lost

Acts

During the Second World War, Allied convoys crossing the North Atlantic faced a terrifying reality. German U-boats stalked the waters beneath them. Like wolves hunting their pray, these U-boats would wait for darkness, fog, or separation from the convoy and then strike. In the midst of those crossings, the burden resting on the convoy commander was immense. Hundreds of sailors and countless supplies depended upon his judgment. The sea was violent, visibility was poor, and danger could emerge without warning. Yet the task of the commander was not merely to react to the storm or panic at every report. Rather he had to hold his course, trust the intelligence he had received, and guide the ships safely through waters he could not fully control.

Acts 27 places us in the middle of another uncontrollable storm at sea. The winds rage, the ship breaks apart, and eventually all hope of being saved seems lost. Yet in the midst of the chaos, Paul speaks with remarkable confidence. Not confidence in the sailors, the ship, or the weather, but confidence in God and His promises. This Sunday we will consider what it means to trust God in the midst of the storm, believing that His Word is certain, His care is personal, and His control extends over every wave. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and meditate upon Acts 27, Psalm 19:7, Isaiah 43:2, Matthew 8:23-27, Luke 21:18, 2 Timothy 3:16, and this article on God’s Providence.

As we gather to worship our loving Father this Lord’s Day, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Hymn of Praise “Come, O Come, Thou Quickening Spirit,” the Acclamation of Praise “Spirit of the Living God,” and the Hymn of Response “Holy Spirit.” 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 so that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him!

Sermon Information

Text: Acts 27

Title: When All Hope Is Lost

Outline:

1. We Must Trust in His Certain Word
2. We Must Trust in His Personal Care
3. We Must Trust in His Sovereign Control

Sunday's Bulletin
Bulletin Insert