“The Gospel Advances Through the Word” (Acts 17:1-15)

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“The Gospel Advances Through the Word” (Acts 17:1-15)

May 3, 2026

Series: Acts Empowered by the Spirit

Book: Acts

Mike Fourman

The Gospel advances through the Word, and that has direct implications for how we live as followers of Christ. If God grows His church and transforms lives through His Word, then our priority must be to center our lives on it. We are not called to rely on personality, creativity, or strategy, but on the faithful sharing and hearing of Scripture. If we want to grow into Christ’s likeness, we must become people of the Book.
This means we must commit to sharing the Word like Paul. We open the Bible, explain it clearly, and point people to Jesus. Our confidence is not in our story or our ability to persuade, but in the power of God’s Word. Whether in our homes, conversations, or teaching opportunities, we must let Scripture do the work and keep Christ at the center.

We must also be prepared for how people will respond. Some will receive the Word and be changed by it. Others will resist it. This should not surprise or discourage us. God’s Word always produces a response, and even opposition cannot stop His work. Instead of retreating, we remain faithful, trusting that God is advancing His mission through His Word.

Finally, we must receive the Word like the Bereans. We come with eager hearts, ready to hear from God, and with examining minds, committed to knowing His truth. This requires daily engagement with Scripture—not as a duty to check off, but as a necessity for life and growth. We listen carefully, study intentionally, and submit humbly.

God is still working through His Word today. The question is whether we will truly build our lives on it. If we want to grow, if we want to be faithful, and if we want to see God at work, then we must be people who hear it, live it, and share it.

Outline

  1. How Must the Word Be Shared? — Like Paul (Acts 17:1–3)
    • Share the Scriptures
    • Explain the Scriptures clearly
    • Proclaim Jesus as the Christ
  2. What Happens When the Word Is Shared? (Acts 17:4–10, 12–15)
    • For some, the Word bears fruit
      • The Word persuades and enlists
    • For some, the Word is opposed
      • Recognize the counter-mission to Jesus’ mission
      • Expect fruit to bring opposition
      • Trust God to harness opposition for His mission
  3. How Must We Receive the Word? — Like the Bereans (Acts 17:11)
    • With eager hearts
    • With examining minds

Big Idea

The Gospel advances through the Word, so Christ’s people must faithfully share the Scriptures, confidently proclaim Jesus, and eagerly receive God’s Word with examining hearts.