“Knocking Down Barriers” was the theme of Pastor Geoff Wilson’s sermon during the Sunday morning service at Refuge Calvary Chapel. The sermon, which was part of the Acts: Faith in Action series, focused on the story of Cornelius in Acts 10:1-11:18. Pastor Geoff Wilson emphasized the importance of finding strength in God when facing discouragement or challenges, and encouraged the congregation to trust in God’s faithfulness and worship Him wholeheartedly. The service also included announcements for upcoming events, recognition of the high school and junior high students, and a reflection on the significance of Memorial Day.
During the Sunday morning service at Refuge Calvary Chapel, Pastor Geoff Wilson delivered a sermon titled “Knocking Down Barriers.” As part of the Acts: Faith in Action series, Pastor Geoff Wilson focused on the story of Cornelius in Acts 10:1-11:18, highlighting the breaking down of barriers between Jews and Gentiles. The sermon emphasized the theme of finding strength in God during times of discouragement or challenges and encouraged the congregation to trust in God’s faithfulness and worship Him wholeheartedly. The service also included announcements for upcoming events, recognition of the high school and junior high students, and a reflection on the importance of Memorial Day.
Sermon Title: Knocking Down Barriers
In today’s sermon, we will delve into the theme of “Knocking Down Barriers.” Life is full of barriers that can hinder our relationship with God and with others. Sometimes, these barriers can feel insurmountable and discouraging. But through the power of God and our faith in action, we can find the strength to overcome these obstacles and grow closer to Him.
Speaker: Pastor Geoff Wilson
Pastor Geoff Wilson has been serving our community for over twenty-five years. Known for his compassionate and relatable teaching style, Pastor Geoff brings a depth of understanding and insight to the Word of God. His sermons consistently challenge and inspire us to live out our faith in practical ways, making a difference in the lives of those around us. We are grateful to have him as our spiritual leader and guide.
Date: 5/28/23
Today, on the 28th of May, 2023, we gather together as a community of believers to worship, learn, and grow in our faith. Let us open our hearts and minds to what God has in store for us on this special day.
Series: Acts: Faith in Action
Throughout this series, we have been exploring the book of Acts, witnessing the powerful impact of faith in action. The early Christians faced numerous barriers and challenges, yet they remained steadfast and devoted to God. Their stories serve as an inspiration to us as we navigate our own obstacles, demonstrating the transformative power of a life lived in faith.
Sermon Number: 17
Today’s sermon marks the seventeenth in our series of exploring faith in action through the book of Acts. We have covered a wide range of topics, examining the lives of the apostles and early believers. Each sermon has allowed us to delve deeper into the practical applications of a life dedicated to God. We hope you have been following along and finding encouragement in these messages.
Sermon Text: Acts 10:1-11:18
In today’s sermon, we will be focusing on Acts 10:1-11:18. This passage tells the remarkable story of Cornelius and Peter, and the barriers they had to overcome to follow God’s plan. It is a story of two men from different backgrounds and cultures coming together and experiencing the transformative power of God’s love. As we explore this text, we will uncover the importance of breaking down barriers in our own lives to fully embrace God’s calling.
Worship
Songs of Praise and Worship
Before we delve into the sermon, let us take a moment to worship God through music. Music is a powerful tool that allows us to express our adoration and gratitude to our Creator. Through these songs of praise and worship, let us prepare our hearts to receive the message that God has for us today.
Theme
Finding strength in God when facing discouragement or challenges
Life is full of discouragement and challenges. We all face times when it feels like the barriers before us are too high to overcome. However, as followers of Christ, we have a source of strength that surpasses all human limitations. By turning to God and relying on Him, we can find the strength to persevere and overcome whatever obstacles we may encounter. In this sermon, we will explore how to find that strength and apply it to our lives.
Encouragement
Trusting in God’s faithfulness
One of the key ways to overcome discouragement and find strength in God is by trusting in His faithfulness. Time and again, God has proven Himself faithful throughout history and in our own lives. When we face barriers, we must remember that God is with us and will never abandon us. He is our rock in times of trouble, and by placing our trust in Him, we can find the courage to press on.
Worshipping Him wholeheartedly
Another way we can find strength in God is through wholehearted worship. When we come before Him with an open and sincere heart, offering our praises and adoration, we experience His presence in a profound way. Worship allows us to shift our focus from our own limitations to the limitless power and love of God. In times of discouragement, worshipping Him wholeheartedly can renew our spirit and remind us of His faithfulness.
Conclusion
The importance of breaking down barriers
In conclusion, today’s sermon has reminded us of the importance of breaking down barriers in our lives. These barriers can take many forms – cultural, social, or personal. But no matter what barriers we face, God calls us to step out in faith and actively seek unity and reconciliation. When we let go of our own prejudices, fears, and insecurities, we create space for God to work in and through us, bringing about true transformation in our lives and the lives of those around us.
Two types of people: those who have built walls and those who need Jesus
As we reflect on Acts 10:1-11:18, we encounter two types of people: those who have built walls and those who need Jesus. Cornelius, a devout Gentile, was open to God’s leading despite the barriers of his culture and upbringing. Peter, on the other hand, had his own barriers to overcome, including his prejudice towards Gentiles. Through their encounters with God, both men experienced a radical transformation, demonstrating the power of breaking down barriers and embracing God’s call.
Living a life for Jesus
In light of these teachings, let us commit to living a life for Jesus. Let us be agents of reconciliation, tearing down the walls that divide us and reaching out to those in need of His love and grace. May we find strength in God when facing obstacles and discouragement, trusting in His faithfulness and worshipping Him wholeheartedly. Together, let us knock down barriers and faithfully live out the message of Acts: faith in action.