Main Idea: God’s providence rules over our plans in order to establish His purpose of redeeming His people.
- God’s _____________ is always ________________. (vs. 6-9)
[6] And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. [7] And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. [8] So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. [9] And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”
*Proverbs 16:1; Proverbs 16:9; Proverbs 19:21
- God’s plan always involves glorifying God by making _____________________ of ___________ nations. (vs. 10)
[10] And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
*Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:18–20; Romans 1:14; Romans 1:5; Romans. 15:8-9
Today’s Key Insight! If you were to share a key insight from today’s sermon with a friend, what would you say?
Today’s Lunch Discussion: How was this missionary team being guided? What do we mean by God’s providence? How does Acts, being historic narrative, help us know how to apply this text to our lives? How did the “closed door” to Asia impact western civilization? Read through the handout by George Muller and discuss how to know the will of God? Why do we struggle to believe that God’s plan is always best for us? What is the goal of the plan of God (hint: Revelation 7:9-10). Have you ever considered foreign missions (going to unreached people with the gospel)? Might God be calling you? How are you involved in sending those who are called to go to unreached people with the gospel? How do your daily choices reflect a commitment to glorifying God by making disciples of all nations? Are you holding your plans with open hands?