Main Idea: As the gospel is strategically advanced, the Lord alone opens hearts to believe.
- The gospel advances _______________________. (vs. 11-13)
[11] So, setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis, [12] and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city some days. [13] And on the Sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together.
- The Lord _________________________ opens hearts to believe the gospel. (vs. 14-15a)
[14] One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. [15] And after she was baptized, and her household as well,
*John 6:44, Ezekiel 37:3–6
- Hearts that have been opened to believe the gospel lead to _________________ that are opened for the gospel. (vs. 15b)
…she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us.
*Philippians 4:14–16, 2 Corinthians 8:1–5
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 could you be more strategic in advancing the gospel? When your strategic plans fall through, are you able to adapt well? Why does everyone need Jesus? Why should the conversion of Lydia encourage us? Does God need our help? If not, then why does He use us, and how should we think about that? What are some marks of true conversion? What is the first step of obedience upon conversion? Have you considered hospitality as a necessary mark of true conversion? Is your home being used for the gospel? How could you be more generous through hospitality?