Cut To The Heart Acts 7:54-60
Introduction Different reactions to same event Some laugh; others cry Why the difference? Different reactions to preaching “Cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37; 7:54)
Comparison of Audiences Acts 2 Missed opportunities (v. 22) Prophecies (vv. 17-36) God’s plan unfolded “What must we do?” (v. 37) Compare to today
Comparison of Audiences Acts 7 Fathers and Israel’s history God’s dealings with them Reaction changed (vv. 51-53) “Cut to the heart” (v. 54) Violent reaction
Comparison of Audiences Same two types today Godly sorrow and desire to obey Cease their opposition Anger toward others unleashed Some turn away (Acts 17:32-34)
Comparison of Audiences Be thankful for the proper response Sensitive to God’s message (Romans 6:6-18, 23) Godly sorrow followed by repentance (2 Corinthians 7:8-10)
Real Situations Improper reactions to danger Unscriptural marriages (Mark 6:17, 18) Various sins (1 Corinthians 6:9-11) Improper worship (Acts 17:22-32)
Real Situations Angry reactions when criticized Recreation and the social gospel (1 Timothy 3:15) Perverted the mission of the church Other organizations (Ephesians 3:21)
Real Situations Which one fits us? Happy to know the truth? Become angry? (Galatians 4:16) Some repented later (Matthew 27:22) Gladly obeyed (Acts 2:41, 47)
Conclusion Respond from the heart Think about your standing with God