The Unhindered Harvest Acts: The Unhindered Harvest

In the world we have… …chaos …trial …fear …anxiety

“Traditional American Christians have long been on the losing end of culture-war contests—on school prayer, same-sex marriage and other issues…

This new vigorous secularism has catapulted mockery of Christianity and other forms of religious traditionalism into the mainstream…

and set a new low for what counts as civil criticism of people’s most-cherished beliefs…an insidious intolerance for religion…

…in a country founded on religious freedom.” (Eberstadt, Mary; “Religious Freedom and It’s Enemies”, Time Magazine, June 29, 2016)

In the world we have… …chaos …trial …fear …anxiety This is normative This is strategic

1 Peter 3:13-17 Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good?

But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled,

but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;

and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.

For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong.

Herod in Charge Sovereign lordship Driven by selfish motive Elevated above religious principle

Herod Thinking He’s in Charge Herod’s intention vs. God’s intention Herod’s will vs. God’s will

Herod is Charged Arrogance Idolatry Sentence of death Vindication

Trust what you know… God His Promises His Purposes Reaping the Harvest

Reaping the Harvest Trust not what you feel Have no fear Anxious Alone Abandoned Have no fear Reaping the Harvest

1 Peter 5:6-11 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Be of sober spirit, be on the alert Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world.

After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you. To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.