Keys To A Successful Meeting Acts 10:1-8
Introduction Success depends on effort Everyone You and me Story of Cornelius Devout man (v. 2) Peter was a faithful apostle and preacher
Cornelius (v. 2) Devout and Godfearing Devout (Greek- eusebes) is defined as sacred awe, describes reverence exhibited especially in actions, reverence and awe well-directed Another word (Greek- eulabes) describes attitude more than actions (Acts 8:2) He feared disappointing God Godly (1 Timothy 4:7, 8; 2 Peter 1:3, 6, 7; 2:9)
Cornelius (v. 2) Demonstrated his faith Benevolent (Galatians 6:10) Prayerful (Romans 10:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Cornelius (v. 2) Key #1- Be what we should be Salt of the earth and light of the world (Matthew 5:16) Light in the midst of darkness (Philippians 2:15) Hypocrites are rejected (Matthew 23:3) Lukewarm are rejected (Revelation 3:15, 16)
His Response (vv. 3, 8, 21, 24, 27) Opportunity to hear from God Not a saved man yet (Acts 11:14, 15) Responded to the opportunity
His Response (vv. 3, 8, 21, 24, 27) Notice what he did Did as he was told! (vv. 8, 22) He gathered others to hear as well (v. 24)
His Response (vv. 3, 8, 21, 24, 27) Key #2- Be concerned about others People are lost (Romans 3:23; 6:23) Bring our families (John 1:41; Ephesians 6:4) Children can see our real interests! Invite friends (Matthew 9:37; John 4:35) Peter didn’t invite any!
Cornelius’ Role (v. 33) Able to be in God’s presence Word of God was to be preached (v. 33) Shows he was conscious of his duty
Cornelius’ Role (v. 33) Knew why he was there Not for entertainment Not to hear what he wanted to hear (2 Timothy 4:1-5) There to hear what God had to say
Cornelius’ Role (v. 33) Key #3- Know why we are here To hear the Gospel (Romans 1:16) To be edified (Ephesians 4:11, 12) Will we use this opportunity, or allow other things to interfere? (Luke 14:15-24) Set priorities (Matthew 6:33)
Results (vv. 34, 35, 44, 48) Man’s role in redemption Saved by grace (Acts 20:24; Titus 2:11) They heard and obeyed (vv. 44, 48)
Results (vv. 34, 35, 44, 48) Preaching was necessary “Words” needed to be spoken (Acts 11:14, 15; Romans 1:16) Accepted by God (vv. 34, 35)
Results (vv. 34, 35, 44, 48) Key #4- We help determine results Salvation for those who hear and obey Christians will be edified Help people avoid being lost (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9)
Conclusion Work while it is day (John 4:35) Are you like Cornelius?