1. Be prepared – for different responses & a cost Acts 18:1-17 1.Be ready for different responses a. Parable of the sower – Mk.4:1-20 - no response – v.15 - temporary/superficial response – v.16-19 - wholehearted response – v.20 b. Jesus’ ministry – John 1:10-13; 6:60-7:1

2. c. Mission in Acts – 18:1-17 1. Wholehearted response – 16:13-15,29-34; 18:7,8 2. Indifference & mocking – 17:32 3. Strong hostility – 18:5,6,12,13 The Gospel provokes hostility – the truth:- a. About us – in danger & helpless b. About Jesus – the only Saviour & Lord – Acts4:12; 17:30,31 c. Being a Christian – dying to self – Mk.8:34 Only God can save – Acts 14:48; 16:14; John 6:44

3. 2. Be prepared for the cost The early Christians suffered – Acts, 2Cor.6:4-10; 11:23-28. a. Expect suffering – John 15:18-25; 2Tim.3:12; 1Pet.4:12 b. We follow Jesus – suffering of love – Col.1:24; Phil.1:29 c. God brings blessing:- - to us – 1Pet.1:6,7;James1:2-4;2Cor.4:17,18 - to others –Acts7:58-8:1,4; 11:19-21

4. 3. The Gospel & You a. Don’t reject this amazing salvation b. Don’t hold back from sharing this Good News of Jesus:- - deny yourself - engage in the spiritual battle- weapons of 1. Prayer 2. The Bible & its story of Jesus c. Don’t forget Christians who are suffering