June 22 Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Scripture Reading: Acts 4:13-21
Sermon: Life in the Spirit, With Boldness
Acts 4:13-21
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognized them as companions of Jesus. When they saw the man who had been cured standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. So they ordered them to leave the council while they discussed the matter with one another. They said, “What will we do with them? For it is obvious to all who live in Jerusalem that a notable sign has been done through them; we cannot deny it. But to keep it from spreading further among the people, let us warn them to speak no more to anyone in this name.” So they called them and ordered them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge; for we cannot keep from speaking about what we have seen and heard.” After threatening them again, they let them go, finding no way to punish them because of the people, for all of them praised God for what had happened.
Key Idea of the Sermon
Today’s story reveals the aftermath of Peter and John’s act of healing in the Spirit and name of Jesus in Acts 3:1-10. It seems no good deed goes unpunished! The authorities thought they had quashed the movement Jesus started by crucifying him. But the Way of Jesus has resurfaced in Jerusalem and is attracting lots of attention. Peter and John were brought in for questioning and ordered to cease and desist. The command to live in the Spirit and name of Jesus comes from the highest authority of all. Disciples of Jesus cannot be silent even if it is risky.
Questions for Reflection
• That which speaks loudest in this story of the Way of Jesus is the good work of healing and helping with compassion. This act in Jesus’ Spirit and name not only brought healing to the one who could not walk, but it also saved the lives of Peter and John as they were brought before the authorities. What are the works that speak to your highest commitment?
• Jesus’ values remain in our time: faithfulness, integrity, serving the oppressed, righteousness, justice, compassion, peacemaking, and a humble spirit. How are you acting on these values? What are the risks for living in the Spirit and name of Jesus? How do you face those risks?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
To know and invoke a leader’s name is to exercise some of the influence of that leader. Since as disciples we are recipients of Jesus’ Living Spirit, we are emboldened to act with Jesus’ influence. To say, “I live in the name of Jesus”, is to say I trust Jesus to work through me to help others. When you lend a helping hand this week, give credit where credit is due, let others know you help in Jesus’ name. Pay attention to the difference that makes in your relationships and interactions.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
