Word & Deed: Stepping into Kingdom Power

Scripture References: Matthew 4:23-25; Luke 9:1-2; Luke 10:1-9, 17; Matthew 28:18-20

Introduction: Welcome to this week's sermon! Today, we hear from guest speaker Scott, who served with his family in North India for over 20 years. Scott shares his personal journey from a background skeptical of supernatural gifts to embracing the power of the Holy Spirit in evangelism. He begins with his own testimony: finding purpose and joy in Christ at 17 after a period of loneliness and depression, sparking a passion to share Jesus. He challenges us: do you have a story?

Key Points:

1. Early Encounters: Despite a conservative background, Scott soon experienced God's voice and words of knowledge for strangers, leading to ministry. This sparked his passion for evangelism.
2. Missions & Need for Power: Called to India's unreached, training highlighted "Church Planting Movements" fueled by "signs and wonders." Initially hesitant, Scott saw the need.
3. Power of Demonstration: A key moment: praying for a sick child whose mother had heard the gospel message repeatedly without response. After the child's miraculous healing, the mother declared, "I know your God is powerful," and followed Jesus. Proclamation plus demonstration was key. (80-90% of local conversions involved supernatural encounters).
4. Biblical Mandate for All: Scripture shows this power isn't limited: 
   • Jesus proclaimed, healed, delivered (Matt 4).
   • He gave the 12 authority to do the same (Luke 9).
   • He sent the 72 with the same commission (Luke 10) – not just apostles.
   • The Great Commission (Matt 28) gives all disciples authority, empowered by the Spirit, to teach obedience to all Jesus commanded.
5. Stepping Out Everywhere: Scott saw God work through prayer for healing/needs in India, the US, and the UK – proving it's not just for "over there." God works powerfully through willing believers anywhere. The fields are ripe here. 

Conclusion: Jesus commissions all His followers to both proclaim the gospel message and demonstrate its power through healing, deliverance, and other gifts of the Spirit. This isn't just for missionaries or pastors; it's for you and me, empowered by the Holy Spirit. People in our communities are hurting and waiting for an encounter with God's love and power. God is ready to work through ordinary believers who are willing to step out in faith.

Call to Action: Let's respond to this message. Are you feeling stirred towards greater boldness, a call to take risks for the Kingdom? Ask God for compassion that overcomes fear. Pray for eyes to see the needs He wants you to meet and the people He wants you to engage. Ask for discernment. This week, intentionally look for an opportunity to share about Jesus and an opportunity to pray for someone's need, expecting God to move. Trust that He is with you and wants to demonstrate His power through you. Holy Spirit, come upon us with boldness! 

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