This prayer in Acts is a model prayer for us today because of:

1. The purpose for the prayer. (vs. 18-21)

2. The people who prayed. (vs. 24)

3. The pattern of the prayer. (vs. 24-30)

4. The passion of the people. (vs. 29-30)

5. The pouring out of the Spirit. (vs. 31)

1-1-1           (1 prayer for 1 voice for 1 month)

Sovereign Lord, we praise you for you are good and your steadfast love endures forever.  Who can tell the mighty deeds of the Lord, and show forth all your praise?  You tell us you desire to gather people from all nations so that they may give thanks to your holy name, and glory in your praise.  Lord, we ask that you would pour out your Spirit on us as you did with the church in Acts 4 so that we can be bold in sharing the gospel with people from all nations.  Help us to be obedient in doing whatever it takes corporately and individually for you to do this...  (Spend time in worship before closing).

1. The allure of money.

2. The appeal of recognition (pride).

3. Allowing Satan to gain a foothold.

II. What will help us fall in love?

1. The confrontation of sin.   (Ps. 32:3-4, Mt. 18:15-17)

2. The conviction that the fear of the Lord brings freedom in Christ.  (Heb. 12:28-29, Phil. 2:12, Jn. 8:34-36)
 

We can see the goodness of God through:

1. His people (vs. 3)

2. His provision (vs. 5-6)

3. His path (vs. 7)

4. His perseverance (vs. 9-10)

5. His person (vs. 2, 11)

Introduction

Jesus declares in Rev. 22:12, “Behold, I am coming soon!  My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done.”

If Jesus comes back today, will you receive any reward?  What is Jesus saying to us?

2. Criteria for Receiving Rewards.

3. How Will Rewards be Determined.

EXHORTATION.  What do we need to do to prepare for Jesus’ Returning.
 
    a. Individual Believer – Mat. 16:24-27

    b. Corporately as a Church – Rev. 2-3

    c. Together with Christ – Rev. 22:17