Author: ilsanenglishworship

3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance[A] : that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 

Come and See

Main Text: 1 Corinthians 15:3–4

Imagine standing at the grave of someone you love—heartbroken, confused, and exhausted. You saw them die. You watched the tomb being sealed. You left in silence. Then, days later, you return to mourn, and when you arrive, the grave is open, the body is gone, and someone tells you, “He’s not here. He has risen.”

That’s not a fable or a metaphor. That’s exactly what happened on the third day after Jesus Christ was crucified. But before we celebrate the empty tomb, we must understand what really happened, why it matters, and what it means today. The resurrection isn’t just good news. It’s the center of our faith, the power of our salvation, and the hope of eternal life. The Gospel is not advice to improve your life—it’s an announcement that Jesus gave His life to save yours.

Historical and Cultural Background

Jesus was crucified on a Friday (Luke 23:44–46). Before sunset, His body was taken down by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus and placed in a tomb (John 19:38–42). Saturday was the Sabbath—a day of rest and mourning. Then, on Sunday morning, several women came to the tomb, carrying spices and perfumes (Luke 24:1).

Jewish burial customs required the body to be anointed and wrapped with spices to honor the deceased and prevent odor (John 19:39–40). The burial on Friday had been rushed due to the Sabbath, so the women came to finish what had been started. Meanwhile, the male disciples were hiding in fear (John 20:19).

But one woman had already understood the moment: Mary of Bethany. Days before the crucifixion, she anointed Jesus with expensive perfume. When criticized, Jesus said, “She did it to prepare me for burial” (John 12:7, Matthew 26:12). She believed His words before they were fulfilled. She worshipped while others worried.

The Revelation at the Tomb

Matthew 28:5–6 complements our main text and says:

“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where he lay.’”

This is not just comfort; it’s confirmation. Jesus had already told them:

“The Son of Man must suffer many things… and be killed, and on the third day be raised to life” (Luke 9:22).
“Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days” (John 2:19).

The resurrection was not an afterthought. It was foretold, promised, and fulfilled. It is the cornerstone of our belief and the turning point of history. If the cross was the payment, the resurrection is the receipt.

To understand its power, Paul summarizes the Gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:3–4:

“For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”

Let’s now walk through these three events, each one holding eternal meaning and life-changing truth.

1. He Died — The Penalty for Sin

Jesus’ death was not accidental. It was intentional. “I have the authority to lay it down and the authority to take it up again” (John 10:18). He died for our sins. But what is sin? Sin is rebellion against God—choosing our way over God’s way. It began in Genesis 3 and infects every human heart. “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

Sin brings death. “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). It separates us from God, corrupts our nature, and brings judgment. The Old Testament sacrificial system (Leviticus 16; Hebrews 9:22) taught that sin could only be covered by the shedding of blood. Every sacrifice pointed forward to the perfect Lamb of God.

Jesus became the perfect, final sacrifice:

“God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
“The Son of Man came… to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).
“He himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness. ‘By His wounds you have been healed’” (1 Peter 2:24).

This is substitutionary atonement. Jesus took our place, bore our punishment, and gave us His righteousness. He died not only to cancel our guilt, but to reconcile us to God (Colossians 1:20–22). This is the love that changes everything.

2. He Was Buried — The Burial of Sin and Shame

Why does Paul emphasize that Jesus was buried? Because it proves He really died. Some claim He fainted or escaped. But the Roman centurion confirmed His death (Mark 15:44–45), and He was buried in a sealed, guarded tomb (Matthew 27:65–66). There was no doubt: Jesus was dead.

His burial fulfilled prophecy:

“He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in His death” (Isaiah 53:9).

Burial also symbolizes something powerful for believers:

“We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death” (Romans 6:4).

When Christ was buried:

• Our sin was buried (Micah 7:19).
• Our shame was buried (Psalm 103:12).
• Our old identity was buried (Galatians 2:20).

Mary of Bethany’s anointing was more than generosity. It was a prophetic act of faith. She believed Jesus would die, and she honored Him in advance. Her perfume became a testimony of revelation-driven worship.

3. He Rose — The Triumph Over Death

Everything changes here. The resurrection is the centerpiece of the Gospel. Without it, the cross would have no lasting power. It is the proof that death has been defeated, sin has been conquered, and eternal life has begun.

“If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 15:17).

But He did rise! Why?

• To fulfill prophecy: “You will not abandon me to the realm of the dead” (Psalm 16:10, Acts 2:31).

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).

• To declare who He is: “Declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection” (Romans 1:4).
• To validate the cross: “He was delivered over to death for our sins and raised to life for our justification” (Romans 4:25).
• To defeat death: “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:55).
• To give new life: “Because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19).

“If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Over 500 eyewitnesses saw the risen Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:6). The tomb was empty. The stone was rolled away. The grave clothes were left behind. Jesus is alive—bodily, historically, and eternally. And that truth still transforms lives today.

What This Means for You

• You don’t have to carry guilt — Jesus died for your sins (Isaiah 53:5).
• You don’t have to live in shame — Jesus buried your past (Psalm 103:12).
• You don’t have to fear death — Jesus conquered the grave (Hebrews 2:14–15).
• You don’t have to stay the same — Jesus offers new life (Ephesians 2:4–6).

This is the Gospel: He died. (Romans 5:8)
He was buried. (Isaiah 53:9, Matthew 27:59–60)
He rose again. (Luke 24:6–7, 1 Corinthians 15:4)

This is not just theology. This is your invitation. This is your moment to respond.

Closing: Come and See

The angel said, “Come and see the place where He lay.” That invitation still stands. Come and see. Examine the evidence. Believe the promise. Receive the Savior.

And then go and tell. Like the women at the tomb, we have a message for the world:

He is not here. He has risen. Just as He said. (Matthew 28:6)

Prayer After the Sermon

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the truth and power of the resurrection. Thank You for speaking to our hearts through Your Word today. We have seen again that the tomb is empty, Christ is risen, and hope is alive. Help us not to walk away unchanged. Stir in us a greater love for Jesus, a deeper confidence in the Gospel, and a bolder witness in the world. Seal this Word in our hearts and bear fruit through our lives. In the name of the Risen Lord we pray, Amen.

Offertory Prayer

Gracious God, You have given us everything, our breath, our salvation, and Your very Son. As we bring these tithes and offerings before You, we do so with hearts full of gratitude. Use them to advance Your kingdom, to feed the hungry, to send the Gospel, and to glorify Christ in every nation. We give not to earn grace, but because we’ve received it. Bless every giver and every gift and multiply it for Your purposes. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Benediction (Following Holy Communion)

Now may the God of peace,
who raised Jesus from the dead,
our great Shepherd and Savior,
equip you with all you need to do His will.
And may the blessing of God Almighty
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit
be with you now and forever.
Amen.

It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.

5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.

6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists.

8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.

11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.”

God Is Not Done with You Yet

Text: Acts 12:1–11 Speaker: Rev. Yaqub

Beloved church family, today we gather under the authority of the Word of God to proclaim a profound truth: God Is Not Done with You Yet. Life sometimes chains us, circumstances sometimes lock us behind iron gates, and the enemy would have us believe that it is over. But Peter’s story in Acts 12 reminds us: it is not over until God says it is over. Easter has passed, but resurrection life continues to flow even today. Just as Jesus’ victory was not for one day but for every day, Peter’s deliverance reminds us that God’s purposes cannot be imprisoned. The God who raised Jesus from the grave is the same God who breaks chains, sends help, opens gates, and leads His people forward because He is not done with you yet.

Today, if you came feeling stuck, tired, bound, or forgotten, may you hear the voice of your Savior calling you forward: “I am not done with you yet.”

Let us walk through four timeless truths together:

1. God Sees You in Your Situation

“The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance.” (Acts 12:6, NIV)

Before any miracle, God already knew exactly where Peter was. Before any chain broke, God was watching. Even when Peter was bound and helpless, heaven was fully aware.

Maybe you feel like Peter today chained by fear, anxiety, sin, disappointment. Maybe it feels like no one knows, no one cares. But the Word assures you: God knows exactly where you are. You are never lost in the crowd to Him.

“The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are attentive to their cry.” (Psalm 34:15, NIV)

Illustration: Think of a GPS even when you lose signal, the satellite never loses sight of you. How much more the Creator of the heavens!

Application:

• You are not forgotten.
• God knows your address, your prison, and your pain.

Prayer after Point 1: “In the name of Jesus, let every heart under captivity be strengthened now. Let the peace of God overshadow every hidden fear. Chains of discouragement, break! Hope arise in every heart, for God sees and remembers you!”

2. God Sends Help Before You Understand

“Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.” (Acts 12:9, NIV)

God moves even before we recognize it. Peter didn’t even know the miracle was real, but God was already rescuing him.

Sometimes we don’t recognize the hand of God until later. Sometimes it looks like chaos, but it’s the hand of deliverance at work.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6, NIV)

Application:

• Trust God’s movement, even when you can’t fully see it.
• God often answers prayers silently, subtly, and suddenly.

Question to audience:

• Are you waiting for a sign, while God is already moving?
• Can you trust Him even when you don’t feel Him?

Prayer after Point 2: “By the authority of Jesus’ name, let divine help locate every life now! Let confusion be replaced by clarity. Let every unseen miracle be made manifest. Let the way of the Lord be made straight before your steps!”

3. God Opens Gates to Lead You Forward

“They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it.” (Acts 12:10, NIV)

God doesn’t just deliver you He prepares the next door, the next assignment.

Peter didn’t have to push the gate open. He didn’t have to fight the guards. God made a way where there was no way.

Cross-Reference:

“What He opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open.” (Revelation 3:7b, NIV)

Illustration: Like a sensor door at a supermarket it opens not because you touch it, but because you approach it. Your obedience activates divine movement.

Application:

• Some gates open not by our strength, but by our obedience to walk forward.
• Do not fear the next step; it is already prepared for you.

Prayer after Point 3: “In the name of Jesus, every iron gate standing before you, open now! Every door to your assignment, swing wide by the hand of God! Let no man, no force, no fear stop you from stepping into your divine future!”

4. God Is Not Done with You Yet

Peter was not rescued for comfort but for calling. He was delivered to continue the mission of glorifying Christ.

Maybe you feel like your story has ended. Maybe it feels like you’ve missed too many chances. But hear the Word today: If you are breathing, you are still needed in the Kingdom.

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6, NIV)

Cross-Reference:

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)

Application:

• God is still writing your story.
• What He starts, He finishes for His glory.
• It is not too late.

Prayer after Point 4: “By the eternal power of God, let every weary spirit rise! Let every dormant calling awaken now! Let the breath of God revive dreams and renew purpose. You will fulfill the work God ordained for you!”

Prayer

“Gracious Father, thank You for speaking to us today. Thank You for reminding us that You are not done with us yet. Let every broken dream rise. Let every crushed heart beat again. Cause us to walk boldly into the future You have prepared. We receive the strength to rise again, to walk through every opened gate, and to fulfill every divine assignment You have placed on our lives. Renew our hearts. Reignite our spirits. Let not one destiny be aborted. We declare victory in Christ Jesus, who makes all things possible. Amen.”

Offertory Prayer

“Father, as we bring our tithes and offerings before You, we do so with gratitude and faith. We acknowledge that every open door, every provision, and every opportunity comes from You. Multiply these offerings for the advancement of Your gospel and for the glory of Your name. Bless every cheerful giver, and let this be a seed toward open doors, fulfilled assignments, and testimonies of Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Benediction

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and give you peace. Go in strength, go in hope, and go with the assurance that God is not done with you yet. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Final Declaration

God is not done with you yet. Chains will break. Gates will open. His glory will be revealed!

34 Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism 35 but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. 36 You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. 37 You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

39 “We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross, 40 but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. 41 He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. 43 All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 

One Lord, One Cross, For All People
Text: Acts 10:34–45
Key Verse: “God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” – Acts 10:34–35 (NIV)

Good morning, brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, as we gather on this Palm Sunday, we celebrate a monumental event in the history of Christianity—the triumphal entry of our Lord Jesus into Jerusalem. The people waved palm branches and shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13). But they didn’t fully understand the significance of His arrival. They saw a king coming to take a throne, but Jesus was on His way to the cross.

오늘, 그리스도 안에서 형제자매 여러분, 우리는 종려주일에 모였습니다. 오늘은 기독교 역사에서 중요한 사건을 기념하는 날입니다. 예수님이 예루살렘에 입성하신 그 사건입니다. 사람들은 종려나무 가지를 흔들며 “호산나! 주의 이름으로 오시는 이가 복이 있도다!” (요한복음 12:13)라고 외쳤습니다. 그러나 그들은 예수님의 입성의 의미를 완전히 이해하지 못했습니다. 그들은 왕이 왕좌를 차지하려고 오신다고 생각했지만, 예수님은 십자가로 가고 계셨습니다.

The people that day were filled with hope, but they didn’t yet grasp that the kingdom He came to establish was not one of earthly politics but one of spiritual transformation. Jesus did not come to sit on a political throne; He came to lay down His life for the salvation of all people. His entrance into the city was the beginning of a much greater movement—the movement of the gospel from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. And this is where we come to the message of Acts 10. In Acts 10, we see how the mission of Jesus expands, how His sacrifice on the cross was not just for one people but for all people.

그 날 사람들은 희망에 가득 차 있었지만, 그들이 이해하지 못한 점은 예수님이 세상의 정치적인 왕국이 아니라 영적인 변화를 위한 왕국을 세우기 위해 오셨다는 것입니다. 예수님은 정치적인 왕좌에 앉으러 오신 것이 아니라, 모든 사람을 구원하시기 위해 자신을 십자가에 내어주러 오셨습니다. 그분의 예루살렘 입성은 훨씬 더 큰 운동의 시작이었습니다. 그 운동은 예루살렘에서 시작되어 온 세상으로 퍼져가는 복음의 확장이었습니다. 그리고 오늘 우리는 사도행전 10장에서 그 확장을 보게 됩니다. 사도행전 10장에서 예수님의 사명이 어떻게 확장되는지, 그분의 십자가 희생이 단지 한 민족을 위한 것이 아니라 모든 민족을 위한 것임을 보게 됩니다.

Today, we will look at three profound truths that Palm Sunday points us toward. The message is simple, but life-changing: One Lord. One Cross. One Spirit. For all people.

오늘, 우리는 종려주일이 우리에게 가리키는 세 가지 중요한 진리를 살펴볼 것입니다. 그 메시지는 단순하지만 삶을 변화시키는 메시지입니다. 하나의 주님. 하나의 십자가. 하나의 성령. 모든 사람을 위한.

One Lord Over Every People

The first thing we see in Acts 10 is Peter’s declaration that God does not show favoritism (Acts 10:34). Now, for Peter, this was an astonishing statement. He was a Jewish man, and Jews were taught to avoid contact with Gentiles. The idea that God’s salvation was available to the Gentiles as much as it was to the Jews was a revolutionary thought. Yet, God had revealed through a vision to Peter that the gospel was not about nationalities or traditions—it was about the heart.

사도행전 10장에서 우리가 처음 보는 것은 베드로의 선언입니다. “하나님은 외모를 보지 아니하시고” (사도행전 10:34). 베드로에게 이것은 놀라운 말이었습니다. 그는 유대인이었고, 유대인들은 이방인과의 접촉을 피하도록 가르침을 받았습니다. 하나님의 구원이 이방인에게도 유대인처럼 주어진다는 생각은 혁명적인 생각이었습니다. 그러나 하나님은 베드로에게 비전을 통해 복음이 민족이나 전통에 관한 것이 아니라, 마음에 관한 것임을 보여주셨습니다.

Peter, in his vision, saw that the gospel was meant to reach beyond the borders of Israel. And in verse 35, he declares, “But in every nation, anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him” (Acts 10:35). This is the power of the gospel—it transcends all earthly barriers.

베드로는 그의 비전에서 복음이 이스라엘의 경계를 넘어야 한다는 것을 보았습니다. 그리고 35절에서 그는 이렇게 선언합니다. “그러나 하나님을 두려워하고 의를 행하는 사람은 누구든지 그를 받아들이시느니라.” (사도행전 10:35). 이것이 바로 복음의 능력입니다. 복음은 모든 세속적인 장벽을 넘어서도록 되어 있습니다.

Paul echoes this powerful truth in Galatians 3:28 when he says, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” The gospel is a message of unity. It breaks down the walls that divide us—whether those walls are cultural, racial, or social.

바울은 갈라디아서 3:28에서 이 강력한 진리를 다시 말합니다. “너희는 유대인이나 헬라인이나 종이나 자유인이나 남자나 여자나 다 그리스도 예수 안에서 하나이기 때문이라.” 복음은 연합의 메시지입니다. 복음은 우리가 가진 문화적, 인종적, 사회적 벽을 허물어뜨립니다.

I want to remind you today that Jesus came for all people. He is not just the Lord of a few; He is the Lord of all. In Revelation 7:9, we read about the culmination of this promise: “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” This vision is a glimpse of the kingdom of God—where every tribe, every tongue, and every people is represented.

오늘 여러분에게 상기시키고 싶은 것은 예수님이 모든 사람을 위해 오셨다는 것입니다. 예수님은 몇 사람만의 주님이 아니십니다. 예수님은 모든 사람의 주님이십니다. 요한계시록 7:9에서 이 약속의 완성을 보게 됩니다. “이 일이 있고 나서 내가 보니, 아무도 셀 수 없는 큰 무리가 있더라. 그 무리는 모든 민족과 족속과 백성과 방언에서 나온 사람들이었고, 그들은 어린 양 앞에 서 있었다.” 이 비전은 하나님 나라의 일부분을 보여주는 것입니다. 그곳에서는 모든 민족, 모든 언어, 모든 백성이 대표되어 있습니다.

I remember meeting a man from a village where the name of Jesus had never been spoken. After reading the Gospels, tears filled his eyes, and he said, “If this Savior really loves the world, then I believe He loves me too.” That day, that man believed, and his life was transformed. The message of the gospel is for everyone—no matter where you come from, no matter your background.

저는 예수님의 이름이 한 번도 언급된 적이 없는 마을에서 만난 한 남자를 기억합니다. 그가 복음서를 읽고 눈에 눈물이 가득 차서 이렇게 말했습니다. “이 구세주가 정말 세상을 사랑하신다면, 저도 그분이 사랑하신다고 믿습니다.” 그 날, 그 남자는 믿음을 가졌고 그의 인생은 변화되었습니다. 복음의 메시지는 모든 사람을 위한 것입니다. 어디서 왔든, 어떤 배경을 가지고 있든 상관 없습니다.

One Cross That Reaches Every Nation

Peter continues in Acts 10:39-40, saying, “They killed Him by hanging Him on a cross, but God raised Him from the dead on the third day.” This is the heart of the gospel: Christ crucified, risen, and exalted. It is on the cross that the price for our sins was paid. Jesus died not for one ethnicity, not for one religious group, but for the world.

베드로는 사도행전 10:39-40에서 이렇게 계속 말씀하십니다. “그들은 그를 십자가에 못 박아 죽였지만, 하나님은 그를 제3일에 다시 살리셨다.” 이것이 바로 복음의 핵심입니다: 십자가에 못 박히시고, 부활하시며, 승천하신 그리스도. 우리 죄의 대가가 바로 그 십자가에서 지불되었습니다. 예수님은 한 민족을 위해 죽으신 것이 아니라, 온 세상을 위해 죽으셨습니다.

Romans 5:8 tells us, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Jesus did not wait for us to get our lives together before He died for us. He died while we were still sinners, still lost in our sin.

로마서 5:8은 이렇게 말씀하십니다. “그러나 하나님께서는 우리가 죄인이었을 때 그리스도께서 우리를 위해 죽으심으로써 그분의 사랑을 확증하셨습니다.” 예수님은 우리가 완벽하게 삶을 정리하기 전에 우리를 위해 죽으신 것이 아닙니다. 우리는 여전히 죄인이었고, 여전히 죄 가운데 있었습니다.

In John 3:16, we read, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus came to die for all people. The cross is the great equalizer. Whether you come from a place of privilege or a place of pain, the cross is wide enough to hold you, and it is strong enough to save you.

요한복음 3:16에서 이렇게 말씀하십니다. “하나님이 세상을 이처럼 사랑하셔서 독생자를 주셨으니, 이는 그를 믿는 자마다 멸망하지 않고 영생을 얻게 하려 하심이라.” 예수님은 모든 사람을 위해 죽으셨습니다. 십자가는 모든 사람을 위한 위대한 평등의 상징입니다. 우리는 특권의 자리에 있든 고난의 자리에 있든 상관없이 십자가는 우리를 감싸고, 우리를 구원할 수 있습니다.

Revelation 7:9 paints a picture of the final victory of the cross: “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” This is the end goal of the gospel. The cross doesn’t just redeem a few people; it redeems a multitude from every corner of the earth.

요한계시록 7:9는 십자가의 최종 승리를 이렇게 그립니다. “이 일이 있고 나서 내가 보니, 아무도 셀 수 없는 큰 무리가 있더라. 그 무리는 모든 민족과 족속과 백성과 방언에서 나온 사람들이었고, 그들은 어린 양 앞에 서 있었다.” 이것이 바로 복음의 궁극적인 목표입니다. 십자가는 몇 사람만 구속하는 것이 아니라, 이 세상의 모든 구석에서 온 무리들을 구속합니다.

And so, as we look back to Palm Sunday, we see that it points forward to the cross. On Palm Sunday, the people laid down palm branches. On Good Friday, Jesus laid down His life. And on Easter Sunday, He took it up again, so we might be raised with Him.

그래서 우리는 종려주일을 돌아보면서 그것이 결국 십자가를 향한 길임을 봅니다. 종려주일에 사람들은 종려나무 가지를 깔았습니다. 성금요일에 예수님은 자신의 생명을 내어주셨습니다. 그리고 부활절 주일에 그분은 다시 살아나셨습니다. 우리는 그분과 함께 부활할 수 있습니다.

One Spirit for All Who Believe

Now, let’s look at what happens in Acts 10:44. “While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message.” This moment is a fulfillment of the prophecy in Acts 2:17: “I will pour out my Spirit on all people.”

이제 사도행전 10:44에서 일어나는 일을 살펴봅시다. “베드로가 이 말을 할 때, 성령이 이 말을 듣는 모든 사람에게 임하셨다.” 이 순간은 사도행전 2:17의 예언을 성취한 것입니다. “내가 내 영을 모든 사람에게 부어주리라.”

The Holy Spirit did not just descend on the Jewish believers at Pentecost; the same Spirit came upon the Gentiles in Cornelius’s house. The Spirit is available to all who believe, not just the spiritual elite or those who have it all together. The Holy Spirit is available to everyone who has faith, who is hungry for God, and who humbly comes to Him.

성령은 단지 유대인 믿는 자들만에게 임한 것이 아닙니다. 같은 성령이 고넬료의 집에 있는 이방인들에게도 임하셨습니다. 성령은 믿는 모든 사람에게 주어집니다. 성령은 특정한 사람들에게만 주어지는 것이 아니라, 믿음을 가진 사람, 하나님을 갈망하는 사람, 겸손히 그에게 나아가는 모든 사람에게 주어집니다.

The King Has Come for You

As we close today, I want you to remember that Palm Sunday marks more than the beginning of a week—it marks the beginning of a kingdom that welcomes all people. Jesus didn’t just ride into a city on a donkey—He came to take residence in our hearts. He is the King who came, the Lamb who died, and the Lord who lives.

오늘 이 말씀을 마치며, 종려주일은 단지 한 주간의 시작을 나타내는 것 이상의 의미가 있음을 기억하십시오. 그것은 모든 사람을 환영하는 왕국의 시작을 알리는 날입니다. 예수님은 단지 도시에 나귀를 타고 오신 것이 아닙니다. 그분은 우리의 마음에 거하시기 위해 오셨습니다. 그분은 오신 왕이시며, 죽으신 어린 양이시며, 살아계신 주님이십니다.

Acts 10:43 says, “Everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name.” This is the promise of the gospel. It is for the seeker and the skeptic, the broken and the bold, the rich and the poor. The offer is open to all.

사도행전 10:43은 이렇게 말합니다. “그를 믿는 모든 사람은 그 이름을 통해 죄 사함을 받는다.” 이것이 복음의 약속입니다. 그것은 구하는 자와 회의적인 자, 깨진 자와 대담한 자, 부유한 자와 가난한 자 모두를 위한 것입니다. 이 제안은 모든 사람에게 열려 있습니다.

Will you welcome this King today? Not with palm branches, but with a surrendered heart? Will you receive the forgiveness that is offered to you through the cross?

오늘 이 왕을 맞이하시겠습니까? 종려나무 가지로가 아니라, 항복한 마음으로 맞이하시겠습니까? 십자가를 통해 여러분에게 주어진 용서를 받으시겠습니까?

32 As Peter traveled about the country, he went to visit the Lord’s people who lived in Lydda. 33 There he found a man named Aeneas, who was paralyzed and had been bedridden for eight years. 34 “Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” Immediately Aeneas got up. 35 All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.

36 In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. 37 About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. 38 Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!”

39 Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.

40 Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. 41 He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. 42 This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord. 43 Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a tanner named Simon.

Rise Again / 다시 일어나라

Text / 본문: Acts 9:32–43 / 사도행전 9:32–43

“Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” – Acts 9:34
“예수 그리스도께서 너를 고치시니 일어나 네 자리를 정돈하라.” – 사도행전 9:34

“Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up.” – Acts 9:40
“다비다야 일어나라 하니 그가 눈을 떠 베드로를 보고 일어 앉은지라” – 사도행전 9:40

There are moments in life when everything feels stuck. Maybe it’s not physical death, but it feels like it your faith feels paralyzed, your dreams seem buried, and your soul is numb. You keep showing up, but something inside of you is lying down. You believe in Jesus, but you’re not sure if the power that raised Him still works today in your life.

But the gospel doesn’t just call us to believe in a risen Christ. it invites us to rise again with Him. Whether you feel spiritually crippled like Aeneas or silenced and forgotten like Tabitha, the voice of Jesus is still speaking through the noise and through your pain: “Get up.”

This is not just a story of physical healing or resurrection. This passage reveals how Jesus revives people through surrendered vessels—through ordinary people like Peter who dare to believe in extraordinary power.

POINT 1: Jesus Still Heals the Paralyzed

“Jesus Christ heals you. Get up.” – Acts 9:34

Peter enters Lydda, a quiet, overlooked town far from the noise of Jerusalem. There, he encounters Aeneas, a man who has been paralyzed for eight years. That’s nearly a decade of being unable to move, to work, to live normally. Think about how many prayers had gone unanswered. How many days Aeneas lay waiting hoping wondering if things would ever change.

But then Peter arrives, not with superstition, not with a long explanation, but with one powerful sentence: “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up.”

In that moment, the power of Jesus reaches back through eight years of pain and lifts him up. His muscles work again. His hope returns. He doesn’t just hear the words—he obeys them. He gets up.

🪔 Truth: There is no situation too long, too forgotten, or too impossible for Jesus. Spiritual paralysis may not look like a physical illness—but when your faith feels numb, your dreams stuck, your passion gone—Jesus sees you. And He speaks directly to your condition.

🔑 Application: What part of your life feels stuck? What spiritual “mat” have you settled into? Jesus is not just calling you to survive—He’s calling you to stand in His name. Get up—not because of who you are, but because of who He is.

🙏 Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are the Healer of all that is broken. Today we bring before You every part of our life that feels paralyzed—our faith, our joy, our purpose. Speak over us as You did to Aeneas. In Your name, help us rise from the places we’ve been lying down in defeat. Let Your healing power restore us today. Amen.

POINT 2: Jesus Honors Compassionate Faith

“She was always doing good and helping the poor.”   Acts 9:36

In Joppa, a coastal city full of diversity and need, lived a woman named Tabitha, also known as Dorcas. She wasn’t a prophet or apostle. She wasn’t in the spotlight. Yet Scripture calls her a disciple, a follower of Jesus, whose life was filled with compassion and service.

She made clothes for widows. She supported the poor. She did the kind of ministry that doesn’t fill stadiums but touches souls. And when she died, her absence created such a void that the entire community wept. They didn’t only grieve they had faith that something more could happen. They sent for Peter.

Peter didn’t come because of her fame. He came because of her fruit. Because her life—though simple—echoed heaven.

🪔 Truth: God values what the world forgets. He honors the faithful, the kind, the hidden servants who show up in ordinary ways. You don’t need to be known by thousands to be powerful in the kingdom. Compassionate faith makes heaven move.

🔑 Application: If you feel unseen in your service—take heart. Your love is not wasted. Your work is not ignored. The people you’re blessing may one day be the ones who call down heaven on your behalf.

🙏 Prayer: Lord, we thank You for those who live out their faith in quiet compassion. Today we lift up every servant heart in this place—those who feel unseen or forgotten. Let them know that You see, You remember, and You honor. May our lives reflect the love of Christ in our care for others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

POINT 3: Jesus Still Raises the Dead

“Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes.”  Acts 9:40

Peter walks into an upper room filled with grief. Tabitha’s body lies cold, surrounded by mourners showing the garments she made. It’s a room filled with evidence of a good life—and the weight of a great loss.

But Peter doesn’t put on a show. He doesn’t panic. He kneels and prays—acknowledging that resurrection doesn’t come from man but from God. Then, with heaven’s authority, he turns to the body and says: “Tabitha, get up.”

And just like that—life returns. She opens her eyes. She sits up. Joy floods the room.

🪔 Truth: Jesus still raises what’s been declared dead. Maybe it’s not a person, but a marriage. Not a body, but a dream. Not a heartbeat, but your sense of purpose. If Jesus can raise Tabitha, He can resurrect anything surrendered to Him.

🔑 Application: What have you buried because it seemed too far gone? The call of God? The fire in your soul? A vision He once gave you? Today, He’s still saying, “Get up.” Your story is not finished. In Jesus—it can rise again.

🙏 Prayer: Jesus, we believe that nothing is beyond Your reach—not even what looks completely dead. We bring before You the things we’ve given up on. Speak life again, Lord. Breathe resurrection into what’s been buried. Let Your resurrection power awaken our calling, our faith, and our hope. In Your powerful name, Amen.

CONCLUSION: Your Resurrection Moment

Whether you’re lying on a mat like Aeneas or lying in a tomb like Tabitha, the voice of Jesus is still near.

He doesn’t just want to inspire you—He wants to raise you. He doesn’t just want to heal your body—He wants to restore your purpose.

This is your moment to Rise Again. Not because you’re strong, but because Jesus is alive and still moving. His power still heals. His love still finds the forgotten. His word still raises the dead.

So hear His voice today—not as a memory, but as a calling:

“Get up. Rise again.”

“The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you.” – Romans 8:11

4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. 6 When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7 For with shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city.

9 Now for some time a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great, 10 and all the people, both high and low, gave him their attention and exclaimed, “This man is rightly called the Great Power of God.” 11 They followed him because he had amazed them for a long time with his sorcery. 12 But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.

THE HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE
SAMARITANS / 사마리아인의 역사적 배경
To fully grasp the power of Philip’s ministry in Samaria, we must understand the historical
background of the Samaritans. The Samaritans were a people despised by the Jews, rejected
for their mixed ancestry and distinct religious practices. Their origins trace back to the Assyrian
conquest of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 B.C. When the Assyrians took the Israelites
into captivity, they resettled foreigners in Samaria, who intermarried with the remaining
Israelites. This mixture resulted in a compromised form of worship, combining elements of
Jewish tradition with pagan influences (2 Kings 17:24-33).
빌립의 사마리아 사역의 능력을 온전히 이해하려면 먼저 사마리아인의 역사적 배경을
알아야 합니다. 사마리아인은 유대인들에게 멸시받던 민족이었습니다. 그들의 기원은
기원전 722 년 앗수르 제국의 북이스라엘 정복으로 거슬러 올라갑니다. 앗수르 사람들은
이스라엘 백성을 포로로 끌고 갔고, 그 땅에는 외국인들을 재정착시켜 혼혈 민족이
형성되었습니다. 이 과정에서 이스라엘 백성과 이방 민족이 결혼하면서 혼합된 신앙이
형성되었습니다 (열왕기하 17:24-33).
Because of this intermingling, the Jews considered Samaritans unclean and rejected them both
ethnically and religiously. The Jews worshiped in Jerusalem, while the Samaritans built their
own temple on Mount Gerizim and accepted only the first five books of Moses as Scripture.
This deep division led to centuries of hostility between Jews and Samaritans (John 4:9).
이러한 혼합으로 인해 유대인들은 사마리아인을 부정한 존재로 여기고 민족적으로나
종교적으로나 배척하였습니다. 유대인들은 예루살렘 성전에서 예배를 드렸지만,
사마리아인들은 그리심산에 자신들만의 성전을 세우고
모세오경(창세기~신명기)만을 성경으로 인정했습니다.
Yet Philip went to Samaria and preached Christ alone. He did not preach Jewish customs,
religious laws, or cultural superiority—he preached Jesus. And the power of the Gospel broke
through centuries of division, bringing salvation, healing, and joy to the city (Acts 8:6-8). This
shows that Christ alone is the answer to every division, every prejudice, and every rejection.

2

그러나 빌립은 사마리아로 가서 오직 그리스도를 전했습니다. 그는 유대인의 전통이나
율법, 문화적 우월성을 강조하지 않았습니다. 오직 예수 그리스도를 전했습니다. 그리고
복음의 능력이 수백 년간 지속된 분열을 깨뜨렸습니다.
The Gospel does not recognize human boundaries; it breaks barriers and builds a new family in
Christ (Ephesians 2:14-16). Today, as in Samaria, the message remains the same—Jesus Christ
alone is the only true answer for every heart, every nation, and every generation.
복음은 인간이 만든 경계를 인정하지 않습니다. 오히려 장벽을 허물고, 예수 그리스도
안에서 새로운 가족을 만듭니다 (에베소서 2:14-16). 오늘날에도 사마리아에서와
마찬가지로, 오직 예수 그리스도만이 모든 민족과 세대의 유일한 답입니다.
Prayer: Lord, break every division in our hearts and our communities. Let the Gospel of Jesus
Christ unite what the enemy has scattered. We declare that only Christ reigns in our hearts. In
Jesus’ name, Amen!
CHRIST ALONE HAS THE POWER TO SAVE AND
TRANSFORM / 오직 그리스도만이 구원하고 변화시키는
능력이 있다
Philip did not just bring words—he carried the power of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 4:20).
When the Gospel is truly preached, power must follow. The Word of God is living and active
(Hebrews 4:12), and wherever the name of Jesus is lifted, signs and wonders follow (Mark
16:17-18).
빌립은 단순한 말만 전한 것이 아니라, 성령의 능력을 가지고 왔습니다 (고린도전서 4:20).
진정한 복음이 선포될 때, 능력이 따라야 합니다. 하나님의 말씀은 살아 있고 운동력이
있으며 (히브리서 4:12), 예수의 이름이 높여지는 곳마다 표적과 기사가 따릅니다
(마가복음 16:17-18).
Prayer: Father, let the power of Your Gospel be made manifest in our lives. Heal the sick, set
the captives free, and bring salvation to all who hear Your word. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
CHRIST ALONE IS GREATER THAN ANY OTHER
AUTHORITY / 오직 그리스도가 가장 크신 권세이시다
All power must bow before the authority of Jesus Christ. There is no greater name (Philippians
2:9–11). Every other authority—whether spiritual, political, or ideological—must submit to
Jesus.

3

모든 권세는 예수 그리스도의 권위 앞에 무릎을 꿇어야 합니다. 그분보다 위대한 이름은
없습니다 (빌립보서 2:9-11). 영적이든 정치적이든 사상이든 모든 권세는 예수님께
굴복해야 합니다.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You alone have all authority. Let every false power bow before You. Rule
and reign in our lives, in our church, and in the nations. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
CONCLUSION: CHRIST ALONE OR NOTHING AT ALL
/ 결론: 오직 그리스도 아니면 아무것도 아니다
Jesus is not one of many options—He is the only way (John 14:6). No philosophy, no religion,
no human effort can save (Acts 4:12). The world offers many paths, but only one leads to eternal
life: Christ alone.
예수님은 많은 선택지 중 하나가 아닙니다. 그분은 유일한 길이십니다 (요한복음 14:6).
어떤 철학, 종교, 인간의 노력도 구원할 수 없습니다 (사도행전 4:12). 세상은 많은 길을
제시하지만, 영원한 생명으로 인도하는 길은 오직 예수님뿐입니다.
Prayer: Father, may we stand firm in Christ alone. Let no distraction, no false teaching, no
worldly philosophy take us away from the truth of Jesus Christ. Keep us rooted in the power of
the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Shout: Christ alone! / 오직 그리스도!

54 When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.

59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.

Sermon Title: The Last Breath
설교 제목: 마지막 숨
Text: Acts 7:54-60
본문: 사도행전 7:54-60

In a small village surrounded by tall mountains, there was a single lamp that never stopped burning. No matter how strong the wind blew or how heavy the rain fell, the flame remained steady.
한 작은 마을이 높은 산들로 둘러싸여 있었습니다. 그 마을에는 바람이 아무리 강하게 불고 비가 아무리 많이 내려도 결코 꺼지지 않는 한 등불이 있었습니다.

One night, a powerful storm swept through the village. Trees fell, rivers overflowed, and houses were destroyed. But when morning came, though everything was in ruins, the lamp was still burning shining as a symbol of light that could not be defeated by darkness.
어느 날 밤, 강력한 폭풍이 마을을 휩쓸었습니다. 나무들이 쓰러지고 강물이 넘쳐나며 집들이 파괴되었습니다. 그러나 아침이 오자 모든 것이 무너졌지만, 그 등불은 여전히 꺼지지 않고 타오르고 있었습니다. 그것은 어둠에 결코 지지 않는 빛의 상징이었습니다.

Ladies and gentlemen, there are moments in history when a single breath, the last breath of a man or woman of God, shakes the heavens and the earth. This is not just about dying; this is about leaving a legacy of faith that no persecution, no fire, no sword can destroy!
여러분, 역사의 순간 중에는 한 사람의 마지막 숨이 하늘과 땅을 흔드는 때가 있습니다. 이것은 단지 죽음에 관한 것이 아닙니다. 이것은 어떤 박해도, 불도, 칼도 파괴할 수 없는 믿음의 유산을 남기는 것입니다!

I want to take you on a journey through history from the book of Acts to the mountains of Korea. We will see how the last breath of a martyr becomes the first breath of revival.
저는 여러분을 역사 속으로 여행으로 초대합니다. 사도행전부터 한국의 산들까지, 순교자의 마지막 숨이 어떻게 부흥의 첫 숨이 되었는지 보게 될 것입니다.

1. The Last Breath of Stephen (Acts 7:54-60) – A Cry That Opened Heaven

1. 스데반의 마지막 숨 (사도행전 7:54-60) – 하늘을 여는 외침

Stephen stood before the council, knowing his words would cost him his life.
스데반은 자신의 말이 생명을 앗아갈 것을 알면서도 공예 앞에 섰습니다.

The Bible says, “But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God” (Acts 7:55).
성경은 이렇게 말합니다: “스데반이 성령 충만하여 하늘을 쳐다보며 하나님의 영광을 보았다” (사도행전 7:55).

His focus was not on the stones being thrown at him, nor on the violent mob surrounding him. Instead, his eyes were on Jesus, the One who stood at the right hand of God.
그의 초점은 자신에게 던져지는 돌도, 자신을 둘러싼 폭도도 아니었습니다. 대신 그의 눈은 하나님의 오른편에 서 계신 예수님을 향해 있었습니다.

As he was being stoned, his last words were not a cry of fear but a declaration of forgiveness: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60).
스데반은 돌에 맞으며 두려움의 외침이 아닌 용서의 선언을 했습니다: “주여, 이 죄를 그들에게 돌리지 마옵소서” (사도행전 7:60).

And what happened after his death? A man named Saul, who had approved of his killing, was transformed into Paul, the greatest apostle of all time! One man’s last breath brought about the conversion of Saul and the revival that followed in the early church.
그의 죽음 이후에는 무슨 일이 일어났습니까? 그의 죽음을 승인했던 사울이라는 사람이 변화되어, 모든 시대를 통틀어 가장 위대한 사도 바울이 되었습니다! 한 사람의 마지막 숨이 사울의 회심과 초기 교회의 부흥을 일으킨 것입니다.

Prayer: “May your last breath not be wasted! May it plant the seed of a new move of God!”
기도: “당신의 마지막 숨이 헛되지 않기를! 그것이 하나님의 새로운 움직임의 씨앗이 되기를 기도합니다!”

2. The Last Breath of Robert Jermain Thomas – A Seed for Korea’s Revival

2. 로버트 저메인 토마스의 마지막 숨 – 한국 부흥의 씨앗

In 1866, Robert Jermain Thomas, a Welsh missionary, risked his life to bring the Gospel to Korea, a country that had fiercely opposed Christianity.
1866년, 웨일스 출신의 선교사 로버트 저메인 토마스는 한국에 복음을 전하기 위해 목숨을 걸었습니다. 그 당시 한국은 기독교를 강력히 반대하고 있었습니다.

The Korean government saw Christianity as a threat and ordered his execution.
한국 정부는 기독교를 위협으로 간주하고 그의 처형을 명령했습니다.

As the ship he was on burned, Thomas jumped into the water, holding onto Bibles. He was beaten, but instead of crying for mercy, he shouted ‘Jesus, Jesus!’ in Korean!
그가 탄 배가 불타자 토마스는 성경을 들고 물속으로 뛰어들었습니다. 그는 맞고 있었지만, 자비를 구하는 대신 한국어로 “예수님, 예수님!”이라고 외쳤습니다!

The Bible that Thomas had risked his life to bring to Korea fell into the hands of one of the men who killed him. This man later became a Christian, and in time, Thomas’ sacrifice planted the seed for the great Korean revival.
토마스가 목숨을 걸고 한국에 가져온 성경은 그를 죽인 사람 중 한 명의 손에 떨어졌습니다. 이 사람은 나중에 그리스도인이 되었고, 결국 토마스의 희생은 한국의 위대한 부흥의 씨앗을 심었습니다.

Prayer: “Every seed of sacrifice in the kingdom will bring a harvest! What will your last breath produce?”
기도: “하나님의 나라에서 모든 희생의 씨앗은 결실을 맺습니다! 당신의 마지막 숨은 무엇을 맺을 것입니까?”

3. The Last Breath of the Korean Martyrs – The Fire That Could Not Be Quenched

3. 한국 순교자들의 마지막 숨 – 꺼지지 않는 불꽃

The 1801, 1839, and 1866 persecutions saw thousands of Korean Christians executed for their faith. They were beheaded, burned, and drowned, but instead of fear, they sang hymns and declared the name of Jesus!
1801년, 1839년, 1866년의 박해는 수천 명의 한국 기독교인들이 믿음을 위해 처형당한 사건이었습니다. 그들은 참수되고, 불태워지고, 물에 빠졌지만, 두려워하지 않고 찬송가를 부르며 예수님의 이름을 선포했습니다!

The revival that followed in 1907, known as the Pyongyang Revival, was a direct result of their sacrifices. Their testimony fueled a massive move of God that turned Korea into what many call the “Jerusalem of the East.”
1907년 이후 일어난 평양 부흥은 그들의 희생의 직접적인 결과였습니다. 그들의 증언은 하나님의 거대한 역사를 일으켜 한국을 ‘동방의 예루살렘’으로 변화시켰습니다.

Today, Korea is home to some of the largest churches in the world, all because of the faithfulness of those who gave their last breath for Christ.
오늘날 한국에는 세계에서 가장 큰 교회들이 있으며, 그것은 모두 그리스도를 위해 마지막 숨을 바친 사람들의 충성 때문입니다.

Prayer: “When the world thought they had silenced the church in Korea, they did not know they had just released a wildfire!”
기도: “세상이 한국 교회를 침묵시켰다고 생각했을 때, 그들은 불을 붙였다는 것을 몰랐습니다!”

4. Your Last Breath – A Call to Die to Self and Live for Revival

4. 당신의 마지막 숨 – 자아를 죽이고 부흥을 위해 살라는 부르심

What will your last breath say? Will it be a cry of fear, or will it be a proclamation of faith?
당신의 마지막 숨은 무엇을 말할까요? 두려움의 외침일까요, 아니면 믿음의 선언일까요?

Jesus said in John 12:24, “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone. But if it dies, it bears much fruit.”
예수님은 요한복음 12:24에서 말씀하셨습니다: “밀알 하나가 땅에 떨어져 죽지 않으면, 그대로 있고, 죽으면 많은 열매를 맺는다.”

Are you ready to die to fear, to comfort, to excuses, and to live for the gospel of Jesus Christ?
여러분은 두려움, 편안함, 변명들을 죽이고 예수 그리스도의 복음을 위해 살 준비가 되었습니까?

The church in Korea grew because men and women chose to give their last breath for God. Their sacrifice became the catalyst for a mighty move of God that reached millions of souls.
한국 교회는 남녀들이 하나님을 위해 마지막 숨을 바쳤기 때문에 성장했습니다. 그들의 희생은 하나님께서 수백만의 영혼을 구원하는 강력한 역사를 일으키는 촉매제가 되었습니다.

God is looking for those who will say, “Lord, let my life and my last breath count for revival!”
하나님은 “주님, 내 삶과 마지막 숨이 부흥을 위해 사용되게 하소서!”라고 말할 사람을 찾고 계십니다.

Prayer: “If you are ready to die to yourself and live for God, pray! The spirit of revival may come upon you!”
기도: “여러분이 자신을 죽이고 하나님을 위해 살 준비가 되었다면, 기도하십시오! 부흥의 영이 여러분에게 임할 수 있습니다!”

Closing Prayer

맺음 기도
Let us pray for fresh fire, boldness, and the grace to endure persecution for Christ.
새로운 불꽃과 담대함, 그리고 그리스도를 위해 박해를 견딜 은혜를 위해 기도합시다.

Declare that your life will not be wasted, but it will be a seed for the next move of God.
여러분의 삶이 헛되지 않고, 하나님의 다음 움직임을 위한 씨앗이 될 것이라고 선언합시다.

“Lord, let our lives, and even our last breaths, be used for Your glory. May we bear much fruit, not only in our lives but through our death, for Your kingdom to come!”
“주님, 우리의 삶과 마지막 숨이 당신의 영광을 위해 사용되게 하소서. 우리의 삶뿐만 아니라 우리의 죽음도 많은 열매를 맺게 하시고, 당신의 나라가 임하도록 하소서!”

23 On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David:

“‘Why do the nations rage
    and the peoples plot in vain?
26 The kings of the earth rise up
    and the rulers band together
against the Lord
    and against his anointed one.[B] ’[C]

27 Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. 28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”

31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

Rejected, Yet Chosen

(거절당했으나 하나님께 택함받은 자)
Text: Acts 4:23-31 | 본문: 사도행전 4:23-31
The Stone That Was Rejected 버려진 돌
Rejection is one of the most painful experiences in life. It wounds the heart, leaves scars, and
often makes people feel like they are not good enough. But the beautiful truth of Scripture is this:
God often chooses the ones that men reject.
거절당하는 것은 인생에서 가장 고통스러운 경험 중 하나입니다. 그것은 마음을 아프게
하고, 상처를 남기며, 종종 우리가 충분하지 않다고 느끼게 만듭니다. 그러나 성경의
놀라운 진리는 이것입니다. 사람들이 거절한 자를 하나님은 선택하신다는 것입니다.
Rejected, Yet Strengthened 거절당했지만, 더욱 강하게 됨
When Peter and John were released from prison, they went straight to their fellow believers and
shared what had happened. The reaction of the church was not fear, but prayer.
Acts 4:24 says, “When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God.”
Instead of being discouraged, they turned to God in prayer. The enemy wants you to believe that
rejection is the end, but God wants you to see it as a setup for greater power.
베드로와 요한이 감옥에서 풀려났을 때, 그들은 곧바로 신자들에게 가서 있었던 일을
나누었습니다. 그러나 교회의 반응은 두려움이 아니라 기도였습니다.
사도행전 4:24 은 말합니다. “그들이 듣고 일심으로 하나님께 소리를 높여 이르되…”
그들은 낙심하는 대신 하나님께 기도로 나아갔습니다. 원수는 거절이 끝이라고 말하지만,
하나님은 그것이 더 큰 능력을 위한 준비 과정임을 보여주십니다.
Rejected, Yet God’s Plan Prevails 거절당했지만, 하나님의
계획은 이루어짐
Acts 4:27-28 says, “Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the
people of Israel to conspire against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed. They did what
Your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.”
Jesus was rejected, but that rejection fulfilled God’s perfect plan. Likewise, the rejection you
have faced is not a mistake. God is working behind the scenes.

2

사도행전 4:27-28 은 말합니다.
“과연 헤롯과 본디오 빌라도는 이방인과 이스라엘 백성과 함께 모여 주의 거룩한 종
예수를 거슬러 하나님께서 기름 부으신 일을 행하였나이다.”
예수님은 거절당하셨지만, 그 거절이 하나님의 완전한 계획을 이루었습니다. 마찬가지로
여러분이 겪은 거절도 실수가 아닙니다. 하나님께서 보이지 않는 곳에서 일하고
계십니다.
Rejected, Yet Empowered 거절당했지만, 더욱 능력받음
Acts 4:31 says, “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they
were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”
Rejection did not weaken them, it empowered them! When the world tries to break you, God fills
you with even greater power.
사도행전 4:31 은 말합니다.
“빌기를 다하매 모인 곳이 진동하더니 무리가 다 성령이 충만하여 담대히 하나님의
말씀을 전하니라.”
거절은 그들을 약하게 만들지 않았습니다. 오히려 더 강하게 하셨습니다! 세상이
여러분을 무너뜨리려 할 때, 하나님은 더 큰 능력으로 여러분을 채우십니다.
Rejected, Yet Chosen 거절당했지만, 선택받음

• Let rejection drive you to prayer, not despair.
• Trust that God’s plan will always prevail, no matter what.
• Believe that rejection is often the gateway to greater empowerment.
  The world may overlook you. People may doubt you. But God has already chosen you. And
  when God chooses you, no rejection can stop His purpose.
• 거절이 여러분을 절망이 아니라 기도로 이끌게 하십시오.
• 어떤 일이 있어도 하나님의 계획은 반드시 이루어집니다.
• 거절이 종종 더 큰 능력을 받는 문이 된다는 것을 믿으십시오.
  세상은 여러분을 무시할 수도 있습니다. 사람들이 여러분을 의심할 수도 있습니다. 그러나
  하나님께서는 이미 여러분을 선택하셨습니다. 하나님의 선택은 어떤 거절도 막을 수
  없습니다.

 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[A] as the Spirit enabled them.

5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? 9 Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia,[B] 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”

13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”

Sermon: The Day of Pentecost: A Day of Restoration

Text: Acts 2:1-13

Praise the Lord, church! Today, we are gathered to reflect on a powerful day in the history of the Church—the Day of Pentecost. It is a day that signifies not just the coming of the Holy Spirit, but a day of restoration. From the moment humanity fell in the Garden of Eden, everything that was lost, from God’s presence to His glory, was put back into place through Jesus Christ and His Holy Spirit. Pentecost marks the beginning of God’s restoration of everything that was lost in the fall. 

The Day of Pentecost is the moment when the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples, and from that day forward, God has been in the business of restoring His people to their rightful place of purpose, power, and glory. So today, I want us to understand that Pentecost is a day of restoration, a day when what was lost in Eden is now being restored in the power of the Holy Spirit.

I. Pentecost Restores the Presence of God (Acts 2:1-4)

First, let’s consider that Pentecost restores the presence of God. In the beginning, when God created man, He walked with Adam and Eve in the garden. The presence of God was with them, and they had an intimate fellowship with Him. But when sin entered, that presence was lost. The relationship was broken, and mankind was cast out of the Garden.

But on the Day of Pentecost, something incredible happened. The Holy Spirit came and restored God’s presence with us. Look at Acts 2:1-4—The disciples were gathered, and suddenly, there came a sound from heaven, like a mighty wind, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Tongues of fire sat on each of them, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. This was the restoration of what had been lost God was no longer far away. Through the Holy Spirit, His presence would now dwell in the hearts of believers.

Application:

Church, this is the beauty of Pentecost. God’s presence is no longer a distant experience. Through the Holy Spirit, His presence is with us, in us, and around us, at all times. We don’t have to travel to a temple or a holy mountain. We can walk in the presence of God every single day.

Prayer for Restoration of God’s Presence:

Holy Spirit, I welcome You into my life today. I ask You to restore that intimate fellowship with God that was lost. Fill me afresh with Your presence. I thank You that, through You, I am never alone. Let Your presence guide me, empower me, and transform me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

II. Pentecost Restores Unity Among Believers (Acts 2:5-11)

Next, let’s consider that Pentecost restores unity among believers. In the book of Genesis, when the people tried to build the Tower of Babel, God confused their languages, and they were scattered across the earth. Division entered the world, and it seemed that unity was impossible.

But Pentecost was the day when God began to restore unity. In Acts 2:5-11, when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples, they spoke in different tongues, but here’s the amazing part: people from every nation under heaven heard the disciples speaking in their own languages. This was a miracle of unity. No longer would people be divided by language and culture, but through the Holy Spirit, all would be united in Christ.

Application:

Beloved, the Holy Spirit does not only empower us to speak in tongues. He unites us in Christ. We are no longer defined by our backgrounds, our ethnicities, or our differences. We are united in the body of Christ. The Holy Spirit breaks down barriers and brings us together as one family.

Prayer for Unity:

Holy Spirit, break down every wall of division in my heart and in the Church. Let Your power bring unity where there is division. Help us to walk in love, understanding, and peace with one another. We are one body, united in Christ, and I ask You to help us to live out that unity every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

III. Pentecost Restores Dominion and Authority (Acts 2:1, 2:4)

The third restoration that Pentecost brings is the restoration of dominion and authority. In the beginning, God gave humanity dominion over the earth. He gave us authority to rule, to subdue, and to be fruitful. But when Adam and Eve sinned, they lost their dominion. They became slaves to sin and to the enemy.

But on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came to restore that lost dominion. In Acts 2:1, we see the disciples in one accord, waiting for the promise of the Father. Then, in Acts 2:4, they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with boldness and power. This was the restoration of the authority that had been lost. The Holy Spirit empowers us to walk in the authority of Christ, to exercise dominion over every situation in our lives.

Application:

Church, you have been given authority in Christ. The Holy Spirit empowers you to walk in dominion over every circumstance, to overcome every trial, and to take control of your destiny. Pentecost restored your authority, don’t let the enemy steal it from you.

Prayer for Dominion and Authority:

Holy Spirit, I receive the authority You have given me. Empower me to walk in dominion over my circumstances, to take authority over every situation that is not in alignment with Your will. I stand firm in the victory You have won for me. I declare that I am more than a conqueror through Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

IV. Pentecost Restores Glory in the Believer (Acts 2:2-3)

At creation, God made man in His image, and man was meant to reflect God’s glory. But when sin entered, that glory was lost. We were made to reflect God’s nature, but the fall of man distorted that reflection.

But Pentecost is the restoration of glory. In Acts 2:2-3, the Holy Spirit came in a mighty way, and tongues of fire rested upon each of the believers. Fire represents God’s glory, and this is the moment when God’s glory was restored in the believers. Through the Holy Spirit, we are being transformed into the image of Christ, and the glory of God is being revealed in us.

Application:

Church, through the Holy Spirit, you are being transformed into the glory of God. The more you yield to the Spirit, the more you reflect His glory in your life. Pentecost marks the day when God began to restore His glory in His people. We are His vessels, and His glory shines through us!

Prayer for Restoration of Glory:

Holy Spirit, restore God’s glory in my life. Transform me into the image of Christ, and may Your glory shine through me in all that I do. I want to reflect Your nature, Your power, and Your love. Fill me with Your glory today, and let my life be a testimony to Your greatness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

V. Pentecost Restores Healing to the Nations (Acts 2:12-13)

Finally, Pentecost restores healing to the nations. The fall of man brought brokenness to humanity spiritual, emotional, and physical brokenness. But Pentecost marks the beginning of healing. The Holy Spirit came to restore the broken places and to bring healing to the nations.

In Acts 2:12-13, the people marveled at what was happening, and Peter stood up to proclaim the healing power of the Holy Spirit. Pentecost is a day when healing begins, both for individuals and for the world. The Holy Spirit is at work to restore every area of brokenness.

Application:

Whatever brokenness you are experiencing today, whether it’s physical, emotional, or relational, know that healing is available through the Holy Spirit. He is here to bring healing to every area of your life. Pentecost is for your healing.

Prayer for Healing:

Holy Spirit, bring healing to my body, mind, and soul. I receive Your healing power today. Restore what is broken in me and make me whole. I declare that by Your stripes, I am healed. Let Your healing touch bring peace to my heart and strength to my body. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Conclusion:

The Day of Pentecost is a day of restoration. Through the Holy Spirit, God is restoring His presence, unity, dominion, glory, and healing to His people. Pentecost is not just a historical event; it is a present reality for every believer today. The Holy Spirit is at work, restoring everything that was lost at the fall.

I want to encourage you today—receive the fullness of what Pentecost offers. Surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit in your life and experience His restoration in every area. Pentecost is not just about the past; it is about what God is doing in us, right now.

Call to Action:

Let today be a day of restoration for you. Yield to the Holy Spirit. Allow Him to restore every part of your life. Pentecost is for you—receive it today.

12 Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk[C] from the city. 13 When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. 14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

15 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) 16 and said, “Brothers and sisters,[D] the Scripture had to be fulfilled in which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus. 17 He was one of our number and shared in our ministry.”

18 (With the payment he received for his wickedness, Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines spilled out. 19 Everyone in Jerusalem heard about this, so they called that field in their language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.)

20 “For,” said Peter, “it is written in the Book of Psalms:

“‘May his place be deserted;
    let there be no one to dwell in it,’[E]

and,

“‘May another take his place of leadership.’[F]

21 Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, 22 beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.”

23 So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” 26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Sermon Script: Prayers That Shift Destinies

Text: Acts 1:12–26

Opening Declaration

As we gather tonight, I want to remind you of something powerful: prayer is not just a religious activity. It is a divine technology. It is a way of communicating with the Creator of the universe and a channel for enforcing His will upon the earth. Today, we are talking about the kind of prayer that shifts destinies, the kind of prayer that changes the course of your life, your family, and even nations.

Say this with me: “Lord, as I pray today, align my life with Your purpose and release the grace for destiny-shifting encounters!”

Let’s turn to our text, Acts 1:12–26, where the disciples, in a season of uncertainty, demonstrated the power of prayer.

Introduction

The early disciples understood something many of us overlook destiny is too important to be left to chance. They turned to prayer. This was not casual or occasional prayer but focused, united, and intentional prayer.

Acts 1:14 (NIV): “They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.”

This was the foundation of the Church’s greatest breakthroughs. Tonight, I want to show you four truths about destiny-shifting prayer from this passage.

1. Prayers of Obedience Align Us with God’s Will

Acts 1:12–14 reveals the disciples’ first response after Jesus ascended: they obeyed His command to stay in Jerusalem.

Acts 1:4 (NIV): “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.”

Beloved, obedience is the foundation of answered prayer. When God gives an instruction whether it’s through His Word, a sermon, or the Holy Spirit, you must align yourself with it. Too often, we pray for God to bless our plans instead of asking Him to align us with His plan. Are there areas in your life where you are struggling to obey God? Maybe it’s a relationship, a calling, or even a simple step of faith. Obedience matters because it is the doorway to divine intervention.

Isaiah 1:19 (NIV): “If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land.”

Illustration: Imagine a sailor navigating a ship. No matter how powerful the ship is, it must align with the compass to stay on course. Prayer aligns us with the compass of God’s will.

Declaration: Say this with me: “Lord, help me obey You fully and align my life with Your divine plan!”

2. Prayers of Unity Create Atmospheres for the Supernatural

Acts 1:14 emphasizes that the disciples were united in prayer.

Acts 1:14 (NIV): “They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.”

Unity was the foundation of their prayers. Division is a thief it steals the power of God from our lives and our churches. Jesus Himself prayed for unity:

John 17:21 (NIV): “That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me, and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”

When families, churches, or ministries are united in prayer, heaven responds. But where there is division, confusion, or jealousy, the power of God is hindered.

Illustration: Think about firewood. One piece of wood on fire will eventually burn out, but when you gather multiple pieces together, the fire burns brighter and longer.

Call to Action: Is there someone you need to forgive? Is there disunity in your relationships that is hindering your prayers? Let’s release it to God right now.

Prayer: “Father, we release every spirit of disunity and declare unity in families, ministries, and this church. Let Your Spirit flow freely among us.”

3. Prayers of Alignment Unlock Divine Assignments

In Acts 1:24–26, the disciples sought God’s will in choosing Matthias to replace Judas.

Acts 1:24 (NIV): “Then they prayed, ‘Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen.’”

Every divine assignment requires divine direction. When you try to make decisions without prayer, you risk delays, detours, and disappointments. Prayer ensures alignment with heaven’s agenda.

Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Let me emphasize this: the most important question you can ask God in prayer is, “What is Your will for my life?” Even Jesus, in the Garden of Gethsemane, prayed,

Luke 22:42 (NIV): “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

Illustration: There was a young man who had two job offers. Instead of rushing to decide, he took time to fast and pray. God directed him to the one that seemed less attractive but turned out to be the door to his destiny.

Call to Action: Have you sought God’s direction for the decisions you’re facing? If not, this is the moment to ask Him.

Prayer: “Lord, align my steps with Your perfect plan. Let me not miss my divine assignment.”

4. Persistent Prayer Prepares Us for Divine Outpouring

Acts 1:14 highlights the disciples’ persistence in prayer. They didn’t pray once and stop; they persisted until Pentecost.

Luke 18:1 (NIV): “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”

Too many of us give up too soon. We pray for a breakthrough, and when it doesn’t come immediately, we stop. Persistent prayer builds capacity for the supernatural.

Illustration: Remember Elijah on Mount Carmel. He prayed for rain seven times before he saw even a small cloud. Persistence brought the breakthrough.

1 Kings 18:44 (NIV): “The seventh time the servant reported, ‘A cloud as small as a man’s hand is rising from the sea.’”

Call to Action: What is the promise God has given you that you stopped praying for? Pick it up again and keep pressing in prayer until you see the fulfillment.

Prayer: “Father, strengthen me to persist in prayer until I see the fulfillment of every promise You have spoken over my life.”

Conclusion

Let’s recap:

1. Obedience aligns us with God’s will.
2. Unity creates an atmosphere for God’s move.
3. Alignment unlocks divine assignments.
4. Persistence prepares us for the outpouring.

Just as the disciples’ prayers ushered in Pentecost, your prayers can shift your destiny. God is ready to move in your life, but He is waiting for you to pray the prayers that align with His purpose.

Final Declaration:
“Lord, as I pray today, let destinies be shifted, assignments be revealed, and Your Spirit be poured out in my life and this church. I declare that I am stepping into my divine purpose, in Jesus’ name, Amen!”

End with Acts 1:14: “They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.”

For to us a child is born,
    to us a son is given,
    and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
7 Of the greatness of his government and peace
    there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne
    and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
    with justice and righteousness
    from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
    will accomplish this.

Sermon: The Gift of Christ

Point 1: The Gift of a Savior (Isaiah 9:6)
Let’s begin by reading Isaiah 9:6:
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given.”
In this verse, we see the heart of God’s plan for humanity. This prophecy tells us
that a child is born, but He is no ordinary child. He is a Son given to us. This was
not a random event—it was the fulfillment of God’s eternal plan to rescue
humanity from sin and darkness.
The birth of Jesus is God’s answer to the greatest need of mankind—the need for
salvation. All throughout the Old Testament, God had promised that He would
send a Savior to redeem His people. And here, in the prophecy of Isaiah, we see
that promise being fulfilled. Jesus, the Son of God, was given to us as a Savior.
Imagine the magnitude of this gift. Jesus came not just to be a great teacher or a
prophet, but to save. This is the essence of the Christmas message. Jesus was born
to bring us salvation—to free us from the penalty of sin and offer us the gift of
eternal life with God.
Now, let’s turn to the New Testament, where the apostle Paul reminds us of this
gift of salvation in Romans 3:23:
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
Romans 6:23 tells us why Jesus came:
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our
Lord.”
Sin had separated humanity from God. We were all under the curse of sin and
death. But God, in His great love, sent Jesus to offer us the greatest gift, the gift of
eternal life. Jesus’ birth is the beginning of God’s plan to reconcile us to Himself.
As we celebrate Christmas, let’s not forget the reason Jesus came. He came to save
us. Let’s reflect on the personal invitation this gift brings: Have we accepted Jesus
as our Savior? If you haven’t, today is the day to receive His gift of salvation.

2

Prayer for Point 1:
Let’s pray together:
“Lord Jesus, I receive Your gift of salvation. Thank You for coming into this world
to rescue me from sin. Let Your redemptive power manifest in every area of my
life. Amen.”
Point 2: The Gift of a King (Isaiah 9:6)
Now, let’s look at the next part of this verse:
“And the government shall be upon His shoulder.”
Here, we are introduced to the kingship of Jesus. Jesus was born to be a King. His
birth wasn’t just about salvation; it was also the arrival of a new kingdom. This
verse points to the authority and sovereignty of Christ over everything. When
Isaiah says, “the government shall be upon His shoulder,” it means that Jesus holds
the authority to rule over all creation.
Jesus is the King of Kings. His reign is not temporary. It is eternal. Unlike earthly
kings who rise and fall, Jesus’ kingdom is unshakeable and unending. His reign
brings peace, justice, and righteousness.
In Revelation 19:16, Jesus is called “KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF
LORDS.” His authority surpasses all others, and His kingdom will never end.
As believers, we must ask ourselves: Is Jesus the King of our lives? His kingship is
not just something we acknowledge on Christmas; it is something we must submit
to every day. When Jesus is King, we align our lives with His will and His purpose
for us.
Prayer for Point 2:
Let’s pray together:
“Father, I declare Jesus as the King over my life. Let Your divine authority
establish order and purpose in me. Amen.”

3

Point 3: The Gift of His Divine Nature (Isaiah 9:6)
Next, Isaiah gives us several titles that speak to the divine nature of this Child.
Let’s read:
“And His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting
Father, Prince of Peace.”
Each of these titles reveals something essential about who Jesus is. He is not just a
good man or a teacher; He is divine.

• Wonderful Counselor: Jesus is the perfect guide. He offers us wisdom
  beyond measure. When we face confusion or difficult decisions, we can turn
  to Him, our Wonderful Counselor, who knows the way.
• Mighty God: Jesus is not just a human child; He is Mighty God. He is all-
  powerful, capable of doing what no one else can do. He is the creator of the

universe, and He holds all power in His hands.

• Everlasting Father: Jesus is eternal. He has no beginning and no end. He
  offers us the eternal relationship of love and care that we need. He is the
  Father who never abandons us.
• Prince of Peace: The world seeks peace, but true peace comes only through
  Jesus. His peace is different. it is a peace that passes all understanding, a
  peace that remains even in the midst of trials.
  Jesus is fully God, and He brings all these qualities to us. He is the Wonderful
  Counselor who guides us, the Mighty God who empowers us, the Everlasting
  Father who loves us, and the Prince of Peace who offers us eternal tranquility.
  Prayer for Point 3:
  Let’s pray together:
  “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge You as my Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
  Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Let Your divine nature manifest in my
  life. Amen.”

4
Point 4: The Gift of Eternal Peace (Isaiah 9:7)
Finally, we come to Isaiah 9:7, which says:
“Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end.”
The peace that Jesus brings is eternal. His reign will increase, and His peace will
never end. This is not just peace between nations or peace in our circumstances; it
is eternal peace with God.
In John 14:27, Jesus says:
“Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world
gives.”
Jesus’ peace is different. It is not temporary or fleeting. It is a peace that remains
even when the storms of life rage around us. When Jesus is the King of our lives,
we experience this peace in every situation.” When the ocean rise and thunder
storms father…
Prayer for Point 4:
Let’s pray together:
“Father, I receive Your eternal peace. Let Your unshakeable peace guard my heart
and mind in every storm of life. Amen.”
In conclusion, the birth of Jesus is the greatest gift the world has ever received. He
came to be our Savior, our King, and the embodiment of God’s divine nature. He
came to bring us eternal peace.
As we celebrate this Christmas, let us remember that the true gift of Christmas is
not found in the presents we exchange or the decorations we put up. It is found in
the person of Jesus Christ. He is the Savior who came to redeem us. He is the
King who reigns in righteousness. He is the Mighty God who offers us His power.
And He is the Prince of Peace who gives us His eternal peace.
I challenge you today to reflect on the gift of Christ. Have you accepted Jesus as
your Savior and King? Are you experiencing His peace in your life? This
Christmas let’s embrace the gift of Christ and share it with the world.

설교: 그리스도의 선물

사랑하는 여러분, 안녕하세요! 오늘 여러분과 함께 우리가 받을 수 있는 가장 큰 선물,
바로 예수 그리스도에 대해 묵상할 수 있게 되어 매우 기쁩니다. 우리가 알고 있는 대로
크리스마스는 장식과 선물, 축하로 가득한 단순한 명절 그 이상입니다. 그것은 바로
하나님께서 인류를 위한 구원의 계획을 작은 아기 예수님으로 시작하신 순간입니다. 오늘
우리는 이사야 9:6-7 의 말씀을 통해 예수님의 탄생이 어떤 의미를 지니는지 깊이
묵상해보려 합니다. 이 말씀 속에 담긴 구속, 평화, 그리고 구원의 메시지를 통해
그리스도의 선물의 깊이를 함께 나누기 원합니다.

1. 구속의 선물 (이사야 9:6)
   먼저 이사야 9:6 말씀을 읽어보겠습니다:
   “이는 한 아기가 우리에게 났고, 한 아들이 우리에게 주어졌고…”
   이 구절에서 우리는 하나님의 구속 계획의 핵심을 볼 수 있습니다. 이 예언은 아기가
   태어난다고 말합니다. 그러나 이 아기는 평범한 아기가 아닙니다. 이 아기는 우리에게
   주어진 아들입니다. 이는 우연한 사건이 아니라 하나님께서 인류를 구속하기 위해 세운
   영원한 계획이었습니다. 예수님의 탄생은 구속의 시작입니다. 예수님은 단지 훌륭한
   선생님이나 예언자가 아니라 구세주로 이 땅에 오셨습니다. 예수님의 탄생은 하나님께서
   약속하신 구원의 시작을 의미합니다. 예수님, 즉 하나님의 아들은 우리에게 구속의 선물로
   주어진 것입니다. 우리가 이 선물을 깊이 묵상할 때, 그 크기를 상상해 보세요. 예수님은
   우리를 구속하기 위해 이 땅에 오셨습니다. 그것이 바로 크리스마스의 진정한 의미입니다.
   예수님은 구세주로 이 땅에 오셨습니다. 그분이 우리의 죄를 사하시기 위해 오셨습니다.
   로마서 3:23 은 이렇게 말합니다:
   “모든 사람이 죄를 범하였음에 하나님의 영광에 이르지 못하였더니”
   로마서 6:23 은 이렇게 이어집니다:
   “죄의 삯은 사망이요, 하나님의 은사는 그리스도 예수 우리 주 안에 있는 영생이니라”
   죄는 우리를 하나님과 분리시켰습니다. 우리는 죄와 죽음의 권세 아래 있었습니다. 그러나
   하나님은 그 크신 사랑으로 예수님을 보내셨고, 그분을 통해 우리는 영생의 선물을 받을
   수 있게 되었습니다. 오늘 이 크리스마스를 기념하며, 우리는 예수님을 구세주로
   받아들였는지 되새겨보아야 합니다. 예수님을 구세주로 받아들이는 것이 가장 큰 선물을
   받는 것입니다. 만약 아직 예수님을 구세주로 영접하지 않으셨다면, 오늘 그 선물을
   받아들이시길 초대합니다.

기도 (1 부):
함께 기도하겠습니다:
“주님, 저는 주님이 주신 구속의 선물을 받습니다. 제 삶 속에서 주님의 구속의 능력이
나타나게 하소서. 아멘.”

2. 왕으로서의 선물 (이사야 9:6)
   이제 구절의 두 번째 부분을 살펴보겠습니다:
   “그의 어깨 위에 정사가 있을 것이라”
   여기서 우리는 예수님의 왕권을 보게 됩니다. 예수님은 단지 구세주로 오신 것이 아니라
   왕으로 이 땅에 오셨습니다. 이 구절은 예수님의 통치가 시작되었음을 알리고 있습니다.
   “그의 어깨 위에 정사가 있을 것이라”는 말은 예수님께서 온 우주를 다스릴 권세를 가지고
   계시다는 뜻입니다. 예수님은 왕 중의 왕이십니다. 그분의 통치는 일시적이지 않습니다.
   그것은 영원한 통치입니다. 이 세상의 왕들은 언젠가는 끝나지만, 예수님의 왕국은 결코
   끝나지 않습니다. 예수님의 통치는 평화, 정의, 의로움을 가져옵니다.
   요한계시록 19:16 에서 예수님은 “왕 중의 왕, 주 중의 주”라고 불립니다. 그분의 권위는
   모든 것을 초월합니다. 그분의 왕국은 영원하고 결코 흔들리지 않습니다.
   우리는 예수님이 우리의 왕이 되셨는지 스스로 묻고 살아가야 합니다. 예수님이 왕이
   되시면 우리의 삶은 그분의 뜻에 맞게 바뀌게 됩니다. 예수님을 왕으로 인정할 때, 우리는
   그분의 나라를 이 땅에서도 경험하게 됩니다.
   기도 (2 부):
   함께 기도하겠습니다:
   “하나님, 예수님을 제 삶의 왕으로 선언합니다. 그분의 통치가 제 삶과 마음 속에서
   이루어지게 하소서. 아멘.”
3. 예수님의 신성과 선물 (이사야 9:6)
   이제 이 구절에서 예수님의 신성을 나타내는 몇 가지 이름을 살펴보겠습니다:
   “그의 이름은 ‘기묘자’, ‘모사’, ‘전능하신 하나님’, ‘영존하시는 아버지’, ‘평강의 왕’이라
   할 것이다.” 이 이름들은 예수님이 단순한 인간이 아니며 신성을 지닌 분임을 보여줍니다.
   예수님은 완전한 하나님이십니다.

• 기묘자 (기이한 상담자): 예수님은 완벽한 지혜를 주시는 분입니다. 우리가 어떤
  어려운 결정을 내려야 할 때, 예수님께서 우리의 길을 인도하십니다.
• 모사 (상담자): 예수님은 우리의 삶을 이끌어 가시고 모든 것을 해결할 수 있는
  지혜를 주십니다.
• 전능하신 하나님: 예수님은 전능하신 하나님이십니다. 모든 것에 능력이 있습니다.
  세상을 창조하신 분이시며, 모든 권세를 가집니다.
• 영존하시는 아버지: 예수님은 영원히 존재하시는 분입니다. 그분은 우리의
  사랑하는 아버지이십니다. 그분의 사랑과 돌봄은 영원히 변하지 않습니다.
• 평강의 왕: 세상은 평화를 추구하지만, 진정한 평화는 오직 예수님을 통해서만 올
  수 있습니다. 그분이 주시는 평화는 모든 이해를 초월하는 평화입니다. 그분은
  우리에게 영원한 평화를 가져다 주십니다.
  예수님은 완전한 하나님이시며, 그분은 우리의 삶에서 모든 것을 변화시키는 신적인
  능력을 가지고 계십니다.
  기도 (3 부):
  함께 기도하겠습니다:
  “주님, 저는 예수님을 기묘자, 모사, 전능하신 하나님, 영존하시는 아버지, 평강의 왕으로
  고백합니다. 그분의 신성한 능력이 제 삶에 나타나게 하소서. 아멘.”

2. 영원한 평화의 선물 (이사야 9:7)
   마지막으로 이사야 9:7 을 봅니다:
   “그의 정사와 평강의 더함이 무궁하며”
   예수님이 주시는 평화는 영원한 평화입니다. 예수님의 통치는 계속해서 확장되고, 그분이
   주시는 평화는 끝이 없습니다. 이 평화는 단순히 세상적인 평화가 아닙니다. 그것은
   하나님과의 평화입니다.
   요한복음 14:27 에서 예수님은 이렇게 말씀하십니다:
   “내가 너희에게 평안을 주노라. 내가 주는 평안은 세상이 주는 것과 같지 아니하니라.”
   예수님이 주시는 평화는 다릅니다. 그것은 세상의 어떤 평화와도 비교할 수 없는 영원한
   평화입니다. 그분의 평화는 우리가 어떤 상황에 있든지 변하지 않는 평화입니다. 우리는
   이 평화를 경험하며 살아가야 합니다. 예수님이 우리의 왕이 되시고 그분이 주시는 평화가
   우리의 삶에 지속적으로 이루어지기를 바랍니다.

기도 (4 부):
함께 기도하겠습니다:
“하나님, 저는 주님의 영원한 평화를 받습니다. 그 평화가 제 삶에서 계속해서 이루어지게
하소서. 아멘.”

결론:
결론적으로, 예수님의 탄생은 인류가 받은 가장 큰 선물입니다. 그분은 우리의
구세주이시며, 우리의 왕이시고, 하나님의 신성을 가진 분이십니다. 그분은 우리의
영원한 평화를 주시는 분입니다.
오늘 크리스마스를 맞아 예수님이 주시는 이 선물을 다시 한 번 깊이 묵상하며, 여러분의
삶에서 그 선물을 받으시길 바랍니다. 예수님을 구세주로 받아들이고, 그분의 왕권을
인정하며, 그분의 평화를 경험하길 바랍니다.
함께 기도하겠습니다:
“하나님, 예수님을 저의 구세주와 왕으로 영접합니다. 그분의 평화가 제 삶에 임하게
하소서. 아멘.”