Big God, Small Me: Bigger Than My Past

Pastor James MacDonald 

Sermon on February 18-19, 2012

Intro:

God likes new stuff

God gives us a new heart, new self and new name. God will bring down a new heaven.

God says “behold I make all things new”

1) God is bigger than my past.

2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

God will not call your past or my past to mind.

2) In Christ, I have a new purpose. Acts 9:16 You have to come to the place where your eyes are open and you see Jesus for who He is. Once it happened to Paul he had a new purpose. He is now willing to suffer for His name.

3) In Christ, I have a new boss. Acts 9:17-18 If you don’t know Jesus Christ as Master, Lord or Boss you don’t know Him at all.

Paul was immediately baptized

Jesus only gave us two orders.

• Remember me – communion
• Go public – don’t hide me, tell everyone one – get baptized – the New Testament knows nothing of an unbaptized convert. Romans 10:13, Romans 10:9

Four things about baptism

• Baptism is personal – you believe first, then you get baptized. Your parents baptizing you as a baby doesn’t count.
• It’s a picture – when you stand in the water you you think of the death, burial and resurrection
• It’s a public profession – it doesn’t save you, it’s just what saved people do
• It’s a problem – if you haven’t done it get it done – now

4) In Christ, I have a new message. Acts 9:20-22 Paul had a new story – he immediately preached in the synagogue.

We all have a story to tell…that is where you start. When you speak out the message you feel and get strengthened.

5) In Christ, I have a new enemy. Acts 9:23-25 Even though are past is behind us, our enemies are still there.

Opposition does not mean failure. Being obedient to God can bring opposition.

6) In Christ, I have a new reputation. Acts 9:26-28

7) In Christ, I have a new fellowship. Acts 9:19 and Acts 9:29-30 Express hospitality – believers should be opening our home to each other. Paul’s brothers protected him and provided for him.

Provers 17:17 – A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Service ended with baptisms…