Image by: mtbjohn

Introduction

A. ‘And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.’ Matthew 16:18

B. The word gospel derives from the Old English g?d-spell (rarely godspel), meaning “good news” or “glad tidings”. There are plenty of evidence that it contains the supernatural power of God to convict sinners and bring them to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

C. There’s no demon – no human being capable of rendering it powerless unless Christians stop preaching the good news. In today’s sermon lets observe the supernatural power of the Gospel.

1. The 3000 converts on the day of Pentecost, Acts 2:37-41

A. Followed by the spirit baptism Peter preached to the crowds with power and anointing.

B. Those who listened to Peter was cut into the heart as the Holy Spirit convicted them and sought after God’s mercy.

C. A number of 3000 people were added to the group on that day.

2. Persecution can’t stop it, Acts 7:54-60, 8:1-8

A. The persecution that broke out along with Stephan’s death was blessing in disguise. The Christians were scattered and they preached the good news where ever they went and the gospel went across the borders of Judea. Obviously the more you try to suppress it the more it comes to the surface.

B. Nothing can stop the gospel. In some countries religious freedom is absent, and sharing the good news is like asking for your death warrant. But those are the countries that report the highest numbers of growth. Their underground churches are growing at a fast phase.

C. Someone once said, “If you want the Church to remain neutral, leave her alone – because even the slightest pinch awakes the giantess from her sleep”

4. Confirmed by events of the recent history

A. 27 years ago a Pastor who served in the southern region of Sri Lanka was assassinated by religious extremists in the area thinking this will put an end to conversions. But the tragedy inspired his widow and gave her strength to continue the work. Today it’s on it’s way to a mega church and the pastors’ widow together with her ministry team has planted many other churches too.

B. In China 3000 new converts are added to the underground church every day.

C. On December 13, 1995 Pas. Julio Ruibal was gunned down. He and his wife Ruth were popular ministers in the Christian community of Kali, Columbia. Their minsitry and prayers caused the criminal activities of the city to decline down to none. The drug lords and gang leaders avenged Pastor Hulio by killing him in cold blood and expected the ministry stop. What happened next? Pastor Hulio’s murder triggered a revival. Christians around the nation of Columbia started gathering together for mass prayer rallies and pray for the city and the country. The entire nation was touched. Today Columbia is one of the most peaceful cities in the world.

5.    Conclusion

A. Witnessing has its own risks– but the church must be ready to make any sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel. If your church or the community is facing persecution ask the Lord for strength. Don’t give up.

B. The apostle Paul exhorted Timothy saying, ‘Preach the message, be ready whether it is convenient or not…’ – 2 Timothy 4:2

C. (some translations read, in season and out of season). It’s easy to preach Jesus’ salvation when the grass is green. But the gospel is so powerful it produces more fruits in times of persecution than it does in comfortable times. Couple of months ago I spoke with a senior pastor. He told me even during the times of persecution he had 40 new converts joining his church every month.

D. Keep witnessing. Regardless of situations, for nothing can stand against the power of the Gospel we preach.