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There Are Responses Every Time The Gospel Is Proclaimed

In Acts 28:23-24, Luke records the following statements in reference to Paul’s preaching to the Jews at Rome (Acts 28:17):

“And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.“

Most brethren are not aware of it, but there are responses every time the Gospel is proclaimed. If there are a hundred accountable people present in the assembly, there are a hundred responses to that particular lesson.

1) Some respond by making a personal commitment to God to improve their lives — The sermon they hear motivates these individuals to see their weaknesses, and as a result, they are determined to repent and do better.

2) Others respond by getting angry — Remember the mob when Stephen proclaimed the truth in Acts 7:54-60? Do we react in anger when the truth “hits home” with us?

3) Some try to ignore the message — They simply do their best to put truth out of their mind. Such people do much harm to their soul each time they fail to respond to God in an obedient way.

4) A few respond by acting in an immature manner — I do not just have reference to little children or teenagers. They may write notes, giggle, or talk while the sermon is being presented.

5) Others make fun of the message — When they do this, they do not actually mock the messenger, but the inspired message. How foolish to act in such a way!

6) Many respond by saying “NO” — I will not be come a Christian. As an erring member, I refuse to come back to God and repent. I will not do what God would have have me do.

7) A few respond with doubt — They are not sure of what they have heard. They need further study so their faith will be realized but when the truth of God’s Word is heard, their feelings are hurt and as a result they go away and never return.

8) Some respond in an obedient way — Non-Christians repent and are baptized for the forgiveness of sin (Acts 2:38) and erring brethren repent and ask for the prayers of the congregation.

Conclusion:

Jesus said:

“If any man have ears to hear, let him hear” (Mark 7:16), “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37).

The inspired writer John tells us in Revelation 22:14-15:

“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.“

How do we respond to Bible preaching? Let’s think about it!