Pulpit Curriculum
Defend The Truth With Courage
Harvest Bible Chapel
March 6, 2022

Defend the truth with courage.png

Pulpit Curriculum

March 6th – March 12th, 2022

Verse of the Week

Acts 17: 24-25 (ESV)
24 The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man,25 nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.

Going Deeper

Review Acts 17: 16 - 34

1) Idolatry can be considered ‘as image-worship or divine honour’ paid to anything. What are some of the modern-day forms of idolatry?

2) Paul’s mission in Athens was provoked by idolatry. The scriptures admonish us to not worship or follow idols. What are the key themes about idolatry in the following scripture references: Psalm 135:15-18; Exodus 20:3-6; Isiah 45:20; Jonah 2:8; Judges 10:14; Revelation 9:20 and 1 Corinthians 10:14; and any others you may find?

3) Like Paul we should all be provoked by idolatry; however subtle or visible; and especially within our own hearts. What in your life takes priority over your relationship with God? How do you intend to restore your relationship with God?

4) Using Paul’s strategy of ‘confronting others without being confrontational’ - Which scripture references can help you to:
⦁ Introduce the truth (doctrine) of God

_
⦁ Present the truth of creation
⦁ Present the truth of the resurrection

5) It is our responsibility to share the Good News, knowing that the response is out of our control. From today’s sermon, what are 3 things that believers can do after sharing the Gospel?

6) Identify specific approaches that believers can use to encourage and work with those who are indecisive about following Jesus.

Assess Your Life

1) How would you rate your ability to defend the truth with courage?

a) I am not confident in my knowledge of the truth of the Gospel.

b) I am building my confidence and knowledge to share the Gospel.

c) I am taking small steps to share the gospel and defend the truth with courage.

d) I am improving in my ability to defend the truth with courage.

e) I consistently defend the truth with courage.

2) What factors may be hindering you from defending the truth with courage?

Application

1 What actions are you taking to ensure that you actively defend the truth with courage?

a)

b)

c)

2 Of the list above, which one(s) will you be intentional about working on this week?

I will ask

to hold me accountable to this.

Sermon Main Points

If believers are to ‘turn the world upside down’ with the gospel, they should:

  • be provoked by idolatry
  • Present the eternal truths of the word
  • Do not sweat over the responses

Quotes

When ministering to intellectuals, don’t use “church language,” but reason from as much common ground as you can find and then make your way as quickly as possible to Jesus and the resurrection. —Derek A. Ward

God provides launching pads for the gospel — an inquiry, an incident, or even an idol. Then it’s our job to make our way from that opportunity to the truth of God’s Word. —Derek A. Ward

Sermon Reflection

What stood out for me in this sermon?

What is something I can do to remember this?


5 Day Study Plan

Use the Inductive Bible Study method to study these scriptures this week and remember to share with someone else.

Follow these steps
1. Observe the text. (What does the text say?)
2. Interpret the text. (What does the text mean?)
3. Apply the text. (What can I do as a result of what I have learnt?)

Day 1 - Exodus 20:35

Day 2 - Romans 1:21-23

Day 3 - 1 Corinthians 8:4

Day 4 - 1 Peter 3:15-16

Day 5 - Ephesians 1:13


For best results, this content should be read and prepared privately and then disccussed in your small group or with family / friends. We were not created to do life alone - get connected with a small group and grow together.

Harvest Bible Chapel Barbados - 2022