Worshiping in a Dungeon

Freeing the Oppressed

• Acts 16:16-18

Evil Spirits know God.  This Evil Spirit was cast out over a period of days.  God's power enabled Paul to free this girl.  The power of God frees the spiritually oppressed today.  God's word sets people free.  Acts 10:38

Revenge of the Masters

• Acts 16:19-21 -Romans 12:19 -It isn't right for us to relieve our frustrations and anger by seeking revenge against others. Some of the dangers of life come at the hands of other people.

The Joy of Paul and Silas

• Acts 16:22-25 - They were physically beaten as punishment and thrown into prison.  This was physically humiliating and painful.  The dungeon was physically repulsive.  They were bound in stocks.   Their physical situation was as horrible as it could be and yet under these circumstances they were worshipping God.  Their spirits were strong and focused on the fact that they were worthy to suffer in his name. 
• Acts 5:40-42, Christians can overcome because of what Jesus has done for us. 
• John 16:22 No one can take your Spiritual joy away from you.
• Romans 8:35-39 Nothing can separate us from the love of God.  God is calling us to a deep, strong faith to up hold us. 
• 2 Cor. 4:7-11 - What happened to Paul and Silas was because God enabled them to rejoice in horrible circumstances.
• 1 Peter 4:14-16 -If you suffer for what is right, you are blessed.

We as humans are searching for joy.  The joys we create ourselves are temporary. 

Sharing the Love of God

• Acts 16:26-34 - The jailer was able to share in this great joy.  Paul and Silas were physically free when the earthquake happened, but Paul said to the jailer don't hurt yourself.  That is the Christian message today, stop doing those things that are hurting you.   Share in the Love God has for you.
• Matt. 6:43-48 -Love your enemies
• Eph. 5:1-2 -Love others

Standing against Injustice

• Acts 16:35-40 - Paul was a Roman citizen so his civil rights had been violated.  Paul was using the law to protect the new Christian church.  We as Christians need to stand for civil justice as it fits into God's Kingdom.  We need to stand for freedom from sin.

—Robert Lee, 2-3-08, a.m.