Tom Messer - Trinity Baptist Church

In this powerful message, we're called to reflect on what it means to be an extraordinary church. The book of Acts, particularly chapters 11 and 13, paints a vivid picture of the church in Antioch - a model of spiritual vibrancy and impact. This church was saturated with the Holy Spirit, committed to biblical teaching, and marked by diversity and balance. As we delve into this scripture, we're challenged to consider: Are we allowing God's Word to shape us more than the surrounding culture? Are we 'cleaving' to the Lord and to our church community with unshakeable commitment? The transformation of the Antioch believers was so profound that they were first called 'Christians' there - a testament to how closely they resembled Christ. This prompts us to examine our own lives: Is our identity primarily rooted in our cultural background, or in our spiritual growth? Let's aspire to be a church where the Spirit moves so powerfully that our lives are visibly transformed, making us unmistakably Christ-like in our community.

The extraordinary power of Jesus' name takes center stage in this powerful message. We're reminded of the miraculous healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate, as recounted in Acts 3. This story isn't just about physical healing; it's a profound metaphor for spiritual transformation. Just as the lame man was lifted up and entered the temple for the first time, we too can experience a life-changing encounter with Jesus that allows us to enter into God's presence. The message challenges us to consider: Are we living in the power of Jesus' name? Are we allowing His presence to transform not just our circumstances, but our very identities? It's a call to move beyond mere religious observance to a vibrant, extraordinary life filled with the Holy Spirit's power. This isn't just about individual transformation, but about becoming agents of reconciliation and restoration in a broken world. As we embrace this extraordinary life, we're invited to see beyond our limitations and believe in a God who still performs miracles today.