Mission Methods

Acts 16:11-18

August 3, 1997

 

1. Seek to go where there is a sense of the Spirit's leadership (vv. 1-12)

            A somewhat difficult, almost paralyzing experience.  This is true of our own involvement.  E.g. McDaniel's investigating various areas and their needs; Patrick Johnstone - Operation World; Tentmakers - 1. Pray, 2. Investigate, 3. Prompting, 4. Pursue.

 

2. Look for those who have an interest in the spiritual (v. 13)

            Note the practical sense, "where we were supposing"...use your head!  There was no synagogue - ten Jewish men.  This place was a mile out of the city.  Obviously, it became the meeting place.  "...a worshipper of God" was not a Jew nor a Jewish convert.  Preparation by the Spirit.  Example:  Pierre and Cathy in France.

 

3. Speak a clear message to those who will listen (v. 13)

            Without prejudice... "the women."  The apostolic message was the same in essence.  Proclamation was the focus of Saul's work.

 

4. Depend upon the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit (v. 14) 

            Paul did not resort to tactics, manipulation, or clever devices (I Corinthians 2:1-5).  Also note Philippians 1:6, "He that began a good work..."  Note that she responded to calls for repentance and faith.

 

5. Establish churches and practice the ordinances (v. 15)

 

6. Identify with the new brethren (v. 15)

            Example:  Problem in some eras with a "colonialism" in missions; Judson 'zayat' in Burma.  Stott:  "For once the heart is opened, the home is opened too" (263).

 

7. Develop consistent places of proclamation (v. 16)

            It is apparent from the text that this going to the place of prayer was a set pattern and the slave-girl's annoyance was as well. 

 

8. Stand firm against the powers of darkness (vv. 17-18)

            Paul was not looking for "a power encounter."  It was no trite or common thing to deal with evil spirits.  But he addressed the situation obviously after much agony of mind and heart. 

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