Brian discusses Acts 7:1-16, focusing on Stephen's defense before the Sanhedrin. Stephen recounts Israel's history, emphasizing God's faithfulness despite disobedience. He highlights Abraham's promise of land and descendants, Joseph's rise in Egypt, and the covenant of circumcision. Brian draws parallels to modern challenges, urging trust in God's promises even when fulfillment seems distant. He stresses that God's plan involves unexpected detours and is active in all places, encouraging believers to remain faithful despite hardships. The sermon concludes with a call to trust Jesus as savior for peace and support.

Brian discusses the unwavering commitment of early apostles to gospel proclamation, despite persecution. He references Acts 5, highlighting Peter's defiance of the high priest's orders and the council's attempts to suppress their message. Brian emphasizes the importance of uncompromising obedience to God, bold gospel proclamation, and not fighting God's purposes. He notes the apostles' joy in suffering for their faith and their daily perseverance in teaching and preaching. Rhodus encourages the church to focus on gospel proclamation, citing Vacation Bible School as a significant evangelistic opportunity, and to maintain joy and faithfulness in their mission.

Brian Rhodus emphasized the unstoppable nature of the gospel and the church's role in preaching it, referencing Acts 5:17-26. He highlighted the apostles' unwavering faith and obedience, despite being arrested by the Sadducees. An angel freed them, commanding them to teach in the temple. Rhodus underscored the importance of sharing faith despite personal trials and the church's 201-year history of preaching the gospel globally. He encouraged the congregation to participate in upcoming outreach efforts, including Vacation Bible School, and to recognize God's work and their role in it.

Brian Rhodus discussed the importance of ordinary people meeting extraordinary needs, using the story of a town's bridge repair and Acts 6:1-7 as analogies. He emphasized that growing churches face internal tensions, illustrated by the Hellenist and Hebrew factions in Acts. The apostles delegated responsibilities to seven men of good repute to focus on teaching and prayer, leading to church growth. Rhodus highlighted the need for delegation, empowerment, and unity, noting that the early church's approach of appointing culturally aligned leaders addressed internal divisions and fostered growth. He called for church members to actively serve, ensuring the church's continued flourishing.

Brian Rhodus emphasized the importance of faithfulness in small tasks, using the story of Stephen from Acts 6:8-15 as an example. He recounted the tale of Frank, a janitor who maintained a strong Christian faith and positively impacted his hospital community. Brian highlighted that even seemingly insignificant roles, like sweeping floors or teaching Sunday school, are sacred when performed with dedication and integrity. He encouraged the congregation to view all tasks as opportunities to serve God, noting that heaven recognizes and rewards such faithfulness, which can lead to a greater witness for the gospel.

Brian emphasized the importance of a church that the world cannot ignore, drawing from Acts 5:12-16. He highlighted the early church's unity, purity, and power, which attracted people despite fear and opposition. Brian compared the church to a symphony orchestra, stressing the need for unity under Christ's leadership. He noted that the church's witness spread beyond Jerusalem, and people brought the sick for healing. Rhodus concluded that God's power is displayed through set-apart people, urging the church to maintain purity, love, and unity to attract seekers and reflect God's presence.

Brian Rhodus discusses the importance of genuine commitment to the Lord, contrasting it with the "look at me" mentality exemplified by Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11. Ananias and Sapphira, seeking reputation, kept part of the proceeds from selling property and lied about it. Peter's confrontation led to their deaths, highlighting the seriousness of deceit. Rhodus emphasizes that true generosity is sincere, not showy, and that integrity is crucial for the church's reputation and the community's respect. He urges the congregation to honor God with their actions and commitments.

Brian Rhodus discusses the unity and giving spirit of the early church as depicted in Acts 4:32-37. He emphasizes the importance of giving, not just financially but also of time and talent, and relates it to the church's mission and spiritual growth. Rhodus uses a story about a girl giving her money to God to illustrate the right attitude towards giving. He also highlights the need for the church to be united for gospel impact, citing the example of the early church's shared possessions and the apostles' bold testimony. Rhodus concludes by stressing that giving is a form of worship and a way to connect with God.