New Truth For New Service
Acts 10:1-23

All changes do not happen suddenly or automatically when a person is filled with the Spirit. It's difficult to over-estimate the importance of this principle. God isn't done with you and me yet. He still desires to prepare each of us for a more effective ministry and wider influence than we can see at the present moment. How can we be more effective for God? By learning to be sensitive to His guidance and by responding to His leadership. God will not guide us where His grace cannot keep us.

I. We Must Be Responsive to God's Lessons.

A. God unfolds his lessons to those who pray (v. 9).

"Often the most important thing that happens in prayer takes place when you are not talking at all. The insight, the sense of guidance may come during a time of quiet listening. What God has to say to us is always more important than anything we have to say to Him." - Thomas A Carruth
Prayer must not become "using God" but rather should involve reporting for duty!

B. God wants to give us a clear picture of His truth (vv. 11-13).

C. God had to change Peter's thinking before He could change Peter's behavior (vv. 14-15).

If we take the Lordship of Jesus seriously, there will be profound conflicts with our cultural value systems.
Our thought patterns and responses have to be brought under subjection to the Holy Spirit.
We must not treat with disrespect or disregard anyone for whom Christ died!

II. We Must Rest In God's Timings.

A. God is at work behind the scenes making all the arrangements in order to accomplish His purposes.
B. When we are near enough to God to hear His voice, the Lord's directions are always clear enough to follow!

III. We Must Respond to God's Opportunities

A. Any learning lesson must find application in the arena of real life. Biblical concepts are given to make a difference in how we live.

B. God helps sensitize His people to recognize opportunities when they come.

C. God interprets His lessons through opportunities to serve.