[Due to to COVID19 restrictions, we are doing things a little differently at Benchley and an audio recording is not available for this lesson. However, the lesson (along with the rest of the worship service) was live-streamed on Facebook and can be watched below. -MRW]

• Watch out for jealousy.

  • Old Testament Jews: Jealous of Joseph, Acts 7:9

    • Jealousy played a part in many Bible stories

    • John 12:19

  • New Testament Jews: Jealous of Jesus and apostles

    • Matthew 27:18 – Pilate could clearly see their jealousy

    • Acts 5:12-17 – The Pharisees were jealous of the influence and crowd the apostles were drawing.

    • Acts 13:44-45

    • Acts 17:5

  • Us today: We must be careful of jealousy!

    • If someone is doing something good (especially of a religious nature), we should be happy for them!

    • We cannot be caught up in wanting credit for something.

    • I Corinthians 3:1-3 – A jealous mindset was holding them back!

• Accept God’s plan.

  • Old Testament Jews: Rejected Moses

    • Acts 7:23-27, 34-41 – Those who rejected Moses were some of the most foolish people in history.

  • New Testament Jews: Rejected Jesus

    • Acts 7:52

    • Acts 2:22-23 – Peter also pointed this out.

  • Us today:

    • Are we willing to accept that God’s plan involves obedience?

• Accept God’s word.

  • Old Testament Jews: Persecuted prophets. Acts 7:51

  • New Testament Jews: Persecuted prophets.

    • Acts 6:8-9

    • Acts 7:51-60 – Stephen stoned to death.

  • Us today:

    • John 12:47

    • Hebrews 10:28-29 – The punishment will be great for those who trample underfoot the Son of God.