Introduction:     Ours is not the only generation to live in the midst of immorality and wicked times. The Gospel stirs things up (expound Acts 17). These folks faced sin and came out of lives of sin and they changed, that is the hope of the Gospel. There is power to change tonight you do not have to be the way you are. You can come in one-way and leave another by the power of the Gospel because the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ has the power to change! You can’t change yourself as much as you may want to, but there is a living God who has the power to change you and transform you forever. Paul came in preaching the Word of God (expound) and people where delivered! That is the Gospel that I preach tonight! This is how God will change you: This power can change:

I.                    THE DIRECTION OF YOUR LIFE  (V.5)

A.        Internally  (5a)

Religion works on the outside, we need something that works on the inside and works itself out.
“power” = dynamite

            B.         Emotionally  (5b)

“much assurance” = deep conviction. Paul came with deep conviction of the message he preached. How could he have such deep conviction? He had experienced it! The transforming power of God will effect the emotion. (Ills. Saul’s life before the became Paul – “I came with much conviction because this Gospel has changed me!”) How do you get that conviction in your soul? How can you believe the promises of God? How can you live a life of possibility and victory? How do you live a life of faith? There has got to be a change of direction and only the saving Gospel of Christ can change your emotional direction from defeat to one of victory!

            C.        Intellectually  (5c)  “ye know”

Beloved, salvation is not “hope so” it is “know so”

II.         THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE  (VV.6-8)
4 new qualities the living Gospel brings to life:

            A.        Gives Strength  (6a)  -  (Empowered to serve God)

            B.         Gives Joy  (6b)  -  (Imparted by the Holy Ghost)

            C.        Gives Integrity  (v.7)  -  (Effected in our daily conduct)

            D.        Gives Purpose  (v.8)  -  (Evangelizing the lost)

God doesn’t save us to sit and soak and sour, we have a purpose, we are to serve!

III.       THE FOCUS OF YOUR LIFE  (VV.9-10)

            A.        God-ward  (v.9)  -  “turned to God from idols”

Not turned for idols to God. Repentance and faith is turning to God (first) then He empowers you to turn from the idols of sin. (Here is where many are missing the boat today)

            B.         Forward  (v.10)  -  “to wait” =  to get ready (preparing)          

Conclusion:       Here is the motivation for Christian living. We can’t get over the fact that we’ve been delivered (saved). Rescued from hell and the wrath of the tribulation to come. The living Gospel of Jesus Christ is powerful enough to change anyone. He will rescue you today. You need not remain as you are (whoever you are). Here is power to change!