In our text today, a sin-hardened, pagan jailer asks the most important question that has ever been uttered in the history of the world. He asks, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"
Today, I would like for us to examine that question for a few minutes. As we do, I am going to ask each of you to ask not only that question but to ask the second most important question every believer must ask. “What must I do to help others find the answer?” This passage not only poses the questions, it, also provides the answers.
I) THE MOTIVATION BEHIND THIS QUESTION
A) He Was Moved By Fear
It was the fear of his own punishment and death that drove him to the feet of the Apostle Paul that night in Philippi. Every person who gets saved comes to Jesus by faith. However, the road that leads them to Him may be different for all!
The question the jailer asked was important, but the answer he received was just as important. If you hear the wrong answers about how to be saved, you will never get to know God.
1) WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE SAVED?
a) Definition of Saved - To rescue from harm and from danger.
b) The Danger we all live with - Until we are saved, everyone in this room is in terrible danger. Why?
1. We are all sinners (Rom. 3:23)
You may not think you are a sinner, but anything that we do which violates the Law of God is a sin. In truth, we are born into this world as sinners. We are guilty before God when we are born, Psa. 58:3 The wicked are estranged from the womb; they go astray as soon as they are born, speaking lies.
2. We are all headed to Hell (Rom. 6:23)
This verse tells us that there is a price on sin. If we do not come to Jesus for salvation, then God has no choice but to send us to Hell.
B) He Was Moved By Faith
It is interesting to note that this jailer did not take the time to secure the prison or the prisoners. His first thought was for his own salvation. Many have read this and thought that he is just trying to save his skin. I think he was interested in saving his soul. What is or has God used in your life to awaken you spiritually?
II) THE MESSAGE THAT LED TO THIS QUESTION
A) It Spoke Of A Person
B) It Spoke Of A Plan
C) It Spoke Of A Promise
III) THE LASTING EFFECTS OF THIS QUESTION
A) It Showed Him A Life Of Salvation By The Lord
Verse 34 tells us that after he heard the Gospel, he believed and was saved. Remember, that's how it works!
Being saved is nothing more than placing your faith in Jesus Christ for your salvation. It is choosing to trust Him and nothing else to save you and to take you to Heaven
B) It Showed Him A Life Of Service To The Lord
As soon as this man gets saved, a change becomes evident in his life. In verses 33-34, he is seen washing their stripes, and feeding them from his own table. He is a new creature, and He demonstrates it. If you have been saved by His grace than you should be willing to step into a life of service for the Master. The church needs your help in many areas so please consider where you can service now.
In Closing:
What is the main question that has your attention today? Let me encourage you to ask yourself the most important question of all, "What must I do to be saved?"
As Christians we should be asking the second most important question. “What must I do to help others find the answer to the most important question?” Their Eternity may hinge on your answer!
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