Les Rainey

ID 54457Feb 13, 1972

The missionary's message centers on the universal need for Jesus Christ, regardless of ethnicity or background, as exemplified by Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8. This narrative illustrates the essential elements of soul-winning: the Spirit of God, the Scriptures, and the servant of God, emphasizing obedience, watchfulness, and being Spirit-led. The sermon highlights that the gospel is for all people, stressing the importance of understanding and believing that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, leading to salvation and rejoicing. It concludes by urging believers to actively share this life-changing message, recognizing the profound impact of obedience and faith in spreading God's word.

ID 53446Feb 15, 1972

Expounds on the New Testament ideal of a missionary church, using the early church in Antioch as a primary example from Acts 11-15. It details the church's commencement under persecution, its divine selection of leaders, and its outward-reaching mission to Jews, Greeks, and Africans, emphasizing the importance of preaching Christ. The message highlights the church's conviction, conversion, and cooperation, illustrating how ordinary individuals, when empowered by the Holy Spirit, can effectively spread the gospel. The sermon concludes by stressing the need for believers to cleave to the Lord, to be a giving church, and to embrace the identity of being called Christians, reflecting God's purpose in their lives and ministries.

ID 53445Feb 16, 1972

The Apostle Paul is presented as a model missionary, characterized by humility, faithfulness, and a complete dedication to God's will, even amidst trials. The sermon draws from Acts 20, highlighting Paul's selfless ministry, his willingness to suffer for the gospel, and his integrity in not seeking personal gain. The core lesson is that true missionaries, like Paul, should consider themselves nothing, keep back nothing profitable, desire nothing for themselves, and consequently lose nothing of eternal value. The message concludes by urging believers to emulate Paul's example of unwavering commitment and selfless service, recognizing that whatever is done for Christ will endure.

ID 51972Feb 13, 1972

The missionary's manual is found in the Book of Acts, which details the church's movement from its founding to its global expansion. The sermon highlights three key aspects of this manual: Jesus being alive (Acts 1:3), the call to arise and spread the gospel (Acts 10:19-20), and the assurance that comes from preaching Christ with all confidence (Acts 28:30-31). The Book of Acts demonstrates a fourfold movement: the church's establishment, its upward focus on Christ's resurrection, its downward movement through the Holy Spirit's coming, and its forward movement in anticipation of Christ's return. This worldwide scope emphasizes the church's continuous growth through doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, urging believers to be active participants in God's mission.