"TELL THE GREAT THINGS THE LORD HAS DONE FOR THEE"

I.INTRODUCTION--The NT is full of accounts about people who benefitted from the miracles of Jesus.
A. Peter called Jesus"a man approved of God unto you by mighty works and wonders and signs which God did by him in the midst of you." Acts 2:22
1. These signs served a great purpose. John 20:30-31
2. They were too numerous to relate. John 21:25
B. The effects of the signs.
1. Some believed because of the number. John 7:25-31
2. Some Disbelieved in spite of the number. John 12:37
C. Those who benefitted from them were grateful.
1. The blind man of John 9 stoutly defended Jesus, and worshipped Him when he learned that He was the Son of God.
2. The Samaritan woman of John 4 brought him a receptive audience.
3. The Demoniac of Mark 5:1-20 was given a mission by Jesus.
a. This story is so real and marvelous it makes us wish we had been there. FASCINATING!
b. He certainly had a wonderful and awe-inspiring story to tell!

II.IDENTIFY-- Yet, I cannot relate to his experience, fully, nor to any of those who benefitted from miracles (Miracles have ceased--1 Corinthians 13:8). Those today who claim "religious experiences" have denied the way of salvation, the WORD OF GOD (John 6:44-45). Yet, I have a fascinating testimony to tell, and so do you!

III. LESSON--
A. Even in Jesus' day there was a benefit greater than "signs and wonders." Luke 10:1, 17-20; Hebrews 12:22-24, 28
B. Paul says the truly great "work" is the word of salvation. Acts 13:26, 38-41
C. Salvation is the great cause for glory. Revelation 1:4-6

IV. APPEAL--
A. In Acts 2, which miracle was primary?
1. Baptism of the Holy Spirit and tongues? vs. 1-4
2. Peter's use of Joel 2 is the key, especially vs. 21
B. Jews asked for signs (1 Corinthians 1:22), but Paul says that the "election" obtained the true prize--Salvation! the "riches of the world!" Romans 11:7-12
C. Peter says it all in 1 Peter 1:3-25.
1. An inheritance incorruptible. vs. 4
2. Salvation is what the prophets sought. Vs. 10
3. Announced through the Apostles. vs. 12
4. Bought by the most precious of commodities. vs. 18-19
5. Obtained by the simple act of obedience to the Word of God. vs. 22-25