Scripture Reading: Acts 4:8–12
Introduction
A. On annual feast days, first-century Jews customarily recited the psalms known as the Hallel (Psalms 113–118).
B. The words of these psalms were on everyone’s lips at the Passover when Jesus died (Matthew 21:9; Luke 19:37–38; 20:17–18; Acts 4:11).
C. God apparently wanted this section of Scripture firmly planted in people’s minds for this moment, but so many missed its message.
Discussion
I. God wanted Israel to see that Christ’s death, resurrection, and ascension were all His doing.
A. Man could not and would not have done this on his own (Psalms 118:6–9, 22–24; Acts 3:12–16; 4:11–12).
B. Other gods could not have done this (Psalms 115:3–8).
C. God’s works are amazing (Psalms 114:3–8; Acts 3:14).
II. God wanted His name to be exalted.
A. The power of salvation is found exclusively in the LORD (Psalms 116:1–8, 13; Acts 3:6, 16; 4:10–12).
B. The glory for this salvation belongs exclusively to Him (Psalms 115:1; Acts 3:12–13).
C. We have every reason to praise the name of the LORD (Psalms 113:1–3; Acts 3:8).
Conclusion
A. Truly our God has done marvelous things in our lives, but will we choose to respond differently than did the people of Israel?
B. If you are lost and dying in sin today, silver and gold is not what you need: you need the name of Jesus.