We continue our sermon series entitled: “The Playlist of Life”. Preaching from Nathan Gordon. Service led by Ian Stride.

Sermon Notes

Intro

Today’s song was released in 1984 by the UK band Queen, which features a catchy 12-bar blues progression with 3 verses and no chorus. The song was well received across Europe and South America and is often used to highlight oppression around the world.

We are living in challenging times where sadly many are still suffering and living in fear. However, there is still an abiding hope through the Gospel and the word of God where liberty is at the heart of the good news of Christ.

Snippets from the lyrics

Link to Acts 16

The major theme throughout chapter 16 is the subject of freedom from oppression, slavery, fear and spiritual bondage. Our primary focus will be on the slave-girl but we also see Paul and Silas thrown in prison and the jailer and his household come to saving faith in Jesus Christ.

Application

Even as Christians, there are times when we may become fearful or feel as if something is holding us back. This can lead to frustration, fear and anxiety but through power in the name of Jesus Christ, just like the slave-girl, we can be set free from the chains holding us back.

If you want to break free this morning…..Let’s consider the following from God’s word

The pursuit of freedom – v17

• what is a stronghold?…………………………………………………………..
• The girl’s ability to fortune tell was made possible through an evil spirit, which was common practice in Greek and Roman cultures.
• The girl was being exploited by the men in the region for their personal gain
• requires desire and persistence on our part
• Jesus’ question to the sick man at the pool. (John 5:6)
• The slave girl cried out to Paul and Silas; she would not give up in her pursuit of freedom

The Source of Freedom – v18

I’ve got to break free

God knows, God knows I want to break free

• there are many in the world today who want to be free but just don’t know how or where to turn
• some may even look for freedom in the wrong places that only offer a short-term solution or no liberty at all.
• The girl recognised the power at work within the Apostles Paul and Silas. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and the opposite spirit within her was petrified.
• The demonic world and spirits understand the gravity and power of the Holy Spirit (James 2:19)
• Paul rebuked the evil spirit in the authoritative name of Jesus Christ, which caused the evil spirit to leave the girl.

Questions

1. Why is Paul “greatly annoyed” in verse 18, even though the spirit in the girl was commending them? 
2. Why is it often difficult for a Christian leader to deal with someone involved in occult practices? Did the Apostle Paul and Silas have a special ministry of deliverance or is this available for all Christians?
3. In our society, what are some ways people are in bondage to evil?
4. In what ways is the church of today adequately prepared to deal with evil spirits and ready to help those suffering from bondage? if not what can we do?
5. Read Mark 5:1-20 and discuss the similarities between Acts 16.
6. (Mark 5) Society had chained the demon-possessed man (with a physical chain) and Satan had kept him bound spiritually but Jesus brought freedom. What chains have you seen Jesus break in your life to give you freedom?