Brokenness

In the midst of Danny's sermon series on the book of Acts, Todd Thompson took a second look at Saul's dramatic conversion in Acts chapter 9.

Hear Todd's first message on Acts 9 of July 27, 2008.

We see from Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus a model of how God draws people to Himself. There are two elements to this process:

1. God’s Working: Brokenness (complete surrender to self)

2. Saul’s Response: the Grace “light” came on, evidenced by:

• Gratitude
• Humility
• Compassion

Take Away: God’s process of drawing to Himself can be both painful and humiliating. Although not necessarily the author, He often works through negative circumstances to shape us and make us more usable. From the life of Saul, we see that great things can come out of negative circumstances.


Question 1: What circumstances in your life have challenged your self identity?


Question 2: Where did these circumstances take you?

Hear Todd's second message on brokenness from Acts 9:1-31 on August 3, 2008.

Prior Week Recap: We saw from Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus a model of how God draws people to Himself. There are two elements to this process:

Brokenness + Grace Light Comes On = Maximum Usefulness

Question: Why do we not see more Saul-like responses around us today? (as evidenced by the three attributes visibly flowing out of lives)

• If you work the above equation backward, brokenness is not transpiring!

Conclusion: We resist brokenness!

• Biblical Examples:
- Parable of Prodigal Son
- Parable of Lost Sheep
- Jonah

• Why do we resist brokenness?
- Consequences of resisting:
- Missing out on Blessings
- Stagnant Growth
- Lack of Rest

Take Away:

1. When confronted with circumstances that challenge your identity, what steps do you take in “self-preservation” (literally preserving self)?

2. What is the “one thing” that defines your identity, that is, if taken tomorrow, would incite tremendous sorrow or desperation?