Fear, Fire, and Favor

Aim: To humbly desire the revival of Christ's true religion.

Doctrine: When God revives His church, hearts get fully-exposed. This is because Christ's presence inspires heavenly awe, which melts away superficiality and resistance.

Exegesis: How God reveals Himself to the world today: through His mighty deeds—that engender fear (v. 17); His cleansing of consciences—that puts fire to old sins (vv. 18-19); and His empowerment of the preaching of Christ—that brings favor to the earth (v. 20).

Further application: How this text encourages the faithful church today: since God did these amazing wonders in the idolatrous city of Ephesus, He may be pleased to do the same among us in our generations.

Key verse: v. 20 ''So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily.''