Francis Chan: Exponential Conference 2009

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of unity, trust, and boldness in church leadership. The speaker shares personal anecdotes about his own journey as a church planter and elder, highlighting the significance of having supportive relationships with fellow leaders. He encourages listeners to prioritize building strong bonds with their team members, just like the early Church described in Acts 4:13, where Peter and John's boldness astonished others.

Key Scripture References

• Acts 4:13 - This passage highlights the boldness of Peter and John, who were uneducated common men yet had been with Jesus. Their boldness was astonishing to others, and they prayed for more boldness after their release from prison.
• Ephesians 6:19-20 - Paul asks the Ephesian church to pray for him to preach the gospel with boldness like he ought. This passage emphasizes the importance of prayer and dependence on God for boldness in ministry.
• Acts 4:29-31 - After being released from prison, Peter and John prayed for more boldness, and the Bible says that the whole place was shaken when they finished praying. They then went out to continue preaching with boldness.
• Ephesians 1:15-23 - Paul's prayer in Ephesians 1:15-23 is a model for church leaders, demonstrating the importance of dependence on God and seeking his power and boldness in ministry.
• Acts 2:42-47 - The early Church in Jerusalem was characterized by their shared life, prayer, fellowship, and teaching. This passage shows how the early Church prioritized unity, trust, and boldness in their relationships with one another.

Key Takeaways

• The importance of unity and trust among church leaders is crucial for effective ministry.
• Boldness in ministry is not about individual strength or education but about dependence on God's power and presence.
• Church leaders should prioritize building strong relationships with their team members, just like the early Church described in Acts 4:13.
• Prayer and dependence on God are essential for boldness in ministry, as seen in Ephesians 6:19-20 and Acts 4:29-31.

Application

Church leaders can apply these principles by:

* Prioritizing building strong relationships with their team members

* Seeking prayer and dependence on God for boldness in ministry

* Emphasizing the importance of unity, trust, and boldness among church leaders

* Modeling dependence on God's power and presence in their own lives and ministry