Acts 3:1-16 tells the story of a lame beggar being healed, as well as Peter’s explanation of how it happened and why it matters.
Notice this portion of Peter’s message to the people who gathered in wonder and amazement at the miracle:
“The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered over and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses.” (Acts 3:13-15)
Why would Peter refer to Jesus of Nazareth as “the Author of life”? Why does it still matter?
Jesus is the Author of PHYSICAL life
- John 1:1-4 – all things were made through him.
- Hebrews 1:1-4 – he upholds all things by the word of his power.
- Colossians 1:15-23 – all things were created through him and for him.
Jesus is the Author of NEW life
- The terrible consequences of sin (Isa 59:1-2; Rom 3:23; 6:23; 1:18).
- The gospel of Jesus Christ (Isa 53:4-6; Rom 3:23-26; 6:23; John 1:11-13; Rom 6:1-4; Gal 2:20).
- Involves willingness to submit to Jesus as Leader and Savior (Acts 5:30-31).
Jesus is the Author of RESURRECTED life
- Romans 6:5-23 – eternal life is available in a relationship with Jesus as Christ and Lord.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – whether we acknowledge it or not, he is coming again.
- Revelation 1:17-18; 22:20-21 – his grace can define, save, and sustain your life!
So here’s the question: who is the author of your life?
This sermon was delivered on December 8, 2013.
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