The Apostles Confirmed the Great Salvation (Hebrews 2:3-4)
Introduction:
1. Last Sunday morning and this morning we covered a number of principles that relate to "the great salvation" mentioned in Hebrews 2:3. 2. This evening we are especially concerned with the fact that those who heard the Lord [the apostles] confirmed the great salvation. 3. We know that their teaching had God's approval because He bore them witness through signs and wonders, various miracles, and spiritual gifts. 4. Because the apostles played such an important role in making known the great salvation, we are covering a number of passages that will help us know them better. Discussion: I. LET US BEGIN WITH THE SELECTION OF THE APOSTLES
A. We read about the selection of the original twelve in Luke 6:12-16. B. We read about the selection of Matthias in Acts 1:15-26. C. We read about the selection of Saul [Paul] in Acts 9:15; 22:12-16; 26:13-18; and 1 Corinthians 15:3-9. II. THE APOSTLES WERE GIVEN A MISSION
A. Basically, the mission of the apostles is revealed in Mark 3:13-15. B. However, more specifically, Jesus gave His apostles: 1. the limited commission (Matthew 10:5-8) 2. the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20). III. THE LORD DELEGATED AUTHORITY TO THE APOSTLES
A. Jesus delegated authority to Peter (Matthew 16:18-19). B. Jesus delegated the same authority to all the apostles (Matthew 18:18; 19:28). IV. THE APOSTLES WERE TEACHERS
A. The apostles were responsible for teaching all things that Jesus had taught them (Matthew 28:19-20). B. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to help the apostles in teaching His Word (John 14:26; 16:13). C. According to 1 Corinthians 14:37, the teaching presented by the apostles is the teaching of Christ. Conclusion:
1. The apostles played a vital role in making known the great salvation -- they confirmed it. 2. Let us heed the admonition given in 2 Peter 3:1-2.
