1. These verses tell us about the conversion of the eunuch of Ethiopia. 2. He became a child of God when he was baptized. 3. According to vs.39, "he went on his way rejoicing." 4. This man had reason to rejoice because he gained access to: a. "all spiritual blessings" (Ephesians 1:3) b. "all things that pertain unto life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3). 5. In our lesson we are pointing out 5 of the special blessings that God provides for His children.
Discussion:
I. FIRST, GOD PROVIDES INSTRUCTION (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
A. In His Word God provides the teaching, the reproof, the correction, and the instruction in righteousness that we need. B. The proper attitude toward the Scriptures is revealed in Psalm 119:97. C. The proper way to approach the Scriptures is addressed in: 1. Psalm 119:18 2. 2 Timothy 2:15b 3. James 1:21-22 D. By putting God's Word into practice we will be the kind of people that He wants us to be (James 1:25).
II. SECOND, GOD PROVIDES DIRECTION (Psalm 23:3b)
A. Concerning direction, we must realize our limitations (Jeremiah 10:23). B. Solomon presented the right way to receive God's direction in Proverbs 3:5-6. C. This is important because "the paths of righteousness" sometimes include obstacles.
III. THIRD, GOD PROVIDES ASSISTANCE DURING TIMES OF TRIAL
A. God wants His children to pray when trials appear (1 Peter 5:7). B. As we pray we are to ask for wisdom (James 1:5-6). C. In addition to giving wisdom, God will provide: 1. mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16) 2. a way to bear up under the trials we face (1 Corinthians 10:13).
IV. FOURTH, GOD PROVIDES COMFORT IN TIMES OF SORROW
A. David touched on this blessing in Psalm 23:4b. B. Paul also touched on it in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.
V. FIFTH, GOD PROVIDES ASSURANCE THAT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD (Romans 8:28)
A. We have numerous illustrations of God's providential care in the lives of Bible characters (Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Esther, Naomi, Daniel, etc.). B. This assurance is only available to "those who love God" and "those who are the called."
Conclusion:
1. This is not a complete list of the blessings that God provides for His children, but we have examined 5 that are very special. 2. We learn from Galatians 3:26-27 how to become God's children to gain access to all of His good blessings. 3. Perhaps we can now better appreciate why the eunuch "went on his way rejoicing."
