Calm in the storm – Preaching
Preaching Outline on Acts 27:22-24 – But now I warn you to be of good cheer, for none of your lives will be lost, but only the ship. For this very night the angel of God, whose I am and whom I serve, stood with me, saying, “Paul, do not be afraid! You must be presented to Caesar, and behold, God has given you all those who sail with you.
Introduction to Acts 27:22-24
Acts of the Apostles presents us with the exciting journey of Paul, the tireless spreader of the Gospel. In chapter 27, we meet the apostle on a turbulent journey to Rome, where he is to be tried. Trapped on a ship at the mercy of a raging storm, Paul is faced with the fear and despair of his fellow passengers. It was against this dramatic backdrop that he uttered the encouraging words: “Do not be afraid!”.
The context of these verses is crucial for us to understand the depth of Paul’s message. He was being taken to Rome to face a trial that could result in his condemnation. The journey itself was challenging enough, but the storm that hit the ship brought with it the imminent threat of death. In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, Paul stood firm, anchored in his unshakeable faith.
The storm raging on the ship was more than a natural phenomenon. It symbolized the adversities, challenges and tribulations we face on our Christian journey. Like the ship’s crew, we often feel adrift, shaken by the waves of fear, doubt and anguish.
It is at this moment of human frailty that Paul’s voice resounds with power and authority: “Do not be afraid!”. His words are not mere words of comfort, but a declaration of trust in God’s sovereignty and His providential care. Acts 27:22-24 teaches us that, even in the midst of life’s storms, we can find peace and security in God.
Development
God’s presence
“For this very night the angel of God, whose I am and whom I serve, has been with me.” (Acts 27:23)
Paul knew he wasn’t alone in that storm. He was certain of God’s presence at his side. The angel of the Lord appeared to him, confirming God’s closeness and special care for him.
In times of distress, it’s easy to feel abandoned and forgotten by God. The waves of adversity seem to engulf us, and the darkness of despair envelops us. But God’s Word assures us that he never forsakes us. “I will be with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20).
Just as Paul experienced the comforting presence of the angel, we too can cling to the promise that God is with us at all times, especially in the most difficult hours. He is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).
God’s promise
“…saying, ‘Paul, don’t be afraid! You must be brought before Caesar, and behold, God has given you all those who sail with you.” (Acts 27:24)
The angel not only assured Paul of God’s presence, but also gave him a promise: he would be presented to Caesar and everyone on board the ship would be saved. This promise brought hope in the midst of despair, calming fearful hearts.
God has promises for each one of us. His Word is full of declarations of love, protection and care. In times of fear, we need to remember God’s promises and cling to them in faith. “Cast all your anxiety on him, for he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7).
God’s promises are like anchors that hold us steady in the midst of life’s storms. Trusting in His promises gives us the certainty that He is in control of all things and that, in the end, everything will work out for our good (Romans 8:28).
God’s peace
“Now I warn you to be of good cheer, for not one of you will lose his life, but only the ship.” (Acts 27:22)
Even in the face of the fury of the storm, Paul remained calm and confident. The peace of God that surpasses all understanding guarded his heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). This peace enabled him to comfort the other passengers, giving them the hope that was in his heart.
Fear and anxiety are like winds that stir up the sea of our soul, robbing us of peace and serenity. But God’s peace is like a safe harbor, where we can find refuge in the midst of storms. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give it to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27).
Let us seek God’s peace in prayer, in meditation on His Word and in trust in His sovereignty. May the peace of Christ be the arbiter in our hearts (Colossians 3:15), calming the storms and guiding us safely to the harbor of salvation.
Conclusion of Acts 27:22-24
Dear brothers and sisters, Paul’s story in Acts 27 teaches us that even in the midst of life’s storms, we can find peace and security in God. May the words “Fear not!” resound in our hearts, strengthening our faith and urging us to trust God in all circumstances.
May God’s presence be our constant companion, may his promises be our anchor and may his peace be our refuge. In Christ, we can face any storm with courage and confidence, certain that he will lead us safely to our final destination.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with us. Amen!
Preaching Outline on Acts 27:22-24 – But now I warn you to be of good cheer, for none of your lives will be lost, but only the ship. For this very night the angel of God, whose I am and whom I serve, stood with me, saying, “Paul, do not be afraid! You must be presented to Caesar, and behold, God has given you all those who sail with you.
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