2. 1. We might be in awe of God as we see how He empowered the early followers of Christ though the Holy Spirit to preach, persevere through persecution, and then praise him.

3. 2. We might, as a church, see how we ought to function as the church of God, the bride of Jesus from the example of the early followers.

4. 3. We might, as individuals, be empowered by that same Holy Spirit to boldly proclaim the gospel and change the world.

7. Did Stephen really say that?

8. Did Jesus really say that?

9. Luke 21:5-6

10. Matthew 26:61 & Mark 14:58

11. Luke 21:5-6 Matthew 26:61 & Mark 14:58 Matthew 27:40 & Mark 15:29

12. Luke 21:5-6 Matthew 26:61 & Mark 14:58 Matthew 27:40 & Mark 15:29 John 2:19-21

13. Luke 21:5-6 Matthew 26:61 & Mark 14:58 Matthew 27:40 & Mark 15:29 John 2:19-21 John 4:19-24

14. THE TEMPLE

15. The Spirit and Presence of God

16. THE TEMPLE The Spirit and Presence of God Where sacrifice was made for atonement

17. THE TEMPLE The Spirit and Presence of God Where sacrifice was made for atonement Where priests served as intercessors

18. THE TEMPLE The Spirit and Presence of God Where sacrifice was made for atonement Where priests served as intercessors Where they went to be close to God

19. IN JESUS WE HAVE The Spirit and Presence of God He is the Sacrifice made for atonement He is our priest who served as intercessor He is our Way to be close to God

20. …and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. ACTS 6:7

21. 6 FASLE SECURITIES FOR BEING CLOSE TO GOD

22. I go to church

23. 6 FASLE SECURITIES FOR BEING CLOSE TO GOD I go to church I give money

24. 6 FASLE SECURITIES FOR BEING CLOSE TO GOD I go to church I give money I believe in God

25. 6 FASLE SECURITIES FOR BEING CLOSE TO GOD I go to church I give money I believe in God I prayed a prayer for salvation

26. 6 FASLE SECURITIES FOR BEING CLOSE TO GOD I go to church I give money I believe in God I prayed a prayer for salvation I know the Bible

27. 6 FASLE SECURITIES FOR BEING CLOSE TO GOD I go to church I give money I believe in God I prayed a prayer for salvation I know the Bible I come from a Christian family