The Offence of the Gospel ACTS 5:12-42 Pt3

January 15th, 2026

Summary

This sermon explores the concept of 'kerygma' - the core gospel message consistently preached throughout the Book of Acts. Pastor Jerry examines Peter's brief sermon to the Sanhedrin in Acts 5:29-32, highlighting how it contains the essential elements found in all New Testament gospel presentations: the crucifixion, resurrection, ascension of Christ, and the call to witness. The message emphasizes that all 18 sermons recorded in Acts share these same fundamental components, demonstrating the unchanging nature of the gospel message. The pastor stresses the importance of preaching this biblical content rather than modern church philosophies, noting that true transformation comes only through the kerygma - the proclamation of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection - followed by proper discipleship through biblical teaching.

Daily Devotion Link

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather together today to study Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us. Help us to set aside our preconceived notions and be receptive to the truths You want to reveal through this discussion. Give us wisdom to understand the kerygma - the essential gospel message - and how it applies to our lives today. May Your Holy Spirit guide our conversation and draw us closer to You. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen. 

Ice Breaker

What's one skill or piece of knowledge that someone taught you when you were young that you still use today? Who taught it to you and why do you think it stuck with you?  

Key Verses

  • Acts 5:29-32
  • Romans 5:8
  • 1 John 3:1
  • Acts 22:3
  • Acts 26:24

Questions

  • What does the word 'kerygma' mean, and why is it significant that 25% of the Book of Acts consists of sermon transcripts?
  • Looking at Acts 5:29-32, what are the essential elements of Peter's gospel message that we see repeated throughout Acts?
  • How does Peter's statement 'we must obey God rather than men' apply to Christians today when facing opposition to their faith?
  • Why do you think the religious leaders became so enraged when they heard the apostles' message that they wanted to kill them?
  • What role do the Old Testament prophets play in the kerygma, and why is this important for modern preaching?
  • How does understanding someone's worldview help us in sharing the gospel message effectively?
  • What's the difference between the kerygma (gospel proclamation) and the didache (teaching), and why do we need both?
  • How might Gamaliel's influence on Paul demonstrate God's sovereignty in preparing people for salvation and ministry?

Life Application

This week, identify one person in your life who needs to hear the gospel message. Pray for them daily and look for an opportunity to share the essential elements of the kerygma with them - Christ's death for sin, His resurrection, and the need for personal faith in Him. Practice bridging the gospel message with their specific context and circumstances. 

Key Takeaways

  • The kerygma is the consistent core gospel message found in all New Testament evangelistic presentations
  • Every gospel presentation should include Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and a call to response
  • True transformation requires both the kerygma (gospel proclamation) and didache (biblical teaching)
  • Opposition to the gospel message is normal and expected, but we must obey God rather than men
  • Understanding context and worldview helps us effectively communicate the unchanging gospel message

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the unchanging power of the gospel message. Help us to be faithful heralds of the kerygma in our daily lives, sharing the good news of Your death, burial, and resurrection with boldness and love. Give us courage to stand firm in our faith even when we face opposition, remembering that we must obey You rather than men. May we be consistent in both proclaiming the gospel and growing in our understanding of Your teachings. Use us to reach those who are close to the kingdom but have not yet received You as their personal Savior. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.