The Splash Effect

No matter who you are or where you came from, your faith can make a splash on those around you!

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished, and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.”
(Acts 4:13)

Imagine finding a quiet place to study, only to have a wobbly table spill your coffee all over your work, clothes, or even neighbors. It’s a vivid reminder of the direct cause-and-effect relationship in life. Just like that spill, our actions and decisions can ripple outward, influencing the people and places around us.

If you’re a Christian, you have a unique opportunity every day to impact the world around you. However, many of us might not be heeding the call to make a meaningful “splash.” I believe that no one should be able to get close to you without sensing that you’re a person of faith. Let’s explore that further.

In our text today from the book of Acts, we encounter Peter and John who had been arrested by the temple guards for healing a lame man at the temple and for preaching about Jesus’ resurrection. Now they go before the Sanhedrin (Jewish judicial body) where they courageously testify about Jesus and how salvation comes only through Him. It’s remarkable to consider that, despite the Sanhedrin labeling them as “unschooled and ordinary men,” they spoke the truth boldly! Their testimony should challenge us to recognize that God can use anyone, regardless of background or education, to make a significant impact in the world.

What we need in our world today are valiant individuals who aren’t afraid to splash their faith around like Peter and John did. You don’t need fancy terms or theological training; you simply need your story. You need to know that you were once lost and now you are found.

Friend, we’ve been called to be beacons of light in our neighborhoods and communities, embodying Christlike values and sharing them with others. Whether through your words, actions, or the way you treat people, your faith can inspire and uplift those around you. Don’t underestimate the impact you can have—your presence can make a difference!

Listen to the sermon: The Splash Effect

Part 1Part 2

Ministry Update from Mark

The million Christmas lights along the Magnificent Mile in downtown Chicago pale in comparison to the Light of the World, Jesus, our promised Messiah—don’t you agree? If you live in the Chicagoland area, don’t miss kicking off the Christmas season with us as we transform the Moody Bible Institute campus into our annual Christ-centered Christmas celebration, Candlelight Carols, on December 6 and 7.

More than just a Christmas tradition, Candlelight Carols is a worship experience exalting the true reason for the season. More than just a concert, it’s an extravaganza featuring the student music and theater ensembles, a Christmas market, a Festival of Arts, food trucks, cookies and hot cocoa on the campus plaza, and an interactive Christmas experience for your kids. Bring your family, friends, church, and even loved ones who haven’t yet met Jesus to this joyous event!

Learn more at CandleLightCarols.com