First Christian Church—November 9, 2025
Chuck Foreman, Teaching/Missions Pastor
 
For Money or Truth? For Acceptance or Honesty?

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In this account of Paul’s time in Ephesus, Luke captures the mindless adherence to false beliefs when money is at stake.
GOD’s Story— Religion For Sale, Acts 19:23-41      
 
When Religion is a Business (23-27)  
 
The Way of God is maligned, and revenue becomes your god.

The truth is called “misinformation.”
 
False gods are protected with fear mongering.

Paul was right,  Habakkuk 2:18-20

When You Can’t Reason, Riot! (28-34)

When our false beliefs are challenged, anger follows, and chaos follows anger.

A Sensible Official to the Rescue (35-41)

City Clerk, similar to a Mayor, asserts the false, pagan belief about Artemis to keep the peace.

When Religion is NOT For Sale

We don’t peddle the Word of God. 2 Corinthians 2:1

We work to provide for ourselves and those who are weak. Acts 20:33-3

We give so we can share with those in need.  Acts 2:44-45; 3:32-35

We understand what true religion is. James 1:27

Leaders serve willingly, not for personal or dishonest gain. 1 Peter 5:2

We don’t forget the main thing. Acts 5:42

We strive to make mature disciples of Jesus. Colossians 1:28-29

We are able to live out this command of Jesus

“Freely you have received; freely give.”  Matthew 10:8

BIG Idea:                 Following Jesus and the practice of our faith
                                            should never be about financial gain.