Evangelism Part 2: Sola Deo Gloria

Evangelism Part 2: Sola Deo Gloria

Acts: The Church on the Move
Text: Acts 10:34–48

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Introduction

On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. That moment helped ignite the Protestant Reformation and brought clarity to what became known as the Five Solas: salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, according to Scripture alone, for God’s glory alone.

Over 500 years later, we proclaim the same gospel. In Acts 10, Peter’s presentation of the gospel to Cornelius and his household highlights several of these truths, showing us that salvation is entirely the work of God and exists for His glory.

Today's Scripture: Acts 10:34–48

Last week, we saw how God works in what we called pre-evangelism:

• God prepares the hearts of those He calls to hear

• God prepares the hearts of those He sends to go

• God empowers obedience and response

In today’s passage, we see the culmination of that work. Peter proclaims the gospel, and the Holy Spirit moves in a way that resembles Pentecost. This moment confirms that the gospel is for the nations and that salvation belongs entirely to God.

Main Idea: Our evangelistic message must reveal a salvation that comes through grace alone by faith alone in Christ alone.

I. Salvation Is Offered to People in Every Nation Through Grace Alone

Acts 10:34–38

Peter begins by acknowledging something he has just come to fully understand: God shows no partiality. While Peter would have known this truth intellectually from the Old Testament, it now becomes personal and practical.

• God’s impartiality has always been revealed in Scripture

  • Deuteronomy 10:17

  • Job 34:19

  • 2 Chronicles 19:7

• These passages emphasize God’s righteousness as Judge, which highlights our need for grace.

• Justification is a legal term, and because of human depravity, salvation must be grounded in God’s grace.

• Peter directs his hearers to Jesus — His ministry, His power, and His message of peace.

• Any faithful presentation of the gospel must clearly communicate the necessity of grace.

  • Ephesians 2:8–9

Main Idea Restated:
Our evangelistic message must reveal a salvation that comes through grace alone by faith alone in Christ alone.

II. The Salvation that is Offered to People in Every Nation Comes through Grace Alone and is to be Received by Faith Alone.

Acts 10:39–41

Salvation is not earned through good works; it is received through faith. This truth is not only biblical — it is good news.

• Peter identifies himself and the apostles as eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

• Unlike the apostles, Cornelius and his household are called to believe without seeing.

• Faith comes by hearing the Word of Christ.

  • Romans 10:17

• Without faith, it is impossible to please God.

  • Hebrews 11:6

• Faith has always been God’s requirement.

  • Genesis 15:6

  • Habakkuk 2:4

• Salvation is a gift, not a result of works, leaving no room for boasting.

  • Ephesians 2:8–9

Main Idea Restated:
Our evangelistic message must reveal a salvation that comes through grace alone by faith alone in Christ alone.

III. Salvation is Offered to the Nations through Grace Alone, to be Received by Faith Alone in Christ Alone.

Acts 10:40–43

To say salvation is in Christ alone is to affirm the exclusivity of Jesus.

• There is no salvation apart from Christ.

  • Acts 4:12

• Jesus alone is appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead.

• Forgiveness of sins comes only through His name.

Salvation is not:

• Christ plus the intercession of saints

• Christ plus sacraments

• Christ plus merit

• Christ plus Mary

• Christ plus good works

• Christ plus religious credentials

We add nothing to Christ. He is sufficient.

Main Idea Restated:
Our evangelistic message must reveal a salvation that comes through grace alone by faith alone in Christ alone.

Conclusion

For those watching online, take time to pray for someone who needs to hear the gospel. Ask God to draw them to Himself and to use you as a faithful witness of His grace.

For those gathered in person, we will conclude with prayer following our final song.

Scripture for Reflection:
Ephesians 2:1–10
Read – Reflect – Respond – Rest