Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 1083B recorded on May 4, 1986 teaching from Acts 3:1-4:4 – Pricked in the Heart.
Pastor Stevens recounts the biblical story of Peter and John healing a crippled man in the name of Jesus. The healing, witnessed by many, greatly disturbed the religious leaders, who jailed Peter and John. He then delves into the nature of the Pharisees, legalistic in their faith, and the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, contrasting them with the compassionate, Spirit-empowered ministry of Peter and John. Pastor Stevens emphasizes that true faith, like that shown by Peter and John, is characterized by compassionate action, reliance on Christ’s authority, and a willingness to share the experience of God’s power with others. Ultimately, he challenges listeners to examine their own lives and embrace a faith that is both deeply spiritual and actively engaged with the needs of the world.