This Sunday’s sermon is titled “When God Benches You,” drawn from Acts 19:21–41. It’s a dramatic scene. The gospel is having such a powerful impact in Ephesus that the city erupts in chaos. A riot breaks out. Two of Paul’s companions are seized and dragged into the theater, their lives suddenly in danger. Paul is ready to rush in and help—but those closest to him stop him. It’s too dangerous. Stepping in could make everything worse.
For Paul, this meant taking a backseat—and that couldn’t have been easy. Paul was not someone who sat well on the sidelines, especially when he felt responsible for what was happening. And yet, this moment reveals something crucial: this was never Paul’s ministry to manage or rescue. It was the Lord’s.
Friends, there are seasons when God does the same with us. Like a wise coach, He sits us on the bench at the very moment we want to be in the game. He removes the situation from our hands and gently—but firmly—reminds us that we are not the Savior. He is.
Are you there right now? Do you feel sidelined in a ministry, a relationship, or a situation that matters deeply to you? Is it especially hard to let go when the people involved mean so much? This passage reminds us that real peace doesn’t come from trying to save the day—it comes from trusting the One who already has.
Whether you feel benched by God or not, join us this Sunday as we’re reminded afresh that God knows exactly what He’s doing—and that He can be trusted, even when we don’t understand. Pray that God would prepare your heart to receive fresh strength and wisdom from His Word. We’re looking forward to worshiping with you
