“Take Courage” Sermon Series, Week 2 – Rev. Ben Alexander (First Sanctuary)

First Cary UMC’s First Sanctuary Sermon – Rev. Ben Alexander  – September 20, 2026

In Acts 16, Paul and Silas find themselves in prison.  An earthquake erupts. Doors are flung open and chains are unfastened. They could have escaped - but they choose to stay in jail.  Instead of fearing for their lives, they have the courage to remain, trusting God with their lives. Their courage ends up bringing life to the fearful jailer and his whole household, who are saved and baptized. The jailer’s fears are overcome; he has new-found courage, taking Paul and Silas into his own home, caring for them, washing their wounds and setting food before them. When we take courage, we often do so for the sake of others.