1 Saul was right there, congratulating the killers.
1 1-2 That set off a terrific persecution of the church in Jerusalem. The believers were all scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. All, that is, but the apostles. Good and brave men buried Stephen, giving him a solemn funeral—not many dry eyes that day!
3-8 And Saul just went wild, devastating the church, entering house after house after house, dragging men and women off to jail. Forced to leave home base, the followers of Jesus all became missionaries. Wherever they were scattered, they preached the Message about Jesus. Going down to a Samaritan city, Philip proclaimed the Message of the Messiah. When the people heard what he had to say and saw the miracles, the clear signs of God’s action, they hung on his every word. Many who could neither stand nor walk were healed that day. The evil spirits protested loudly as they were sent on their way. And what joy in the city!
Stephen became the first martyr of the early church. His death only marked the beginning of the severe persecution of the early church. Saul dragged disciples into the jail. Disciples were forced to leave Jerusalem, but it resulted further proclamation of the Name of Jesus even to Samaria. Samaritans were converted by the words of Philip with the signs and miracles done by Philip with the power of the Holy Spirit. The enemies wanted to destroy the church by persecution but God protected the church and even strengthened the church in the midst of persecution. Stephen were martyred but God raised up another evangelist, Philip, to continue the missions. God's works will never be defeated by persecution and opposition which rather become the means by which God more blesses His church.
Dear Holy Spirit, the church needs your revival in the midst of opposition of the world. Strengthen your people to face oppositions with blessings and continual proclamation of the Name of Jesus with Your power that people knew that Jesus is the Lord. Help me to listen to Your voice as I await for your direction that I minister alongside the Spirit and witness Jesus all by your might.
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