SCRIPTURE: Acts 8:2-8

OBSERVATION:
Here we see both the challenges and blessings that the early church experienced. They grieved deeply for those who died for their faith (many eventually died), they faced daily the prospect of suffering and imprisonment, and they were scattered from their homes. And yet, wherever they went, the MESSAGE (word, v.4) was spread, just as Jesus commanded (from Jerusalem, through Judea, into Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The result of the MESSAGE, despite the persecution, was great joy. The signs and wonders only reinforced the amazing MESSAGE of Jesus as Saviour and Lord.

APPLICATION:
I love how the Lord fulfills His commission to spread the message by dispersing His people through persecution. Try as they might, those opposed to the message of Jesus cannot out out its fire. This explains in part the magnetic quality of the early church, amazing faith despite persecution. This is also a fulfillment of Jesus words about the seed dying to produce a crop (John 12:24). Stephen’s death sparks the persecution that leads to the spreading of the message. This reminds me that the Lord’s ultmate concern is for spreading the message, and our lives are devoted to that cause, even if it means death.

PRAYER:
Lord, You showed us that our lives would be risked to fulfill Your great commission, to bring the message of life to the ends of the earth. Forgive me for forgetting my purpose, and help me to become a living, eager messenger for You, no matter what happens. Remind me again of the many who live and die every day in Your service. Amen.