Persecution is an Opportunity to Expand the Gospel

Persecution is an Opportunity to Expand the Gospel

 

Acts 7:54 ~ 8:8

 

After hearing Stephen's statement (sermon), the religious leaders became enraged and stoned Stephen to death. Meanwhile, Saul was standing as a witness at the scene of Stephen's martyrdom, and he thought Stephen's death was natural, just as Jesus' death was natural. Afterwards, he takes the lead in persecuting the church. After Stephen's martyrdom, the church faced severe persecution, and the believers were scattered throughout Samaria and all of Judea. When Philip, one of the seven leaders, goes down to Samaria to escape persecution, proclaims Jesus Christ and performs amazing miracles, demons leave, healing occurs and great joy overflows.

 

The prayer that Stephen prayed at the moment of his death is remind us the prayer that Jesus prayed on the cross (Luke 23:34,46 Then Jesus said to him, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” Then Jesus called with a loud voice and said, “Father, forgive them.”) (7:59,60). Stephen's final act of entrusting his soul to the Lord and asking for forgiveness for those who persecuted and killed him becomes an important factor in changing Saul later. Not only that, his prayer deeply impressed countless people who read the written word and became a driving force leading to conversion. Forgiveness and prayer toward others are the power of the gospel.

 

God closes one door and opens another to fulfill his plan for the world (8:1-4). Scattering is not defeat, but a ‘grain of wheat’ for God’s fruit (John 12:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a kernel of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed; but if it dies, it bears much fruit). If I am in an uncomfortable and painful environment, let me stop and think about whether God is preparing me for something special.

 

A work of true liberation, joy, and healing comes to Samaria, a land of alienation and superstition (8:5-8). The gospel is the power of God that saves us from the bondage of evil, and allows us to worship only the true God. Spreading the gospel is not just a duty, but a privilege received by grace, and it is not just hard work but participation in joy.

 

Dear God, help us to always proclaim the truth of the gospel with our words and lives.

And help us break away from easy faith and become vital believers who can endure missionary hardships!

 

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