After Stephen’s execution, Saul of Tarsus led an offensive against Christians, going door to door in search of believers in an attempt to annihilate the movement.
God’s plan called for ministers of the truth to scatter throughout Judea and Samaria, using Stephen’s blood as fuel to further the church of the resurrected Christ.
“4 Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.” (Acts 8:4)
Because they feared the same execution suffered by Stephen, believers scattered throughout the region and advanced the gospel, thereby fulfilling a greater mission than Saul’s. Since all believers are called to extend the truth about the life, death and resurrection of the Christ, Saul’s endeavors only benefited the furthering of God’s kingdom.
“5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them.” (Acts 8:5)
This was not the apostle Philip, who stayed in Jerusalem with he other twelve, but one of the seven chosen by the apostles to manage the ministry to the poor in Jerusalem. These seven men included Philip, Stephen, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolas.
“6 And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.” (Acts 8:6)
Philip used miracles to draw the attention of seekers, and empower the truth about the Christ, who was God in the flesh, crucified by the Hebrew nation then rose from the dead, resurrected as the promised Messiah.
“7 For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city.” (Acts 8:7-8)
Samaria was mainly populated by descendants of Assyrian colonists who intermarried with Jews. The Samaritans rejected the Jewish Torah, and as such, were frowned upon by the Jewish nation.
Yet, the racial division between the Jews and Samaritans did not stop the ministers of the gospel, rather it inspired them to fulfill their purpose beyond racial borders, to unite believers in one spiritual family. Through miracles, many were healed in Samaria, then by faith, led to Christ. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Luke,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com
