SCRIPTURE: Acts (NIV) 6:7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
8 Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. 9 Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, 10 but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.
OBSERVATION: A wonderful thing was happening in Jerusalem. Many people were becoming followers of Jesus, even many priests. God’s Holy Spirit was using Stephen to minister healing and hope to hurting people.
But as often the case, when God is moving, His enemy, Satan, also starts working. He opposes, finds fault, criticizes, sows doubt, etc. Satan’s work had great effect, even brought about the stoning death of Stephen. BUT someone was watching Stephen and how he died—Saul, who later became the Apostle Paul who wrote much of the New Testament!!! (Acts 7:1)
Satan can oppose God, BUT he cannot stop God!
APPLICATION: Experiencing the peace and joy salvation brings, growing in my understanding of who Jesus is and what He has done for me, and having the Holy Spirit guiding my daily life—these all work together to establish and strengthen my commitment to Jesus! He has given me eternal life which does not stop at my physical death; and the promises He has made me of life in heaven make me know that it is well worth any struggle in this life to make it to heaven!
PRAYER: I like to sing a song I remember my dad singing: “It will be worth it all—when we see Jesus. Life’s trials will seem so small—when we see Christ. One glimpse of His dear face—all sorrow will erase. So bravely run the race—till we see Christ!” (author: unknown) Lord, help me overcome opposition. Amen
Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!
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