Stephen’s execution set a precedent for how the Christians would be dealt with and, subsequently, the persecution of the Christians became official and systematic. It was overseen by a zealous Pharisee called Saul who officiated over Stephen’s execution. Up to this point the narrative has emphasised the growth and unity of the early church. But now we are told that the church is scattered (8:1). It was a terrible situation. People were suffering and it seems that the house that God just built had been demolished. Let’s not talk about there being a reason for this terrible circumstance because there is nothing reasonable about persecution. God didn’t want people to oppose him like this. However, what we do see is that God worked through this situation, as bad as it was. It turns out that this persecution actually spread the seed of the Kingdom rather than killing it. The Christians dispersed and they took their testimony of Jesus with them and, as a result, the fledgling Christian movement experienced a major boost. We see this all through Christian history: when opposition arises, the church is not crushed but empowered. It is as Jesus said: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). Though we may lament the opposition we face, we need not be exasperated or discouraged by it. On the contrary, we can be hopeful that the kingdom of heaven will break out even more under adverse circumstances.
Ask God to make you more fruitful.
Read Acts 8:1-8
