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 is as though 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 there was a major boost to the spread of the Gospel. When bad things happen, don’t assume that God wanted it that way. You can assume, however, that God will work through every situation, even those he deplores (see Romans 8:28). God wants you to grow and be fruitful and sometimes he allows terrible things to happen that prune us like trees. You can come out more fruitful depending on how you respond. Don’t deny the pain, and don’t think that God likes what you are going through. He didn’t want this world to get broken. But he will use every circumstance to make you more fruitful.
Ask God to make you more fruitful.
Read Acts 8:1-8
