DECEMBER 8, Acts 8:1-12

Chapter 8 is the turning point of the book of Acts. With this chapter, the focus changes to record the spread of Gospel to Samaria and to areas occupied by Gentiles.

After killing Stephen, the Jews persecuted the church. So deep was the hatred of the Jews for Christians that even Christian women were not spared from persecution. Many Christians in Jerusalem ran away to other regions of Judea and Samaria. Saul was the chief person leading the persecution of the church. It seemed that Satan had won – Stephen was killed, the church faced a fierce enemy in Saul and the church had scattered.

In times like these, what should Christians do? They turned to the Lord in prayer. That gave them courage and guess what they did? They went about proclaiming Christ instead of running to hide! Ordinary church members were used by God to do His work. They were inspired by Stephen and his courage. Despite persecution, the church continued to grow as a result of the zeal of its members in preaching the Gospel.

The church in Samaria started and grew because Philip, having left Judea, went to Samaria to preach the Gospel. Many were converted through the evangelization efforts of Philip (Acts 8:12).

Dear child, we must thank the Lord for these early evangelists. Following in the footsteps of Stephen and Philip were many other evangelists. If not for their stand and bravery, the Gospel may not have been preached as far and as fast. Let us be grateful to God for the many early Christians suffered for their faith so that you and your family have the Gospel.

Thought: Are you willing to suffer for Christ?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the faith and boldness of the early Christians who spread the Gospel so that many can be saved. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.