But the word of God continued to spread and flourish.
Acts 12:24//
The key word here is “but.” Despite persecution, political obstacles, and even people thinking Herod was a god, the Gospel continued to spread. God will make himself known even amidst the worst of circumstances.
Colossians 2:15
And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.//
Satan and his minions defeated at the cross.
He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
Acts 11:24//
My hope and prayer is that this is said of me when I leave this world.
“Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.
Acts 10:47-48//
Baptism with water is not required to receive the Holy Spirit.
“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied.
Acts 9:5//
Innately, we all know Jesus is Lord, even if people claim not to believe in Him.
But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.
Acts 8:3//
Throughout history, people have tried to stop the message of the Gospel. Some, like Saul, become converts to Christ. Others simply fail as the power of God prevails.
“Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh king of Egypt. So Pharaoh made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace.
Acts 7:9-10//
As Stephen makes the final speech of his life, God was with him and rescued him from all his troubles. May I continually remember that God is with me throughout my entire life.
His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.
Acts 5:40-41//
Do I rejoice when others simply debate me about Jesus?
And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’
Acts 2:21//
I am a sinner saved by grace. Praise the Lord!!!
When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.”
John 21:21-22//
I need to stop worrying about others and focus on what God wants me to do with my life.