SUNDAY July 10, 2022

Power, Preaching, Persecution and Progress

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit....”
Matthew 28:19-20

Four words can summarize the book of Acts: power, preaching, persecution and progress. After the disciples were commanded by Jesus to “Go!” ... they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs... (Mark 16:16-20).

The Holy Spirit was at work as the Gospel spread to many cities, countries, providences, and islands. These places were greatly evangelized by the Apostle Paul. Most of these places were located outside of Israel. Through the tremendous power of the Holy Spirit, the Apostles were enabled to fulfill the great commission––make disciples of all the nations.

The Twelve, including Paul, preached the Gospel and made disciples of all nations. Discipleship took place as they spent time with people and taught them about Christ. This is not only the responsibility of pastors and leaders, but it is a call to every Christian. We also have the responsibility to spend time with young converts to teach them the Word of God.

We shall learn how Christ’s disciples in the early church suffered and yet endured. Christian persecution was widespread. Believers might have grown very comfortable if there had been no persecution and suffering. Instead, persecution caused them to be scattered to other places, and the Gospel spread. Persecution brought them to their knees and caused spiritual progress in their lives, and this, in turn, birthed a strong revival.

It is so easy to grow comfortable in your Christian walk. Ask the Lord to refill you with the power of His Holy Spirit. Then step out by faith, despite any persecution, to make disciples. We are to read our Bibles, pray, fellowship, and share our faith to progress in our Christian walk.

“God's command 'Go ye, and preach the gospel to every creature' was the categorical imperative. The question of personal safety was wholly irrelevant.”
~Elisabeth Elliot~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!