The Scattering: Unstoppable Heroes

 Acts 7:59 - 8:8 NIV

59) While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60) Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.

1) And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2) Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3) But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. 4) Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5) Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. 6) When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7) For with shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8) So there was great joy in that city.

TAKEAWAYS

1. The Church Persecuted, v1a

2. The Church Scattered, v 1b

3. The Church Caring, v2

4. The Church even more on Mission, v4