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- Oct 26, 2007
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When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. Acts 11:23-24 NKJV
After Stephen was martyred, persecution arose in Jerusalem, causing believers to scatter. As they went, they preached the Word, and a great number of both Jews and Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord. When the news spread to the church in Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas as far as Antioch. When he arrived, he was overjoyed at the sight of new converts, and he encouraged them to continue with the same purpose in their hearts.
You have been scattered in a different fashion—scattered into your workplace, school, or community—and you have opportunities to tell others about Christ. No doubt, you will face opposition at times, and the work can be messy and difficult. But Barnabas would encourage you to purpose your heart to “remain true to the Lord.” People will find eternal life in Christ as a result of what you do and say to them today.
Prayer: Lord God, give me the heart of the believers who were scattered to Antioch. They saw their scattering as an opportunity to reach new people. Open the hearts of those You’ve placed around me to receive and believe the Gospel.
After Stephen was martyred, persecution arose in Jerusalem, causing believers to scatter. As they went, they preached the Word, and a great number of both Jews and Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord. When the news spread to the church in Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas as far as Antioch. When he arrived, he was overjoyed at the sight of new converts, and he encouraged them to continue with the same purpose in their hearts.
You have been scattered in a different fashion—scattered into your workplace, school, or community—and you have opportunities to tell others about Christ. No doubt, you will face opposition at times, and the work can be messy and difficult. But Barnabas would encourage you to purpose your heart to “remain true to the Lord.” People will find eternal life in Christ as a result of what you do and say to them today.
Prayer: Lord God, give me the heart of the believers who were scattered to Antioch. They saw their scattering as an opportunity to reach new people. Open the hearts of those You’ve placed around me to receive and believe the Gospel.
