Scripture – 

Acts 8:4-6 Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word.

Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ.  And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip when they heard him and saw the signs that he did.

Observation- 

The church is being persecuted and all but the apostles are scattered.  They did not go into hiding, the went about to preach the word.  Philip went into Samaria and proclaimed Jesus.  The crowds listened and were in agreement with the message and saw the power of Christ that Philip had within him.  This began the fulfillment of Jesus words from Acts 1:8 that when the Spirit came on the disciples, they would be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth.

Application – 

This is still my call and everyone who is a believer in Jesus Christ to be a witness for Christ where we are and wherever we are lead by the Spirit to go and proclaim His name.  Persecution scattered the Church but it did not stop the Church.  On the contrary, the Church grew and spread just as Jesus said it would.  Philip didn’t do anything different other than preach the word and proclaim Jesus as the Messiah.  When we share the Love of Christ in truth people will listen, not all will like and some will be opposed. I need to listen to the power of the Spirit within and be willing to come alongside people, meet them where they are and share what Christ lovingly has done for me and all who believe in His name. People today have the same greatest need as those in the 1st century to know the truth that God loves them and sent Jesus to pay for the sins of everyone so those who have faith can be reconciled with God.

Prayer –  

Father,

Thank you for your love and the truth in your word.  Let the power of the Spirit give me boldness to cleary share your gospel in love to glorify you.