What can Christians do amid persecution? Pray and encourage one another. In this blog series, I share warfare prayers and words of encouragement from the Book of Acts to win the battle against the enemies of the gospel.
Due to persecution, the believers were scattered abroad. It seemed like a hopeless situation, yet God used the persecution to facilitate the spread of the gospel to many regions and Antioch, where the believers were first called Christians. Amid persecution, Christ-like people were brought to light. Be encouraged, the persecution of Christians will always lead to the salvation of many souls and Jesus will be revealed through God’s people.
Also note, we must be cautious about shaming those who flee from persecution. God knows their heart. Whether fleeing is a weakness or choosing to stay amid persecution is a strength, God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Please read Acts 11:19-30 (KJV) attentively and let hope arise in you.
Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.
And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: and when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch.
And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Cæsar. Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judæa: Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, we give you glory. You are all knowing, and you make all things work together for the good of those who love you. Father, in the name of Jesus, send laborers into the harvest as the refugee crises grows and send sons of encouragement to the churches facing persecution. We decree a massive salvation of soul this season in Jesus name.
Continue praying with the Holy Spirit and with your understanding (1 Corinthians 14:15).
A portion of this blog series is now available on YouVersion, the Bible App. Please share with your loved ones. Thank you.
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