The Scattering
Stephen’s witness ended with his death, but the story was just beginning. Acts 8:1-4 let us know martyrdom didn’t have the desired effect. First, martyrdom didn’t end the persecution, v. 1 … 1 “Now Saul was consenting
to his death. At that time a great persecution arose against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.” Stephen’s stoning fanned the flames into an explosion of opposition; the Christians had to flee Jerusalem. They were all scattered—Perspective? The world’s: the new church was broken up. God’s: seeds had been tossed all over, and scattered seeds will grow! (Matthew 13:3-8) Persecution and scattering led to further increase. Second, Martyrdom didn’t quench their courage, vv. 2-3 … 2 “And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. 3 As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering every house, and dragging off men and women, committing them to prison.” “He made havoc” is a kind translation. The Greek word used in the Septuagint describes wild animals that are tearing at raw flesh. They were not good times. Christians were taken from their homes and put in prison. Saul was angry, determined, and seemingly unstoppable. He became the embodiment of persecution to the point that when he was saved the church experienced peace. Third, martyrdom didn’t stop the Great Commission, v. 4 … 4 “Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word.” Jesus said He would build His church and the gates of hell would not prevail against it. God is in control! What man means for evil; God uses for good. Be faithful, even in the face of opposition.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
