textbox center the headaches of stephen acts 6. textbox center 1. problems and progress can go hand...

The Headaches of Stephen

Acts 6

1. Problems and progress can go hand in hand.

2. Oppositions are indications we are strategic to God.

3. The seven headaches of Stephen. a. complaints. b. c. demons and diseases. d. e. f. controversies, opposers

and false accusers.

4. Headaches stem from a couple of powerful demonic principalities. a. Religious spirit.b. Political spirit.

5. God uses headaches to advance someone or something and to expose someone or something.

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Acts 6:7

Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen...These men began to argue with Stephen. Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, “We have heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God. So they stirred up the people and the elders and teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. They produced false witnesses, who testified... Act 6:9-13

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:12

Both the religious spirit and the political spirit wrangle over words. That's why people under those influences are known to take statements out of context with which to accuse the one they mistrust. Stay away from the desire to find that one phrase that proves your suspicions.

- Bill Johnson