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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Introduction:
Today we will meet, mourn and celebrate Stephen,
the first Christian martyr.
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
(video)
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Stephen’s martyrdom was not in vain, as it sparked the
dispersion of the Gospel to regions outside Jerusalem.
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Acts 11:19 (NIV) “Now those who had been scattered
by the persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as
Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, telling the message only to Jews.”
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
More than Conquerors (Romans 8:28-39)
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Life Application: Sometimes, what we think is
negative experience, is exactly what God allows to spark greater
faithfulness and fruitfulness in our own life or the lives of others.
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Life Application: What does God promise us in Romans
8:28?
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according
to his purpose.”
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Life Application: Are there still places in the world where Christians are persecuted
and killed?
YES! more Christians were martyred in the 20th century that the previous
centuries combined.
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Life Application: We must pray for our brothers
and sisters experiencing persecution that they may be able to stand up for Christ even when it means putting their very lives
on the line.
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Life Application:
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“Blessed Persecution” Acts 7:54-8:3
Life Application:
Please visit VoiceoftheMartryrs.com to learn how you can pray and support
persecuted Christians around the world.
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See You Next Sunday!