The early church definitely ‘hit the ground running’! This modern idiom simply means to start something and proceed at a fast pace with great enthusiasm. This is so evident as the book of Acts unfolds. The very first day saw 3,000 people added (Acts 2: 41). Each day the numbers increased (v.47) and later, after an amazing time in the temple, another 5,000 were added (Acts 4:4). Inevitably, among such large numbers, there were problems, and the twelve apostles needed help with the smooth running of the church. They were, nonetheless, very particular about the quality of help required! While the members were directed to choose the support themselves, the mandatory standards were honesty, wisdom and fullness of the Holy Spirit (Acts 6:1-6). I’ve always been interested in the choices made. We’re given some follow-up on the first two – what powerful men they were.
Stephen became the first believer to be martyred. He died gloriously, having delivered a powerful, challenging sermon which infuriated the High Priest and council who were interrogating him (Acts 7:54-60). When the believers were scattered after Stephen’s martyrdom, Philip, second on the list, went to Samaria.
The Samaritan Jews and the Judean Jews viewed each other with animosity and distrust. It was a long-standing, mutual antagonism due to religious differences. However, as Philip began to preach about Yahshua and do many miracles in His Name, there was a revival in the city, as people responded with great joy. I pondered this reaction in such a hostile environment. Then I remembered Yahshua’s visit to Sychar (a city of Samaria) where He sat on Jacob’s Well and chatted to a woman. Thrilled with His message, she went back to the city to tell of her encounter. Could it be possible that her testimony sowed seeds which Philip later harvested?
Yahshua likened the kingdom of heaven to seed being scattered onto the ground. There it will grow, nurtured by the earth into which it has fallen, until it is harvested. We spread seed when we talk about Yahshua. We may never see the harvest ourselves, but it will happen. Whether sowing or reaping, lives on fire are productive lives.
Foto von Mohamed Nohassi auf Unsplash
https://unsplash.com/de/fotos/person-die-nachts-vor-dem-feuer-steht-UKX_DwNKXSA
This Is My Friend!Blessed is the person who places his confidence in Yahweh and does not rely on arrogant people or those who follow lies.
Psalm 40:4, Names of God Bible
No matter what happens to us in this life, the word of [Yahweh] tells us that [Yahweh] is for us, not against us.
Donna Kazenske
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