Acts 5:17—6:7: Persecution and Expansion
IN 1956 TRAGIC news spread across the world. Five American men—sons, husbands and fathers—were massacred by a tribe of Auca Indians. Their purpose was to take the good news of Jesus Christ to the Aucas. The opposition to this endeavor cost them their lives.
That agonizing loss, which seemed at the time to be such a waste, has turned into great fruit for the kingdom of God. Over the years that same tribe of Indians has been transformed by the power of God. The message of Jesus was taken to them by the loved ones of those five young men. Another visible fruit of this great loss is the many who have gone into the world with the gospel, having been inspired by the lives and deaths of these missionaries. The church of Jesus Christ continues to expand today in spite of great persecution, even as it did in the day of the apostles.
Warming Up to God
Although we know that God is in complete control of the universe, we often forget that he also has specific plans for our individual lives. Thank him for being sovereign everywhere, including the secrecy of your own heart.
Read Acts 5:17—6:7. »
Discovering the Word
- List the expressions and causes of emotion throughout verses 5:17-42.
- Describe the apostles' response, motivation and source of strength throughout this whole episode.
- What was Gamaliel's message to the religious leaders (5:34-39)?
- How was his influence in saving the apostles' lives an example of that truth which he spoke?
- As the number of disciples increased, what practical needs began to present themselves (6:1-6)?
- How did the Twelve respond to those needs (6:2-6)?
Applying the Word
- When have you encountered internal and/or external opposition when you have attempted to proclaim the message of Jesus?
- Is it more difficult for you to deal with internal of external opposition? Why?
- As you observe the work of the Holy Spirit throughout this passage, what actions do you think you and/or your church should take to ensure his ministry among you?
Responding in Prayer
Tell God about the difficulties and struggles you have been facing as a believer in him. Ask him to give you strength and to remind you that his ways are higher than your own.
For Further Study
Evangelism by Rebecca Manley Pippert & Ruth Siemens