DAY 294: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR – ACTS 7-8

October 19, 2024

ACTS 7-8
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DAY 294: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR

Today, we continue our journey through the book of Acts, with a look at Stephen and Philip.

Ask the Lord for His understanding of Acts 7-8. Read Acts 7-8. Let’s journey!

The book of Acts, sometimes called Acts of the Apostles, picks up immediately after the end of the Gospel of Luke, which makes sense as the same man, Luke, authored both.  Luke, a doctor who traveled with the Apostle Paul, focuses on the continuing work of Jesus Christ.  Luke follows the beginnings of the early church, from the receiving of the Holy Spirit, to the first use of the word Christian, to the first church, to the first missionary journeys, and to the first disagreements within the church.  Through it all, however, the focus remains on Jesus Christ and fulfilling the commission He gave: to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

Acts 7-8:  Stephen uses his words to attempt and show God’s plan to those who seek to persecute him.  He further charged that those whose responsibility is to keep the law had failed.  This enraged them and Stephen was killed.  Saul is first introduced.  Stephen’s death shocked the church and led to persecution of the church.  In response, some left Jerusalem, like Philip, and traveled, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.  Philip goes to Samaria, where he is successful, and is later joined by Peter and John. Philip encounters a magician, who attempts to buy God’s gifts.  Peter recognized the danger for what it was; Satan attempting to stop the spreading of the church.  Philip went where the Lord directed and was blessed for his efforts.  (Acts 7:1-8:40) 

After concluding today’s reading, consider the following:  What happened in today’s reading?  What examples were given of fulfilling Jesus’ commission?  How are you fulfilling Jesus’ commission to spread the Gospel?  Do you look for opportunities in your everyday life?  Do you hide your faith and relationship with Jesus Christ?

Godspeace!