After the Threats

Yesterday we pursued our study in Acts by looking at the response to the initial persecution from the Jewish Council. Sometimes we receive opposition to our Christian faith. In fact, it seems like being tolerant in our society is for everybody and towards everybody except Bible-believing Christians! From all appearances, unless we have a revival of real Christianity in our nation, this intolerance toward Bible believers will increase. Our Bible study proves remarkably relevant.

1. Gain support and strength in corporate worship and cooperation with other believers. Not only do we gain encouragement and spiritual sharpness as we gather to hear the preaching of the Word of God, but we also gain strength as we jointly state our purpose of serving the Lord and as we serve the Lord together.

2. The second response to opposition is PRAYER. Joining together in prayer with other Christians builds unity and puts everything in perspective. Ask God to demonstrate His power and enliven your witness.

3. Maintain faithfulness in the basic areas of Christian living. In our chapter we find the disciples demonstrating love for one another by giving sacrificially to the needs to others. The early church at Jerusalem contained a large number of "displaced persons". Many had come for the Feasts and then stayed. Some had experienced "shunning" from family, and were in real need of financial support. Even in the midst of persecution, the disciples did not become introverted and self-centered.

Let's be sure to include these steps in our response to opposition to our expressions of faith.

PRAYER NEEDS:
Terry's dad and mom. . .health needs.
Spence's mother is recovering from surgery.
Tammy - expecting :-)
Larry and Ginger are traveling in New Zealand.
Summer school for the next six weeks as well as enrollment for the fall.
Church ministries;
Those who are looking for work or needing jobs;
Sonya Haas is having trouble with a nerve causing her pain.
Tom goes for a Dr.'s visit Monday.
Pray for each other!

Let's invite someone to join us this next week.

Love Y'all,
Brother Mike