Today’s devotion highlights how believers remain committed to sharing the Word despite intense church persecution. Sadly, in some churches, apathy towards ministry can develop even without external persecution.

Bible Reading of the Day

AM – Job 10-12

PM – Acts 8:25

Title: Remain committed to preaching the Gospel

Acts 8:4 KJV

Therefore they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word.

I once heard a preacher say, “The Lord gave us a command in Acts 1:8, and if we fail to follow, we have Acts 8:1.” In ministry, people often relax once they’ve begun to grow, sometimes thinking they’ve reached the mountain top. However, this attitude is risky, as it can lead to complacency in the ministry.

The Lord Jesus Christ explicitly commanded the church to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. When giving this command, He also assured them of His promises, including His perpetual presence with the church. Additionally, He granted them the authority to continue preaching His Word and provided them with the power to operate effectively in any situation they face.

Stephen the Deacon was killed, but beforehand, he delivered a compelling sermon. In verse 1, Saul devastated the church and persecuted believers. It was a difficult day for the believers, who were scattered everywhere. However, what stood out to me is that these believers never allowed anything to hinder their mission of preaching Christ.

Recently, Missionary Ian told me that an AOG leader rebuked the young people participating in our mission work in Tavua, and his anger also affected his entire family, including his father, Joe. They were warned not to attend AGBC Tavua. I explained to Missionary Ian that in the book of Acts, believers faced persecution, and this is a powerful opportunity to demonstrate that our God is real, unlike the gods of cultist churches.

Many of us can discuss it, but experiencing actual persecution is different. Sadly, the willingness to suffer for Christ seems to have become rare among believers today. Consider what the text states: “They were scattered abroad, went preaching the word.” Despite their circumstances, they persisted in preaching the Word!

Although we don’t have much experience with this kind of persecution, many so-called Christians tend to get distracted or quit when facing difficulties. Brethren, let’s pray for global ministries, including ours in Singapore. Persecution or opposition could arise at any time, but we should be like the early Christians—steadfast and unwavering in our faith.

What causes you to slow down or consider quitting God’s calling? May this devotion encourage you to keep sharing His Word!