It is hard to imagine how exciting it must have been for the early church as they responded to the Holy Spirit’s direction and boldly shared the Good News of salvation found in Christ Jesus. However, the message of forgiveness and new life in Jesus Christ wasn’t received as good news by everyone. The religious leaders who had lobbied for Jesus’ execution were desperate to silence the Apostles who preached the triumphant Jesus. It was inevitable that opposition to this new kingdom community would arise. But how would this newborn church fare in the face of conflict, and could they survive attacks on multiple fronts?

In preparation for this coming Sunday read Acts 4:36 - 6:7.