Podcasts about samaria acts

The Power of God in Samaria - Acts 8:9-25 ESV, Rob Harlan, Elder

The Lord Jesus declared in Acts 1:8 "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. "Before He ascends into heaven, The Lord Jesus tells His disciples in Luke 24:49 "And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And we see that this spreading of the gospel would go from Jerusalem (Acts 1-7), and in all Judea, and in Samaria (Acts 8-12), and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 13-28 to the present hour).The question that begs to be asked and answered is exactly what is the church called to be a witness of? Let's look at a few passages of Scripture that will shed some light on what we are to be witness of. Acts 2:32 "This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses." Acts 3:14-15 "But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses." Acts 5:30-32 "The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him."These, and many other passages indicate that these Spirit filled witnesses testified of the fact that Jesus Christ had accomplished the Father's plan of redemption on the cross, was buried and was raised from the dead on the third day. The Lord Jesus declared in John 5:36 "The works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me."You and I as disciples of Jesus Christ have been called to bear testimony or witness to the works that Jesus has finished. 1 John 5:10-11 "He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son."The record or witness of God is that Jesus Christ is the risen, exalted Son of God and that He gives eternal life unto all those who believe on Him. Hallelujah! 1 John 4:14 "And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. "Acts 26:22 -23 "Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come: That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should show light unto the people, and to the Gentiles." SELAH

Pentecost A Sermon by Brenard Rowe, Elder at Victory Church in Providence, RI.   Introduction and Opening Remarks Expression of gratitude for the opportunity to minister. Acknowledgement and prayer for the pastor's recovery. Personal anecdote about being asked to preach on short notice. Setting the Context: Pentecost Sunday Explanation that Pentecost is recognized as the birth of the church and a pivotal event in Christian doctrine. Emphasis on the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Spirit and the ongoing relevance of Pentecost. The Role and Power of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit transforms believers from fearful followers to bold witnesses. The Holy Spirit provides strength, peace, wisdom, unity, and equips believers for service. Biblical Foundation Reference to Acts 2:1-4 describing the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Jesus' instructions to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5, Acts 1:8). Importance of receiving the Holy Spirit before undertaking ministry. The Experience of the Early Church Disciples' state of confusion and despair after Jesus' death. Fulfillment of Jesus' promise through the coming of the Holy Spirit. The supernatural signs accompanying the Spirit's arrival (wind, tongues of fire, speaking in tongues). Speaking in Tongues Definition: A supernatural language for worship and communication with God. Old Testament examples of the Spirit coming upon individuals (e.g., Moses' elders, Gideon, Samson, Saul's messengers). New Testament affirmation of speaking in tongues as evidence of Holy Spirit baptism. Instances of Holy Spirit Baptism in the New Testament Jerusalem (Acts 2:4): Disciples receive the Holy Spirit. Samaria (Acts 8:14-17): Believers receive the Spirit through the apostles' laying on of hands. Saul/Paul (Acts 9:17): Receives the Spirit after Ananias lays hands on him. Cornelius' house (Acts 10:44-48): Gentiles receive the Holy Spirit while Peter preaches. Ephesus (Acts 19:1-6): Believers receive the Holy Spirit through Paul. Benefits of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit Power for ministry (Acts 1:8). Spiritual refreshing (Isaiah 28:11). Ability to witness and reveal Christ (John 16:13-14). Inner strength and comfort (John 15:26). Spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Spiritual quickening (Romans 8:11). Who Can Be Filled with the Holy Spirit? Everyone: Rich, poor, young, old, sinners, saints, children, etc. Reference to Psalm 81:10 as encouragement to receive. Who Cannot Be Filled with the Holy Spirit? Those satisfied with mere salvation and unwilling to serve. Disobedient and unyielding Christians. Those who do not believe or are closed off to the Holy Spirit. Conditions for Receiving the Holy Spirit Repentance and baptism (Acts 2:28). Asking God with faith (Luke 11:13). Deep conviction, consecration, and willingness to live for God (John 7:37-39). The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit in Believers Teaches and makes believers teachable. Enables true worship and confession. Guides prayer and leads by God's word. Conclusion The Holy Spirit is the comforter and helper sent by God. Encouragement to be open to the Holy Spirit's work and to fulfill commitments in service to God and the church.  

R Kent Hughes wrote, “Following the church through Acts is like following a wounded deer through a forest. Drops of blood mark the trail.” Stephen's martyrdom marked the beginning of intense persecution. But as believers fled, something wonderful happened: They spread the good news to some shocking places. Listen in to hear how salvation came to Samaria and learn some important lessons…

This was the talk from our evening service on Sunday 25th May 2025. The passage was Acts 8.

Sharing the good news of Jesus is the privilege and responsibility of every Christian. And that should start with connecting your friends and family to Jesus. But that's only the beginning. For God loves the whole world, so whole towns, cities and nations need to see what real Christianity is all about. And you don't have to be perfect to play your part in this.  An entire community turned to God because of the connections of just one woman who had a very colourful background. She was a very new believer in Jesus but straight away her words and story had a big impact. In John's gospel she is known as the Samaritan woman and her story shows how the most unlikely people can experience grace and spread the good news of Jesus.  In John chapter 4, Jesus was heading back from Judea to the beautiful shores of Galilee when He took a shortcut through a place Jews often avoided: Samaria. Historically Jews despised Samaritans. The division between them was like the generational conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians. The Jews who regarded themselves as a pure race didn't want anything to do with a people they despised and who represented betrayal for their nation. They would do anything to avoid travelling through Samaria and having any social contact with the Samaritans.   And then Jesus did something even more surprising; He got into conversation with a lady with a sinful lifestyle. It began with Jesus sitting by a well and asking her for a drink from some of the water she was drawing from it. This was a radical act, for Jesus was a Jew and she was a Samaritan, and it greatly surprised the Samaritan woman. 1. She had an unexpected connection with Jesus (John 4:6,13-14,25-26) 2. She connected everyone she knew with Jesus (John 4:28-30; Matthew 20:19-20)  3. Jesus touched a whole community through this woman (John 4:39-42; Acts 8:4-8) Apply  1. She had an unexpected connection with Jesus (John 4:6). It was about noon, not the normal morning or evening time women used to go to the well. Because of the midday heat, this woman was probably there by herself. The story tells us she had had 5 husbands and the one she was with now was not her husband. So, she was rejected in her society and didn't want to be surrounded by the other women of the town, so she went to the well at the time nobody else would go. It wasn't the expected time to meet someone but that day she met Jesus and He started a conversation with her. Jesus knew everything about this woman. He knew she wasn't being real with Him. He knew that she had big issues with sexual relationships. He knew what was going on in her life at that moment and told her ‘and the man you now have is not your husband'. Yet Jesus unconditionally accepted this woman, despite her race and national history, and He accepted her despite the cultural prejudices against women, and despite her sinful lifestyle. More than that Jesus gave new life to this woman, offering her living water (John 4:13-14). He revealed Himself to her that He was the promised Messiah (John 4:25-26). Jesus taught that the only way to truly know satisfaction is to know God and that He Himself is God. Everything changes when we discover that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life, and the only way to God. Everything changed for this woman as she slowly began to realise who she was talking to. It wasn't what she was expecting but this was her moment to know Jesus. You don't have to wait for the “ideal” time to meet Jesus. Some people receive the teaching in their home and from young age they have a personal experience with Him. Others hear about Him later in life and, after trying many ways and failing to find the love and satisfaction they were looking for, they come to Jesus and find their lives changed for ever. You could be young or old, going through difficulties or just living a normal life. But whatever your situation this is your moment to have an appointment with Jesus that could change everything in you and around you. Just as this Samaritan woman discovered that Jesus was ready to meet her and help her, so He wants to sit with you and offer you new life. Jesus knows what you have been going through, and He is here with you. He wants to give you all the love, care, joy and peace that you have lost, and He wants to meet all your needs. He is everything that we need, no matter our background. We have all failed, we are all lost sheep the Bible says, like the black sheep of the family, but He is a good shepherd and is here to meet you. And when we have that kind of encounter with Jesus, we want to tell others what happened. 2. She connected everyone she knew with Jesus (John 4:28-30). When we know the Lord, we should do all we can to tell as many people as we can what the Lord has done for us and who He is. When we start sharing the gospel, God starts to work in the lives of others. God wants to use you to bring the good news to multitudes. Even before the disciples were commanded to ‘go and make disciples' (Matthew 20:19-20) this woman became the first evangelist, based on a real encounter and revelation of Jesus. Without formal preparation or education, just with an experience of a real encounter with Jesus, she decided to share her story. We must be prepared to share the gospel at any time and in any place, when we encounter The One this world needs. The call to become witnesses is not only for a select group in the church, for the pastors, preachers, or professional communicators, it is for everyone. You might have been Christian for long time and think you haven't discovered your call, but we are all called to be witnesses, even if you are a new Christian. When you have had a real encounter with Jesus you will want to share it. We don't need to be professionals because this flows from a personal connection, not from our knowledge. Jesus crossed every social, cultural and political barrier to share the gospel and change the life of this woman, and so we are called to do the same. We need to become like the Samaritan woman to our relatives, and those we have contact with in our daily lives. You might think you are very new in your walk with the Lord but that must not stop you just like it didn't stop this woman. Start where you are, with the people around you. You can be the connection point between your family, your colleagues, your friends at school, college or university. Just be a witness and tell what you have experienced: it will have a big impact.  3. Jesus touched a whole community through this woman. She led many people to Jesus (John 4:39-42). Many people in the town received what she received at first because she didn't stay quiet. A great revival can come to whole estates, villages, towns and cities because of the words and witness of what God does in just one person. There is power in our words. Our words can bring great change: she just opened her mouth, and the town was changed from idolatry to a real worship. And this was just the start of a great work of God in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8). We never know what the Lord can do with one seed, with one word, with one person. Today the Lord wants to use you just as He used this Samaritan woman. Now is the moment for all of us to open our mouths to tell of Jesus and see great joy in our cities.

Sharing the good news of Jesus is the privilege and responsibility of every Christian. And that should start with connecting your friends and family to Jesus. But that's only the beginning. For God loves the whole world, so whole towns, cities and nations need to see what real Christianity is all about. And you don't have to be perfect to play your part in this.  An entire community turned to God because of the connections of just one woman who had a very colourful background. She was a very new believer in Jesus but straight away her words and story had a big impact. In John's gospel she is known as the Samaritan woman and her story shows how the most unlikely people can experience grace and spread the good news of Jesus.  In John chapter 4, Jesus was heading back from Judea to the beautiful shores of Galilee when He took a shortcut through a place Jews often avoided: Samaria. Historically Jews despised Samaritans. The division between them was like the generational conflicts between Israelis and Palestinians. The Jews who regarded themselves as a pure race didn't want anything to do with a people they despised and who represented betrayal for their nation. They would do anything to avoid travelling through Samaria and having any social contact with the Samaritans.   And then Jesus did something even more surprising; He got into conversation with a lady with a sinful lifestyle. It began with Jesus sitting by a well and asking her for a drink from some of the water she was drawing from it. This was a radical act, for Jesus was a Jew and she was a Samaritan, and it greatly surprised the Samaritan woman. 1. She had an unexpected connection with Jesus (John 4:6,13-14,25-26) 2. She connected everyone she knew with Jesus (John 4:28-30; Matthew 20:19-20)  3. Jesus touched a whole community through this woman (John 4:39-42; Acts 8:4-8) Apply  1. She had an unexpected connection with Jesus (John 4:6). It was about noon, not the normal morning or evening time women used to go to the well. Because of the midday heat, this woman was probably there by herself. The story tells us she had had 5 husbands and the one she was with now was not her husband. So, she was rejected in her society and didn't want to be surrounded by the other women of the town, so she went to the well at the time nobody else would go. It wasn't the expected time to meet someone but that day she met Jesus and He started a conversation with her. Jesus knew everything about this woman. He knew she wasn't being real with Him. He knew that she had big issues with sexual relationships. He knew what was going on in her life at that moment and told her ‘and the man you now have is not your husband'. Yet Jesus unconditionally accepted this woman, despite her race and national history, and He accepted her despite the cultural prejudices against women, and despite her sinful lifestyle. More than that Jesus gave new life to this woman, offering her living water (John 4:13-14). He revealed Himself to her that He was the promised Messiah (John 4:25-26). Jesus taught that the only way to truly know satisfaction is to know God and that He Himself is God. Everything changes when we discover that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life, and the only way to God. Everything changed for this woman as she slowly began to realise who she was talking to. It wasn't what she was expecting but this was her moment to know Jesus. You don't have to wait for the “ideal” time to meet Jesus. Some people receive the teaching in their home and from young age they have a personal experience with Him. Others hear about Him later in life and, after trying many ways and failing to find the love and satisfaction they were looking for, they come to Jesus and find their lives changed for ever. You could be young or old, going through difficulties or just living a normal life. But whatever your situation this is your moment to have an appointment with Jesus that could change everything in you and around you. Just as this Samaritan woman discovered that Jesus was ready to meet her and help her, so He wants to sit with you and offer you new life. Jesus knows what you have been going through, and He is here with you. He wants to give you all the love, care, joy and peace that you have lost, and He wants to meet all your needs. He is everything that we need, no matter our background. We have all failed, we are all lost sheep the Bible says, like the black sheep of the family, but He is a good shepherd and is here to meet you. And when we have that kind of encounter with Jesus, we want to tell others what happened. 2. She connected everyone she knew with Jesus (John 4:28-30). When we know the Lord, we should do all we can to tell as many people as we can what the Lord has done for us and who He is. When we start sharing the gospel, God starts to work in the lives of others. God wants to use you to bring the good news to multitudes. Even before the disciples were commanded to ‘go and make disciples' (Matthew 20:19-20) this woman became the first evangelist, based on a real encounter and revelation of Jesus. Without formal preparation or education, just with an experience of a real encounter with Jesus, she decided to share her story. We must be prepared to share the gospel at any time and in any place, when we encounter The One this world needs. The call to become witnesses is not only for a select group in the church, for the pastors, preachers, or professional communicators, it is for everyone. You might have been Christian for long time and think you haven't discovered your call, but we are all called to be witnesses, even if you are a new Christian. When you have had a real encounter with Jesus you will want to share it. We don't need to be professionals because this flows from a personal connection, not from our knowledge. Jesus crossed every social, cultural and political barrier to share the gospel and change the life of this woman, and so we are called to do the same. We need to become like the Samaritan woman to our relatives, and those we have contact with in our daily lives. You might think you are very new in your walk with the Lord but that must not stop you just like it didn't stop this woman. Start where you are, with the people around you. You can be the connection point between your family, your colleagues, your friends at school, college or university. Just be a witness and tell what you have experienced: it will have a big impact.  3. Jesus touched a whole community through this woman. She led many people to Jesus (John 4:39-42). Many people in the town received what she received at first because she didn't stay quiet. A great revival can come to whole estates, villages, towns and cities because of the words and witness of what God does in just one person. There is power in our words. Our words can bring great change: she just opened her mouth, and the town was changed from idolatry to a real worship. And this was just the start of a great work of God in Samaria (Acts 8:4-8). We never know what the Lord can do with one seed, with one word, with one person. Today the Lord wants to use you just as He used this Samaritan woman. Now is the moment for all of us to open our mouths to tell of Jesus and see great joy in our cities.

This week, Joel (Central Service) looks at the early church's growth in Samaria (Acts 8), where ordinary believers spread the gospel while facing persecution and resistance. We look at the need for selfless motivation in serving God, in contrast to the demonic allure for personal power (exemplified by Simon the Sorcerer), and how the invitation to the Way of Jesus opens the door to participate in God's mission with love and humility.

Charles McConnell - April 27, 2025

This passage recounts the expansion of the gospel into Samaria and how Philip, despite being scattered due to persecution, boldly preached Christ. It calls the church to remain faithful to its mission of sharing the gospel, regardless of circumstances or societal barriers. Speaker: Jude St. John

Message from Mike Seaver on February 23, 2025

After the apostles had laid hands on the seven men who were to help administer aid to the widows, two of those men come to the forefront as powerful preachers and miracle workers. We have considered the story of Stephen, who face his martyrdom with remarkable courage and grace. The story of Stephen ended with an introduction to Saul of Tarsus and his early persecuting career, but Luke's main focus moves on to a second man among the seven, a man named Philip.Now remember the “table of contents” from Acts 1. Jesus had said they would travel as His witnesses to Jerusalem, Judaea, Samaria, and then to the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8). The Holy Spirit was poured out in Jerusalem (Acts 2:2-3), and all the early activity happened there. In the persecution that broke out after Stephen's death, the believers scattered into Judaea and Samaria (Acts 8:1). And then follows Philip into Samaria (Acts 8:5). 

In today's episode, we witness Philip's journey into Samaria, a place filled with cultural tensions and deep-seated divisions. Yet, led by the Holy Spirit, Philip steps boldly into this unfamiliar territory, bringing the message of Jesus to people who were often overlooked. His story shows us that God sometimes calls us beyond what's comfortable to reach those who need His love most. By following Philip's example, we can stay open to God's promptings and look for divine appointments with those who need hope. Let's walk in faith today, ready to share God's love wherever He may lead.   For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Send us a textActs 8:1-25Join us this week as we continue our study through the book of Acts!We also would like to invite anyone who lives in the Philadelphia area to worship and study God's word with us at our in-person meeting that takes place every-other Monday night at 7:30pm. Visit phillyyoungadults.com for additional information about our ministry.Feel free to message us on instagram (@phillyyoungadultscc) with any feedback, questions, or topics you want to hear about on the podcast or you can shoot an email to ya@ccphilly.org

Geoff Thomas: The Holy Spirit – Chapter 19: “The Holy Spirit and Revival”Opening verses: Titus 3:5-6PEOPLE OF HISTORIC REVIVALThe history of the church was shaped by some great leaders and memorable spiritual breakthroughs, which, in turn, shaped the history of nations.Think of Saint Patrick's work in Ireland in the fifth century and Saint David's labors in sixth-century Wales. Patrick broke the back of heathenism in Ireland, and David did the same in Wales. The greatest outpouring of the Holy Spirit since the apostolic era was the Reformation in the sixteenth century.In the seventeenth century, Puritans such as John Bunyan and John Owen preached and wrote extensively about the Scriptures, influencing many people for generations to come in Great Britain and North America.EXAMPLES OF REVIVAL IN THE OTJosiah's discovery of the Book of the Law. When King Josiah was twenty-six years old, an ancient copy of God's Word was found in the temple of Israel. For centuries, the Scriptures had gone missing, and no one, not even the priests, had seemed to notice. When the book of the law was rediscovered, it had a profound effect on the king, the priests, and all the people of Israel. We read in 2 Chronicles 34:14–21 Jonah's mission to Ninevah. God directed Jonah to preach repentance to Israel's arch-enemy, Ninevah. The prophet rebelled against that order by taking a ship in the opposite direction. But after nearly drowning, Jonah returned to the Lord and went to Ninevah, where he began to proclaim to the residents of that great city, “Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown” (Jonah 3:4).The rebuilding of God's temple. The people of God had been in exile in Babylon for seventy years. Now, through God's miraculous intervention, specifically in the heart of Cyrus, king of Persia, many of the exiles had returned to Israel. But it was hard for these exiles to live for the Lord and support themselves in a ruined land that was surrounded by enemies who thwarted and sabotaged whatever they did. It took all their energy to look after themselvesREVIVAL IN THE NEW TESTAMENTPeter's sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2)Philip goes to Samaria (Acts 8)Paul's mission efforts (Acts 13 - 28)WHY REVIVAL IS SHUNNEDRevivals are poorly defined. The word revival is not found in the New Testament. Thus people use the word to describe any event that makes them feel blessed. The problem is that some people describe a meeting where they experienced the nearness of God as a revival, while others who went to the same meeting felt it was dull and uninspired. One man's feast was plain soup to another.Revivals are illusive. For a church member sitting in a pew, revivals never seem to be for the here and now. They appear to be events that happened a hundred years ago or that will occur sometime in the future. If they are occurring now, they are ten thousand miles away from where we live. So an ordinary Christian is restlessabout sermons on revival, Many revivals are not revivals. Many people today claim to be experiencing revivals in places such as Toronto, Kansas City, or Pensacola, Florida. For more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 8:00am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on 94.1 The Voice in the Treasure Valley, Idaho, USA. If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them. There is only one rule: Be Kind! Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website: https://941thevoice.com/podcasts/gospel-for-life/

https://pastorsteverhodes.com/2024/07/14/philip-witnesses-in-samaria-acts-84-8/

'Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said. For with shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralysed or lame were healed. So there was great joy in that city. Now for some time a man named Simon had practised sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great, and all the people, both high and low, gave him their attention and exclaimed, ‘This man is rightly called the Great Power of God.' They followed him because he had amazed them for a long time with his sorcery. But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptised, both men and women. Simon himself believed and was baptised. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw. When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money and said, ‘Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.' Peter answered: ‘May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!' (Acts 8.5-20, NIV)

The gospel is spreading to new peoples! Who were the Samaritans? Who was Simon the sorcerer?

Jesus Empowers The Twelve: Casting Out Demons, Healing Diseases, And Preaching The Kingdom Of God! Luke 9 Jesus Sends Out the Twelve Disciples One day Jesus called together his twelve disciples and gave them power and authority to cast out all demons and to heal all diseases. 2Then he sent them out to tell everyone about the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. 3“Take nothing for your journey,” he instructed them. “Don't take a walking stick, a traveler's bag, food, money, or even a change of clothes. 4Wherever you go, stay in the same house until you leave town. 5And if a town refuses to welcome you, shake its dust from your feet as you leave to show that you have abandoned those people to their fate.” 6So they began their circuit of the villages, preaching the Good News and healing the sick. The Lame Beggar Healed: Acts 3:1-10 Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple that is called the Beautiful Gate to ask alms of those entering the temple. Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked to receive alms. And Peter directed his gaze at him, as did John, and said, "Look at us." And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God, and recognized him as the one who sat at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, asking for alms. And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him. Many Signs and Wonders Done: Acts 5:12-16 Now many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico. None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high esteem. And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mats, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed. Philip Proclaims Christ in Samaria: Acts 8:4-8 Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed to them the Christ. And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was much joy in that city.

The post Mar 24, 2024 – Witness to the Judea & Samaria (Acts 1:8) – Amy Russell appeared first on Summit Community Church.

Dennis & Benedicta discuss the revival in Samaria found in Acts 8.To find out more about Dennis & Benedicta Pollock please visit the Spirit of Grace website, where you can find other wonderful resources such as videos and articles. You will also find out how you can support the work of Spirit of Grace by becoming a Friend of Grace .Please send questions, comments, and feedback with us at grace@spiritofgrace.org.

Acts 8:4-25

Message from Aaron Jenkins on 14/05/2023

Simon was a Samaritan who was healed and began to follow Jesus Christ. But even after his conversion, he still had a lot to learn about grace. 

After the death of Stephen, a great persecution arose against the church. This scattered the brethren, who then went about preaching the gospel. In Acts 8, the gospel reached Samaria. There are several lessons to learn from the account.

Proclaiming Christ to the lost. Please click here for the YouTube video.

After Stephen was murdered for his faith, persecution of the early Christians increased in frequency and intensity, causing all but the Apostles to flee Jerusalem. Acts 8 records the ministry of Philip (one of the seven appointed to serve in Acts 6 alongside Stephen). Philips flight from Jerusalem led him to the city of Samaria, where he continued preaching the Gospel (Acts 8:4-25). God did many signs and wonders through Philip to authenticate the Gospel message, and many believed the Gospel and were baptized. We're also introduced to a man named Simon who was known for his dark magic. Simon is said to have also been amazed, not at the Gospel message, but at the signs God was working through Philip. When Peter and John come to see God's work among the Samaritans for themselves, Peter rebukes Simon for trying to buy God's grace and power with money. We learn from Philip's first encounter in Acts that God takes hostile situations and makes them hospitable by the power of the Gospel!

Introduction Acts 1:8 Acts 2-7 – Jerusalem Acts 8-13 – Judea and Samaria Acts 14-28 – Remotest parts of the earth First preaching journey…

Pastor Nate preaches through Acts 8:1b-8 as we look at the persecution of the church increasing and what motivates the church to continue in preaching Christ.

1/30/23. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: Acts 8:4-8. Philip brings great joy to the city of Samaria by preaching the gospel, healing, and casting out demons. Samaritans were hated by the Jews of that time. Resources: enduringword.com; Matthew Henry Complete Commentary; logos.com; and Life Application Study Bible. #Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover for November 2021" #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailydevotional #christianpodcast #MinutesWord #christianpodcaster Listen, like, follow, share! Available on Spotify and most podcast apps! #voiceofthemartyrs #prayforukraine #prayforBangladesh

Acts 22:1--21 ESV 1 “Brothers and fathers, hear the defense that I now make before you.” 2 And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even more quiet. And he said: 3 “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day. 4 I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prison both men and women, 5 as the high priest and the whole council of elders can bear me witness. From them I received letters to the brothers, and I journeyed toward Damascus to take those also who were there and bring them in bonds to Jerusalem to be punished. 6 “As I was on my way and drew near to Damascus, about noon a great light from heaven suddenly shone around me. 7 And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?' 8 And I answered, ‘Who are you, Lord?' And he said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.' 9 Now those who were with me saw the light but did not understand the voice of the one who was speaking to me. 10 And I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?' And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise, and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.' 11 And since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus. 12 “And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, well spoken of by all the Jews who lived there, 13 came to me, and standing by me said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.' And at that very hour I received my sight and saw him. 14 And he said, ‘The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth; 15 for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard. 16 And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.' 17 “When I had returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance 18 and saw him saying to me, ‘Make haste and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your testimony about me.' 19 And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves know that in one synagogue after another I imprisoned and beat those who believed in you. 20 And when the blood of Stephen your witness was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving and watching over the garments of those who killed him.' 21 And he said to me, ‘Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'” PAUL'S DEFENSE Paul made his defense. He asked this from the tribune. This event takes place on the steps of the Antonia Fortress, the outpost of the Roman army in Jerusalem on the northwest corner of the temple mount. Paul has rehearsed the details of his conversion. And we see some pertinent highlights, namely; First, he clearly explained who he was before his conversion - he was a zealous Pharisee who persecuted the church. In other words, he was no interest to believe and know Christ. In fact, he wanted to get rid Jesus followers. Paul fought fervently against it. He not only looked on with approval as a vicious mob murdered the evangelist Stephen (Acts 7:54–60; 22:20), he tracked down Jesus-followers in Jerusalem so violently they fled to Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1–3; 26:10–11). When he had done all he could in Judea, he requested and received permission from the Sanhedrin to hunt Christians in Damascus (Acts 9:1–2).

How God speaks to us Talk 19 Other ways God guides us In recent talks we have identified five ways in which God may speak to us directly without involving other people: By his audible voice By angels By dreams and visions By supernatural signs By promptings, the inner voice of his Spirit Today we're going to consider other ways in which God may guide us. Throughout this series we've been discussing ways in which God may speak to us. But he sometimes guides us without speaking at all. If we have learned to live by the principles taught in Scripture, we will be guided by them into the right paths. In fact, the more we live by those principles the less we will need the promptings we were talking about in the last talk. But, of course, we need both. The principles of Scripture are the general guidelines by which we should live. The promptings of the Spirit are more specific, giving us direction as to what to do in any given situation, but of course they will never conflict with the principles taught in the Bible. One of the questions that is often asked by young Christians is, How can I know the will of God? It's a good question, because as Christians we should certainly want to do his will. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Paul reminds us that we are not our own, we were bought at a price. We belong to God, and we are followers of Jesus who always did God's will, even when it meant dying on the cross to save us from our sins So how can we find the will of God for our lives? Much of the answer to this question is to be found in some of the things we've already said. God's will for our life is that we live in obedience to his word, which is a lamp for our feet and a light on our path (Psalm 119:105). And when we're living in obedience to its teaching, we can expect God to guide us with regard to the specific details. This guidance may come through any of the ways we've already talked about, but the Lord may also be guiding us silently by: The trend of circumstances Open and closed doors The gifts and talents he has given us. The trend of circumstances God has a plan for our lives and is constantly working everything out in conformity with the purpose of his will (Ephesians 1:11). He is in complete control of all the circumstances that surround us, even when things appear to be going terribly wrong. After Stephen was stoned in Acts 7 there was a great persecution of Christians, most of whom fled from Jerusalem and were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Some even travelled as far as Antioch and Cyprus. But as a result there was a revival in Samaria (Acts 8) and a very large church was planted in Antioch (Acts 11:20). Acts 16:6-10 might well be another example: 6 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." 10 After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. In obedience to the great commission and God's call upon his life (Acts 9:15, 26:17-18) Paul is on his second missionary journey. So he is already doing the will of God, but he's unsure of where he should go next. Verse 6 tells us that he was kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. We're not told how, but it might well have been through the trend of circumstances. Next, Paul tries to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit will not allow him to (v7). Then, in the night, he has a vision of a man from Macedonia saying, Come over to Macedonia and help us and Paul finally knows what he has to do. It seems that guidance possibly came in three different ways – the trend of circumstances (v6), a word from the Spirit (v7), and a vision in the night (v9). But although it's not entirely clear how the Holy Spirit told Paul not to go to Bithynia, what's particularly significant in this passage is that Paul gets the guidance he needs while he's already doing what he knows God has called him to do. This reminds me of Eliezer, Abraham's servant, who in Genesis 24 is sent to look for a wife for Isaac. He makes his way to the town of Nahor and comes to a well just outside the town. He gets his ten camels to kneel down and decides to ask the Lord for a sign. He will ask one of the young women who comes to draw water from the well to give him a drink. But if she's the woman he's looking for, she's to offer to draw water for the camels as well! And, of course, that's what happens! The story is well-known. But notice what Eliezer says in verse 27. The Lord has led me on the journey. Undoubtedly the Lord was leading him throughout his journey, but the specific guidance he needed came well after Eliezer had set out on his journey. In the same way, it's as we get on with the job that God has already given us to do, that we get the guidance we need. Open and closed doors Another thing that results from the fact that God is in complete control of circumstances is that he sometimes directs our steps by opening and closing doors. In Revelation 3:7-8 we read: What he opens no-one can shut, and what he shuts no-one can open… See I have placed before you an open door. In my final year at Oxford I was praying about what my next step should be. I had been studying for a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics and my plan was now to go to a Bible College to prepare for the ministry God had called me to. So I applied to London Bible College, fully anticipating that they would accept me for their course leading to the London University Bachelor of Divinity Degree. On the application form, which required me to include a testimony of my Christian experience, I made reference to the baptism in the Holy Spirit. This led to a number of questions at the interview, and it became clear to me that they were suspicious of Pentecostals. So I wasn't entirely surprised when, a few days later, I received a letter saying that they thought I would be happier at a Pentecostal Bible College Although I felt that their decision was unjust, I reminded myself of the injustice that Joseph had experienced at the hands of his brothers and his recognition later that God had intended it for good (Genesis 37 and 45). God, not the college faculty, had shut the door on LBC. So I considered applying to Kenley, the Assemblies of God Bible College, where Donald Gee, a world-renowned Bible teacher, was then the Principal. So I sent off for the application forms. However, people were telling me that I didn't need to go to Bible College. I had been preaching since I was fourteen years old, and the Holy Spirit was already using me in teaching and leading others into the experience of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. In those days Assemblies of God did not require any formal training or qualifications for a person to be recognised as a minister. The evidence of one's calling and gifting was fruit from one's ministry. So what should I do? I decided that I would go to Kenley unless the Lord opened a door for me to minister in a Pentecostal church. But this seemed highly unlikely because, having grown up in a Baptist church, I was relatively unknown among the Pentecostals and the few churches I had preached in were mostly well provided for with regard to ministry. I told no-one about this decision and yet, a week after making it, I received a letter from the small Assemblies of God Church in Colchester, inviting me to take on the pastorate. And, as if to confirm it, the application form for Kenley that I had asked for never arrived. Much more recently, my granddaughter Emily asked me to pray for her as she was considering applying to work for Youth for Christ in Birmingham. At the time she was living in London working full time for Alpha and she was uncertain what to do. I assured her that I would pray for her and reminded her of Revelation 3:7-8. I suggested that it might be a good idea to apply for the job and trust the Lord to close or open the door according to his will. The next day, as Emily was walking in one of the London parks and praying about this, she looked up and saw something she had never seen before – AN OPEN DOOR! It was a piece of modern art, a sculpture of a doorframe with the door within it wide open. The Lord had literally placed before her an open door. Needless to say, she is now working for Youth for Christ in Birmingham. The gifts and talents God has given us Another thing that will help us discern the will of God for our lives is having a realistic understanding of the gifts and talents God has given us. In a passage where Paul mentions some of the gifts God has given to his people, he begins by saying: For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you (Romans 12:3). Here the emphasis is on not having an exaggerated sense of our own importance, but it's just as important to recognise the gifts and abilities God has given us. Humility does not mean pretending that we're no good at things which in fact we are good at! It means gratefully acknowledging that whatever gifts we do have come from the grace of God. When Jeremiah protested that he was unsuited for the task God was calling to, God replied that before Jeremiah was born, he had formed him in his mother's womb (Jeremiah 1:5). Generally speaking, God's will for our lives will be very much in line with the talents he has given us. Those who have heard me sing know very well why I have concluded that it's not God's will for me to be a gospel singer! Having said that, we know that God can equip a person with supernatural gifts beyond any natural talents they may possess. So, in seeking God's will it's good to ask ourselves what natural talents we have along with any spiritual gifts in which he is using us. But finally, the great key to finding the will of God in our lives is found in Romans 12:1-2, where Paul says: Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will. In these verses Paul shows us how to test what God's perfect will for our lives is. He reminds us of God's love in sending Jesus to die for us and, bearing that in mind, encourages us to live holy, sacrificial lives. We are not to behave as the world behaves or think as the world thinks. We are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We're to learn to think like God thinks! We're to find out what pleases the Lord (Ephesians 5:10). If we are seeking to do this, we won't have to worry about finding the will of God. God is perfectly capable of taking care of his own will! The only person or thing that can prevent God's will being done in my life is me! God is all powerful and, by definition, he wants his will to be done. So as long as I want it to be done, God will make sure that it happens. In short, if we're determined to live all out for Jesus, God will take care of the rest. Sometimes we don't need to know what God's will is, but if we do, he will make it plain. And very often it's as we look back over our lives that we see how God has been guiding us all the time, even at times when his voice is silent.

We answer the why question. Why did Stephen have to die?

Acts is required reading for every Christian. It is one of the foundation books of study for those interested in understanding our New Testament Church. It is the real beginning of who we are as Christians and as part of the Christian Church of Jesus Christ. This study will give you a greater appreciation for the early days of the apostles in just 10 short weeks. -----------LINKS----------Support 10WB on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/10weekbibleThe 10 Week Bible - http://www.10WeekBible.comTwitter: @DarrenHibbs - https://twitter.com/DarrenHibbsSign up for my newsletter - http://www.darrenhibbs.comGet a copy of the 10 Week Bible Study today - https://www.amazon.com/Darren-Hibbs/e/B00B4I47CE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=sl2&tag=darrenhcom0a-20&linkId=401f3d79974c70929517936977e32df9My other YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChUU0XHSHuhSyN8qk-7efYgSupport the show

One of the greatest power of the Gospel is its ability to transform lives. Any gospel that does not produce a change in the heart of men is most likely incomplete or false. The heart of the Gospel is change. The more reason why 2 Corinthians 5:17 is a valid proof of the Gospel's power. If anyone has come to Christ, he becomes new inwardly and outwardly, old habits and ways of living are passed away and everything is new. There are many stories in the book of Acts that shows how powerful the Gospel is in bringing men to Jesus. Yesterday we spoke briefly about the ministry of Philip to the Samaritans. When Philip preached ChriChrists t to them, many were changed and converted. There was great joy in the city of Samaria (Acts 8:8). You can imagine a city where thieves, prostitutes, extortioners, and all kinds of sinners were saved. It must indeed have been a city filled with joy. There will also be peace in that city. May God send us such Revival through the preaching of His word in our cities. Amen. The Bible further told the story of a Sorcerer who also believed and was baptized. Only the Gospel can change such a man's heart. The Gospel is not mere words but the power of God to save men from sin. Anywhere the Gospel is correctly preached, not with wisdom of word but with the demonstration of the spirit and power, souls are saved. Read the full message here.

Thursday, 30 June 2022   So when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans. Acts 8:25   With the narrative concerning Simon complete, Luke now continues with the actions of Peter and John, beginning with, “So when they had testified.”   The word used, diamarturomai, is stronger than simply testifying. It is the giving of full and clear testimony. HELPS Word Studies says it “is always in the Greek middle voice which emphasizes witnessing done with a high level of self-involvement, i.e., with strong personal interest motivating it.” Hence, it may be more suitably translated “having earnestly testified.” They gave their earnest testimony “and preached.”   The word here is not the same as the last clause. It means “to say.” Hence, this first clause should read, “They then, indeed, having earnestly testified and having spoken the word of the Lord.” The words give a full description of the care of Peter and John for their mission. They proclaimed the word of the Lord, and they also were fully and intimately involved in testifying to what they personally knew concerning its fulfillment in Christ. Once that was complete in the area where they were, it says, “they returned to Jerusalem.”   This mission in Samaria is coming to a close. It is now understood by the apostles that not only was the gospel to be preached to those in Samaria (Acts 1:8) but that the people who believed were given the Holy Spirit. As this is now known, the report of this can be taken back to the apostles in Jerusalem for their understanding. The people of Israel are no longer the only focal point of God's attention. Something far greater is coming about. The verse next ends with the fact that on their way back, the apostles were also “preaching the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans.”   Here, the word “preaching” is correct. It is the same word, euaggelizó, used so far in verses 8:4 and 8:12. It means to evangelize or preach the good news. This is what Philip did originally in “the city of Samaria,” and now these two are doing it in the smaller country towns and villages as they wind their way back to Jerusalem.   Life application: Suppose you go on a short-term mission trip. You are excited about going, you raise the funds to join, you get your tickets and such and you go with the mission group. When you get there, you are told it will be a public bus that takes 10 hours to get to the location out in the country. You do your mission work, get back on the bus, head to the airport, and fly home.   It was a fun time. You got energized about helping others in a remote place. But did you talk to a single person on the way to the mission spot? Did you talk to anyone on the way back home? What was the point of your mission work? If building a house or a church, or helping to plant various crops, is all that you did then your time was not well spent.   The people at the mission site have all been evangelized. The building you helped put up could have been done without your help. You just helped it get done sooner. But the people that you passed by on the streets and towns you stopped at never got to hear about Jesus. The same is true with your vacations at home, your shopping at the store each week, and your visit to the restaurant last night.   Are you hoping someone else will tell all these people about Jesus? Try taking tracts and handing them out. Or try something really fun and do what Philip did in verse 8:4 and what Peter and John are doing in this verse. Try telling people about what you know. If not you, then who?   Lord God, someone told us about Jesus, and we responded. Isn't it our time to do the same for others? Help us to be willing to share the saving message of Jesus to the people we encounter along life's path. May it be so, and may we start today. Help us in this, O God. Amen.

The way the Word spread to Samaria teaches us much about the Church.

Welcome to Pathways Connect. For this episode; Pastor Rodney, Pastor Jon, Pastor Allan and Sim discuss the topic of 'The baptism in the Holy Spirit'. Discussion Questions: Scripture Readings: • The Day of Pentecost – Acts 2:1-13 • Samaria – Acts 8:14-19 • Saul of Tarsus – Acts 9:17-18 • Caesarea – Acts 10:44-46 • Ephesus – Acts 19:1-7 • Discuss some of the common acts associated with the baptism of the Holy Spirit in the readings. • Baptism of the Holy Spirit releases you into a deeper level of relationship with God. Discuss what this looks like in your life. • Have any of the members in your group received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit? Share your experience with the group? Prayer Points: 1. Pray that people's hearts will be hungry for a powerful encounter with the Holy Spirit 2. Pray that Capital Edge will continue to be led by the Holy Spirit's guidance 3. Pray for healings and the miraculous to take place among the churches of Canberra 4. Pray for our church leaders as they help create a community of discipleship at CECC 5. Pray that we will see many people give their lives to Christ over the Easter period Stay in the loop: Website: https://www.capitaledge.org.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capitaledgechurch/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/capitaledgechurch

This past Sunday, Steve spoke on Acts 8:4-25, where we see that the believers have scattered due to Saul's persecution but continue to share the gospel. We are introduced to Philip in Samaria, where it is said he was preaching and healing in the name of Christ. One of those said baptized is Simon the Magician. When Peter and John arrive they begin sharing the Holy Spirit with the new believers. Upon seeing this Simon tries to buy the power of giving the Holy Spirit from the apostles. Peter rebukes Simon instructing him to pray and repent.  Instead, Simon asks them to intercede on his behalf. In unpacking all this, Steve first highlights that Samaria was a place not liked by many. Philip going there is an example that we sometimes must willingly be uncomfortable or go where we would rather not for the gospel. The other point Steve makes is Simon's mistake, trying to not only buy the power of the Holy Spirit but also asking the apostles to pray on his behalf instead of going to God himself. Like Philip, we should not always choose the easiest path in spreading the gospel. Unlike Simon, we should seek God in prayer instead of looking to someone else, like church leadership to intercede for us. 

Big Ideas1. Suffering and the sovereignty of God.In Acts 1, Jesus promised his disciples that they would be his witnesses in Judea and Samaria (Acts 1:8). Up until this point, the Gospel was exclusively located in Jerusalem. But after the death of Stephen, a great persecution broke out which caused Christians to move to Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1). And where Christians went, the Gospel went with them, to the very places Jesus had promised it would go (Acts 8:4).2. Demonic oppression.Many people tend to ignore the reality of demons and dark spiritual forces. Conversely, some overemphasize this spiritual reality. Luke, however, makes it clear that demons do exist and that they do torment people. Just as Jesus delivered people from demonic torment during his earthly ministry, so this work continued in the early Church as people were delivered from demonic influence and torment.3. Physical healing.As we saw earlier in Acts, miracles served to confirm the Gospel message. This was also the case as the Gospel entered into the new region of Samaria. Luke, a trained doctor, reports that people were healed of physical sickness, including those who were paralyzed and lame, which demonstrated the immediate and miraculous nature of the healings. The result of these healings was joy in the city.Study Questions1. The stoning of Stephen and the following persecution was the vehicle that moved the Gospel out of Jerusalem and into the surrounding regions. What does this teach us about God's sovereignty as it relates to the mission of the Church? How might this affect the way we view suffering, persecution, and “failure”?2. Do you tend to neglect or overemphasize dark spiritual realities? How should this text shape the way we think about spiritual oppression?3. What was the purpose and effect of supernatural healings in this text? How does this text affect the way you think about praying for miraculous healings?

The Affirmation (v. 14-17) The Antagonist (v. 18-24) The Action (v. 25)