Words of Grace

By Rev. Mahlon Nevel

The book of Acts is a history of the first-century church. The Acts of the Apostles, as it is named, records the actions and the activities of “the twelve” after the ascension of Christ.

They returned to the city of Jerusalem from the mount of Olives. Going up to an upper room in the temple, they held a prayer meeting with one hundred twenty in attendance.(1:12-15)

It was on the day of Pentecost when the spirit of God came down from heaven as a mighty rushing wind. (2:1-2)

Peter stood up to preach, and about three thousand souls were added unto the church. (2:41)

But then the church began to experience a time of great persecution. The Christians in Jerusalem were all scattered abroad, fleeing to other regions for safety.(8:1)

God causes all things to work together for good. Those who were scattered abroad because of all the persecution went everywhere preaching the word of God.(8:4)

The Apostle Peter, in his first epistle, wrote especially to the strangers who were scattered because of persecution.(1:1) He referred to them as strangers and pilgrims in this world.(2:11)

Peter also wrote to anyone who suffers persecution as a Christian. “Let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf” (4:16).