The emphasis of the book of Acts is the fulfilment of the Great Commission. In our study of Acts so far, we have been enlightened and encouraged by the power of the gospel as it spread throughout the world and transformed lives.

In our passge we will see how the Word of God continues to grow and multiply despite persecution and trials. Since God is almighty, no force can stop the spread of His gospel according to His purpose.

1. PEOPLE & PAIN (v. 1-4)
2. POWER & PRAYER (v. 5-19)
3. PLANNED PURPOSES (v. 20-25)

Herod and the Jews opposed God and the GOSPEL and came under His judgment. The apostles and early church suffered much, and many died violent deaths, but verse 24 tells us that the word of God increased and  multiplied.

Luke had the perspective of time and was able to look back and see how God's purposes were fulfilled and accomplished. Sometimes when we're in the thick of it we lose sight of that truth. Even now as we see Russia on the border of Ukraine, and the Houthis fighting the UAE and not to mention the problem with the PANDEMIC… it's hard for us to see that God wins in the end; it's difficult for us to see that when things look their worst God is up to something big.

God is almighty, His gospel cannot be stopped by any opposition.

Discussion Questions

1. Is “why” a legitimate question to ask when tragedy strikes? Why/why not?
2. How can we pray in faith for deliverance if we do not know God’s will in advance?
3. A critic taunts, “How can a loving God allow so much evil and suffering in this world?” Your answer?
4. It would seem realistically that the world’s major religions have stopped the penetration of the gospel into much of the world for centuries. How, then, is the gospel unstoppable?