In Chapter 8 we look at the ministry of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven deacons. First he goes to Samaria where many people hear his preaching and come to Christ. Then he goes to a desert road where he ministers to one man, a eunuch from Ethiopia.
Here are the audio and notes:
Today we look at Stephen’s sermon before the council in Jerusalem. He runs through the history of Israel, but then confronts the council with their rejection of Christ. They respond by killing him – stoning him to death. He prayed for them before he died – loving those who hated him.
The audio and notes are here below:
This is a key chapter in that it introduces the role of the deacon or “servant” within the early church. From this point on, we’ll see church leadership separated into the roles of elders and deacons or shepherds and servants.
One of the first deacons, Stephen, had a remarkable ministry, which brought him to the attention of the Sanhedrin, the ruling council in Jerusalem. He was eventually brought before them where he was falsely accused.
Audio: Acts06.mp3
Notes: Acts06.pdf
Chapter 5 begins with the sobering story of Ananias and Sapphira, a couple that the Lord struck dead for their hypocrisy. Ever wonder what it would be like if that happened more often? We’ll then see God working wonders through the apostles. That is followed by a confrontation between the apostles and the Sanhedrin led by the high priest, in the midst of which the twelve are released from prison by an angel. The chapter ends with the apostles continuing to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Audio: Acts05.mp3
Notes: Acts05.pdf
Central Reflections 