In this teaching from Acts 11, we see how God used persecution to spread the gospel beyond Jerusalem and into the Gentile world. The scattering after Stephen’s stoning led believers to Antioch, a pagan and sinful city, where the gospel took root and a thriving church was born. This is where believers were first called Christians.

Through the ministry of ordinary men, along with Barnabas and Saul, God shows us that He desires to use ordinary lives for His extraordinary purposes. Persecution, trials, and challenges cannot stop the work of God; in fact, they often become the very means through which the gospel advances. We are reminded that God wants to use us, regardless of our past or shortcomings, and that we must purpose in our hearts to continue with the Lord.

The main scripture reading for this message is Acts 11:19–30, with suppor ...