Key Events in Early Church Persecution and Growth

  • Apostles Persecuted:

    • The early church grew with signs and wonders by apostles.
    • High priest and associates jealous; apostles arrested.
    • Angel released them from jail.

  • Stephen:

    • One of the seven chosen deacons for food distribution.
    • Full of faith, did wonders, skilled in preaching.
    • Stoned to death with Paul's consent (Acts 7:58, 22:20, 26:10).
    • Died praying for others' forgiveness.

  • Church Expansion to Samaria:

    • Jerusalem church grew, but neglected to spread gospel widely.
    • Persecution led to scattering and spreading seeds of the gospel.
    • Philip preached in Samaria, performed healings and exorcisms.
    • The apostles sent Peter and John to Samaria; they received the Holy Spirit after baptism.

  • Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch:

    • Spirit directed Philip to the road of the eunuch.
    • Eunuch read Isaiah; Philip explained the gospel.
    • The eunuch believed and was baptized (Acts 8:36-40).

  • Saul’s Conversion:

    • Saul on his way to Damascus to capture Christians.
    • Jesus appeared to him; Saul converted.
    • Ananias baptized Saul (Acts 9:1-30).

  • Memory Verse: Acts 4:12

  • Questions for Reflection:

    1. Describe the martyrdom of Stephen.
    2. How was Paul converted and who baptized him?
    3. Describe how the Spirit guided Philip to preach the gospel to the eunuch and narrate the story of the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch.