Wednesday 11 June 2025
The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. (v. 21)
Background
Despite the persecutions that beset the Early Church, followers of Jesus continued to tell others about him. Disciples encouraged one another, heard prophecies, and provided help for one another. They continued to go beyond their numbers and speak to those who did not know about Jesus, despite the dangers. They were bold and brave, as God's people have always been called to be.
Being brave, despite Hollywood’s best efforts to show us heroes, isn’t about being the toughest or the most gifted of individuals. It’s not about having special powers to overcome the difficulties. Being brave is about knowing the dangers… and going anyway. It was the call to Abraham to seek out Canaan. It was the call to Moses to rescue the people from Egypt. It was the call to Joshua to finally walk into the Promised Land. It was even the call to Jesus to go to Jerusalem and his death on the cross.
The thing about being brave is knowing God goes with us. No-one did those things by themselves. Moving with God brought great rewards, despite the dangers. The Church today finds itself in danger. For some across the world, the danger is that which Stephen faced (he was stoned to death: Acts 7:54-8:2). For others, it may not be that grave but it is still challenging, nonetheless. We are all called to work together, to build each other up, and to share the good news of Christ. In doing so, God continues to work with us, and many are turning to the Lord.
In our circuit, there are many stories this past year of how new ventures have brought us into the orbits of new people. Congregations are being empowered to try new activities, reach new communities and welcome new people. We are building each other up in prayer and discipleship to be released into our neighbourhoods. We know the calling of God at this time and our encounters with God are preparing us to be sent out. We are not special. We are simply trusting God so that when we are brave, God's hand will be with us.
To Ponder:
- How do we encourage each other now, and in what ways may we develop that?
- Where are the communities to which we are called, and how can we share God with them?
Prayer
Today we pray to be used by God in service to God and to others. We pray for those needing help and for ways to reach them. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Mark Carrick
Mark is a presbyter in the Derbyshire North-East Circuit and is currently the minister of seven churches in the Chesterfield area. His passion is for ministry within the community and growing disciples within the Church. Mark has now served five years in the Methodist Church and is preparing to become Superintendent in September.