DAY 8: The Gospel: A Great Catalyst

Read: Acts 7:30-50

Think: In Stephen’s speech, he shouts, “…But our ancestors. . . refused to listen to Moses. They rejected him and they wanted to return to Egypt. . .they made an idol. . .and they sacrificed to it and celebrated over this thing they had made. Then God turned away from them…” Stephen was “setting up” the audience for a comparison between the Israelites of the past and the Jews of his day who had refused to listen to Jesus. These leaders had, in fact, rejected Jesus to the extent of sending Him to the cross. Stephen’s speech infuriated the Jewish leaders. Even so, Stephen did not hesitate to proclaim the Gospel. His speech and stoning would be a catalyst for a massive wave of persecution against Christians that would, ultimately, spread the Gospel across the region and the world.

Act: It takes courage to talk about God. But when we know what we believe, we will have greater confidence in sharing our faith with others. What holds you back, if anything, from sharing the Gospel—the Good News that God sent His only Son to die for us—with those who don’t believe? Is it lack of knowledge? Is it fear of rejection? Is it that your own faith is unsteady? Identify, today, one thing that would make you more confident about sharing the Gospel with unbelievers: __________________________________________________________________. Now, take action!

Pray: Dear Lord, cause me to intentionally get to know You better so that I can make You known. Bring someone into my life who needs to hear the Gospel today. Help me to speak a Word of hope or offer a prayer for them. I’ll be watching and waiting. Give me courage! I love you, Lord. Amen.

Be full of faith today!