Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit, by whom you were sealed for the Day of Redemption.

 

The First Church was coming under severe persecution headed up by Saul. They had appointed seven men to be the first Deacons of the Church because the Apostles needed help caring for the widows and other duties of the ministry which now numbered well into the thousands.

 

Among the seven Deacons were Stephen and Philip. Stephen was a man of great courage and determination. He spoke the truth to the council and it cost him his life making him the first martyr for Christ. Saul was present when they stoned Stephen to death.   

 

As the persecution got worse, the Church members scattered to various villages and cities throughout the region and preached the Gospel of Christ. Philip went to a city in Samaria. Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the Word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. (Acts 8:4-5)

 

The Jews hated the Samaritans because they were half-breeds; half Jew and half Gentile. However, Philip knew that Jesus went to the Cross for everyone, not just the Jews, so he ventured into Samaria to preach the Gospel to them.

 

It is obvious that Philip also performed many Miracles in Samaria. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spoke, hearing and seeing the Miracles he did. (Acts 8:6) As stated in a previous Morning Message, this Philip is not the same person as Philip the fisherman whom Jesus called as one of His first Apostles.

 

There are many people who believe all the Miracles and Spiritual Gifts ended with the death of the last Apostle, but knowing that Philip performed many Miracles would prove this belief to be a falsehood. Unfortunately, much (if not most) of the Church today does not preach, teach, or believe in the Miracle working Power of the Holy Spirit. This is why we see little to no supernatural moving and operation of God anywhere today. In my opinion, this is a travesty!

 

The Gospel of Christ has not changed. God has not changed. The Holy Spirit has not changed or lost His Power. I am the Lord and I do not change. (Malachi 3:6)

 

The Holy Spirit has the Power to……….turn the tide……….in your life and in the world.

 

I believe in the Power of God!           Doreen

 

www.bettsministries.org