In Acts 7, we have reached a time when Jesus has died, resurrected, and appeared to many before returning to heaven. There are many giving their lives to Jesus and it is creating chaos in the city. A man named Stephen addresses the spiritual elite and tries to show them that their “old ways” are not God’s ways. In Acts 7:46, he speaks to how Solomon built the temple. He says, “But it was Solomon who built a house for him. Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made by hands…” In verse 51 he says, “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you.” He was pointing out that there was something wrong with their hearts. Again, these were the religious elite. They were zealous of the wrong things. The people were enraged and stoned Stephen.

In Acts 8:1 we see that the church was scattered due to persecution. They began preaching the word. They still had strong attachments to the temple and old tradition, but the people needed to know the Good News. So, they shared it!

Acts 11:19 tells us that those who scattered went outside of Israel and spoke to people that had no idea who Jesus was. In fact, in the town of Antioch, the people were called Christians – those who belong to Christ – for the first time. These people gave up homes, careers, dreams…all for God’s plan.

God may have a plan for you beyond what you have thought about. He may want to leverage what you’ve learned to make an impact for Him.

1. Maybe you are thinking about a relationship with Jesus, or maybe you are a new believer. The challenge for you is to find community with other believers.

2. Maybe you’ve “checked the box” and became a Christian just to ensure you would go to heaven. The challenge for you is that Jesus is Good News for you today! He may have bigger plans for you that you are allowing Him to have.

3. Maybe you believe that church multiplication is for someone else. The challenge for you is to keep an open mind and allow God to do what He wants to further His Kingdom through you!

At Carmel, we are more excited about sending people out than ensuring we have “satisfied customers”. He can use you in His great plan.